Feedback on packing would be (really) appreciated.

[vantild]

I'm hiking The Ingles beginning 10/9. Little rain currently forecast. Not sure if I need a poncho and raincoat. I'd prefer to take the raincoat regardless for warmth on chillier evenings, just not sure if a poncho is needed if only light rain is forecast.
No cotton here, all merino wool or quick-dry synthetic. This pack includes what I'll wear when I leave home. (Underwear not pictured). Hiking poles I"m leaving because of USA TSA, but will pick some up in Ferrol. Any experienced pilgrims' eyes and feedback would be really appreciated.

 

[trecile]

I don't think that you need a balaclava or a travel pillow.
The important thing is does your backpack feel comfortable with your gear when you are carrying it?

 

[C clearly]

Do you have any second pair of pants/trousers? For example does either base layer or thermal layer include something to wear when you walking clothes are wet? You could even use rain pants in a pinch, in which case, you could certainly leave the poncho at home. A buff might be more appropriate than a balaclava, although maybe you can modify the way you wear the balaclava.

 

[Robo]

Rain coat and poncho? Maybe one or the other? I note you have a pack cover.

 

[Lowtide]

I think that is an excellent pack list. I included a few things in my pack.
Extra pants, both of which have zip off legs
Nalgene water bottle
Camino book, for directions and help with accommodation
Luxury item, small gps, easy to track how far you have walked
Enjoy

 

[henrythedog]

There do seem to be two pairs of trousers in the photo; in which case that’s good. Only one waterproof needed - I’m poncho-phobic; so I’d be leaving that. The balaclava can double as a warm hat. Possibly add a buff and a third pair of socks.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

If you take the poncho that will cover you and your pack so no need for a pack cover (which only covers half the pack anyway)
What do you mean by "raincoat" - is it a showerproof jacket? In which case I'd take it. Galicia can be cold at night so team it up with your thermal layer.
I know that American English varies at times with Standard English but are we talking about the same thing when you say balaclava? Like an American ski mask? If so then I can's see a need for it if you have a cap.
Enjoy the Camino, it's a lovely little walk (except the climb out of Pontedueme - personal bête noire )

 

[vantild]

I don't think that you need a balaclava or a travel pillow.
The important thing is does your backpack feel comfortable with your gear when you are carrying it?

There do seem to be two pairs of trousers in the photo; in which case that’s good. Only one waterproof needed - I’m poncho-phobic; so I’d be leaving that. The balaclava can double as a warm hat. Possibly add a buff and a third pair of socks.

Is the buff just an insulated balacalva? Temps in the 50's is like shorts weather where I'm from.

Do you have any second pair of pants/trousers? For example does either base layer or thermal layer include something to wear when you walking clothes are wet? You could even use rain pants in a pinch, in which case, you could certainly leave the poncho at home. A buff might be more appropriate than a balaclava, although maybe you can modify the way you wear the balaclava.

I do have two pair of pants (quick dry). Is the only difference between the balaclava and the buff is that the buff is more insulated?

 

[vantild]

Looks like I misunderstood what a balaclava is. The thing I have is an OR (outdoor research) Bongo (which is also a name brand, just popularized generally), just a tube of cloth that can be a scarf or hat or whatever. Sorry about the misnomer and resulting confusion.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

Looks like I misunderstood what a balaclava is. The thing I have is an OR (outdoor research) Bongo (which is also a name brand, just popularized generally), just a tube of cloth that can be a scarf or hat or whatever. Sorry about the misnomer and resulting confusion.

Lots of names for the same thing: Buff, Headover, Comforter . . . my favourite is the German name: "Oma" which means "Grannie"


they are extremely useful!

 

[henrythedog]

Just a Buff / Bongo is fine, forget about my balaclava reference.

If you’re happy in the 50’s (F) in shorts, and that’s what’s forecast, why not walk in shorts? I do in pretty much anything above freezing. Skin dries quicker than cloth and you’re not going to be sitting around …

 

[JuliaGS]

I'm hiking The Ingles beginning 10/9. Little rain currently forecast. Not sure if I need a poncho and raincoat. I'd prefer to take the raincoat regardless for warmth on chillier evenings, just not sure if a poncho is needed if only light rain is forecast.
No cotton here, all merino wool or quick-dry synthetic. This pack includes what I'll wear when I leave home. (Underwear not pictured). Hiking poles I"m leaving because of USA TSA, but will pick some up in Ferrol. Any experienced pilgrims' eyes and feedback would be really appreciated.

View attachment 134217

Hello. I posted a video of my packing list on YouTube, if that would be helpful. I walked the Camino Frances in June/July, so some of the temperature-related clothing might need to be a little different. I forgot to mention my fleece, as mentioned in the video notes.

