Walking with headphones?

[LaurnaBerry]

Last time I walked in 2017, I used headphones. Now I'm going to walk again in April.
I listened to Bible teachers like Derek Prince, the audio bible (the Psalms) and of course lots of worship music.

What do you think of people who walk with big headphones?

Do you use headphones ? Answer the poll!
And what do you listen to?

Even if I'm very outgoing and social I like to have my private moments.

 

[davebugg]

I think people walking with headphones are fodder for bicyclists. I do not understand the connection between headphones and private moments.

 

[Robo]

On my first Camino I used earbuds a bit to listen to Music.
Music appropriate to the Camino. Mainly the sound track from the movie
I found it very uplifting.
I would also frequently sing!
Yes it was a joyous journey..............if you get the idea.

On my second and third Camino, I had Pat with me.
Music was out of the question.
As I had to be ready to respond to all the questions.
Are we there yet?
Where is the next cafe?
Find a good spot, I need to pee?
I think you get the idea.

Last year, I had ear buds, but never listened to music once.
Maybe it was the isolation? VdlP and Inverno.
There was so much to listen to.
The wind in the trees, the birds, the cows, sheep, pigs, horses......

And the Dogs. Needed to listen out for them.......

Maybe I finally learned how to be in the moment and relish it?

With the environment talking to me, and me talking to me......I didn't have time or need for music.

 

[David Tallan]

Do you mean "do you bring headphones/earbuds with you on Camino" or do you mean "do you wear them while walking your Camino"?

If the latter, what are you looking for from people who sometimes wear them and sometimes don't which, according to posts elsewhere on the forum, is not unusual for those who bring them. If someone only wears them in the late afternoon when they are flagging for an energy boost (say, 10% of the time), should they mark themselves down as someone who wears them or someone who doesn't?

 

[J Willhaus]

I would say that people wearing headphones while walking make me a little sad for them, but it doesn't mean that I don't like them.

 

[Robo]

I do not understand the connection between headphones and private moments.

I get that. I don't use them anymore.

But in the past I have found the combination of a beautiful landscape and uplifting music to be a powerful combination that brought tears to my eyes. It was like a catalyst maybe.

Now I can manage it without the music, just with my eyes, my ears and my thoughts.

 

[trecile]

Last time I walked in 2017, I used headphones. Now I'm going to walk again in April.
I listened to Bible teachers like Derek Prince, the audio bible (the Psalms) and of course lots of worship music.

What do you think of people who walk with big headphones?

Do you use headphones ? Answer the poll!
And what do you listen to?

Even if I'm very outgoing and social I like to have my private moments.

I'm sorry, but what does it matter if other people use or don't use headphones? Are you going to not use them if a majority of people vote no?

 

[TravellingMan22]

Yes I like to wear my big headphones ! The Bose type. Music - nothing else! Gives me inspiration. All type of music really but mainly upbeat modern music I guess. Adds hugely to my experience and helps when feeling flat and /or tired and/or bored!

 

[Robo]

An alternative to headphones?

 

[SabsP]

An alternative to headphones?

View attachment 167382

Funny as this picture might be, I actually met on two different Caminos two pilgrims with such a device. And no, they were not local teens.

 

[dick bird]

Headphones isolate you from your surroundings, so yes I wear them in the albergues as I try to get to sleep, but when I am walking I want to be aware of and to appreciate my surroundings.

 

[Turga]

I actuall met on two different Caminos two pilgrims with such a device

Me too – luckily only once. It was a young man walking with a ghetto blaster on his shoulder just like in the picture. I could hear the ridiculously loud music 15 minutes before he passed me and 15 minutes after. I could hardly believe it….

 

[Pafayac]

Walking with headphones mean for me that you cannot be free from them, and that you do not want to talk with others: why walking the Camino ?

 

[Former member 104756]

Headphones isolate you from your surroundings, so yes I wear them in the albergues as I try to get to sleep, but when I am walking I want to be aware of and to appreciate my surroundings.

Same here. But i can understand enjoying music or podcasts etc while walking. I also like to have ear buds in case I need to make a call. I know it's not a big deal in the scheme of things - but I have noticed a tendency these days for people to speak 'on speaker' on their phone on audio and video calls - so that we can all hear both sides of the conversation, whether we want to or not.

 

[Bradypus]

Walking with headphones mean for me that you cannot be free from them, and that you do not want to talk with others: why walking the Camino ?

I'm about 50% in agreement with you. I walk without headphones. Most of the time I do not want to talk with others either. I don't see why talking with others should be considered an essential element of walking a Camino. Most of the time I choose my routes and times to keep that to a minimum!

 

[Peterexpatkiwi]

Even if I'm very outgoing and social I like to have my private moments.

Exactly. Simply by putting them in, other’s understand that you’d like a little space/ aren’t feeling Social in that moment

think people walking with headphones are fodder for bicyclists. I do not understand the connection between headphones and private moments.

Depends on the Camino.
For example:
Primitivo - not an issue.
Inglés - just one section.
Frances in the areas with its superhighway, agreed. In busier area’s I don’t use them.

But in the past I have found the combination of a beautiful landscape and uplifting music to be a powerful combination that brought tears to my eyes. It was like a catalyst maybe.

Normally that’s the case for me, too. But occasionally, at the end of a long day, walking alone - I’ve spent enough time in my own thoughts. A little upbeat music is very uplifting - sometimes Pop, Country, Rock, Classic (1812, Sibelius… )

Walking with headphones mean for me that you cannot be free from them, and that you do not want to talk with others: why walking the Camino

Ironically I very seldom use them at home, not my thing. And on the Primitivo I think three, perhaps 4 times.

As comfortable as I am with my own company, I’m normally fairly social - especially on Camino. But yes, sometimes I DONT want to talk to anyone.

It’s like everything - shoes or boots, raincoat or poncho, poles or not - we all walk our own Camino.

 

[Pafayac]

I don't see why talking with others should be considered an essential element of walking a Camino

Because Camino is a pilgrimage, all the ways converge toward Santiago : you should expect to meet other people.
When I want to be alone, I walk in the Gobi desert.

