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Video: What's in my Pack? Let the debate begin ...

Dave,

I’m spending lockdown with an electronic spring balance, spreadsheet and a craft-knife literally shaving grammes off my ‘skin-out’ weight. I’ve done some work on my ‘skin-in’ weight also!

I’m post some of my success stories when I get time.
Hopefully the work on the "skin-in" weight wasn't one with that same craft knife!:eek:
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
Great job!
I found this wonderful website, The Lighter Pack, where you can input the weight of all your individual items and then analyze what you’ve got and what needs to be pared down.
this is my list (although I never completely filled in all the weights!) for my Portuguese coastal Camino in 2019.

https://lighterpack.com/r/urk0wy
By gosh! your actual pack is heavy. mine is 800 grams for 20 litres and there are packs a lot lighter than that. I can never understand why people use a Camelback. First you have the weight of the camelback itself, and then it carries a lot more water than you need to get between watering spots. I carry a plastic 330ml soft drink bottle which I just keep filling up as I go. I have never run out of water. You are carrying an extra 2 kilograms just so that you don't have to fill up on the way. When you do fill on the way you get nice cold water. My pack weight including water is just under 5kg.
 
By gosh! your actual pack is heavy. mine is 800 grams for 20 litres and there are packs a lot lighter than that. I can never understand why people use a Camelback. First you have the weight of the camelback itself, and then it carries a lot more water than you need to get between watering spots. I carry a plastic 330ml soft drink bottle which I just keep filling up as I go. I have never run out of water. You are carrying an extra 2 kilograms just so that you don't have to fill up on the way. When you do fill on the way you get nice cold water. My pack weight including water is just under 5kg.

That certainly is a small and light pack. Though gms/litre capacity it's similar.
I do explain that I like the airspeed back etc, which adds weight.

No I don't use a Camelbak. I use single use bottles and generally carry 1.5 litres or so.
On some Caminos though, it may be necessary to carry a lot more water, as there are no refill points.
Just watched Chris's awesome video on the VdlP. Link below.

He often carried 3 lites and 4 litres !
So I don't think we can be too specific.
Route, weather, personal needs etc.
I was interested to hear my rough water calc, is similar to Chris.

10 kms per litre. Though he adds a 3rd when over 20 kms.
And a 4th when over 25 kms.

Note though, that he was walking the VdlP in Summer!

Total pack weight is of course a trade off.
And a very personal thing.

As I mention on the video.
I could certainly shave off a kg (ish) with medical stuff, but sadly I need them.
And another kg with just using a liner, no spare pants, only 1 spare socks, and a few other items etc etc.
But I choose not to.

But well done on your pack weight!
Under 5 kg including water is very impressive and very light. :)
Though I think the link you shared might not be the one you intended to share, as it's 7.3 kg.
(40 litre pack)
Just looked again.
OK I get it. The 7.3 kg includes stuff you wear!

I'd be very interested to see the 20 litre version.

Interestly Chris's pack was 6.5 kg.
But I suspect part of that was a tripod and DSLR camera too.
So he was packing very light. It looks like a small pack.

Chris's video.
You need to have a spare 2 hours or so.
But it's really good.

 
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A selection of Camino Jewellery
Dave,

I’m spending lockdown with an electronic spring balance, spreadsheet and a craft-knife literally shaving grammes off my ‘skin-out’ weight. I’ve done some work on my ‘skin-in’ weight also!

I’m post some of my success stories when I get time.

OK, no photos – but a few examples. I’m sorry if this turns into an essay!


First of all, many of the packing lists I see in most cases cannot be 100% complete. There are many little ‘it doesn’t weigh anything’ items which sneak into everyone’s pack and, combined, do add up. My packing list is skin out and has everything on it. Everything. Including my glasses. If you want to be ruthless about eliminating weight, be totally honest about what you’re carrying.


Secondly, it’s OK to make ‘camino lifestyle’ decisions. For example: I walk in Autumn through to Spring. It can be cold and is often wet. I walk in lightweight leather boots (could use trail runners); carry a 38l sack (fits my back perfectly, but 25l would do), carry full waterproofs (I’ve tried and choose not to use a poncho) and one decent change of clothes for the evening (Spaniards take you more seriously, and I prefer to feel respectable). I do not sleep in clothes I’m going to walk in. I could drop my pack weight of just under 9Kg by probably 2-3Kg by making different choices.