 

[SueL_UK]

I’ve just reached Santiago from Ferrol today. It’s a fun hike. Just a word of caution, I couldn’t find anywhere in central Ferrol that sold walking poles. We asked at the tourist information and in numerous shops and none available. So would recommend a trip to Decathalon on the outskirts or seeing if any spare poles to be had at Santiago airport. Saying that though, whilst there is no way I would have managed the Frances without my poles, the Ingles was completely fine without them.

 

[Cynistra]

I'm not sure if this is included in your "toiletries" category, but if you're planning to stay in albergues I'd recommend taking a pair of ear plugs - the snoring can be quite legendary.
Also presumably you'll have some way to carry water (just a water bottle from the airport, perhaps?).

 

[daleb]

Watching this thread as I start the Portuguese next week and still unsure about coat vs rain jacket vs poncho! Don’t want to be cold, but don’t want to over pack either lots on this forum about useful items like an S hook to hang things whilst in the shower. Buen Camino!

 

[MichelleElynHogan]

You know that Japanese lady who created a method of divesting of unused / unwanted items by holding a single item in our hands and asking, "Does this bring me joy?" Well, I suggest a similar method when packing.
"Do I really need this?"
After that, ask if it can be replaced with a lighter version. Once all of the packing list has been addressed, you're down to a good start. Then put it all into your pack, put it on and weigh yourself on the bathroom scale. Next, of course, take the pack off and weigh again. Subtract that number from the first and that = Pack Weight.

Is it 10 lb +/-?

This is my method. Not for everyone but it is a good start.

One spot where weight can be saved is in the pack itself. I use a 30L pack called the Free Spirit from Gobi Gear in the USA. Cost is $US 56.95. That may save 1 lb or more. Its weight is 14 oz or 0.396 kg.

 

[Airfix]

Pack looks good. I'd add some paracetamol or ibuprofen to the first aid kit. Review the pack as you go along, if your not using something ship or donate it.

 

[trecile]

Pack looks good. I'd add some paracetamol or ibuprofen to the first aid kit

I would also bring an anti-diarrheal like Immodium. I've never needed to use it on the Camino, but when you need it you need it NOW!

 

[tpmchugh]

I'm hiking The Ingles beginning 10/9. Little rain currently forecast. Not sure if I need a poncho and raincoat. I'd prefer to take the raincoat regardless for warmth on chillier evenings, just not sure if a poncho is needed if only light rain is forecast.
No cotton here, all merino wool or quick-dry synthetic. This pack includes what I'll wear when I leave home. (Underwear not pictured). Hiking poles I"m leaving because of USA TSA, but will pick some up in Ferrol. Any experienced pilgrims' eyes and feedback would be really appreciated.

View attachment 134217

What do you need the paracord for and excuse my ignorance, but what is a Michegan petosky stone. Are the two pair of pants to carry or is it wear one carry one. Poncho or rain jacket, one or the other, not both and a buff rather than a balaclava. I personally would ditch the pillow, never had the need for one after five caminos. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am currently at home rather than being in or around Sahagun. My pack was roughly the same as yours but for the complete Frances so may I suggest dropping the shirt list to one in the pack, one on your back for a very short camino. Looking closer at your photo, the balaclava does look like a buff. But whatever you decide, Buen Camino

 

[Wfhd]

I'm hiking The Ingles beginning 10/9. Little rain currently forecast. Not sure if I need a poncho and raincoat. I'd prefer to take the raincoat regardless for warmth on chillier evenings, just not sure if a poncho is needed if only light rain is forecast.
No cotton here, all merino wool or quick-dry synthetic. This pack includes what I'll wear when I leave home. (Underwear not pictured). Hiking poles I"m leaving because of USA TSA, but will pick some up in Ferrol. Any experienced pilgrims' eyes and feedback would be really appreciated.

View attachment 134217

I’d lose either the thermal or the base. Only need one. I manage with one pair of pants and a pair of running shorts for laundry days. Don’t need a poncho if you have a rain jacket. No pillow. No poles. It’s my second time doing this and the biggest problem is to much weight. It will fatigue you after days and days of walking. I got my total weight to 13 lbs 36 litre pack included. It’s so much better than my first time.

 

[Wfhd]

You know that Japanese lady who created a method of divesting of unused / unwanted items by holding a single item in our hands and asking, "Does this bring me joy?" Well, I suggest a similar method when packing.
"Do I really need this?"
After that, ask if it can be replaced with a lighter version. Once all of the packing list has been addressed, you're down to a good start. Then put it all into your pack, put it on and weigh yourself on the bathroom scale. Next, of course, take the pack off and weigh again. Subtract that number from the first and that = Pack Weight.

Is it 10 lb +/-?

This is my method. Not for everyone but it is a good start.

One spot where weight can be saved is in the pack itself. I use a 30L pack called the Free Spirit from Gobi Gear in the USA. Cost is $US 56.95. That may save 1 lb or more. Its weight is 14 oz or 0.396 kg.