 

[Bradypus]

Because Camino is a pilgrimage, all the ways converge toward Santiago : you should expect to meet other people.
When I want to be alone, I walk in the Gobi desert.

I do expect to meet other people. When I do meet others on the way I usually greet them politely in passing and move on. When I stop for a drink or a meal or at night in the albergues I am usually happy to enter into conversation. But for me time spent while walking is deeply personal and best experienced in solitude. I do not feel obliged to be someone else's entertainment or distraction just as I would not deliberately intrude on someone else's journey uninvited.

 

[Peterexpatkiwi]

Because Camino is a pilgrimage, all the ways converge toward Santiago : you should expect to meet other people.

Just because I meet others doesn’t mean I necessarily want to socialise with them. Or them with me. Sometimes I can’t due to language barrier’s.

Equally important, some are specifically walking to get/ feel closer to God, and prefer, if not solitude, walking in prayer/ contemplation.

 

[Robo]

Walking with headphones mean for me that you cannot be free from them, and that you do not want to talk with others: why walking the Camino ?

To be alone? Sometimes I want to be alone.
That is the joy of the more remote routes.

 

[Bradypus]

To be alone? Sometimes I want to be alone.
That is the joy of the more remote routes.

Used to be a major part of the joy of the Camino Frances too. I walked my first Camino in August and September and met less than 30 pilgrims over 800km or so. And spent perhaps half of my nights alone in refugios. That is still the type of experience I generally look for in my Camino walking. I walked the Camino Frances for the third time in peak season in September 2016 and again in September last year with a friend. An interesting contrast to my first Camino but if either of those had been my first experience of walking a Camino it would almost certainly also have been my last. Fortunately there are routes and seasons for a wide range of preferences.

 

[Annette london]

Because Camino is a pilgrimage, all the ways converge toward Santiago : you should expect to meet other people.
When I want to be alone, I walk in the Gobi desert.

Not everyone walks the Camino as a pilgrimage
Some people like ourselves just like to walk
I always listen to music on my little iPod shuffle and if I want or need fo talk to someone I just pause the music
Neither does it stop me talking, and at great length too, to others along the way
The pause button is there for a reason!
I listen to music as well on our local walks around the lake or in the forest or in fact wherever we walk
What others do doesn’t concern me

 

[davejsy]

Personal preference of course, and certainly no right or wrong answer, and even opposing views are both correct.

I think maybe 5% of my walking time was with my headphones in, much less than I thought it would be before I went. The thought that you might be bored or unmotivated soon disappears once you start, which was one reason why I thought I'd need them more.

But in the past I have found the combination of a beautiful landscape and uplifting music to be a powerful combination that brought tears to my eyes. It was like a catalyst maybe

This is definitely true, and I've fond memories of some stretches with Sam Fender or Maggie Rogers blasting in my ears! But, I also had a time on the Meseta where a random song had me sat on the ground sobbing.

Music can be very powerful in certain circumstances and can in ways complement a Camino, and provide you with what you need at times. But unless your personal circumstances dictate it, more of your Camino should be without as opposed to with. The sound of nature and your footsteps are part of the meditative nature of the Camino, and of course conversation with other pilgrims (not obligatory).

 

[Former member 104756]

I'm sorry, but what does it matter if other people use or don't use headphones? Are you going to not use them if a majority of people vote no?

I agree. Surely there are already enough things to 'divide' us. So I didn't vote in this poll. And perhaps a poor choice of words in the fourth option. Polls are tricky. @LaurnaBerry whatever works for you - as long as not impinging on others (e.g. a boombox!) - is AOK in my view. But be aware that you may not hear the cyclist bell or warning call.

 

[J Willhaus]

Maybe generational? As a younger person I loved music for dancing and at live venues. I had my favorite bands. Now I seldom listen. It's out of place for me unless a little background music around Christmas. If I do want music, I'd rather make it my full attention such as a live music venue, concert, or symphony and not to block out the rest of my every day world. I have enough trouble hearing the world around me without it.

I don't listen to talking books, podcasts, or watch videos on my phone. I can read much faster and prefer to get information by reading. That is my preferred learning style. I find my students, even at the graduate level, prefer a recording or a video.

I also find headphones and ear buds uncomfortable to wear. If a person wants alone time they can just say it. "Thanks, but I'm walking in silence for a bit. Maybe we chat later." Seems more clear that way and I am less likely to be hit by a car or bike with nothing in or on my ears.

Just my preferences.

 

[marcoberna]

I use bone conduction headphone since years now. I mainly walk alone and I want to be aware of the surroundings, but at the same time I'm a huge fan of audiobooks.
Bone conduction is the perfect solution for me, as the ear is free and I can listen to books/music while not being completely isolated

 

[Paul Wilson]

Convert to bone conductors a few years back I can hear everything around me and when the going gets tough I can stick on some boosting tunes

 

[montyhiker]

In my training walks I might listen to my playlist: a lot of Worship music, but plenty of Bon Jovi, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin. Throw in some Andrew Lloyd Webber, Classical and Prince. Guess I know why my wife thinks I’m a little ADHD. But mostly Worship music.
HOWEVER, in Western North Carolina, if my hiking takes me deep in the mountains, I wear nothing!! Gotta look out for bears!

 

[Anna Cameron]

I would say that people wearing headphones while walking make me a little sad for them, but it doesn't mean that I don't like them.

I agree. I would not wear them myself, at all. But, I will not judge those who do, although I believe it IS a bit sad for them (which is perhaps a form of judgement, sorry).

 

[EdN]

Looks like I won't be liked by 1 of 3 people I see walking in Portugal in a few weeks. Great way to start. Shake my head.

 

[G_the_D]

I wear a single ear bud. It allows me to switch my attention from the podcast I'm likely listening to, to the sounds of the Camino. If a conversation is offered, the ear bud comes out.
Not for everyone, but it works for me.

G

 

[Peterexpatkiwi]

Qq Looks like I won't be liked by 1 of 3 people I see walking in Portugal in a few weeks. Great way to start. Shake my head.

