Things I wish I'd known before my first Camino...

[Chacharm]

In no particular order:

Getting to SJPP isn't as hard or as scary as I thought.

Finding an albuergue isn't hard or scary either.

Getting the credencial and having it stamped is not difficult AT ALL. Get a decent dry bag that is easy to get into to keep it in. Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??).

Carrying a lunch and a snack the first two days is a really, really good idea.

I am miserable without enough water.

The rain in Spain is mostly in the Pyrenees and Galicia.

I don't like grilled Pulpo.

I didn't need to pack deodorant, a pillow, 3 changes of clothes, a head lamp, a silk liner, a Bierley guide, potassium, can opener, or bar soap.
A couple of extra zip lock baggies will come in really handy.

The things I used every day were the most important things:
clean socks and underwear, walking poles, warm jacket, rain coat and gloves, buff, tissues, smart phone with camera, flashlight, kindle app and music with ear buds and blister treatment and prevention stuff.

Take a cab into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos. I hate walking on cement - particularly in traffic.

When the weather is nice and I am sick of long sleeved tech shirts I can buy a T shirt just about anywhere.

If my pack is too heavy I can just send it ahead with Jacotrans.

Whatever the difficulty is, whining won't change it. Just keep walking!

Walking poles look ridiculously similar. Mark yours up with stickers or something.
You can wrap a little duct tape around them for just in case.

 

[Charl]

Remembered the music but ditch the soap.

Like the idea of buying t-shirts on the way.

 

[PANO]

.....Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??).

In Spain- as in most European countries-, Inn keepers are obliged to record the idendities of their guests and keep a list. A photo-ID will do, passport is not really needed.

I agree with your list; easy-going peregrinos like you make great company on the camino!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

In no particular order:

Getting the credencial and having it stamped is not difficult AT ALL. Get a decent dry bag that is easy to get into to keep it in. Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??). I didn't need to pack deodorant, a pillow, 3 changes of clothes, a head lamp, a silk liner, a Bierley guide, potassium, can opener, or bar soap. A couple of extra zip lock baggies will come in really handy.

The things I used every day were the most important things: clean socks and underwear, walking poles, warm jacket, rain coat and gloves, buff, tissues, smart phone with camera, flashlight, kindle app and music with ear buds and blister treatment and prevention stuff.

Take a cab into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos. I hate walking on cement - particularly in traffic.

Let's see, they want to see ID because it's the law? Just like any other hotel requires ID. After all, if there's a fire, for exemple, they need to be able to account for who is still in the there and who made it out. Albergues do have to abide by rules and regulations when they set up shop.

Why a buff? I never understood this. I would gladly prefer to keep the antiperspirant, head lamp, liner (what did you use instead of a liner? Surely not just an albergue blanket with no buffer to keep it clean?) and ditch the kindle, music and ear buds and flashlight (smart phone has a light, and for walking outside in the dark the headlamp is more useful if you walk with poles).

As for taking a cab to walk into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos - a) there are much less expensive alternatives: train into Leon, city bus when you arrive in the burbs of Burgos, b) the walk into Pamplona is very pretty, I don't remember trafic and not any more cement than elsewhere.

 

[Con Palos]

Spanish, well a little more than I did have.
and that I really am carb intolerant. I gained 8 Kilos.
On my second camino I managed to maintain my starting weight.

 

[Chacharm]

My passport number is written in my credencial. My driver's license wasn't good enough. Not every albuergue asked for either. Not even most.
I used my sleeping bag....but I gave away the liner on day one.
Perspiring is good for you - I would never use an anti-perspirant. I do use deodorant but not on the Camino. I love my buff! This time I will take 2, in fact. I am female...hear me shiver.
I do not walk in the dark. And what I said was Smart phone with kindle app, flashlight, camera and music. All in one.
I am not terribly worried about the expense and would rather take a cab.

 

[Chacharm]

Spanish, well a little more than I did have.
and that I really am carb intolerant. I gained 8 Kilos.
On my second camino I managed to maintain my starting weight.

All those french fries! I am really going to be good about not eating them every night this time!

 

[PANO]

My passport number is written in my credencial. My driver's license wasn't good enough. Not every albuergue asked for either. Not even most.

While this forum is about sharing experience, legal and official regulations should be accurately noted to prevent that fellow peregrinos getting into troubles.
1. (Europeans-) travelling within Europe require no passport, a government-issued ID card is all that's needed for crossing borders, police- and any other identification. (Driver licenses are not accepted)
2. Overseas (n0n-European) visitors need a valid passport to enter EU (Schengen) which should at all times be carried; but once inside: I don't see a compelling reason why a Photo ID would not suffice for simple identification at hotels, pensions, etc. The reason why (some attentive) hospitaleros insisted to see Chacharm's passport probably was to x-check its number with the one noted in her credencial. Passports are often requested as a synonym for identification, especially from overseas (US) visitors.
2. Law requires Inn keepers to keep records of their guests; if some albergues don't, they can be punished (if caught); enforcement is stricter in some districts (counties) than it is in others and some hospitaleros are negligent, but don't count on it. In commercial hotels and pensions, proper identification is ALWAYS required.

 

[frasert]

My passport number is written in my credencial. My driver's license wasn't good enough. Not every albuergue asked for either. Not even most.
I used my sleeping bag....but I gave away the liner on day one.
Perspiring is good for you - I would never use an anti-perspirant. I do use deodorant but not on the Camino. I love my buff! This time I will take 2, in fact. I am female...hear me shiver.
I do not walk in the dark. And what I said was Smart phone with kindle app, flashlight, camera and music. All in one.
I am not terribly worried about the expense and would rather take a cab.

I like the headlamp or a little alternate flashlight. Leave my phone off to save power and zone out for the day.
Knowing the time (phone) isn't important to me.

 

[Thornley]

In no particular order:

Getting to SJPP isn't as hard or as scary as I thought.

Finding an albuergue isn't hard or scary either.

Getting the credencial and having it stamped is not difficult AT ALL. Get a decent dry bag that is easy to get into to keep it in. Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??).

Carrying a lunch and a snack the first two days is a really, really good idea.

I am miserable without enough water.

The rain in Spain is mostly in the Pyrenees and Galicia.

I don't like grilled Pulpo.

I didn't need to pack deodorant, a pillow, 3 changes of clothes, a head lamp, a silk liner, a Bierley guide, potassium, can opener, or bar soap.
A couple of extra zip lock baggies will come in really handy.

The things I used every day were the most important things:
clean socks and underwear, walking poles, warm jacket, rain coat and gloves, buff, tissues, smart phone with camera, flashlight, kindle app and music with ear buds and blister treatment and prevention stuff.

Take a cab into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos. I hate walking on cement - particularly in traffic.

When the weather is nice and I am sick of long sleeved tech shirts I can buy a T shirt just about anywhere.

If my pack is too heavy I can just send it ahead with Jacotrans.

Whatever the difficulty is, whining won't change it. Just keep walking!

Walking poles look ridiculously similar. Mark yours up with stickers or something.
You can wrap a little duct tape around them for just in case.

If the packs weight is ok at the start how can it get heavier ?
I think there is pavement walking into Santiago , surely no taxies into there.
Best way to enjoy the trip into bigger towns if tired or whatever is by bus , many pilgrims with you.
Liners or sleeping bags not required if using pensions.
Have never met a pilgrim complaining ...swearing yes about the grade , surface , height or whatever but not complaining.
Have met many a pilgrim with serious feet, ankles or knee problems WHO never said a word.
In France your passport is LAW when you book in to any accommodation.
Every alberque in 2008 , 2009 and 2011 requested our passport .

