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  1. backpack45

    Need help deciding to bring or not to bring

    IMO, take the water bladder and drink periodically. I also usually have a plastic bottle that I refill; it lasts the whole trip. I keep it in the side pocket of my backpack because when I stop for a break, you get more volume in a hurry than with the bladder. .
  2. backpack45

    Bathroom stops on the camino for female Peregrinas

    I understand that many who set out to walk the Camino may not have experienced having to pee outdoors. But being able to do so, without peeing on your shoes/clothes, etc., is simply a matter or learning a new skill. For most, It does not require bringing a pee device. You might consider...
  3. backpack45

    Struggling with 1/2 size larger - Lone Peaks - insole recs?

    I don't know what to say about the size--seems to me if what you wore on multi-day hikes, or varied terrain has worked, it should work on the Camino too. I do wear a larger Altra than my regular shoes. I used to wear the Men's because I thought it would be wider and fit better around my bunions...
  4. backpack45

    Re-considering zip-off convertible pants

    I used to always wear the zip-offs and never felt the zipper connection was uncomfortable, but I have sort of drifted away from wearing them. Now I tend to take other long pants as well as hiking skirt that falls just above the knee.
  5. backpack45

    What clothes to wear at night?

    I generally wear my long-sleeved, black Smartwool top, which passes quite well as a sweater and a light skirt in the evening. We usually fly in and out of Paris or another major city, so I like to have something a bit dresser than my hiking clothes. With earrings and a neck scarf, I feel...
  6. backpack45

    Rain...rain pants?

    I LOVE my rain pants. I would not like to be walking in shorts with water running down my legs into my shoes and socks. One thing I didn't see mentioned, is that rain pants are useful for more than rainy days--they can provide an extra layer of insulation on windy or cold days. And, if you ever...
  7. backpack45

    Did you get tired of wearing same colours for weeks?

    I wear tops and bottoms with colors that can be swapped around (everything goes with everything). And since we generally continue on to another country after our walk, I carry some items that look a bit more dressed up. My black Merino wool top becomes my going-out sweater and a nylon or silk...
  8. backpack45

    A word of warning on trail runners or light weight shoes.

    Altras have worked well for us on many Camino hikes. An excellent option, if there is room, is to put a flat insert under the insole. I use one by Spenco, which is closed cell foam, and it makes a big difference. I have tried Dr. Scholls, but they are foam rubber and break down sooner.
  9. backpack45

    Fans on the Camino

    I purchased several fans to give as gifts after our first Santiago walk. Relatively inexpensive, light, and practical as well as traditional. I personally wouldn't take one on a walk because I use hiking poles. I do recommend a hiking umbrella, which can be attached to your pack straps so that...
  10. backpack45

    Another question from Marska ... sorry all!

    I don't think your the hat is too heavy for something that important; it will also reduce the amount of sun hitting your face part of the time. I wear trail runners, so I don't need to change my shoes. I do bring some dressy sandals because we often go to a major city afterwards and I like to...
  11. backpack45

    A good hat.....

    I like the Sunday Afternoons hats, too. I wear the Adventurers model. They can also be ordered from their factory in Oregon. I see they are offering 15% off now (at least on my computer).r
  12. backpack45

    Help! Pack too heavy! — CF Sept & Oct — Senior Woman

    I agree with several others that you have more pants and tops than necessary--and you can pick up a new T-shirt along the way if you change your mind. I personally would bring the headlamp for safety reasons. Not sure how much a shower bag weighs. Suggest a (multi-purpose) bandana instead of a...
  13. backpack45

    Tampons

    Just to add a bit of fun--the word "tampon" in French has several quite different meanings including "menstrual product" as you mean it, and "stamp" meaning the stamp you get each day on your Pilgrim passport!
  14. backpack45

    Trekking poles, and testing foot wear

    Hiking poles may not be necessary for some--at 82, they pretty much are for me on rough terrain or descents--however, it has been shown that they take significant stress off the lower body. To get the full effect of that, you need to use two of them. I have never had pain from using them, but...
  15. backpack45

    Am I packing too much?

    Are you taking something for the rain besides your rain jacket? I personally like rain pants and an umbrella, but others are ok with a poncho--I just think you need something for your bottom half. I would eliminate one set of the underwear, one pair of socks. You can wash stuff out and if it...
  16. backpack45

    To check or not check your backpack?

    We always carry our own backpacks--we check a duffle bag with our poles and Swiss Army knives and carry the duffle bag with us. We like having the flexibility, and feeling that we have everything we need to survive on our backs. I must point out, however, that we for many years have been doing...
  17. backpack45

    Sun Umbrella

    There are ways to attach an umbrella to your pack so that your hands are free. I can't explain it, but pretty sure there are videos online that show how to do this. My husband often uses both his poles and his umbrella. If you can't find a demo, send me an email at backpack45 at sign here...
  18. backpack45

    Gore-Tex in September's First Week? (Sarria)

    Generally this is not a rainy time; in fact it can still be hot. I don't advise Goretex shoes because you want your feet to breathe.
  19. backpack45

    Saying Goodbye to Camino Boots or Shoes

    I don't think my Altras last twice that, but then I replace them when the tread is unevenly worn. My husband might get that amount; he continues to wear them after they have holes, no tread, etc., so guess it depends on how you define "replacements were required."
  20. backpack45

    What size rucksack for two weeks on Frances

    I carry an 40 Osprey, which is roomy enough that I take it backpacking and carry food, etc. So I could probably get by with something a bit smaller, but it is a reasonable weight, is comfortable, has the mesh ventilation panel, and a roomy, waterproof compartment on top, which is great for...

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