Nope, the numbers commenting on the forum are a very small percentage of those on Camino! We’re just an opinionated bunch, myself included.

Threads like this just emphasise how different we all are, and that we all walk our own Camino.

The only ones listening to music that I personally struggle with on Camino are those choosing to share it with everybody- I.e, boom box or similar. Regardless as to whether or not I like their music!
I just increase my speed a little until I’m out of earshot. They’re entitled to enjoy their life in their own way, it’s not actually hurting anyone. And at least they’re out walking!

 

[steven mains]

Last time I walked in 2017, I used headphones. Now I'm going to walk again in April.
I listened to Bible teachers like Derek Prince, the audio bible (the Psalms) and of course lots of worship music.

What do you think of people who walk with big headphones?

Do you use headphones ? Answer the poll!
And what do you listen to?

Even if I'm very outgoing and social I like to have my private moments.

I walk with earbuds if I want to listen to the Rosary or uplifting music. I think headphones would be too hot and sweaty. If someone addresses me while I have my earbuds in, I always remove them so we can talk and they don't think I am distracted.

 

[Former member 104756]

Looks like I won't be liked by 1 of 3 people I see walking in Portugal in a few weeks. Great way to start. Shake my head.

Take heart @EdN firstly, polls are tricky at the best of times - that's why specialists get paid a fortune to design them; secondly, only a very small percentage of forum members have voted in the poll - at time of writing the thread has had 600 views and only 42 people have voted; thirdly, the forum is not the Camino. but you've walked before, so you already know that; and, fourthly, chances are the 15 people (so far) who've voted that they don't like people who wear headphones will still be at home while you'll be out walking in Portugal - lucky you! Buen camino.

 

[Anniesantiago]

I don't use headphones because I'm afraid of being run over by bicigrinos who go WAY too fast on those trails, in my experience.

 

[KDub]

I take earbuds, but only use one/one ear when I am walking as a safety precaution.

 

[Mlambere]

Personal preference of course, and certainly no right or wrong answer, and even opposing views are both correct.

I think maybe 5% of my walking time was with my headphones in, much less than I thought it would be before I went. The thought that you might be bored or unmotivated soon disappears once you start, which was one reason why I thought I'd need them more.


This is definitely true, and I've fond memories of some stretches with Sam Fender or Maggie Rogers blasting in my ears! But, I also had a time on the Meseta where a random song had me sat on the ground sobbing.

Music can be very powerful in certain circumstances and can in ways complement a Camino, and provide you with what you need at times. But unless your personal circumstances dictate it, more of your Camino should be without as opposed to with. The sound of nature and your footsteps are part of the meditative nature of the Camino, and of course conversation with other pilgrims (not obligatory).

I live overlooking the pub Sam Fender used to be a barman, see the Low Light pub in the image.......they still get in for a drink now and then. I start on.the 29th April in Santander with Headphones, i am though very social..... buen camino

 

[Gerard Griffin]

I've noticed that many people who walk the Camino experience irritation with the behaviour of others, in the matter of music or otherwise.

Imo this is a not a bug of the Camino, it's a feature. Why would Westerners who come from a culture in which "hell is other people" and who holiday in the icy seclusion of hotels choose to spend weeks in the company of annoying strangers in albergues and elsewhere? It's because they recognize subconsciously that the Camino is inviting them to get in touch with their inner Karen and get over themselves. To exercise charity, Christian or otherwise, and refrain from being offended where offence is not intended.

As for music, rock on lads, or not, it's your business and none of mine.

 

[Newspix1]

I personally don't use any headphones when walking. But I'm not going to judge others. It's their Camino, do as you please. Someone however did make a valid point about cyclist. They don't always give you a heads up, and on the down hills they can get going pretty fast. Hope you have a great time, and the opportunity to meet many pilgrims alone the Way. Buen Camino.

 

[ShellToucher]

I do carry them on me for use in the hostals but while walking I listen to music or an audiobook just on my phone, strategically placed in my sling bag with speakers facing me. I feel safer this way; i can hear the ding of cyclist bells, traffic and anything else. Note: I only do this when I am alone on the trail or far away from the nearest pilgrim. When I do get close to another I pause it until I am way past them out of consideration.

 

[truenorthpilgrm]

I listen to podcasts or music in the afternoon if I'm needing that extra push or motivation. Never once have I been run over by a cyclist. Also I don't always want to interact with people on the trail, and wearing headphones sends a subtle message that I'm in my own world, and not open to a where are you from/how long have you walked/where did you start questions. Some people can't read the room and I'm not always down for conversation when I'm being contemplative, listening to music (YES those things can co-exist).

Also, the trope of "you're missing out if you wear headphones" or feeling sorry for someone wearing headphones because you think they're missing out is so tiresome.

 

[kariviken]

Last time I walked in 2017, I used headphones. Now I'm going to walk again in April.
I listened to Bible teachers like Derek Prince, the audio bible (the Psalms) and of course lots of worship music.

What do you think of people who walk with big headphones?

Do you use headphones ? Answer the poll!
And what do you listen to?

Even if I'm very outgoing and social I like to have my private moments.

I never walk with earplugs. I love to hear and listen to all the sounds and noise around me, and all the birdsong But most of all because I love the silence, and to "listen" to my own thoughts. I recommend walking without anything on my ears

 

[OCHAR]

The best music or podcast is SILENCE. The best orchestra is NATURE.

 

[SabsP]

The best music or podcast is SILENCE. The best orchestra is NATURE.

But here you are : shouting.

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[truenorthpilgrm]

The best music or podcast is SILENCE. The best orchestra is NATURE.

Ugh exactly what my comment was referencing

 

[ShellToucher]

The best music or podcast is SILENCE. The best orchestra is NATURE.

But here you are : shouting.

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Respectfully, remember we all hike our own Camino my friend.

The best music or podcast is SILENCE. The best orchestra is NATURE.

 

[OCHAR]

But here you are : shouting.

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It worked! It got your attention. It is uppercase strictly to emphasis....YEAH.

 

[lt56ny]

Walking with headphones mean for me that you cannot be free from them, and that you do not want to talk with others: why walking the Camino ?