 

[PANO]

....In France your passport is LAW when you book in to any accommodation.
Every alberque in 2008 , 2009 and 2011 requested our passport .

Please Thornley, again and for the sake of correctness and for all European Peregrinos: Throughout Europe, they are not required to carry a passport, ID is sufficient. Passport is needed only for non-European travelers.
(you may not believe it, but this forum is read by a lot of Europeans...)

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Please Thornley, again and for the sake of correctness and for all European Peregrinos: Throughout Europe, they are not required to carry a passport, ID is sufficient. Passport is needed only for non-European travelers.
(you may not believe it, but this forum is read by a lot of Europeans...)

True, but the OP is not from a Schengen country, so our responses are mainly addressing her point of view. And frankly, I can't imagine a resident of one of those countries not know the rules in their own community. Further more, you will notice in the albergues they, and the credecial handed out in Spain (the one Ivar sells) lists "DIN/Passport No" in the identification part of the credencial. Another hint as to what is needed.

 

[Tia Valeria]

Please Thornley, again and for the sake of correctness and for all European Peregrinos: Throughout Europe, they are not required to carry a passport, ID is sufficient. Passport is needed only for non-European travelers.
(you may not believe it, but this forum is read by a lot of Europeans...)

@PANO - those of us from the UK are in the EU but we do have to carry our passports as we do not have ID cards

 

[txpeah]

I agree with your list; easy-going peregrinos like you make great company on the camino!

That's because she's from Austin - they are an easy going bunch.

Thanks for your post @Chacharm.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

@PANO - those of us from the UK are in the EU but we do have to carry our passports as we do not have ID cards

The devil is in the detail, isn't it? What is Europe, what is oversees, what is Schengen, what is EU? ;0)

 

[wayfarer]

Great post Chacharm, I walked into and out of all towns and cities on the Camino and would do so again if I'm lucky enough to go. I know some of it can be a bit dismal but that only makes the good bits even better.

 

[kmrice]

I love my buff! This time I will take 2, in fact.

I love mine, too. My merino buff is one of the more versatile items in my pack. Scarf, watch cap, dust mask, etc. Love it. Probably won't take two, though.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I love mine, too. My merino buff is one of the more versatile items in my pack. Scarf, watch cap, dust mask, etc. Love it. Probably won't take two, though.

Still don't get it. Sorry. What is a watch cap, and where is dust an issue, at least on CF, and Norte?

 

[Icacos]

I love my buff! This time I will take 2, in fact.

I'll take two also, next time. One to use as a headwarmer, and the other around my neck - for those cold mornings.

 

[grayland]

When serving as an hospitalaro we would ask for the passport because the credential was often very hard to read for the name and required National Id number (or passport). The difficulty was caused both by handwriting and sometimes language. (think Korean, Japanese, Russian).

I am a bit of a purist concerning walking the distance and carrying my own pack...unless a physical condition arises. I would hate to encourage anyone to the pre-notion of taking a taxi/bus whenever it gets boring or difficult. It is all good and part of the adventure. Carrying your own pack the distance (your distance) is an achievement to encourage. But ... to each their own.

 

[kmrice]

Still don't get it. Sorry. What is a watch cap, and where is dust an issue, at least on CF, and Norte?

Wikipedia says: "A knit cap, originally of wool (though now often of synthetic fibers) is designed to provide warmth in cold weather. Typically, the knit cap is of simple, tapering constructions, though many variants exist. Historically, the wool knit cap was an extremely common form of headgear for seamen, fishers, hunters and others spending their working day outdoors from the 18th century and forward, and is still commonly used for this purpose in Scandinavia and other cold regions of the world. Being found all over the world where climate demands a warm hat, the knit cap can be found under a multitude of local names.

The buff can be used as one; the merino version is very warm as a watch cap (you double it up) but still thin enough to fit under your regular hat.

We ran into both dust, and annoying gnats, or something, on the meseta; a mask helped.

Makes a great scarf. For very little weight, it can serve a lot of purposes and provide a lot of warmth.

Wouldn't do the Camino without one. Like you, my wife was skeptical. Until she tried one.

Karl

 

[PANO]

@PANO - those of us from the UK are in the EU but we do have to carry our passports as we do not have ID cards

I was not aware and,-given the internationality of this forum-, this even more suggests, that we should be very careful when referring to what and what does not apply for citizens of a particular country in terms of regulations. And @Anemone del Camino: I can assure you that there are more unaware Europeans, especially elder ones, than you might think.
Just wanted to to caution, sorry if I appear as a bore here.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Wikipedia says: "A knit cap, originally of wool (though now often of synthetic fibers) is designed to provide warmth in cold weather. Typically, the knit cap is of simple, tapering constructions, though many variants exist. Historically, the wool knit cap was an extremely common form of headgear for seamen, fishers, hunters and others spending their working day outdoors from the 18th century and forward, and is still commonly used for this purpose in Scandinavia and other cold regions of the world. Being found all over the world where climate demands a warm hat, the knit cap can be found under a multitude of local names.

The buff can be used as one; the merino version is very warm as a watch cap (you double it up) but still thin enough to fit under your regular hat.

We ran into both dust, and annoying gnats, or something, on the meseta; a mask helped.

Makes a great scarf. For very little weight, it can serve a lot of purposes and provide a lot of warmth.

Wouldn't do the Camino without one. Like you, my wife was skeptical. Until she tried one.

Karl

Thank you Karl. I carry a silk scarf with me, serves as a blanket as well on the plane, train and buses. Regarding the watch cap, I was envisioning a large wrist band to over a watch, so didn't make more sense to me. I take it it's basically the same as a beanie. Here is Canada when it's cold I wear a tuque ;0) And as you mention, very little weight, so not must to lose is there ;0)

 

[grayland]

In North American...the "knit or watch cap" described above is usually now referred to as a "beanie"....for whatever reason.
The old term watch cap was from a naval term as they were worn when on watch in the cold..as well as other time.
The older American (also Canadian?) term for this type hat was a "stocking cap".

I think they are all the same thing.

 

[Chacharm]

Personally, I shop. I bought a beautiful scarf in Leon, and a nice pair of shoes. T shirts, a dress, a new pair of hiking pants, a new pair of hiking shoes. My pack filled up and got heavy. Or heavier...it was too heavy to start with. I shopped for a day pack and never carried my big pack again for the entire Camino. Joy!
My ego is not wrapped up in having suffered under a pack for 5 weeks. Nor is it bruised by my taking a cab nor by the opinions of other peregrinos as to my worthiness as a peregrino based upon my pack or status as a pedestrian. I hate walking into the big cities so I don't. I also don't like taking the bus and if I can avoid that, I do.
I travel a lot. In the last 12 months I have been to Europe, Great Britain, New Zealand, Mexico and back to Europe. I am aware that when I check into hotels I need my Passport. But only about a third of Albuergues ever ask to see it. And when they do it will be when you and your things and your pack are dripping wet (did you know that water damage will render your passport un-renewable and sometimes invalid?) and there is a line of people waiting behind you to get their bunks. My Passport number and name are written very clearly in my credencial. My driver's license cannot be damaged by water or mud but it has never sufficed. So I find that irritating. In any event, my advice is/was to have it handy. I don't think that I or anyone else advised anyone not to have it with them.
Also, this thread is about things I wish I had known before I set out the first time. Not things I wish YOU had known. YOU might not even entertain such thoughts...how would I know?

 

[Chacharm]

I'll take two also, next time. One to use as a headwarmer, and the other around my neck - for those cold mornings.

