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So you want a lighter weight 30L pack with an external hydration system and a ventilated back that's comfortable. At least that narrows it down a bit. :)
If it's served you well for 2 Caminos and has been used for 15 years why replace it now? If you can sew, I can't think of anything that couldn't be easily and cheaply repaired or replaced, you could even add some extra features that you feel your pack is missing. It can be re-waterproofed and...
@dougfitz It never ceases to amaze me the calculations some people do. :)
Obviously I wouldn't recommend going overly large, no one really needs a 80L+ but having a bit extra room comes in handy rather than having it so tightly packed that you've no room for extras. something around 5 to 10L...
I think that a comfortable fit (back length, strap position), as well as durability and colour is probably more important than Litre size. If it's too small things can be strapped to the outside if its too big you can cinch it smaller with a few straps, if it's the wrong colour you'll hate no...
When I said Credit card I meant extra money in the bank to cover the unexpected, whether you carry that in Credit/debit card, travelers cheques, cash or gold. Personally I always make sure I always have at least one usually more, alternative ways of paying for anything.
Even in those extreme...
A credit card is the lightest weight survival kit you can carry and will get you out of almost any unexpected situation, especially accommodation ones. Newspaper and cardboard for those who don't have a card.
Ex Army Stores.
Not many proper ones left now in the U.K.
There used to be a good one in Biarritz, probably not there now though after 30+ years, I believe I bought my first pair of French Ranger boots there.
Also carboot sales in the U.K. last year I bought a pair of new Meindl boots for £5
I'm certainly not arguing or even suggesting that anyone should not buy or try out gear first. That would obviously be the best option, (but how many really do test their gear properly first. The amount of gear that seems to be left behind, suggests many don't).
I'm just stating that as the...
But how many, after having bought their gear really test it properly other than a short walk. Like you say it takes a bit of time before their faults are known. And if it doesn't work, do they then buy another then another until it does? Unless they have done a lot of walking before, and most...
Apart from possibly footwear, what is there to test? Do people that buy things at home especially for their pilgrimage really test it all first? I agree with @Barbara above, I just wore what I had, and will do so next time, even my footwear I'll just wear whatever I'm wearing at the time and...
I googled outdoor sports or camping shops in St Jean a while back and was surprised by how many there are. A far cry from when I was last there, they even have supermarkets now!
I reckon if you can't get it in St Jean you don't need it.
Apart from a hat that looks like all I take for summer travelling. I can't think of what else I'd really need.
I've used a scarf as a towel which which doubles as a blanket or can wrap around shoulders or neck.
No need for the sleeping bag liner if you're warm enough in clothes or use the...
Hi Bear, there's a wealth of good info on the site, but it can be a bit overwhelming and often conflicting.
Only you will know works for you.
I wore normal cheap thin cotton supermarket socks, and a pair of crepe soled desert boots
Light cotton t shirts and shirts
Cotton combat trousers and a...
These umbrellas kept popping up on the ads on this site a while ago, they are made in the USA https://davek.co.uk/products/the-davek-mini with a lifetime guarantee look very compact, has anyone tried them?
I can't see how one is easier to fill than another or the need for constant sipping from a tube like a marathon running hamster.
Why would anyone want to use either when traditional goatskin botas, are easily available in Spain, and can be slung over the shoulder for easy access if needed and...
For very heavy loads I agree, but I hate using hip belts and almost always carry a bag by the shoulders straps only. I've mostly used German and Czech army simple canvas rucksacks, which don't have hip straps or load lifters.
A lot of the time I prefer to carry it off one shoulder only, which...
I believe originally the guidelines were 10% for day walks and 20% for backpacking. Most Caminos would usually fall somewhere in between, neither full backpacking with tent, stove, sleeping bag etc or a series of day walks.
As you say a good guide for beginners but not a rule, and needs...
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