My approach is to make my core packing decisions, then aim to eliminate unnecessary weight. For example:

First aid kit. This only needs to be enough to get you to the next pharmacy, not equip a field hospital. In addition to personal medication, you only need enough for a bit of emergency wound cleaning, dressing, pain relief and foot care. Also don’t take anything you don’t know how to use.

Labels. Nothing needs a label. A single clothes label weights nothing, but 10 or 20 weigh something. Cut them out carefully.

Rucsack extras: crampon straps, haul loops, extra straps, straps which are longer than necessary; all can come off. If you use a rucksack liner (a rubble or trash-compactor bag), it need not be larger than the rucksack – trim off the excess. Stuffsack drawcords need only be long enough to allow the bag to fully open. Cut off the rest.

Electronics. My iPhone uses a ‘lightning’ cable; my small backup battery a micro USB. Don’t carry two leads (or if you do make one a very short one) – get a plug-in converter.

If you have a head torch, use lithium batteries. Half the weight and twice the life of standard batteries. You could go rechargeable if you want to take the chance.

Whilst some degree of organisation is important, do you really need bags within bags?

Make a list before you go and check it again on your return. I’ve been walking, camping and hiking all my life, I’ve been on camino many times and I’m an obsessive list-maker so I know what I use and don’t use. In my camino packing list there are only the following which I don’t expect to need: first aid kit, car key, one spare bootlace, large chocolate bar. Everything else will be used.
 
@henrythedog have you shared your List already? While i share your view, that a few added luxuries are totally acceptable, 9kg sounds a LOT to me.
As with my List from #58 i also like to carry a few comforts with me, likely less than you do, but even then, i think i could shave 0,5-1kg of that without running the risk of being seriously uncomfortable.
 
@henrythedog have you shared your List already? While i share your view, that a few added luxuries are totally acceptable, 9kg sounds a LOT to me.
As with my List from #58 i also like to carry a few comforts with me, likely less than you do, but even then, i think i could shave 0,5-1kg of that without running the risk of being seriously uncomfortable.
I’ll try to figure out how to put it on later - but it is comprehensive. I’ve even weighed €300 in €20 notes.

I see your rucksack is 500g, which is outstanding. My osprey Kestrel (also 38l) is a shade under 1500g, with all the ‘trimmings’ removed - but it’s bomb-proof and very comfortable.
 
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St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
I’ll try to figure out how to put it on later - but it is comprehensive. I’ve even weighed €300 in €20 notes.

I see your rucksack is 500g, which is outstanding. My osprey Kestrel (also 38l) is a shade under 1500g, with all the ‘trimmings’ removed - but it’s bomb-proof and very comfortable.
It has pros and cons. There is no frame. There is no ventilation on the back. It has one main compartment, and that is it. On the other side, it is very robust regarding its weight, practically waterproof, has every feature i want and then, it is very light. And it is expensive, so one should know what one wants. So definitely not for everyone. I would not want to carry 9kg over an extended period with it (some people do).
edit: i would even have taken a heavier pack if it would be more comfortable. But this was the one checking most of my boxes
 
25l would do

my pack weight of just under 9Kg
I am a little puzzled by how you could get 9 kg of stuff into 25 L, unless it included water on the sides. I carry less than 6 kg in a 31 L pack, and it would be hard (but not impossible) to squeeze into 25L. Do you have a sleeping bag?
 
I am a little puzzled by how you could get 9 kg of stuff into 25 L, unless it included water on the sides. I carry less than 6 kg in a 31 L pack, and it would be hard (but not impossible) to squeeze into 25L. Do you have a sleeping bag?

The pack weighs 1485g, so contents are circa 7.5kg, including poles. Bag is a 500g PHD down sack. My venerable but much loved RAB alpine guide jacket weight 580g.

I'm about to print out Anhalter's excellent list and consider some investment - although a 'hand-made to order;' super-light rucksack may not make the cut!

It's worth repeating I'm not a summer walker and have passed through Foncebadon in a full-on blizzard twice so far, so my gear is probably more heavy duty than most. Also I'm not built like a racing-snake, men's XL clothing weighs considerably more than women's M
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
I'm not a summer walker... , men's XL clothing weighs considerably more than women's M
I am not a summer walker either. I was not questioning/criticizing the weight that you carry. I was just wondering how you might squeeze the volume into a 25L pack, because I wouldn't be able to do that comfortably. The weight of your jacket and the pack itself partly explains it.
 