Because Camino is a pilgrimage, all the ways converge toward Santiago : you should expect to meet other people.
When I want to be alone, I walk in the Gobi desert.

Used to be a major part of the joy of the Camino Frances too. I walked my first Camino in August and September and met less than 30 pilgrims over 800km or so. And spent perhaps half of my nights alone in refugios. That is still the type of experience I generally look for in my Camino walking. I walked the Camino Frances for the third time in peak season in September 2016 and again in September last year with a friend.

I do expect to meet other people. When I do meet others on the way I usually greet them politely in passing and move on. When I stop for a drink or a meal or at night in the albergues I am usually happy to enter into conversation. But for me time spent while walking is deeply personal and best experienced in solitude. I do not feel obliged to be someone else's entertainment or distraction just as I would not deliberately intrude on someone else's journey uninvited.

First let me say that I could care less if people walk or don't walk with headphones. The father in me will tell young people, if I see them walking with headphones along the sides of busy roads that it is dangerous and to wait until they are on a camino path to put their headphones back on. Personally I never walk with headphones.
I was not offended by what @Pafayac says about speaking with others I just found it to be completely close minded and kind of on the obnoxious side. Not judgemental because in a sense what everyone writes is a judgement to a certain extend.
I included what @Bradypus wrote because it mirrors what I feel also. I choose to walk less traveled routes and really like walking alone with trying to clear my mind of everything to allow new things in and the voices of departed loved ones to enter my heart. For me it is also a deeply important time that I prefer not be interrupted. There are some nights that I meet pilgrims in albergues and I am thankful for that and enjoy sharing a meal and conversation with them.
As Brady said the CF has changed so much in terms of numbers over the years he has walked. Which are many more than my 12 years of walking. I saw that @Pafayac walked Le Puy a few years ago. I guess that has gotten significantly more crowded then when I walked it 9 years ago. Then I did not see one pilgrim except at night in gites. In fact very few people I met then were pilgrims, maybe 3 or 4 others. Most were French who were walking with friends for a week or so hike on the Le Puy route. I guess it has grown exponentially on the Le Puy route like so many of the other camino routes. Let people just walk and again I ask @Pafayac what difference does any of it make to you if someone does or does not want to interact. At the end of the day remember the immortal words of Grace Slick and the Jefferson Airplane from the awesome live album "Bless Its Pointed Little Head". None of it "means sh#$t to a tree"

 

[truenorthpilgrm]

It worked! It got your attention. It is uppercase strictly to emphasis....YEAH.

Congratulations on getting the attention you sought

 

[OCHAR]

Congratulations on getting the attention you sought

I assure you, attention was not my intention. It is amazing however how easy it is for people to get off topic.

 

[Marus99]

Ridiculous amounts of judgement here. Each to his own.

 

[Nelle]

FWIW my autistic son wears headphones while hiking because it helps him remain calm and keeps him from stimming. He’s not listening to music, ignoring nature, or being antisocial — he’s just trying to live his life. And there’s no reason to feel sorry for him — it’s the only life he knows and he’s a generally happy young man. Me, I never use headphones. Live and let live.

 

[Jarrad]

No judgement here. On the very first stage of my first Camino I walked with a lovely young lady who chose to wear ear buds most of the way. Perhaps they helped her block out my ramblings (Mrs. Jarrad could certainly relate to that). However, she really missed out on the sounds of the flock of sheep running up the road past Orrison, a brief exchange with an incredibly courteous Basque shepherd, the wind at the statue of the Virgen, and a conversation with a fascinating gent we met from the UK who had just retired from a long career with the UN. To each his/her own.

Personally, I do use ear buds on some of my daily walks and runs (Dave Whitson's podcast brings me back to the Camino, not matter where I am). But on longer hikes, treks, and Caminos, I'd much rather enjoy the sounds and silence of the environment I'm in. And, yeah, fear of a Camino-ending-injury-by-cyclist is also a factor I take into account.

 

[Former member 104756]

FWIW my autistic son wears headphones while hiking because it helps him remain calm and keeps him from stimming. He’s not listening to music, ignoring nature, or being antisocial — he’s just trying to live his life. And there’s no reason to feel sorry for him — it’s the only life he knows and he’s a generally happy young man. Me, I never use headphones. Live and let live.

A fitting post to put this unnecessary 'argument' to bed, in my humble opinion, as the saying goes.. Thank you @Nelle.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Also, the trope of "you're missing out if you wear headphones" or feeling sorry for someone wearing headphones because you think they're missing out is so tiresome.

Yes, I agree; that does get tiresome.
I don't wear headphones or earbuds on the Camino, but with the exception of a blasting boombox or continual loud conversations on cell phones, it doesn't matter to me what other people choose to do or not do.

 

[davejsy]

inner Karen

 

[C clearly]

my autistic son wears headphones while hiking because it helps him remain calm and keeps him from stimming. He’s not listening to music, ignoring nature, or being antisocial — he’s just trying to live his life.

And let's also recognize that all of us share some of the same traits and reactions, to different degrees. That is why some people find music calming or inspirational at one time, while another person might find it grating.

she really missed out on the sounds

But you don't know what SHE experienced or needed, that YOU missed.

 

[SeppiSunflower]

Last time I walked in 2017, I used headphones. Now I'm going to walk again in April.
I listened to Bible teachers like Derek Prince, the audio bible (the Psalms) and of course lots of worship music.

What do you think of people who walk with big headphones?

Do you use headphones ? Answer the poll!
And what do you listen to?

Even if I'm very outgoing and social I like to have my private moments.

The very best option for listen while walking is Shokz, or other open ear bone conduction headphones. This allows you to hear the world around you while you can also listen to… whatever.

I believe is crowded or high traffic situations it is best to not be listening to anything. Luckily, these types of headsets can pause with a quick button touch, and you do not need to take them off at all, because they are not covering or blocking your ears.

I am pretty strongly against headset or both earbuds in on trail, I’m also against listening to stuff out loud either in company or on trail. Although when I’m out walking on my roads I might play an audiobook out loud if my Shokz aren’t charged.