Exactly!!

 

[Chacharm]

I like the headlamp or a little alternate flashlight. Leave my phone off to save power and zone out for the day.
Knowing the time (phone) isn't important to me.

I don't think I ever used the flashlight app on my phone, either. But it is nice to have it. I have a HUGE battery on my phone that I use when I travel. So I can listen to music as I walk and read on it when I am not walking and take all the pictures I like. I like to be able to text my husband every once in a while too. That is another thing I wish I had known - Get a BIG battery for my Samsung.

 

[Carol06]

I photocopied my passport and that was all the albergues required. My actual passport was packed away safely and was only ever requested if I stayed in a hotel.
I could not have managed without my merino buff. It kept my head warm on a cold day, I could pull it over my face on a really cold day, could wear it around my neck to keep the sun off on a hot day, and best of all I could soak it in cold water and wear it around my neck on a stinking hot day. It is so versatile.
In Leon I bought a pretty silk scarf that I could wear in the evenings. My one bit of femininity. And it weighed nothing.

 

[txpeah]

I bought two buffs thinking they would be good to use together - it's good to hear others thought the same!

 

[Tia Valeria]

My passport is always difficult to get out, and some places have a real struggle to see what information to collect from it, quite amusing at times to see what they have made of it all. It must be how the UK ones are printed out.
You are not a bore @PANO - it is good to remind folk, and also for us all to realise that even within the EU we have some very different ID provision.

 

[Chacharm]

I photocopied my passport and that was all the albergues required. My actual passport was packed away safely and was only ever requested if I stayed in a hotel.
I could not have managed without my merino buff. It kept my head warm on a cold day, I could pull it over my face on a really cold day, could wear it around my neck to keep the sun off on a hot day, and best of all I could soak it in cold water and wear it around my neck on a stinking hot day. It is so versatile.
In Leon I bought a pretty silk scarf that I could wear in the evenings. My one bit of femininity. And it weighed nothing.

What a good idea! I will definitely give this a try...thank you.
I wonder if we bought scarves in the same store. She had an amazing inventory. I still wear that scarf all the time.

 

[Thornley]

What a good idea! I will definitely give this a try...thank you.
I wonder if we bought scarves in the same store. She had an amazing inventory. I still wear that scarf all the time.

""If your head is warm your body is warm"" ........thus the beauty of a" beanie" , especially if wool.
It normally disappears after an hour.
My wife always has a silk scarf on when walking it adds a bit of colour and at night wear a different one . It is marvellous how a worn , old battered tea shirt can look with a colourful scarf.........the French excel on this.......the colourful GR65.

Was not being critical for the taxi use , just pointing out to anyone who wishes NOT to walk into the big cities that they would not be the only pilgrim when on the bus.
There is an alberque on the Norte where the local bus takes you down the road to a village and wonderful restaurant .
Around 9pm the bus going the other way takes you back .There were 30 pilgrims in that night , 24 used the bus.
The locals loved it , it cost us a euro and the experience was great.......the bus just stopped at the front gate for the locals whether there was a stop or not. The restaurant was very, very good.
But i must ask again Chacharm about Santiago and the walk into there. More pavement than Pamplona.

 

[Chacharm]

""If your head is warm tour body is warm"" ........thus the beauty of a" beanie" , especially if wool.
It normally disappears after an hour.
My wife always has a silk scarf on when walking it adds a bit of colour and at night wear a different one . It is marvellous how a worn , old battered tea shirt can look with a colourful scarf.........the French excel on this.......the colourful GR65.

Was not being critical for the taxi use , just pointing out to anyone who wishes NOT to walk into the big cities that they would not be the only pilgrim when on the bus.
There is an alberque on the Norte where the local bus takes you down the road to a village and wonderful restaurant .
Around 9pm the bus going the other way takes you back .There were 30 pilgrims in that night , 24 used the bus.
The locals loved it , it cost us a euro and the experience was great.......the bus just stopped at the front gate for the locals whether there was a stop or not. The restaurant was very, very good.
But i must ask again Chacharm about Santiago and the walk into there. More pavement than Pamplona.

Well, I was in pretty sad shape by the time I got to Pamplona. Limping and in tears from the pain in my knees and ankles - and my heavy, heavy pack. For me it seemed to go on for miles and each step was excruciating.
But I was really sad the day I walked into Santiago. Because it was over and I didn't want it to end. So walking the last bit was something I really wanted to do whether on the concrete or not. It was a LOT of city walking though. We had to stop for refreshment

 

[Thornley]

Well, I was in pretty sad shape by the time I got to Pamplona. Limping and in tears from the pain in my knees and ankles - and my heavy, heavy pack. For me it seemed to go on for miles and each step was excruciating.
But I was really sad the day I walked into Santiago. Because it was over and I didn't want it to end. So walking the last bit was something I really wanted to do whether on the concrete or not. It was a LOT of city walking though. We had to stop for refreshment

So under the original heading "Things i wish i'd had known before..." could be
Don't have too much in the pack , the lighter the better.
Make sure you have your shoes worn in or capable of lasting , and hope they are the right type.
Take your time at the start , its where all the damage is done , especially down hill.
No harm in taking a dress ............my wife loves to dress up one day a week for dinner when on the camino....then its folded up until the next good wash and iron.
Take old t/ shirts and when you see a nice ones buy them ..... discard old in alberque....they always come in handy for the following mob.
Whatever camino you choose, bus/taxi/train/walk /camel or donkey , its yours and be proud.
Take 2 scarfs , the same dress will look different the next day.
Get the knees/feet ok Cha and get on the Norte its refreshing....and if too hilly at the start commence in Castro Urdalles.
Keep well.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Also, this thread is about things I wish I had known before I set out the first time. Not things I wish YOU had known. YOU might not even entertain such thoughts...how would I know?

WOW! This is a forum, and if it's about the OP only, why post for the rest of the world to see. Just discuss it with your shrink.

 

[txpeah]

That was kinda rough...

 

[Chacharm]

WOW! This is a forum, and if it's about the OP only, why post for the rest of the world to see. Just discuss it with your shrink.

Well, because then OTHERS might then like to post what THEY wish they had known before THEY started. And other people reading can glean what is important to them from what they read. See how that works? No need to be upset. You're neither required to agree nor disagree with my thoughts and feelings on this or any other matter.

 

[Chacharm]

That was kinda rough...

It wasn't meant to be....

 

[Chacharm]

So under the original heading "Things i wish i'd had known before..." could be
Don't have too much in the pack , the lighter the better.
Make sure you have your shoes worn in or capable of lasting , and hope they are the right type.
Take your time at the start , its where all the damage is done , especially down hill.
No harm in taking a dress ............my wife loves to dress up one day a week for dinner when on the camino....then its folded up until the next good wash and iron.
Take old t/ shirts and when you see a nice ones buy them ..... discard old in alberque....the always come in handy.
Whatever camino you choose, bus/taxi/train/walk /camel or donkey , its yours and be proud.
Take 2 scarfs Cha , the same dress will look different the next day.
Get the knees/feet ok Cha and get on the Norte its refreshing....and if too hilly at the start commence in Castro Urdalles.
Keep well.

Thank you! I am trying to drum up the courage to do the Norte. I am worried about all the black top walking...and the familiar sounds too appealing. My son says I am quitting before I even get started this time, heh heh. But I have a lot of time and can pick and choose.

 

[yolanda Mejia]

In no particular order:

Getting to SJPP isn't as hard or as scary as I thought.

Finding an albuergue isn't hard or scary either.