I am not a summer walker either. I was not questioning/criticizing the weight that you carry. I was just wondering how you might squeeze the volume into a 25L pack, because I wouldn't be able to do that comfortably. The weight of your jacket and the pack itself partly explains it.
Sorry - I misunderstood. The 9Kg includes my typical walking outfit. Excluded from the 9 is only a ‘best case’ shorts and merino base layer outfit. On an average walking day when I’ve got the jacket and trousers on and I’m carrying my poles my pack weight would be about 7kg. My 38l Kestrel appears about 2/3 full at most so I’m guessing that a 25(ish) litre sack would suffice.

but ...

The Kestrel fits me like a glove with a structured frame and excellent hip-belt, so I’m hesitant to downsize the sack even though I recognise it’s verging on mad to carry a 7kg load of which 1.5Kg is the means by which it’s carried.

On my first Camino I was preceded (thankfully upwind) by ‘the man who smells like a goat’ who carried his daily needs in a plastic Aldi carrier bag, so I’m mindful that the solution need not be too technical.

Inspired by Anhalter’s list I’m about to dust off the old credit card and invest a kilo away like magic.

Regards



D
 
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Inspired by Anhalter’s list I’m about to dust off the old credit card and invest a kilo away like magic.

before you invest, i'll be gladly be a "sparring partner" in a discussion. Most items i use have an upside and a downside. If you get to specifics, lets talk about that before spending money first :)
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
before you invest, i'll be gladly be a "sparring partner" in a discussion. Most items i use have an upside and a downside. If you get to specifics, lets talk about that before spending money first :)
Thanks. I’ll do it by direct message in the next few days rather than divert this thread.
 
This is my list. I usually walk mid June to end of July.

Camino EquipmentWeight
Pack
800​
Pairs walking shorts (2)
300​
Pr good shorts
150​
Marino T shirts (2)
160​
Marino long sleeved T shirt
90​
L/S Shirt
200​
Long trousers
400​
Marino sox (3 pair)
125​
Underpants (3 pair)
140​
Poncho (2) Light plastic
100​
Thin, unlined, nylon jacket
200​
Hat
90​
Sandals
520​
Handkerchiefs (2)
25​
Silk sleeping bag liner
120​
Pillow case
60​
Toothbrush, tooth cup, comb
192​
Towel
158​
Flannel
25​
Gloves
38​
Soap
80​
Knife, spork
50​
Clothesline & Safety Pins
20​
4 Cable ties
3​
4 Small alloy Carabinas
10​
Sink plug
15​
Torch
20​
Pen, pencil, notepads
126​
First aid kit
150​
Needle and thread
10​
Toilet roll
30​
Tablets and doctors letter
60​
Security belt
100​
Pilgrim's Passport
7​
Passport, Insurance docs, Air tickets
40​
Travel money card
2​
Euros and sterling
8​
Guide book
240​
Water bottle & water
350​
5214​

My walking shoes are not on the list and I am usually wearing about half a kilo of what is on the list.
The tablets are for my heart.
The first aid kit is a 50g tube of antiseptic cream, a 50g tube of antibiotic cream, a couple of plasters and a small piece of lamb's wool.
I got the approximate weight of each item by weighing them on the kitchen scales so they are not accurate but the total weight was ascertained by putting the full pack on some very accurate scales.
You will note that there is no electrical equipment, phone or camera. I have thousands of photos that I have taken on previous Caminos, most of which do not see the light of day. I do not need ant more. If my daughter comes with me (she usually does) then she takes photos.
I do not carry food. I get breakfast at the first (or second, or third) bar, whichever is about 2 hours from the start of the day (6am). For lunch I get some fruit anytime from mid-day onwards. Evening meal in the town where I stay for the night. I am not fussy about when I eat and have gone from 6am to 2pm with no food when it was not available, without a problem. I travel from New Zealand to Spain (and back) in the long trousers and long sleeve shirt and I either wear the long pants or good shorts with the shirt when I eat in restaurants.
My pack is all packed except for the water and sitting in the bottom of the wardrobe just waiting for Covid to decide that it has had enough and we can all get back on the Camino.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
OK, no photos – but a few examples. I’m sorry if this turns into an essay!


First of all, many of the packing lists I see in most cases cannot be 100% complete. There are many little ‘it doesn’t weigh anything’ items which sneak into everyone’s pack and, combined, do add up. My packing list is skin out and has everything on it. Everything. Including my glasses. If you want to be ruthless about eliminating weight, be totally honest about what you’re carrying.