 

[truenorthpilgrm]

However, she really missed out on the sounds of the flock of sheep running up the road past Orrison, a brief exchange with an incredibly courteous Basque shepherd, the wind at the statue of the Virgen, and a conversation with a fascinating gent we met from the UK who had just retired from a long career with the UN. To each his/her own

What if she had all those same experiences, but on a different stage/day? Why are so sure she missed out?

No need to answer, I’m simply pointing out the confidence some folks have re headphones on a Camino.

And I’m going to ruffle a few feathers here, but I find this sentiment of “no headphones!” tends comes from an older generation. Folks are all for the best shoes, moisture wicking clothes, poles and sticks, baggage transport, comfy beds, but when it comes to mental support, somehow we’re supposed to muscle our way through it?

Music/podcasts can greatly support our mind and mental health, helps us access the more dormant/subconscious parts of our brain when walking.

All this to say, everyone has different ways of processing sounds and experiences.

 

[SDJunkMan]

I haven't walked my Camino yet, but plan to use earbuds. I usually listen to music with earbuds while walking (or doing anything else for that matter). I have no problem pulling them out to talk to people if the opportunity arises, but unless I am talking with anotber walker, I usually walk at a faster pace than the people around me. I'm not missing nature because I live in a semi rural area and can hear nature at home. Deer, turkeys, rabbits, and even a fox now and then come through my yard. There is a herd of cattle about a mile away. I do take offense to people that choose to listen to their music without earbuds or headphones though.

 

[Gerard Griffin]

Confession time, and if you have feathers prepared to find them ruffled. I use a small but powerful Bluetooth speaker most of the time. I do this for several reasons: I like music; the beat helps me to cycle and distracts me from the pain and the dark thoughts; loud music is far more effective at clearing the path of pilgrims than a bike bell. I know that it annoys people but I get to put up with their eccentricities and expect them to bear with mine. I'm gone in 15 seconds and then the silence and the sounds of nature flood back in all the sweeter, broken only by the grumbling of the pilgrims, which I suspect they enjoy even as much as I do.

 

[J Willhaus]

What if she had all those same experiences, but on a different stage/day? Why are so sure she missed out?

No need to answer, I’m simply pointing out the confidence some folks have re headphones on a Camino.

And I’m going to ruffle a few feathers here, but I find this sentiment of “no headphones!” tends comes from an older generation. Folks are all for the best shoes, moisture wicking clothes, poles and sticks, baggage transport, comfy beds, but when it comes to mental support, somehow we’re supposed to muscle our way through it?

Music/podcasts can greatly support our mind and mental health, helps us access the more dormant/subconscious parts of our brain when walking.

All this to say, everyone has different ways of processing sounds and experiences.

Yes, I said it might be generational. In my youth we had records, 8 track tapes, and later cassette tapes which could be used with headphones later in my adulthood with a walkman. Headphones had to be connected to your large stereo unit. I did not become accustomed to headphones or ear buds until I needed to use them to teach online during the pandemic. Edit: I don't like them because of my association with an unpleasant time in the world.

Please don't take offense. Use your headphones or ear buds. It is simply a preference, like everything else on the Camino. I am sorry this has become so polarized.

 

[Marus99]

The very best option for listen while walking is Shokz, or other open ear bone conduction headphones. This allows you to hear the world around you while you can also listen to… whatever.

I believe is crowded or high traffic situations it is best to not be listening to anything. Luckily, these types of headsets can pause with a quick button touch, and you do not need to take them off at all, because they are not covering or blocking your ears.

I am pretty strongly against headset or both earbuds in on trail, I’m also against listening to stuff out loud either in company or on trail. Although when I’m out walking on my roads I might play an audiobook out loud if my Shokz aren’t charged.

Shokz are awesome. Totally agree.

 

[trecile]

Shokz are awesome. Totally agree.

I just bought some, and they are awesome. A couple of peregrinas that I met last year had them, and they seemed to be perfect for the Camino. They don't block your ears at all, and it's easy to pause whatever you are listening to in order to talk to others. And unlike my Bluetooth earbuds I can just slide the Shokz down and wear them around my neck when I'm not using them.

 

[David Tallan]

Walking with headphones mean for me that you cannot be free from them, and that you do not want to talk with others: why walking the Camino ?

I find it hard to believe that someone occasionally walking with headphones, listening to music or a podcast while walking, will receive nothing from their Camino.

 

[David Tallan]

I agree. Surely there are already enough things to 'divide' us. So I didn't vote in this poll. And perhaps a poor choice of words in the fourth option. Polls are tricky. @LaurnaBerry whatever works for you - as long as not impinging on others (e.g. a boombox!) - is AOK in my view. But be aware that you may not hear the cyclist bell or warning call.

I agree with you about the fourth option. I generally find the Camino to be a very supportive environment. That such a large percentage of the respondents here would say that they actively dislike a fellow pilgrim simply because they've seen them wearing headphones is frankly shocking, and I can only hope it doesn't reflect the reality of their feelings when actually on the Camino.

 

[Marus99]

As someone said earlier, it’s a generational thing. Boomers do what boomers do. They always think they know best.

 

[trecile]

As someone said earlier, it’s a generational thing. Boomers do what boomers do. They always think they know best.

Boomer here. When walking at home I almost always listen to something on my earbuds, and use them occasionally on the Camino too.

 

[truenorthpilgrm]

Yes, I said it might be generational. In my youth we had records, 8 track tapes, and later cassette tapes which could be used with headphones later in my adulthood with a walkman. Headphones had to be connected to your large stereo unit. I did not become accustomed to headphones or ear buds until I needed to use them to teach online during the pandemic. Edit: I don't like them because of my association with an unpleasant time in the world.

Please don't take offense. Use your headphones or ear buds. It is simply a preference, like everything else on the Camino. I am sorry this has become so polarized.

I am not offended, nor do I feel this past is necessarily polarized, it's just discussion. I'm always amazed at how seemingly innocuous subjects on the forum (like headphones) thread out into some good back and forth.

 

[JustinB]

I think people walking with headphones are fodder for bicyclists. I do not understand the connection between headphones and private moments.