Getting the credencial and having it stamped is not difficult AT ALL. Get a decent dry bag that is easy to get into to keep it in. Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??).

Carrying a lunch and a snack the first two days is a really, really good idea.

I am miserable without enough water.

The rain in Spain is mostly in the Pyrenees and Galicia.

I don't like grilled Pulpo.

I didn't need to pack deodorant, a pillow, 3 changes of clothes, a head lamp, a silk liner, a Bierley guide, potassium, can opener, or bar soap.
A couple of extra zip lock baggies will come in really handy.

The things I used every day were the most important things:
clean socks and underwear, walking poles, warm jacket, rain coat and gloves, buff, tissues, smart phone with camera, flashlight, kindle app and music with ear buds and blister treatment and prevention stuff.

Take a cab into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos. I hate walking on cement - particularly in traffic.

When the weather is nice and I am sick of long sleeved tech shirts I can buy a T shirt just about anywhere.

If my pack is too heavy I can just send it ahead with Jacotrans.

Whatever the difficulty is, whining won't change it. Just keep walking!

Walking poles look ridiculously similar. Mark yours up with stickers or something.
You can wrap a little duct tape around them for just in case.

Great advise, thank you!

 

[Castilian]

Please Thornley, again and for the sake of correctness and for all European Peregrinos: Throughout Europe, they are not required to carry a passport, ID is sufficient. Passport is needed only for non-European travelers.

I'm afraid you are failing on your try to be as correct as possible. As a start, it seems you are mixing the concept European with the concept EU citizen and/or with the concept citizen of a country member of the Schengen Area. It seems too you are mixing the concept Europe with the concept EU and/or the concept Schengen Area.

European is anyone from Europe. A list of countries in Europe (either totally or partially) can be found on this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_European_countries_by_area
EU citizen is anyone from a county member of the European Union. A list of member countries can be found on this link: http://europa.eu/about-eu/countries/member-countries/
Regarding countries that are members of the Schengen Area, you can take a look at the map on this link (and its legend): http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/schengen/index_en.htm

Whether an European needs a passport (or not) to travel within Europe depends on several factors like the specific European country (or countries) s/he plan to visit, his/her nationality, how long s/he plans to be on that country... BTW, sometimes, not only a passport but even a visa is needed (for example, in the case of Spanish wanting to visit Belarus).

we should be very careful when referring to what and what does not apply for citizens of a particular country in terms of regulations.

I agree. There are tons of nuances. For example, a Spanish can't stay longer than 30 days in Montenegro with his/her Spanish ID card but with his/her Spanish passport could stay up to 90 days.

@PANO - those of us from the UK are in the EU but we do have to carry our passports as we do not have ID cards

...and you aren't the only ones without ID cards, Danish and Irish don't have them either although it seems Ireland will start to issue them this summer.

P.S.: My apologies to anyone who was/felt bored by this post.

 

[grayland]

Quote Chacharm...
"Thank you! I am trying to drum up the courage to do the Norte. I am worried about all the black top walking...and the familiar sounds too appealing. My son says I am quitting before I even get started this time, heh heh. But I have a lot of time and can pick and choose"

Actually, I am not sure that there is as much road walking on the Norte as on the CF, certainly not more. Most of the alsphalt walking I did last year was by choice (I don't mind it). I think that there are some myths about the Norte that does not seem to go away. It is well marked. plenty of good albergues in reasonable distances, outstanding days of walking with the sea at your side. There is really no down side as far as I am concerned....just different as they all are. There were far more people walking last August/September than I expected.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I think that there are some myths about the Norte that does not seem to go away. It is well marked. plenty of good albergues in reasonable distances, outstanding days of walking with the sea at your side. There is really no down side as far as I am concerned....just different as they all are. There were far more people walking last August/September than I expected.

I first looked into doing Del Norte 7 years ago, but back then 35km days were not unsual, or so I was told. That was not for me. I ended up going last fall, and loved it. Beautiful scenary, quality albergue, outstanding food, great cities to visit. I do think there is more asphalt, because you don't walk through fields or forests as much on the CF (I walked from Donostia to Llanes) but the scenary makes up for it. If you like a lot of conversation and congregation you may miss that (although the alberuges were far from empty last fall and you will most likely end up in the same albergue from night to night as the others since there are not as many of them) but I highly encourage you to do that route. Perfect combination of scenary, culture, food, meditation and socialisation. And a few absolutely gems of scenary (from Hazas to Laredo, through the mountain and not the road, you will pass the most idillic beach at the bottom of a cliff, just breathtaking!).

 

[Chacharm]

Quote Chacharm...
"Thank you! I am trying to drum up the courage to do the Norte. I am worried about all the black top walking...and the familiar sounds too appealing. My son says I am quitting before I even get started this time, heh heh. But I have a lot of time and can pick and choose"

Actually, I am not sure that there is as much road walking on the Norte as on the CF, certainly not more. Most of the alsphalt walking I did last year was by choice (I don't mind it). I think that there are some myths about the Norte that does not seem to go away. It is well marked. plenty of good albergues in reasonable distances, outstanding days of walking with the sea at your side. There is really no down side as far as I am concerned....just different as they all are. There were far more people walking last August/September than I expected.

Oh wow that is good news...and it chages my thinking about this entirely. Thank you!

 

[Thornley]

Oh wow that is good news...and it chages my thinking about this entirely. Thank you!

There is a bit of road Cha , but you are not walking into towns the size of Burgos/Leon with their traffic beside you.
And i smile whilst i write this ....you will get a country bus on this way , enjoy it when you do and also enjoy the locals wishing you bon courage/bon camino when they disembark.

 

[tpmchugh]

In no particular order:

Getting to SJPP isn't as hard or as scary as I thought.

Finding an albuergue isn't hard or scary either.

Getting the credencial and having it stamped is not difficult AT ALL. Get a decent dry bag that is easy to get into to keep it in. Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??).

Carrying a lunch and a snack the first two days is a really, really good idea.

I am miserable without enough water.

The rain in Spain is mostly in the Pyrenees and Galicia.

I don't like grilled Pulpo.

I didn't need to pack deodorant, a pillow, 3 changes of clothes, a head lamp, a silk liner, a Bierley guide, potassium, can opener, or bar soap.
A couple of extra zip lock baggies will come in really handy.

The things I used every day were the most important things:
clean socks and underwear, walking poles, warm jacket, rain coat and gloves, buff, tissues, smart phone with camera, flashlight, kindle app and music with ear buds and blister treatment and prevention stuff.

Take a cab into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos. I hate walking on cement - particularly in traffic.

When the weather is nice and I am sick of long sleeved tech shirts I can buy a T shirt just about anywhere.

If my pack is too heavy I can just send it ahead with Jacotrans.

Whatever the difficulty is, whining won't change it. Just keep walking!

Walking poles look ridiculously similar. Mark yours up with stickers or something.
You can wrap a little duct tape around them for just in case.

Only change I would make is, I do like grilled pulpo. I used reflective tape on my walking poles my problem was finding my boots some mornings on the few occasions someone moved them. Was thinking of attaching a 'pink ribbon' to them this time only joking

 

[vgen5122]

In no particular order:

Getting to SJPP isn't as hard or as scary as I thought.

Finding an albuergue isn't hard or scary either.

Getting the credencial and having it stamped is not difficult AT ALL. Get a decent dry bag that is easy to get into to keep it in. Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??).

Carrying a lunch and a snack the first two days is a really, really good idea.

I am miserable without enough water.

The rain in Spain is mostly in the Pyrenees and Galicia.

I don't like grilled Pulpo.