Completely agree. I wouldn’t even bring blister supplies (except one piece of moleskin) or pain meds. You can get all of that when and if you need it. The other critical thing is socks. Double layered running socks are the absolute best. Used them this time and zero blisters of hot spots.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I’ve just reached Santiago from Ferrol today. It’s a fun hike. Just a word of caution, I couldn’t find anywhere in central Ferrol that sold walking poles. We asked at the tourist information and in numerous shops and none available. So would recommend a trip to Decathalon on the outskirts or seeing if any spare poles to be had at Santiago airport. Saying that though, whilst there is no way I would have managed the Frances without my poles, the Ingles was completely fine without them.

When I did my Ingles I stopped off at the Pilgrim House and gave them a donation in return for a pole - they had several in the back room.

 

[vantild]

I don't think that you need a balaclava or a travel pillow.
The important thing is does your backpack feel comfortable with your gear when you are carrying

What do you need the paracord for and excuse my ignorance, but what is a Michegan petosky stone. Are the two pair of pants to carry or is it wear one carry one. Poncho or rain jacket, one or the other, not both and a buff rather than a balaclava. I personally would ditch the pillow, never had the need for one after five caminos. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am currently at home rather than being in or around Sahagun. My pack was roughly the same as yours but for the complete Frances so may I suggest dropping the shirt list to one in the pack, one on your back for a very short camino. Looking closer at your photo, the balaclava does look like a buff. But whatever you decide, Buen Camino

I was told by another pilgrim to bring a stone from your homeland? I'm assuming there will be a place to set it by a cross or by a cathedral, or throw it somewhere? I'll wait for the Camion to tell me : ). I'm from Michigan in the US. A petoskey stone is a stone that is found on the shores of the Great Lakes. I'll wear one pair of pants, and carry another. After this forum, I'm leaning towards the raincoat only. I'm a pillow wimp (I'll own it ; ). I'm worried about the inclement fall weather. Don't want to be cold, want layering options, but I think I'll loose one of the t shirts. Thank you for the scrutiny! I'm learning a lot!

 

[vantild]

Completely agree. I wouldn’t even bring blister supplies (except one piece of moleskin) or pain meds. You can get all of that when and if you need it. The other critical thing is socks. Double layered running socks are the absolute best. Used them this time and zero blisters of hot spots.

This gear in the pic weighs in at 8.5 lbs. All synthetic or wool (socks).

 

[lindam]

I'm hiking The Ingles beginning 10/9. Little rain currently forecast. Not sure if I need a poncho and raincoat. I'd prefer to take the raincoat regardless for warmth on chillier evenings, just not sure if a poncho is needed if only light rain is forecast.
No cotton here, all merino wool or quick-dry synthetic. This pack includes what I'll wear when I leave home. (Underwear not pictured). Hiking poles I"m leaving because of USA TSA, but will pick some up in Ferrol. Any experienced pilgrims' eyes and feedback would be really appreciated.

Just wondering about a quick drying towel and also a light pair of gloves for those cold mornings.

 

[Aminata]

We just did Ferrol to Santiago and this is what we needed: one pair of clothes and one change of clothing. One warmer shirt (fleece) and one rain coat. A cover for your bag or poncho. Toiletries (including blister tape if you need it) and papers. Sleeping bag and that was all.

 

[Aminata]

If you are doing mostly public hostels then a quick dry towel is useful. We didn't need gloves but depends on your cold tolerance.

 

[vantild]

What do you need the paracord for and excuse my ignorance, but what is a Michegan petosky stone. Are the two pair of pants to carry or is it wear one carry one. Poncho or rain jacket, one or the other, not both and a buff rather than a balaclava. I personally would ditch the pillow, never had the need for one after five caminos. Due to unforeseen circumstances, I am currently at home rather than being in or around Sahagun. My pack was roughly the same as yours but for the complete Frances so may I suggest dropping the shirt list to one in the pack, one on your back for a very short camino. Looking closer at your photo, the balaclava does look like a buff. But whatever you decide, Buen CaminoI

I was told by a pilgrim that being able to string up your own clothesline between bunk posts and hang you wet clothes using clips is a winning idea.

 

[henrythedog]

I was told by another pilgrim to bring a stone from your homeland? I'm assuming there will be a place to set it by a cross or by a cathedral, or throw it somewhere? I'll wait for the Camion to tell me : ). I'm from Michigan in the US. A petoskey stone is a stone that is found on the shores of the Great Lakes. I'll wear one pair of pants, and carry another. After this forum, I'm leaning towards the raincoat only. I'm a pillow wimp (I'll own it ; ). I'm worried about the inclement fall weather. Don't want to be cold, want layering options, but I think I'll loose one of the t shirts. Thank you for the scrutiny! I'm learning a lot!