Secondly, it’s OK to make ‘camino lifestyle’ decisions. For example: I walk in Autumn through to Spring. It can be cold and is often wet. I walk in lightweight leather boots (could use trail runners); carry a 38l sack (fits my back perfectly, but 25l would do), carry full waterproofs (I’ve tried and choose not to use a poncho) and one decent change of clothes for the evening (Spaniards take you more seriously, and I prefer to feel respectable). I do not sleep in clothes I’m going to walk in. I could drop my pack weight of just under 9Kg by probably 2-3Kg by making different choices.

My approach is to make my core packing decisions, then aim to eliminate unnecessary weight. For example:

First aid kit. This only needs to be enough to get you to the next pharmacy, not equip a field hospital. In addition to personal medication, you only need enough for a bit of emergency wound cleaning, dressing, pain relief and foot care. Also don’t take anything you don’t know how to use.

Labels. Nothing needs a label. A single clothes label weights nothing, but 10 or 20 weigh something. Cut them out carefully.

Rucsack extras: crampon straps, haul loops, extra straps, straps which are longer than necessary; all can come off. If you use a rucksack liner (a rubble or trash-compactor bag), it need not be larger than the rucksack – trim off the excess. Stuffsack drawcords need only be long enough to allow the bag to fully open. Cut off the rest.

Electronics. My iPhone uses a ‘lightning’ cable; my small backup battery a micro USB. Don’t carry two leads (or if you do make one a very short one) – get a plug-in converter.

If you have a head torch, use lithium batteries. Half the weight and twice the life of standard batteries. You could go rechargeable if you want to take the chance.

Whilst some degree of organisation is important, do you really need bags within bags?

Make a list before you go and check it again on your return. I’ve been walking, camping and hiking all my life, I’ve been on camino many times and I’m an obsessive list-maker so I know what I use and don’t use. In my camino packing list there are only the following which I don’t expect to need: first aid kit, car key, one spare bootlace, large chocolate bar. Everything else will be used.

Great perspective @henrythedog

Most of us could I'm sure make our packs lighter, but it's trade off.
What are we 'prepared' to carry, for the benefit of carrying it. And it might just be a comfort factor.

To me the key is 'awareness'

Be aware, and honest with yourself, about what you are packing and why.
I'm still challenging my packing choices, and I suspect there are a few items that will get removed.


As an example, in my business we do performance benchmarking of certain aspects of a business.
It's really about the processes and costs involved, not time and motion stuff!
Our report includes a section called the 'Size of The Prize'.

This section highlights and quantifies all the cost and service benefits of doing things a bit differently.
The client can then 'choose' what they want to change going forward.
All we are doing is highlighting the opportunity.


For my Pack.
I recognise that that 'size of the prize' could be a 4kg pack weight.
I could manage with that amount of gear.
But do I just want to just 'manage'........on my Camino.

It's all a very personal choice isn't it? :)
 
I've been looking for really lightweight pillow cases.
No luck so far.
Any suggestions?
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Make one out of very light silk (scarf fabric). It would probably be lighter than anything you can buy. Remember that the pillows in Spain tend to be long and narrow.

Compared to what? :oops:
I only ever found regular shaped pillows in Spain. I think ....

OK, the great pillow debate may commence :eek:

Our 'regular' pillows at home seem to be about 15" x 24"
Standard size in all shops.

But regular elsewhere seems to vary bit.........

R7a04625ce1b4b0c850671311a61673e4.jpg
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
I only ever found regular shaped pillows in Spain. I think ....

OK, the great pillow debate may commence :eek:
Search "pillow shape" to get started. Some people claim that there is no standard shape in Spain. However, I recall a lot that were long (e.g. 1 m) and narrow (maybe 30 cm wide).

I take a silk scarf about 18" x 48", that weighs only 28 g. I can unwrap it from my neck after dinner, and wrap it around whatever size pillow I have (if I don't like the cover provided).
 
Search "pillow shape" to get started. Some people claim that there is no standard shape in Spain. However, I recall a lot that were long (e.g. 1 m) and narrow (maybe 30 cm wide).

I take a silk scarf about 18" x 48", that weighs only 28 g. I can unwrap it from my neck after dinner, and wrap it around whatever size pillow I have (if I don't like the cover provided).

Ah, we have those at home.
Bolsters.
Not for putting your head on though.

Used more to throw your legs over.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
i would go with 40x80cm, but i guess, the pillows in albergues are more toward 40x60.
However: You already carry a drysack. You carry stuff thats soft and in your drysack at night. Why not just make a cover for that?
 
