Hi there! Very long story short, I'm starting my Camino in less than a week (with essentially zero prep- trust me, I know!!!) and despite being my 3rd Camino have NO IDEA what to pack for October /November on the Frances. I expect to take 35-40 days to veto Santiago and Muxia, leaving on Oct 8th. (Flying into Biarritz that Saturday.) Absolutely ANY suggestions or ideas re: packing or anything you think could be helpful would be greatly appreciated! Also, it seems there would be a huge difference in temps during this time frame - do ppl send another bag ahead with warmer clothes to swap?
Pack lightly but make sure you have a few layers and maybe even a light down jacket and a sleeping bag that will insulate to 45 or 50 degrees. Check here for packing lists that have been recommended for women. As a man I am really hesitant to tell you what to include. But have quick dry garments. Have a poncho that covers both you and your pack, and rain pants. Try to underpack if possible and take only what you will absolutely need every day. Decathlon in Spain is the rest of the world's REI. But you probably know that.Have a beanie, gloves and a buff. I walk even later than you and I have a sleeping bag that is only insulated to either 45 or 50F and it is fine. If it is cold I wear more clothes. This year I am sure it will be colder as heating costs are out of control in Europe. I bought a good down jacket that I bought at REI. It is super light and keeps me warm. I would have merino wool undergarments also and some warm merino socks.
I don't know if you did any training and you probably know the following so you can skip it if it is old news. Listen to your body. I am 68 and starting my 7th Camino and I train less now than ever before. I wake up and stretch and I try to keep every day to about 20k. I look at each day as 4 or so five kilometer walks. I go about 5k. and stop wherever I am take off my pack, drink some water, eat a snack and rest for 10 or 15 minutes. Then go again. I take an hour or so for lunch.
I guess you have never walked this late so download Wise Pilgrim, and Buen Camino apps. They have downloadable GPS and also lists of albergues and hostels etc. Also Gronze.com has the same information. As you walk further into October more albergues will close. None of the sites are completely accurate about open/closed albergues so after about October 20th just check if there is an albergue you want to stay at. There is alot more infrastructure today of course then when you walked the last time.
Have fun and no worries and buen Camino.
