Hi Hank, fantastic video.
The bladder vs bottles issues seems to have been thoroughly discussed, but here are my thoughts: I started the
Camino Frances with a single plastic bottle of water in the side pocket of my pack. After the walk to Roncesvalles and running out of water, I switched to two bottles, but very rarely needed the second bottle. The downside is that I found it very inconvenient to drink, and spent most of the Camino under-hydrated. I implemented a plan where I would hike to my breakfast stop (1-2hr) with the water in my pack, and then set the goal of finishing a bottle 15-20 min before the next town, as this timing seemed to be convenient for a bathroom break and water refill. It was still inconvenient and I found myself hand-carrying the bottle much of the time, which would be impossible with walking poles. I was never really happy with my solution, but still agree that the bladder is too heavy. Next trip, I plan to try something like this:
https://sourceoutdoor.com/en/bottles/22-convertube-hydration-system
The upside to my side pocket solution was that I was walking alone, and if I wanted to start a conversation while walking, I would ask just somebody to pull out my water bottle for me.
I walked in mid May-early June 2016, and while I carried pretty much the same clothing, I found I was uncomfortably cold much of the time. The shorts that I thought I would wear every day, were worn only rarely and while I was doing laundry. The knit stocking cap that I threw in at the last minute as a luxury item was worn almost every morning. I think my fleece was too light, and I'll carry a slightly heavier/warmer one next time.
The sleeping bag liner was a perfect solution, and I found that almost all albergues offered supplemental blankets when needed. Unfortunately, Roncesvalles did not, and that was a really cold night even wearing all of my clothes.
Shoes: I started with trail runners, but had blister issues and discovered a previously quiet Morton's neuroma. I exchanged for Tevas in Viana, and was super happy.
Thanks again for your insights!