I didn't need to pack deodorant, a pillow, 3 changes of clothes, a head lamp, a silk liner, a Bierley guide, potassium, can opener, or bar soap.
A couple of extra zip lock baggies will come in really handy.

The things I used every day were the most important things:
clean socks and underwear, walking poles, warm jacket, rain coat and gloves, buff, tissues, smart phone with camera, flashlight, kindle app and music with ear buds and blister treatment and prevention stuff.

Take a cab into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos. I hate walking on cement - particularly in traffic.

When the weather is nice and I am sick of long sleeved tech shirts I can buy a T shirt just about anywhere.

If my pack is too heavy I can just send it ahead with Jacotrans.

Whatever the difficulty is, whining won't change it. Just keep walking!

Walking poles look ridiculously similar. Mark yours up with stickers or something.
You can wrap a little duct tape around them for just in case.

Pass up the Pilgrims dinners and eat ala cart unless very hungery. The dinners are too big to be eating late night. Pack a much, much lighter pack.
Wear something over my eyes (like eye goggles) so that the flies won't try get in them.
Buy bigger shoes.
Take an iPhone instead of an iPad.
Buen Camino

 

[SuGardner]

My list is similar to yours, but I would add:
- Take more moleskin. Moleskin worked best for me in helping to PREVENT blisters and I didn't see anything like it in Spain. I didn't like compeed because it got messy and stuck to my socks and was almost impossible to get out of my socks (probably user error).
- Don't worry about keeping up with friends you meet...it's amazing how you wind up together and cross paths even after you think you will never see them again (e.g., we did several side trips (Canas, Suso and Yuso, etc.); took a train from Sahugun to Leon (to meet up with our kids who were joining us there)...Spent several days in Leon...Several days in Burgos and still ended up in Santiago with all of our friends from SJPP and Orrison (plus more friends that we met along the way). Amazing.
- The Spanish Civil Guard (Guardia Civil???) is ready and willing to help if you lose a child (long day...long story...Camino Community at it's best)
- You can buy soap/laundry detergent almost everywhere (I bought these expensive tiny little detergent strips at the backpacking store...unnecessary)
- Bring some cheap gloves for the trip over the Pyrenees (even in June)
​

 

[Chacharm]

I was really smart about Moleskin. At REI I found a giant roll of the stuff and I cut it all up into strips of the proper size and came home with about 10 pieces left over. I am doing the same thing this year. I much prefer it to compheed.
I also bought the expensive little leaves of detergent. pointless. Shampoo works fine.
Gulp - losing your child. Yikes.
I loved it that we met up with so many of our Camino pals in Santiago too! And I was so surprised! I thought we had lost some of them forever with all our rest days and sightseeing. It is amazing, isn't it?

 

[Thornley]

My list is similar to yours, but I would add:
- Take more moleskin. Moleskin worked best for me in helping to PREVENT blisters and I didn't see anything like it in Spain. I didn't like compeed because it got messy and stuck to my socks and was almost impossible to get out of my socks (probably user error).
- Don't worry about keeping up with friends you meet...it's amazing how you wind up together and cross paths even after you think you will never see them again (e.g., we did several side trips (Canas, Suso and Yuso, etc.); took a train from Sahugun to Leon (to meet up with our kids who were joining us there)...Spent several days in Leon...Several days in Burgos and still ended up in Santiago with all of our friends from SJPP and Orrison (plus more friends that we met along the way). Amazing.
- The Spanish Civil Guard (Guardia Civil???) is ready and willing to help if you lose a child (long day...long story...Camino Community at it's best)
- You can buy soap/laundry detergent almost everywhere (I bought these expensive tiny little detergent strips at the backpacking store...unnecessary)
- Bring some cheap gloves for the trip over the Pyrenees (even in June)
​

The Civil Guard were very helpful Su in 08 when a couple had a few problems with luggage left outside an albergue.
They even joined the "closed bar" mid afternoon and had a great discussion with the french pilgrims . They were wonderful ambassadors for the camino.
Perfect summary about the family on the walk most think they should stay with.
Hope the next camino is soon.

 

[mormor Inger Marie]

The devil is in the detail, isn't it? What is Europe, what is oversees, what is Schengen, what is EU? ;0)

The Norwegians also have to bring the passport. We are from Europe, but not member of EU.

 

[Walter1407]

I stopped at the outskirts of both Pamplona and Burgos, and started walking before 6am. Not a lot of traffic then, so quite a pleasant walk, especially in Pamplona.
Into Burgos there is an alternative route which avoids the main road; it's well described in this forum.

 

[Roxane]

Please - what is a buff??

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Please - what is a buff??

The basic model is a tube of material you can wear around your neck, wrapped around your wrist, on your head as a bandana. Buff is actually a Spanish company (Barcelona) and it has a line of "buffs" with Camino motifs: http://www.buffwear.com/new-ss15-adult-headwear/ss15-camino-santiago-collection.

Oh, and it's also that little tube of fabric female constestants on the American TV show "Survivor" wear as a bikini top. Can't say I have seen anyone of the Camino use them like that ;0)

 

[Roquefort Kumquat]

“Jacotrans” caught my eye. Camino for me this spring will be part of a larger, more traditional, urban adventure in Europe. Might Jacotrans be a way I can ship a small suitcase of street shoes and clothing from Leon to Santiago? If so, please share details including guess for cost in US$ to ship 10 to 15 kilos?
Thank your your help.

 

[dougfitz]

“Jacotrans” caught my eye. Camino for me this spring will be part of a larger, more traditional, urban adventure in Europe. Might Jacotrans be a way I can ship a small suitcase of street shoes and clothing from Leon to Santiago? If so, please share details including guess for cost in US$ to ship 10 to 15 kilos?
Thank your your help.

Two things:

• Jacotrans operates on the basis of shipping your baggage from one place of accommodation to your next place of accommodation. I suspect it would be a very inefficient way of shipping if you just needed the bag when you arrived in Santiago. Ivar operates a baggage service. You might browse the forum for details.
• Rather than have us guess the cost of shipping from the US, and seeing you obviously have access to the web, companies like FEDEX and DHL would be able to give you an estimate of far greater reliability.

You might also want to investigate whether a package that is shipped from the US will be subject to customs or excise duties. Generally, no customs or excise is charged for personal items in your possession at ports of entry, but this is not necessarily the case when the item(s) are shipped separately and are not part of your baggage on arrival.

 

[Roquefort Kumquat]

Two things:

• Jacotrans operates on the basis of shipping your baggage from one place of accommodation to your next place of accommodation. I suspect it would be a very inefficient way of shipping if you just needed the bag when you arrived in Santiago. Ivar operates a baggage service. You might browse the forum for details.
• Rather than have us guess the cost of shipping from the US, and seeing you obviously have access to the web, companies like FEDEX and DHL would be able to give you an estimate of far greater reliability.

You might also want to investigate whether a package that is shipped from the US will be subject to customs or excise duties. Generally, no customs or excise is charged for personal items in your possession at ports of entry, but this is not necessarily the case when the item(s) are shipped separately and are not part of your baggage on arrival.

Please note I queried shipping from Leon to Santiago. Thank you for mentioning Ivar's baggage service.

 

[dougfitz]

Please note I queried shipping from Leon to Santiago. Thank you for mentioning Ivar's baggage service.

Sorry, I misread your post. Let me recommend the Jacotrans site. It has a calculator for the various stages. XE is a great site for researching currency conversions. No doubt there are others.

 

[marbuck]

I love my Buff, so much so that it is going with me in April when we walk the le Puy route.