There is something of a recent tradition on the Camino Frances of bringing a stone and depositing it at the high point of the route at the Cruz de Ferro. Some may attach some degree of symbolism to the practice.

I’ve walked the Ingles and recall no such similar tradition. Unless you’re sentimentally attached to your rock by now, it could stay home.

 

[Sixwheeler]

What's the paracord/clips for? Not sure you need a balaclava. Stone?

 

[Tincatinker]

I was told by a pilgrim that being able to string up your own clothesline between bunk posts and hang you wet clothes using clips is a winning idea.

Draping wet washing between your and another pilgrim’s bunk may seem like a good idea but might merit some negotiation. The odds on your soggy kecks actually drying in the humid atmosphere of a crowded dorm are worth considering before you lay your bet

 

[Richard Smith]

I was told by a pilgrim that being able to string up your own clothesline between bunk posts and hang you wet clothes using clips is a winning idea.

The cord could be useful outside as a clothes drying line, maybe even positioned in the sun if the house one is not well placed. Nappy pins are better than pegs in my opinion, can attach to your backpack too.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I was told by a pilgrim that being able to string up your own clothesline between bunk posts and hang you wet clothes using clips is a winning idea.

You'll end up with a rather damp atmosphere around your bed space - best not do it with damp clothes. A semi dry towel would give you some privacy. Some female pilgrims go this route.

 

[hawkeyepierce]

+1 Ditch the paracord. Every albergue I stayed at on the CF had a line somewhere to hang clothes and towels.

 

[Kathy F.]

I always bring paracord. I have stayed in albergues that did not have enough drying clothes lines, in which case I strung the cord around my bed. Moisture was not a problem.

I used a rain jacket and a waterproof pack cover, worked very well.

 

[tpmchugh]

I was told by a pilgrim that being able to string up your own clothesline between bunk posts and hang you wet clothes using clips is a winning idea.

Would not be happy with another pilgrim stringing wet clothes around my bunk or even in a crowded dorm. If there was not enough line space already in albergue, I would hang clothes on walls or hedges. There is no where on the Ingles for leaving stones that I know of. That is a tradition on the Frances where pilgrims leave a stone at the Cruz de Ferro. It is a tradition steeped in history as old as the Camino itself. No other route has anything like it although modern pilgrims may want to invent one. Leave the stone and the paracord. Bring safety pins that can be used to pin wet socks on your pack that will dry as you walk. And never wash your last pair of socks late in the day. They may not be dry for the next day. Remember you are going on a roughly one week Camino so if needs must, you can get away with not washing clothes at all. An extreme solution but rotating as they say, your cleanest dirty shirt, will work if there is no good drying weather. That should not be a problem as the weather in Northern Spain is currently in the mid twenties centigrade

 

[NM99]

I opted for poncho over jack

I'm hiking The Ingles beginning 10/9. Little rain currently forecast. Not sure if I need a poncho and raincoat. I'd prefer to take the raincoat regardless for warmth on chillier evenings, just not sure if a poncho is needed if only light rain is forecast.
No cotton here, all merino wool or quick-dry synthetic. This pack includes what I'll wear when I leave home. (Underwear not pictured). Hiking poles I"m leaving because of USA TSA, but will pick some up in Ferrol. Any experienced pilgrims' eyes and feedback would be really appreciated.

View attachment 134217

I opted for poncho (and pack cover) instead of a jacket as it covers the straps of your backpack, which would get soaking wet while wearing a jacket.

 

[dick bird]

Water bottle? You need to drink even when it is raining.

 

[dick bird]

I was told by a pilgrim that being able to string up your own clothesline between bunk posts and hang you wet clothes using clips is a winning idea.

Might not be too popular with the occupant of the adjacent bunk.

 

[Peregrinopaul]

I was told by another pilgrim to bring a stone from your homeland? I'm assuming there will be a place to set it by a cross or by a cathedral, or throw it somewhere? I'll wait for the Camion to tell me : ). I'm from Michigan in the US. A petoskey stone is a stone that is found on the shores of the Great Lakes.

Hmm. Just googled it. If you leave it at Cruz de Ferro I just might appropriate it!

 

[asl]

Watching this thread as I start the Portuguese next week and still unsure about coat vs rain jacket vs poncho! Don’t want to be cold, but don’t want to over pack either lots on this forum about useful items like an S hook to hang things whilst in the shower. Buen Camino!

Picked up one of these I found near the check-out when buying my backpack at REI

Nite Ize GearTie Bendable S-Hook | REI Co-op

With the same grippy exterior and bendable wire interior as the iconic Reusable Rubber Twist Tie™, the Nite Ize GearTie Bendable S-hook allows you to easily hang and secure items to nearly any object.

www.rei.com