Hi, lets not forget the number one rule about the Camino, every one walks their own.

 

[J Willhaus]

I am not offended, nor do I feel this past is necessarily polarized, it's just discussion. I'm always amazed at how seemingly innocuous subjects on the forum (like headphones) thread out into some good back and forth.

When people start calling other names or generalizing it seems polarized. Boomer, bicycle fodder?

 

[Wanderwoman2]

Equally important, some are specifically walking to get/ feel closer to God, and prefer, if not solitude, walking in prayer/ contemplation.

Not to disagree with you, because I found some of the most beautiful moments with just me, the horizon and the birds. But I wanted to add that I was surprised by finding God in the community of others.

I had expected a solo journey, just me and God on an open road. That's how I normally connect to God. But what I found was God in the relationships, God was in between me and the other people. The stories we shared. The time I couldn't carry my pack and a man carried it for me. The time the wind was so fierce I was miserable and a companion cut the misery in half. The time I slowed down to walk with the woman who'd had no companions because she was so slow or sang John Denver with a Korean because we didn't have language in common. That discovery changed my life! But then, that was God and the Camino giving me what I need

 

[Rickcrna]

This conversation belongs in the same bucket as all the other topics which permit people to be judgmental of other pilgrims. Truly, no one really cares about individual opinions regarding matters that are none of your business.

 

[lt56ny]

Because Camino is a pilgrimage, all the ways converge toward Santiago : you should expect to meet other people.
When I want to be alone, I walk in the Gobi desert.

Webster dictionary definition of Pilgrimage:
a journey of a pilgrim
especially : one to a shrine or a sacred place
Cambridge dictionary:
pilgrimage
noun [ C or U ]
a special journey made by a pilgrim:

Muslims try to make a pilgrimage/go on a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their life.

a visit to a place that is considered special, where you go to show your respect:

Your expectation that you will meet other people. You can even meet people walking in the Gobi Desert. The definitions above say nothing about meeting others or your expected behavior to others. I sincerely ask what does the expectation of meeting someone in life and your "obligation" or "expectation of interacting with others have any correlation whatsoever with walking on any pilgrimage. There are many caminos that go to Santiago where you may not meet one pilgrim the entire way. I am sure when others walked 30 years ago many did not encounter one pilgrim. Does that cancel the meaning or the experience of pilgrimage for those who choose solitude and silence?

 

[Gerard Griffin]

This conversation belongs in the same bucket as all the other topics which permit people to be judgmental of other pilgrims. Truly, no one really cares about individual opinions regarding matters that are none of your business.

I can see your point ... the headphones/no headphones discussion must indeed seem trivial, and the passions it raises absurd.

I can't agree with your last point, however, because I am very curious about individual opinions, particularly about matters that are none of my business. And I think that one of the best things about this forum, and about the Camino, is the way the trivial suddenly becomes the transcendent, as it does in many of the posts above.

 

[truenorthpilgrm]

When people start calling other names or generalizing it seems polarized. Boomer, bicycle fodder?

Just saw the fodder/boomer comments, so I agree with you.

 

[T0M]

Because Camino is a pilgrimage, all the ways converge toward Santiago : you should expect to meet other people.

And evidently, you should expect people to try to tell you how to do your camino.

People who wear big or noticeable headphones might not be listening to anything at all. On an airplane or on a walk, it often signals the same thing: "not interested in conversation right now".

Not wearing headphones so that bicyclers can be heard is about as strange as saying that the deaf should not walk the camino, for fear of inconveniencing bicyclers.

 

[truenorthpilgrm]

Not wearing headphones so that bicyclers can be heard is about as strange as saying that the deaf should not walk the camino, for fear of inconveniencing bicyclers.

This is a great point.

...and your comment speaks (somewhat) to my earlier post about how we all show up to the camino with different abilities and disabilities, some are visible, many are not.

I didn't mention this earlier, but in reading some of the comments, there's a curious sense of purity and superiority of not using headphones/earbuds. And that headphones/earbuds somehow taint the experience of the camino (something no one can determine but the person wearing them). It seems like the disdain for headphones isn't about necessarily avoiding cyclists or safety, but more about gatekeeping how someone *should* to be in communion with their immediate environment.

*Side note* In my three camino Frances + Le Puy, I have mostly encountered cyclists that share the road, sound bells, yell "buen camino" as they're passing me...and I love it. Only one time has a cyclist surprised me on the road to Samos, and I was fine. It was non-issue, and no, I was not "fodder" for them.

 

[ShellToucher]

This is a great point.

...and your comment speaks (somewhat) to my earlier post about how we all show up to the camino with different abilities and disabilities, some are visible, many are not.

I didn't mention this earlier, but in reading some of the comments, there's a curious sense of purity and superiority of not using headphones/earbuds. And that headphones/earbuds somehow taint the experience of the camino (something no one can determine but the person wearing them). It seems like the disdain for headphones isn't about necessarily avoiding cyclists or safety, but more about gatekeeping how someone *should* to be in communion with their immediate environment.

*Side note* In my three camino Frances + Le Puy, I have mostly encountered cyclists that share the road, sound bells, yell "buen camino" as they're passing me...and I love it. Only one time has a cyclist surprised me on the road to Samos, and I was fine. It was non-issue, and no, I was not "fodder" for them.

You were lucky then! On all my past caminos, it seemed 1 out of 10 cyclist actually rang a bell or gave a warning before flying past. Once I was sideswiped by a guy on a bike, a very close call. I really wish ringing a bell was mandatory.

 

[Mlambere]

I am new to this forum.....which is extremely useful....but this thread is bizarre. It has become divisive...surely this is not productive and in reality probabaly time it was closed.....

 

[Former member 104756]

Hi @LaurnaBerry. I notice you haven’t commented since you started the thread and the poll. It’s a shame that the discussion has unfolded as it has. Comments are becoming quite personal. The poll itself was somewhat divisive - though I imagine that was not your intention. Rather you were curious. Anyhoo, if you have enough answers, you have the power to ask the moderators to close the thread. Just a thought.