 

[petitewalker]

Only change I would make is, I do like grilled pulpo. I used reflective tape on my walking poles my problem was finding my boots some mornings on the few occasions someone moved them. Was thinking of attaching a 'pink ribbon' to them this time only joking

I did attach little florescent green ribbons to my husband Merrill's and both our hiking sticks. They were easy to spot in a big pile of shoes or one of those baskets of poles. My shoes were bright blue Brooks trail runners, and I only saw a few pair along the way, so no worry about losing them.

 

[tpmchugh]

I did attach little florescent green ribbons to my husband Merrill's and both our hiking sticks. They were easy to spot in a big pile of shoes or one of those baskets of poles. My shoes were bright blue Brooks trail runners, and I only saw a few pair along the way, so no worry about losing them.

Hiking poles I can replace easily but good well broken in Scarpa boots would be hard to replace. Might do the pink ribbon for real

 

[marbuck]

Hiking poles I can replace easily but good well broken in Scarpa boots would be hard to replace. Might do the pink ribbon for real

Another Scarpa fan, I would not leave home without them.

 

[s. brown]

Well, I was in pretty sad shape by the time I got to Pamplona. Limping and in tears from the pain in my knees and ankles - and my heavy, heavy pack. For me it seemed to go on for miles and each step was excruciating.
But I was really sad the day I walked into Santiago. Because it was over and I didn't want it to end. So walking the last bit was something I really wanted to do whether on the concrete or not. It was a LOT of city walking though. We had to stop for refreshment

Would you please elaborate on the excruciating pain in your ankles and knees. Do you know why this happened, what your condition (s) are, what you might have done wrong, and how to prevent this for future caminos? Thanks.

 

[david g]

I tied the laces of my shoes together before putting them on the rack, just as a little precaution that would hopefully keep someone from grabbing the wrong ones.

As for walking into the bigger towns, I don't remember pavement being an issue. It takes a little seeking, but into Burgos is a wonderful path through a park along the river.

 

[Chacharm]

I had a very heavy pack! It was huge and I filled it to the brim. I read every post on here about keeping your pack weight to a minimum but I figured none of that applied to me as I have always been pretty strong and in pretty good shape and I have never believed that I will ever have any problems and that I will magically always be fine. I am clearly not the sharpest knife in the drawer. I was once very sporty and rolled my ankles many times. And I kept thinking each day would get easier. I knew about Jacotrans but was still enamored of an idea of what a "real" pilgrim would do (or not do). Also, once you actually arrive in Pamplona you have another few miles to go - all on city sidewalks. That last mile felt like a million.
I could have used quite a bit more training and I should have been using trekking poles. Poles help distribute the weight and take the pressure off your knees and ankles.
Also, and in my case this was important, on the advice of a friend who didn't know what she was talking about I was taking potassium in hope of avoiding muscle soreness and cramping. This was causing me to swell up in weird ways (my knees!). I would have kept right on taking it except that another woman on Camino was also taking potassium and she had a cardiac event that landed her in the hospital. She was so swollen - all over - that I had thought she was recovering from some serious illness. I saw her afterwards (not knowing she had been ill or in hospital) and she looked as though she had lost 20 pounds. She had been in the hospital for three days - her husband had flown out from Florida. All due to taking potassium. She, by the way, was fine afterwards and made it to Santiago.
So, from now on, I will eat a banana when my muscles are sore , I will pack light (VERY light), I will send my pack ahead on rough terrain days and I will always have my trekking poles with me.
Honestly - it really is just about being smart and aware, listening to your body and packing light.

 

[s. brown]

I had a very heavy pack! It was huge and I filled it to the brim. I read every post on here about keeping your pack weight to a minimum but I figured none of that applied to me as I have always been pretty strong and in pretty good shape and I have never believed that I will ever have any problems and that I will magically always be fine. I am clearly not the sharpest knife in the drawer. I was once very sporty and rolled my ankles many times. And I kept thinking each day would get easier. I knew about Jacotrans but was still enamored of an idea of what a "real" pilgrim would do (or not do). Also, once you actually arrive in Pamplona you have another few miles to go - all on city sidewalks. That last mile felt like a million.
I could have used quite a bit more training and I should have been using trekking poles. Poles help distribute the weight and take the pressure off your knees and ankles.
Also, and in my case this was important, on the advice of a friend who didn't know what she was talking about I was taking potassium in hope of avoiding muscle soreness and cramping. This was causing me to swell up in weird ways (my knees!). I would have kept right on taking it except that another woman on Camino was also taking potassium and she had a cardiac event that landed her in the hospital. She was so swollen - all over - that I had thought she was recovering from some serious illness. I saw her afterwards (not knowing she had been ill or in hospital) and she looked as though she had lost 20 pounds. She had been in the hospital for three days - her husband had flown out from Florida. All due to taking potassium. She, by the way, was fine afterwards and made it to Santiago.
So, from now on, I will eat a banana when my muscles are sore , I will pack light (VERY light), I will send my pack ahead on rough terrain days and I will always have my trekking poles with me.
Honestly - it really is just about being smart and aware, listening to your body and packing light.

Very informative. Thank you.

 

[tpmchugh]

Another Scarpa fan, I would not leave home without them.

Yes and no. I love how they are ready to go straight from the box. I love how after a few days they just seemed to mould to my feet. I did not love however how quickly the soles wore down. I reckon there is enough wear left in them for half a camino. The boot itself has years of life but the sole does not. But because they were so good I bought an identical pair for my next camino

 

[Roxane]

Hiking poles I can replace easily but good well broken in Scarpa boots would be hard to replace. Might do the pink ribbon for real

Please - what style of Scarpa boots did you use?

 

[marbuck]

Please - what style of Scarpa boots did you use?

Australian price. I am also an ardent bushwalker and this is the boot I wear whenever I am bushwalking, training or walking Camino's. I have a new pair for our Le Puy walk this year.


Scarpa Terra Gore-Tex Boot Uni-Sex
$259.95

 

[Thornley]

I had a very heavy pack! It was huge and I filled it to the brim. I read every post on here about keeping your pack weight to a minimum but I figured none of that applied to me as I have always been pretty strong and in pretty good shape and I have never believed that I will ever have any problems and that I will magically always be fine. I am clearly not the sharpest knife in the drawer. I was once very sporty and rolled my ankles many times. And I kept thinking each day would get easier. I knew about Jacotrans but was still enamored of an idea of what a "real" pilgrim would do (or not do). Also, once you actually arrive in Pamplona you have another few miles to go - all on city sidewalks. That last mile felt like a million.
I could have used quite a bit more training and I should have been using trekking poles. Poles help distribute the weight and take the pressure off your knees and ankles.
Also, and in my case this was important, on the advice of a friend who didn't know what she was talking about I was taking potassium in hope of avoiding muscle soreness and cramping. This was causing me to swell up in weird ways (my knees!). I would have kept right on taking it except that another woman on Camino was also taking potassium and she had a cardiac event that landed her in the hospital. She was so swollen - all over - that I had thought she was recovering from some serious illness. I saw her afterwards (not knowing she had been ill or in hospital) and she looked as though she had lost 20 pounds. She had been in the hospital for three days - her husband had flown out from Florida. All due to taking potassium. She, by the way, was fine afterwards and made it to Santiago.
So, from now on, I will eat a banana when my muscles are sore , I will pack light (VERY light), I will send my pack ahead on rough terrain days and I will always have my trekking poles with me.
Honestly - it really is just about being smart and aware, listening to your body and packing light.