I didn't mind those long, sausage style pillows in the albergues even though my pillowcase from home didn't cover the end. What I did find amusing about them was that although they are able to fit three heads at a time on them...the beds only fit one set of shoulders.🙂
 
When I was hired by zPacks to do a QA gear test for the Zpacks Arc series after it had been out for two model years, I could not dial in the pack to a comfort level due to the design of the harness system. It never hurt, it just always had my attention like an annoying buzzing mosquito. It is a common complaint with that backpack series, but a lot of folks do find it very comfortable.

A lot of times, the manufacturer will let me keep the gear or shoes or whatever, but I sent the zPacks back. I did keep their Vertice rain jacket from a different QA testing, though. :)

The backpacks I have used on Camino do have more capacity than is needed for town to town walks. But they are used for more than one application. I do choose the best one for Camino walking, but it will also be one I use for 10 day backpacking trips in the wild. They are well-fitted so the capacity isn't an issue; I forget that I am carrying it.
Hi,
I have been looking into ultralight rain jackets for my upcoming Camino Frances. I have already decided that I don’t want to bring a poncho this time. I want to go as low as possible, weight wise and have been looking into the Zpacks vertice rain jackets for women. I like the fact that they are longer and have a good breathability. But they come at a price! Especially when they have to be send to Europe. Any experiences with this jacket. Are they worth the money. I would like to last them at least three caminos. What do you think?
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Hi,
I have been looking into ultralight rain jackets for my upcoming Camino Frances. I have already decided that I don’t want to bring a poncho this time. I want to go as low as possible, weight wise and have been looking into the Zpacks vertice rain jackets for women. I like the fact that they are longer and have a good breathability. But they come at a price! Especially when they have to be send to Europe. Any experiences with this jacket. Are they worth the money. I would like to last them at least three caminos. What do you think?

I was hired by zPacks to do a quality control test of the men's version and used it in rain and also when it wasn't raining (to add to testing time for overall performance and wear and tear even during dry times). I still have the one I tested, and while I prefer a poncho for backpacking, for recreational walking and chores I find the Vertice performs very well.

Assessing if the Vertice is 'worth the money' is a difficult assessment for me to give to others. Certainly, there is not much out there of a lighter weight than the zPacks jacket. If budget is not of concern, it will keep your pack weight a bit lighter. Will it significantly outperform other, less expensive rain jackets? On Paper it appears so, and is in fact one of the most effective at allowing water vapor to escape; however, there are limits as to the amount of water vapor that can actually escape to prevent interior condensation. In real life use, it is easy to exceed that limit and things may not be so cut and dried.

How much water vapor an individual produces while wearing rain gear designed to be both waterproof and breathable is based on numerous factors: one's metabolism, one's speed of pace, exertion from pushing uphill, the ambient temperature during rainfall, etc. It is these real world factors which will make a mockery of the static tests used by manufacturers to establish their technical descriptions of a garment's breathability.

Also, wearing a backpack will not allow water vapor to escape from your back. It effectively blocks the escape of water vapor from there. This is but one of the reasons I prefer a poncho. . . it sits over the backpack allowing increased air flow to help reduce interior condensation.

For one additional ounce in weight, but at a cost that is 90% less than the price of the Vertice, you might consider looking at Frogg toggs rain jackets. While not quite as breathable as the Vertice according to specs, I found that this jacket actually performed quite capably and was a reasonably good jacket especially given its price.

If you have time, purchase both a Frogg Togg and a Vertice and try them out. zPacks has a good return policy for its items, and if you buy through a retailer like an Amazon or WalMart (US), the Frogg Togg jacket is also returnable. . . though at its price, it makes a great extra rain jacket to have for around the house.

Because I already own the Vertice, I would use it over the Frogg Togg jacket if I decided against wearing a poncho. However, if I had to purchase a rain jacket and did not use a poncho, I would purchase a Frogg Toggs. If I wanted to save that ounce of difference, I could easily make it up among the other items in my backpack.
 
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@davebugg, you have given a very thorough review from your own experience of testing the Zpack Vertice, but we would not think otherwise, coming from you.🙂

I am only chiming in here because you happened to mention the Frogg Toggs rain jacket, which I own (including the matching rain pants, but rarely need except for warmth in a cold spring rain occasionally). I have used them on all six of my Caminos and they've always kept me dry. I can not speak highly enough of Frogg Toggs for such a low price point. My son uses the Frogg Togg Poncho which covers his Camino size backpack, and if windy he adds a piece of bungee cord on the waist.
My only complaint is that it is not a very feminine/fashionable style for a woman. I did order their version of a more expensive, but attractive women's set, made of a different fabric, but I returned it as it seemed too bulky and weighed more, but was a little disappointed.
 