 

[T0M]

I was sideswiped by a guy on a bike

Sorry that this happened to you.

I am an avid biker, but bikes on the camino are a bad idea.

I cannot imagine the audacity of ringing a bell or honking a horn and expecting a pedestrian to get out of my way.

There are plenty of quiet back roads and farm roads that bikers could use to make their way to Santiago.

 

[davebugg]

People who wear big or noticeable headphones might not be listening to anything at all. On an airplane or on a walk, it often signals the same thing: "not interested in conversation right now".

Not wearing headphones so that bicyclers can be heard is about as strange as saying that the deaf should not walk the camino, for fear of inconveniencing bicyclers.

The issue is not about bicyclists, it is about pedestrians. As one who is very hard of hearing, there is no equivalency between voluntarily, perhaps, reducing one sense that can provide a warning to help you prevent an injury from reckless riders, versus one who struggles with hearing.

People are free to act in a manner they choose as long as it does not directly impact me. And pointing out about a real potential for a 'cause' vs 'effect' is not demanding others go headphone free.

 

[davebugg]

When people start calling other names or generalizing it seems polarized. Boomer, bicycle fodder?

'Bicycle Fodder' was not calling a name. It is a recognition of a 'cause' and a potential 'effect'. Those who want to limit hearing are no real issue for me. But the ability to hear approaching aggressive cyclists to help reduce one's risk of being harmed is a good thing in my mind.

 

[T0M]

The issue is not about bicyclists, it is about pedestrians. As one who is very hard of hearing, there is no equivalency between voluntarily, perhaps, reducing one sense that can provide a warning to help you prevent an injury from reckless riders, versus one who struggles with hearing.

People are free to act in a manner they choose as long as it does not directly impact me. And pointing out about a real potential for a 'cause' vs 'effect' is not demanding others go headphone free.

Yes, the issue IS about bicyclists and the hazard they pose to those who choose not to hear and those who cannot hear.

 

[ShellToucher]

Sorry that this happened to you.

I am an avid biker, but bikes on the camino are a bad idea.

I cannot imagine the audacity of ringing a bell or honking a horn and expecting a pedestrian to get out of my way.

There are plenty of quiet back roads and farm roads that bikers could use to make their way to Santiago.

Ahh, well I don’t mind that much nor find it audacious on their part, heck I welcome it! Lol, a simple warning is very much appreciated, for safety’s sake. In the USA on bike trails we do the same thing when passing each other, be you passing someone else on a bike or walking. Just basic rules to keep everyone safe.

 

[J Willhaus]

'Bicycle Fodder' was not calling a name. It is a recognition of a 'cause' and a potential 'effect'. Those who want to limit hearing are no real issue for me. But the ability to hear approaching aggressive cyclists to help reduce one's risk of being harmed is a good thing in my mind.

Thanks @davebugg . I agree that it can pose a danger when one can't hear. My husband Phil is also hard of hearing. It just felt like the term might be raising tensions to me.

 

[davebugg]

Thanks @davebugg . I agree that it can pose a danger when one can't hear. My husband Phil is also hard of hearing. It just felt like the term might be raising tensions to me.

I do agree that it is hard to know what triggers some folks.

 

[WGroleau]

Last time I walked in 2017, I used headphones. Now I'm going to walk again in April.
I listened to Bible teachers like Derek Prince, the audio bible (the Psalms) and of course lots of worship music.

I do the same, but I just have it playing softly and pause when close to others. I have nothing against headphones but just don’t like them—especially when traveling. And earbuds? They keep falling out!!

 

[Gerard Griffin]

Permit me to provide reassurance on the matter of headphones and cyclists. Like many things in life, it looks dangerous but it really isn't. It's like when you cross the street in traffic; you know that the drivers know what they're doing and will be aware of you and avoid you, so you don't worry about the fact that several tons of metal are whizzing about in your proximity.

So with cyclists. There are two kinds: the Spanish blokes in latex and clip-ons who are serious trailriders and ride fast and furious. They do this all the time, they are adept at passing walkers and cyclists at speed safely, they see these trails as theirs and are happy to see walkers on them as long as they accept that this is their country and it's up to us to fit in with them. Risk: almost zero.

The second lot are cyclists like me. I use loud music to warn of my approach, because a bell is pretty useless if people are talking or listening to music. This usually works. If not I slow to walking speed and wait until they notice me and clear a way, then I thank them and move on.
If they don't hear me I get off the bike and wait until its safe.

Risk: Zero.

All the other pilgrim cyclists I know do exactly the same.

It's really very safe because nobody wants to hurt anyone else, so relax and enjoy the landscape and the birdsong, and know that when you are too old to walk like me there are other two-wheeled Caminos waiting for you, if you're willing to come over to the Dark Side.

 

[davebugg]

Permit me to provide reassurance on the matter of headphones and cyclists. Like many things in life, it looks dangerous but it really isn't. It's like when you cross the street in traffic; you know that the drivers know what they're doing and will be aware of you and avoid you, so you don't worry about the fact that several tons of metal are whizzing about in your proximity.

So with cyclists. There are two kinds: the Spanish blokes in latex and clip-ons who are serious trailriders and ride fast and furious. They do this all the time, they are adept at passing walkers and cyclists at speed safely, they see these trails as theirs and are happy to see walkers on them as long as they accept that this is their country and it's up to us to fit in with them. Risk: almost zero.

The second lot are cyclists like me. I use loud music to warn of my approach, because a bell is pretty useless if people are talking or listening to music. This usually works. If not I slow to walking speed and wait until they notice me and clear a way, then I thank them and move on.
If they don't hear me I get off the bike and wait until its safe.

Risk: Zero.

All the other pilgrim cyclists I know do exactly the same.

It's really very safe because nobody wants to hurt anyone else, so relax and enjoy the landscape and the birdsong, and know that when you are too old to walk like me there are other two-wheeled Caminos waiting for you, if you're willing to come over to the Dark Side.