Cha, i admire you .
I have 6 women in the family and its always my fault .
I hope " Adam" is reading this wherever he is...........lol

In 2007 we came across many europeans big on magnesium tablets when walking.........its the correct way .
Breakfast every morning on each camino is bananas and hot bread if possible , then the short black with the sugar hit.

You maybe not be the sharpest knife in the draw according to you Cha but you are gold with your honesty.
Get on the Norte....have a great walk

 

[tpmchugh]

Please - what style of Scarpa boots did you use?

The ones pictured under your post, Scarpa Terra. Tried the next style up in price but found them a bit stiff around the top. As I said though, the soles are only good for about 1.5 Caminos. , the uppers look like they could last forever

 

[tpmchugh]

Australian price. I am also an ardent bushwalker and this is the boot I wear whenever I am bushwalking, training or walking Camino's. I have a new pair for our Le Puy walk this year.


Scarpa Terra Gore-Tex Boot Uni-Sex
$259.95

What kind of wear are you getting on the soles

 

[Icacos]

As for walking into the bigger towns, I don't remember pavement being an issue. It takes a little seeking, but into Burgos is a wonderful path through a park along the river.

If memory serves me well, there is a lot of concrete walkway heading into Logroño and an interminable amount of it heading out; I found it very hard on my feet. Perhaps it felt worse because we did not overnight in that city, but walked into and out of it the same day, stopping only for a lovely desayuno.

 

[marbuck]

What kind of wear are you getting on the soles

I estimate about 1800 km. The old boots are still perfect apart from the sole, I would maybe get the Le Puy walk out of them but I don't trust it, hate to have to buy a new pair on route. I do agree the sole should do better than that.

 

[Chacharm]

Cha, i admire you .
I have 6 women in my family and its always our fault .
I hope " Adam" is reading this wherever he is...........lol

In 2007 we came across many europeans big on magnesium tablets when walking.........its the correct way .
Breakfast every morning on each camino is bananas and hot bread if possible , then the short black with the sugar hit.

You maybe not be the sharpest knife in the draw according to you Cha but you are gold with your honesty.
Get on the Norte....lol

Awww - you make me miss new Zealand and the Flat White. (I never tried a short black.)
Pretty much decided on the Norte now, too

 

[Mycamino Maya]

Please - what style of Scarpa boots did you use?

Hi Roxanne, I have scarpa boots and have had them for a year. Next week I start my trek at STJPDP to Santiago and will be able to experience them on the Camino. So far I have had no issues. I bought them at MEC Canada. Maya

 

[grayland]

A bit off topic...but there was some discussion above.

I always try to tie the laces of one of my shoes/boots together with one of a walking companion and put them on a different shelf, if possible. Even better if it is a women/man paired.

That way, it is not likely that someone would take them accidentally and it makes it more difficult for someone who is looking for "a better pair" as they will have to search for the other "pair".

A simple bit of insurance.

 

[Chacharm]

A bit off topic...but there was some discussion above.

I always try to tie the laces of one of my shoes/boots together with one of a walking companion and put them on a different shelf, if possible. Even better if it is a women/man paired.

That way, it is not likely that someone would take them accidentally and it makes it more difficult for someone who is looking for "a better pair" as they will have to search for the other "pair.

A simple bit of insurance.

Clever!

 

[tpmchugh]

A bit off topic...but there was some discussion above.

I always try to tie the laces of one of my shoes/boots together with one of a walking companion and put them on a different shelf, if possible. Even better if it is a women/man paired.

That way, it is not likely that someone would take them accidentally and it makes it more difficult for someone who is looking for "a better pair" as they will have to search for the other "pair.

A simple bit of insurance.

Cant say as I would have seen or suspected anyone of 'looking for a better pair'. My problem is just identifying my own boots that were not always in the same spot I left them. It is more a case of someone looking for a better place to leave their own

 

[tpmchugh]

I estimate about 1800 km. The old boots are still perfect apart from the sole, I would maybe get the Le Puy walk out of them but I don't trust it, hate to have to buy a new pair on route. I do agree the sole should do better than that.

I would reckon my old pair only good for about 1200km. Maybe they would have made it all the way but like you I was not sure, hence the new ones

 

[Silverton]

I'm sure this isn't the right thread, but I'd like to thank forum members for info I was glad to learn, before my 11th (part) camino. I've just returned from Carrión de los Condes, after a too-short ten days mid-Camino Francés--lucky in the weather and, as ever, in the lovely companions en route. My pared-down gear included two new items suggested here: a hook to hang my mochila from the side of the bunk--especially when the hospitalera ignored my aged-ness and put me up top, but also useful when floor space between bunks was limited and cluttered, as it usually is. And Magwood's very sensible 'sleeves'. A pair of long socks, toe-bits excised, served me very well for the cold start of most days, soon easily stuffed in a pocket with my gloves, without having to take off my mochila. Buen camino a todos--hasta luego!
Mary

 

[Bernard duffy]

Prob against the rules but my boots NEVER leave my side,got a pair stolen on my second day on the Camino,lesson learned,they now sit under my bed,regardless of the rules.

 

[Walter1407]

I am a bit of a purist concerning walking the distance and carrying my own pack...unless a physical condition arises. I would hate to encourage anyone to the pre-notion of taking a taxi/bus whenever it gets boring or difficult. It is all good and part of the adventure. Carrying your own pack the distance (your distance) is an achievement to encourage. But ... to each their own.

I agree! It is the difference between on the one hand "doing" the Camino (accepting all and everything it entails), and on the other hand "consuming" the Camino by doing only the parts that provide the experiences and kicks one seeks. Ten years ago it was still widely accepted that the Camino was and should be a spiritual experience. Oh, the good old times!

 

[grayland]

I agree! It is the difference between on the one hand "doing" the Camino (accepting all and everything it entails), and on the other hand "consuming" the Camino by doing only the parts that provide the experiences and kicks one seeks. Ten years ago it was still widely accepted that the Camino was and should be a spiritual experience. Oh, the good old times!

Walter has broken it down very well.
I would add "Accepting all and everything it entails within my physical abilities".
I guess some of us will just have to accept that it has become more of a holiday for many and less of a personal commitment.
I wonder if taking a taxi or bus in the middle of a marathon is the same as doing the whole thing?
Others will have a different opinion.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I guess some of us will just have to accept that it has become more of a holiday for many and less of a personal commitment.

That is also a good attitude when a new Thread begins, "I have walked the AT, the Pacific Crest trail, Nepal, and Titicaca. I am looking for my next good walk; which camino do your recommend?" It is not really a request about a pilgrimage, but a request for a travel agency or the Sierra Club.

 

[VSB]

I love mine, too. My merino buff is one of the more versatile items in my pack. Scarf, watch cap, dust mask, etc. Love it. Probably won't take two, though.

I wore mine as a makeshift skirt one time (though I must admit it looked a bit 'disco' and not in a good way, on me). Another time it worked as a bra. Maybe next time I'll tie one to the end of a walking pole and pack all my belongings in it, Dick Whittington-style, slung over my shoulder...

 

[VSB]

when a new Thread begins, "I have walked the AT, the Pacific Crest trail, Nepal, and Titicaca. I am looking for my next good walk; which camino do your recommend?" It is not really a request about a pilgrimage, but a request for a travel agency or the Sierra Club.

Or perhaps it is the language of someone who does not yet understand why the Camino is calling to them and constructs a bullish question as a shield for their vulnerable spiritual yearnings?

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Or perhaps it is the language of someone who does not yet understand why the Camino is calling to them and constructs a bullish question as a shield for their vulnerable spiritual yearnings?