@davebugg, you have given a very thorough review from your own experience of testing the Zpack Vertice, but we would not think otherwise, coming from you.🙂

I am only chiming in here because you happened to mention the Frogg Toggs rain jacket, which I own (including the matching rain pants, but rarely need except for warmth in a cold spring rain occasionally). I have used them on all six of my Caminos and they've always kept me dry. I can not speak highly enough of Frogg Toggs for such a low price point. My son uses the Frogg Togg Poncho which covers his Camino size backpack, and if windy he adds a piece of bungee cord on the waist.
My only complaint is that it is not a very feminine/fashionable style for a woman. I did order their version of a more expensive, but attractive women's set, made of a different fabric, but I returned it as it seemed too bulky and weighed more, but was a little disappointed.

Thanks, Chrissy. Bright colored magic markers and draw hearts and butterflies and cute kitties. . . might help the feminine look a bit ;)
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
As a newbie I appreciate each of you taking time to post responses as they continue to inspire and motivate me to find My Way!

In preparation for my first camino I am naturally doing a lot of reading and I find myself perplexed by some of the postings. What is in my pack? Well, I would think that would depend on whether one is forwarding a 🧳 to the next town. In that case it is easier to pack less. However, for this thread I shall assume everyone has all of their creature comforts in their pack. (Including 🐻)

So, I wonder about the following... are they true?

I recently read a posting to the effect 'that the albergues have first aid kits and they r fun to root thru'. At the thought of ~ 350,000 pilgrims per year, this hardly seems the way to save a few grams. I hate to think of Individual responsibility being shifted to the albergues.

I also read a number of times that the bedbugs often travel between albergues because people save weight by not packing sleep shorts and a sleep shirt. Sleeping in the clothes one will wear the next day results in bedbug transfer. Again, I would feel awful if my decision to save a few grams ruined another's Camino.
 
I recently read a posting to the effect 'that the albergues have first aid kits and they r fun to root thru'.

That's a first for me. I haven't read that here before. I'm sure that most albergues have some basic first aid supplies, but I wouldn't rely on them. My first aid kit contains things that I might need when I'm far from a town or pharmacy, and definitely not near an albergue, so it seems rather foolish to rely on the first aid kit if an albergue.
I also read a number of times that the bedbugs often travel between albergues because people save weight by not packing sleep shorts and a sleep shirt. Sleeping in the clothes one will wear the next day results in bedbug transfer.

I doubt that's how bed bugs are normally transported. It's far more likely for a bed bug to crawl into a sleeping bag for a late night meal and stay there. Then when the sleeping bag is packed up into the backpack it hitches a ride to the next destination.

And it seems like a van full of backpacks and suitcases being transported by Jacotrans would be a likely place for bed bugs to swap homes.
 
That's a first for me. I haven't read that here before. I'm sure that most albergues have some basic first aid supplies, but I wouldn't rely on them. My first aid kit contains things that I might need when I'm far from a town or pharmacy, and definitely not near an albergue, so it seems rather foolish to rely on the first aid kit if an albergue.


I doubt that's how bed bugs are normally transported. It's far more likely for a bed bug to crawl into a sleeping bag for a late night meal and stay there. Then when the sleeping bag is packed up into the backpack it hitches a ride to the next destination.

And it seems like a van full of backpacks and suitcases being transported by Jacotrans would be a likely place for bed bugs to swap homes.
Good to know, Thank you 🙏! I will just spray my sleeping bag and the outside of my liner for bedbugs before the trip and pack accordingly.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Good to know, Thank you 🙏! I will just spray my sleeping bag and the outside of my liner for bedbugs before the trip and pack accordingly.

Just be aware that Permethrin spray does not deter bed bugs nor kill them on contact. They can crawl into your bag and get a quick meal.

It does kill them with prolonged contact over a couple of hours. So if a bed bug did manage to get into your treated sleeping bag, it would probably not make it out alive
 
What an eloquent and informative video, great! You've got everything well covered.
I attach my own packing list not to "compete" with yours – it differs only marginally – but to show that some details can be argued about: Lighter backpack, choice of rain gear – I finally chose a poncho and a light wind jacket, as whatever, the feet will get wet anyway –, using my iPhone as a lamp, less small bits and pieces that I would forget about and carry unused), but hey, all this is in the domain of personal preferences.