Gerard, you are a considerate cyclist as are many cycling pilgrims. And I wish that your characterization of local cyclists as generally respectful toward pedestrian pilgrims were always true. But there's the rub. It appears that the most frequent cyclists who create the majority of issues are not Pilgrims, they are local riders or are adventure riding locally. I know that It was a local cyclist who hit me, and it was a pilgrim cyclist who stopped to offer assistance and to make sure I was OK.

 

[sunrise5am]

Last time I walked in 2017, I used headphones. Now I'm going to walk again in April.
I listened to Bible teachers like Derek Prince, the audio bible (the Psalms) and of course lots of worship music.

What do you think of people who walk with big headphones?

Do you use headphones ? Answer the poll!
And what do you listen to?

Even if I'm very outgoing and social I like to have my private moments.

Maybe it depends on what Camino you are walking? It seems sad not to take in the sounds of nature, or of village life and church bells sounding the hours. But I can understand if the Camino is jam packed with pilgrims. On the Plata there were very few pilgrims and lots of birdsong. Also on the rare occasions an aggressive dog had a go at me, I appreciated the advance warning that hearing its barking gave me.

 

[davebugg]

"Walk your own Camino" has been quoted throughout this thread. Some hold it as a Number One Rule. Yet, for a number of reasons, I find it to be little more than a bumper sticker slogan that can be used to excuse damaging or negative behaviors.

My number one rule when backpacking or walking a Pilgrimage: "I will try and minimize any avoidable disturbance to others." Beyond that, I don't care how others reach Santiago de Compostela be it ear phones that I do not have to listen to, riding a horse, carrying an 80 pound pack, twirling a hula-hoop, balancing an avocado on one's nose for 800km. It's all good to me.

If one's idea of Walking their Camino includes vandalizing Markers or flying a drone in my face. . that's a problem. Wearing headphones is not in that category regardless of individual consequences, or a lack thereof.

Me, I don't dig rules that sound like entitlements which ignore the bigger picture.

 

[VNwalking]

If someone's wearing headphones, they're not inflicting their music (or whatever) on me. No problem! Good in fact.

That said, I can't understand the desire to wear them.

Adds hugely to my experience and helps when feeling flat and /or tired and/or bored!

God forbid anyone should ever feel bored.
Or tired.
Or flat.

I'm sorry for the sarcasm, @TravellingMan22, because I mean no personal disrespect at all. But in all honesty I cannot understand the constant need for artificial stimulation. Perhaps this is a generational thing - it just feels sad to me.

 

[MariaDunlop]

I would much rather have people use their headphones for whatever they want to to listen to, rather than subject the rest of us with their music, podcasts, new feeds, etc.

 

[C clearly]

It seems sad not to take in the sounds of nature, or of village life and church bells sounding the hours.

Perhaps this is a generational thing - it just feels sad to me.

How much time must we listen to the birds, in order to stop others from being sad? Is it 1 hour/day, all waking hours? Or can we take a bit of time to listen to something else? Do we need to wear signs declaring "I am listening only to virtuous stuff, for an hour/day"?

We would love for everyone in the world to experience and like what we like. Is it so bad that someone would walk the Camino and sometimes listen to earphones? Should they stay home instead? Can we listen to music, maybe, while walking through an industrial area?

Perhaps I am just not a very sensitive person, but I try not to let another person's listening choices make me sad.

 

[TravellingMan22]

If someone's wearing headphones, they're not inflicting their music (or whatever) on me. No problem! Good in fact.

That said, I can't understand the desire to wear them.

God forbid anyone should ever feel bored.
Or tired.
Or flat.

I'm sorry for the sarcasm, @TravellingMan22, because I mean no personal disrespect at all. But in all honesty I cannot understand the constant need for artificial stimulation. Perhaps this is a generational thing - it just feels sad to me.

That’s fine. It feels sad to you but not to me. I have a very low boredom threshold, and live my life in a.way to mitigate that. I am a full time traveller so have relatively little need for artificial stimulation but sometimes yes. I have loved my 3 caminos but can sometimes get bored, flat and compared to my normal life. So some music add a little extra and gives me a ‘kick’, bit like being in the gym or on a long bus or train journey! It’s just headphones and music! Thats it, that’s all! The Camino can be unchallenging, too comfortable and samey to me! By contrast I am in a place now that is so colourful and vibrant that you don’t need anything else as every moment is extraordinary, and it’s far too dangerous to have expensive headphones on!

Surely you can see that joist because you think it’s sad doesn’t mean it is! Just stop judging!

I have no idea if it’s generational. My eldest daughter never uses headphones and my youngest does. It’s never that simple!

My main claim to being to being sad, and a few people have said this, is enjoying walking 800km on my own, staying in hostels and paying for the privilege.

 

[Annette london]

If someone's wearing headphones, they're not inflicting their music (or whatever) on me. No problem! Good in fact.

That said, I can't understand the desire to wear them.

God forbid anyone should ever feel bored.
Or tired.
Or flat.

I'm sorry for the sarcasm, @TravellingMan22, because I mean no personal disrespect at all. But in all honesty I cannot understand the constant need for artificial stimulation. Perhaps this is a generational thing - it just feels sad to me.

Don’t feel sad for me VN
I’d be sad without my music, the more beats, the better
Perhaps it’s not “money makes the world go round”
Its music makes the world go round …for many of us anyway
Also any long distance walk, including the Camino can be boring at times, pilgrimage or not.
Why a generational thing? I’m halfway through my 70s so earbuds are not just for the young!
Saying that, I am well able to meditate and contemplate when necessary
…

 

[TravellingMan22]

Don’t feel sad for me VN
I’d be sad without my music, the more beats, the better
Perhaps it’s not “money makes the world go round”
Its music makes the world go round …for many of us anyway
Also any long distance walk, including the Camino can be boring at times, pilgrimage or not.
Why a generational thing? I’m halfway through my 70s so earbuds are not just for the young!
Saying that, I am well able to meditate and contemplate when necessary
…

Can’t we just feel sad for folks who are too ill or poor to have the privilege of walking a Camino. There is really no need to feel sad for folks who just fancy a bit of ‘Bon Jovi’ on a quiet afternoon!

 

[truenorthpilgrm]

Also, isn’t music an art form? “Artificial stimulation” is new one for me….