A definite possibility, too!

 

[yolanda Mejia]

Or perhaps it is the language of someone who does not yet understand why the Camino is calling to them and constructs a bullish question as a shield for their vulnerable spiritual yearnings?

I just realized 3 days ego that it is a calling, as my excitement about the Camino started with a little amber from a T.V program showing an abstract about the Camino;I felt the hit of the flame as I herd of tree sisters who did the Camino 2014. Each sister( a pair of twins, and a younger sister) unknowingly why, took a different rout. Their spiritual and physical account of their occurrences touch my soul, beside making me cry, it lilt the light/ flame in me. The need to go and do the Camino myself. I already have ticket, back pack, boots and doing some training. so yes it is a call

 

[newfydog]

That is also a good attitude when a new Thread begins, "I have walked the AT, the Pacific Crest trail, Nepal, and Titicaca. I am looking for my next good walk; which camino do your recommend?" It is not really a request about a pilgrimage, but a request for a travel agency or the Sierra Club.

Have you seen a thread like that?
If one has done all those trails, are they automatically heathens?
I have seen many start out as tourists, and gain more and more respect for the devout pilgrims as they go. I think that is a good thing, and they should be welcomed by all.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Honestly, I am happy I did not know of any forums and was clueless about Brierly before my first Camino.

I had a simple, Spanish book, based my walk on the 2 sheets of paper given to me at the Pilgrim Office in SJPP and just walked. The guide only provided me with local bits of history, legends and a map for the next loo. Pili Pressa something or other. All the anxiety happened for my 2nd Camino, "planing, planing, planin" - for what?

Read this, turn you c'puter off, and go walk.

 

[VSB]

Honestly, I am happy I did not know of any forums and was clueless about Brierly before my first Camino.

I had a simple, Spanish book, based my walk on the 2 sheets of paper given to me at the Pilgrim Office in SJPP and just walked. The guide only provided me with local bits of history, legends and a map for the next loo. Pili Pressa something or other. All the anxiety happened for my 2nd Camino, "planing, planing, planin" - for what?

Read this, turn you c'puter off, and go walk.

Oh, me too! Though when I arrived at St Jean Pied de Port, having walked from Le Puy with mostly French pilgrims, there were legions from the US and Australia who already knew more about the Camino on their first day's walking than I'd learnt in one month's walking, and I felt like the only one who hadn't studied for the exam. Ah well - as on Camino, so in life...

 

[Oravasaari]

That is also a good attitude when a new Thread begins, "I have walked the AT, the Pacific Crest trail, Nepal, and Titicaca. I am looking for my next good walk; which camino do your recommend?" It is not really a request about a pilgrimage, but a request for a travel agency or the Sierra Club.

Might I suggest that if someone posted "I have walked the Camino Frances, Norte and Primitivo. I am looking for my next pilgrimmage; which would you recommend?"...on a regular hardcore hiking forum they would very likely get some well intentioned advice (and links to this good site perhaps) as fellow walkers and not be discriminated against as some kind of looney god tourist or told that caminos are not "real" walks?

Just read that back to myself and it sounds harsh, but I was just trying to reverse the roleplay on a hypothetical hiking site etc. The hardcore hikers would likely be more inclusive and tolerant is what I was trying to say...Oops, tolerance...now there's a subject we can all get behind eh?

Just welcome everyone for whatever reason they are walking... even if they don't know why themselves...without pidgeon-holing them or ascribing them motives, values or beliefs they may not hold.

P.S. I wish I'd have known the camino was a pilgimmage route before I walked it! (Just kidding ;-) )

 

[Deleted member 3000]

on a regular hardcore hiking forum they would very likely get some well intentioned advice

Another definite possibility.

 

[Thornley]

Might I suggest that if someone posted "I have walked the Camino Frances, Norte and Primitivo. I am looking for my next pilgrimmage; which would you recommend?"...on a regular hardcore hiking forum they would very likely get some well intentioned advice (and links to this good site perhaps) as fellow walkers and not be discriminated against as some kind of looney god tourist or told that caminos are not "real" walks?

Just read that back to myself and it sounds harsh, but I was just trying to reverse the roleplay on a hypothetical hiking site etc. The hardcore hikers would likely be more inclusive and tolerant is what I was trying to say...Oops, tolerance...now there's a subject we can all get behind eh?

Just welcome everyone for whatever reason they are walking... even if they don't know why themselves...without pidgeon-holing them or ascribing them motives, values or beliefs they may not hold.

P.S. I wish I'd have known the camino was a pilgimmage route before I walked it! (Just kidding ;-) )

Leave poor old Falcon alone , he's a tender person trying to help,he happens to have a wicked sense of humour, so often missed..lol
He is known to offer good advice to the first timers with sincerity.
To the wildly travelled hikers i'm not so sure...lol

 

[mitch237uk]

There are lots of things I wished I had known, but one addictive thing is. I wished I had known was how not to get hooked longingly on the view from this web cam. Localización: Praza do Obradoiro, 15705, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, España. Come and join me if you have not seen the web cam views.

 

[mtman100]

Remembered the music but ditch the soap.

Like the idea of buying t-shirts on the way.

http://lbarrettscamino.weebly.com/

 

[JabbaPapa]

Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??)

It's a legal requirement from a fairly recent change in Spanish Law.

In fact, the albergues that DON'T ask for your ID are breaking the Law ...

 

[peter04863]

In no particular order:

Getting to SJPP isn't as hard or as scary as I thought.

Finding an albuergue isn't hard or scary either.

Getting the credencial and having it stamped is not difficult AT ALL. Get a decent dry bag that is easy to get into to keep it in. Keep your actual passport handy too. A lot of albuergues wanted to see mine (WHY??).

Carrying a lunch and a snack the first two days is a really, really good idea.

I am miserable without enough water.

The rain in Spain is mostly in the Pyrenees and Galicia.

I don't like grilled Pulpo.

I didn't need to pack deodorant, a pillow, 3 changes of clothes, a head lamp, a silk liner, a Bierley guide, potassium, can opener, or bar soap.
A couple of extra zip lock baggies will come in really handy.

The things I used every day were the most important things:
clean socks and underwear, walking poles, warm jacket, rain coat and gloves, buff, tissues, smart phone with camera, flashlight, kindle app and music with ear buds and blister treatment and prevention stuff.

Take a cab into Pamplona, Leon and Burgos. I hate walking on cement - particularly in traffic.

When the weather is nice and I am sick of long sleeved tech shirts I can buy a T shirt just about anywhere.

If my pack is too heavy I can just send it ahead with Jacotrans.

Whatever the difficulty is, whining won't change it. Just keep walking!

Walking poles look ridiculously similar. Mark yours up with stickers or something.
You can wrap a little duct tape around them for just in case.[/QUOTE

After Leon, I got my first of two bicycle bells, which I mounted on my walking poles. I got so tired of the cyclists not ringing their bells in warning...(I saw some unfortunate, unnecessary accidents with bikers and hikers... If they'd only used their bells). So I started ringing the bell for them... Or to warn hikers ahead of me... Or to say to a crowd of hikers not paying attention..."I'm coming through!"

 

[laurel in Maine]

I don't think I ever used the flashlight app on my phone, either. But it is nice to have it. I have a HUGE battery on my phone that I use when I travel. So I can listen to music as I walk and read on it when I am not walking and take all the pictures I like. I like to be able to text my husband every once in a while too. That is another thing I wish I had known - Get a BIG battery for my Samsung.

A huge battery....? I would love to know where to order one!! Amazon?