There is one thing though that has made my Camino’s substantially different: Shoes. From your previous posts, we know that you still experiment and the subject of course is totally personal.

I needed 2 long Camino’s to finally find my own set-up, which made my pack more simple, doing away with Vaseline, deer ointment, blister pads, heavy sandals, knee braces, etc.

My walking shoes (Hoka Speedgoat, combined with Superfeet inlays of which I take along one spare pair to change in the evenings) are so comfortable, that all previous predicaments like blisters, tendinitis, knee problems simply no longer occurred on my last 4 Camino's. Don’t get me wrong: This is not about the mentioned brands; it’s about REALLY finding the set-up that suits you best. Once you got it, you’ll walk a different Camino altogether.
And one important factor usually forgotten in backpacking threads: Cutting down on my weight 3 months before every walk. Dieting away as closely as possible the equivalent of my pack’s weight has a tremendous impact, as it contains the effects of Diabetic Neuropathy, a very common issue in a certain age. (Your self-description indicates that you may suffer this problem too)

But all in all, your video advice is spot on and should be watched by every newby, congrats and buen Camino.
 

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What an eloquent and informative video, great! You've got everything well covered.
I attach my own packing list not to "compete" with yours – it differs only marginally – but to show that some details can be argued about: Lighter backpack, choice of rain gear – I finally chose a poncho and a light wind jacket, as whatever, the feet will get wet anyway –, using my iPhone as a lamp, less small bits and pieces that I would forget about and carry unused), but hey, all this is in the domain of personal preferences.

There is one thing though that has made my Camino’s substantially different: Shoes. From your previous posts, we know that you still experiment and the subject of course is totally personal.

I needed 2 long Camino’s to finally find my own set-up, which made my pack more simple, doing away with Vaseline, deer ointment, blister pads, heavy sandals, knee braces, etc.

My walking shoes (Hoka Speedgoat, combined with Superfeet inlays of which I take along one spare pair to change in the evenings) are so comfortable, that all previous predicaments like blisters, tendinitis, knee problems simply no longer occurred on my last 4 Camino's. Don’t get me wrong: This is not about the mentioned brands; it’s about REALLY finding the set-up that suits you best. Once you got it, you’ll walk a different Camino altogether.
And one important factor usually forgotten in backpacking threads: Cutting down on my weight 3 months before every walk. Dieting away as closely as possible the equivalent of my pack’s weight has a tremendous impact, as it contains the effects of Diabetic Neuropathy, a very common issue in a certain age. (Your self-description indicates that you may suffer this problem too)

But all in all, your video advice is spot on and should be watched by every newby, congrats and buen Camino.
Yet another newbie question... Do I need a 🔒 of some sort for the lockers and if so, how large, what kind? Thanks!
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Yet another newbie question... Do I need a 🔒 of some sort for the lockers and if so, how large, what kind? Thanks!
I found that the albergues that have lockers provide locks. Oftentimes the kind that you put one euro coin in to lock it and release the key. Then the coin is returned when you reopen the lock.

Usually people just leave their packs near their bunk and keep their valuables with them at all times.
 
What an eloquent and informative video, great! You've got everything well covered.
I attach my own packing list not to "compete" with yours – it differs only marginally – but to show that some details can be argued about: Lighter backpack, choice of rain gear – I finally chose a poncho and a light wind jacket, as whatever, the feet will get wet anyway –, using my iPhone as a lamp, less small bits and pieces that I would forget about and carry unused), but hey, all this is in the domain of personal preferences.

There is one thing though that has made my Camino’s substantially different: Shoes. From your previous posts, we know that you still experiment and the subject of course is totally personal.

I needed 2 long Camino’s to finally find my own set-up, which made my pack more simple, doing away with Vaseline, deer ointment, blister pads, heavy sandals, knee braces, etc.

My walking shoes (Hoka Speedgoat, combined with Superfeet inlays of which I take along one spare pair to change in the evenings) are so comfortable, that all previous predicaments like blisters, tendinitis, knee problems simply no longer occurred on my last 4 Camino's. Don’t get me wrong: This is not about the mentioned brands; it’s about REALLY finding the set-up that suits you best. Once you got it, you’ll walk a different Camino altogether.
And one important factor usually forgotten in backpacking threads: Cutting down on my weight 3 months before every walk. Dieting away as closely as possible the equivalent of my pack’s weight has a tremendous impact, as it contains the effects of Diabetic Neuropathy, a very common issue in a certain age. (Your self-description indicates that you may suffer this problem too)

But all in all, your video advice is spot on and should be watched by every newby, congrats and buen Camino.

I only wish that Speedgoats would work for me......... :oops:
I've tried them.

My feet and tendons are so screwed up I need a lot more cushioning sadly.


Like you say, it's a very personal thing!
 
What is in my pack? Well, I would think that would depend on whether one is forwarding a 🧳 to the next town.
Well, yes, but many of us still assume that the norm is for pilgrims to carry their belongings in backpacks, and not forward things to the next town just so they can take more stuff.

I also read a number of times that the bedbugs often travel between albergues because people save weight by not packing sleep shorts and a sleep shirt. Sleeping in the clothes one will wear the next day results in bedbug transfer.
How does that make any sense? Bed bugs can travel on sleep shorts and sleep shirt just as easily (or easier) than on the next day's walking clothes.
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
How does that make any sense? Bed bugs can travel on sleep shorts and sleep shirt just as easily (or easier) than on the next day's walking clothes.
I think the idea was to wear sleep clothes in one's sleeping bag (washing them frequently of course) and street clothes in public. So perhaps one may not transfer them from person to person or person to clean bedding. However, it also seems many folks carry only a liner and use shared blankets from the albergues. In this case, I find myself inclined to agree with you. Placing such sleep clothes in a ziplock and using them at another location is like wearing the next day's clothes.
 
I think the idea was to wear sleep clothes in one's sleeping bag (washing them frequently of course) and street clothes in public. So perhaps one may not transfer them from person to person or person to clean bedding. However, it also seems many folks carry only a liner and use shared blankets from the albergues. In this case, I find myself inclined to agree with you. Placing such sleep clothes in a ziplock and using them at another location is like wearing the next day's clothes.
I was one of the people who just had a liner, and also one of the people who wore the next day's clothes as pyjamas to make a quicker and quieter exit in the morning, and also one who kept each day's set of clothes in ziplock bags. I generally washed clothes every day or every other day. If I went a day without washing, the set would remain in their ziplock until washed.

I tend to agree with trecile that if we are sleeping in a bed with bedbugs, we are at risk to carry them to the next location regardless of what one wears to bed. Especially considering one isn't always immediately aware when one has been in contact with bedbugs. Unless you plan is to sterilize everything you sleep in every morning before arriving at your next day's accommodations.

To the best of my knowledge, I never directly encountered bedbugs on my Caminos, despite my practices in the first paragraph above.
 
I was one of the people who just had a liner, and also one of the people who wore the next day's clothes as pyjamas to make a quicker and quieter exit in the morning, and also one who kept each day's set of clothes in ziplock bags. I generally washed clothes every day or every other day. If I went a day without washing, the set would remain in their ziplock until washed.

I tend to agree with trecile that if we are sleeping in a bed with bedbugs, we are at risk to carry them to the next location regardless of what one wears to bed. Especially considering one isn't always immediately aware when one has been in contact with bedbugs. Unless you plan is to sterilize everything you sleep in every morning before arriving at your next day's accommodations.

To the best of my knowledge, I never directly encountered bedbugs on my Caminos, despite my practices in the first paragraph above.
Good to know, Thank you.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
- i plan on carrying a foam roller as well. i got my lightest one as a giveaway from my insurance company. it weighs in at 30g
-

All this recent talk of pack weight has me looking at my gear again!
Do you have a link to that roller?
at 30 gms it must be a soft roller surely?

It also inspired me to put my recent packing list online.
I have zeroed out the quantity for the stuff I'm wearing and the food and water.
That way it shows just the pack weight.
 
All this recent talk of pack weight has me looking at my gear again!
Do you have a link to that roller?
at 30 gms it must be a soft roller surely?

It also inspired me to put my recent packing list online.
I have zeroed out the quantity for the stuff I'm wearing and the food and water.
That way it shows just the pack weight.
Not 100% sure on the definition of a soft roller, but to me it feels pretty hard.
I can't provide you a link. It was given out at some event from a health insurance company and i was not able to find the model online.
Acually, i could not locate it prior to my last camino and instead took a cork ball with me. Very good for rolling out the feet, not so perfect for bigger muscels. But at 15g even lighter.

If you look for a light roll, there is a mini version of the Blackroll, which is claimed to be 18g. But it's pretty small and i have not had my hands on it. Might be worth a try.

edit: found the shop for the roll: https://shop.gesund-zeit.com/produkt/rueckenretter/

This is the roll i own:
1692527942851.png
 
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