Stephanie Martin
New Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Camino in Sept/Oct/Nov 2022 (via the French route)
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I think the 10% "rule" came out of research carried out by the Israeli Defence Force for mobile/light infantry use and has come to be chiselled in stone like "drink 8 glasses of water a day" (Perrier ad campaign); "walk 10,000 steps a day" (Japanese pedometer ad campaign); "eat 5 fruits or vegetables a day" (Californian fruit growers association ad campaign); "drink a pint of milk a day" (UK Milk Marketing Board campaign).1) I have walked all of my Caminos with a 36L Osprey and have always had plenty of room to spare. If it wasn’t for the fact that I really like my pack, I could easily drop down to a 28L one. You’ve made a good decision to get a high quality pack. Don’t worry that it’s too small. Choose your gear carefully and the pack will work very well for you.
2) I’m not sure where this 10% rule came from, but it makes no sense that a larger person needs to carry significantly more gear than does a smaller person. My rule of thumb is to keep my pack weight between 12-14 pounds. As I said above, choose your gear carefully and check out some of the lists people have put together for what they take. To walk far, travel light.
3) We last walked on the CF in October of 2019. If anything, it was a bit on the warm side that year. Nonetheless, our one-season, one pound plus sleeping bag was plenty. If cold at night, I wore a long sleeved upper layer and a similar bottom layer. Plenty warm. It’s possible some albergues may have blankets.
4) Layers are the way to go. You may find mornings chilly, but after walking a while being able to take off a layer will make you more comfortable. The only jacket I carry is my rain jacket that can deal with both cold and wet weather. I also like a down vest. So, under-layer, vest, and jacket have always been sufficient on even the worst days.
Buen Camino.
I have read that it came from research into how much weight school children can carry in a backpack for a short walk to school. I agree that there's probably little scientific validity to it.I think the 10% "rule" came out of research carried out by the Israeli Defence Force for mobile/light infantry use and has come to be chiselled in stone like "drink 8 glasses of water a day" (Perrier ad campaign); "walk 10,000 steps a day" (Japanese pedometer ad campaign); "eat 5 fruits or vegetables a day" (Californian fruit growers association ad campaign); "drink a pint of milk a day" (UK Milk Marketing Board campaign).
If I'd packed a rucksack with 10% of my body weight (11kg) on my first Camino I'd never have made it to the gates of SJPP let alone over the Route Napoleon!
I have always used a 40l pack and found it to be perfect. I generally walk with between 5 and 6 kgs.Dear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
Best wishes for your first Camino!Dear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
So the average 12 year old would be humping a 4kg pack to school? I think I prefer your ruleI have read that it came from research into how much weight school children can carry in a backpack for a short walk to school. I agree that there's probably little scientific validity to it.
My rule is "carry what makes you comfortable if you can comfortably carry it."
I use an Osprey Talon 33 in the small size, which has a capacity of 31L. I also like to be warm. I pack very carefully but have everything I am likely to need, including sleeping bag. I would have trouble fitting it into a 28L backpack, and I would hate to have things gangling on the outside.I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
That's another thing, 3 caminos now in gortex footwear, next time trail runners either Hoka or Altra for me, I will learn. I did walk in my Teva sandles last month on the Frances 2 days to keep my feet cooler and drier as i had a huge blister.1 kg in shoes equals 5 kg in rucksack.
Dear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
I agree with all of what trecile said. If you have a pack with a pouch on the back you can put the fleece there without a problem. I walk into December and walk with a light sleeping bag that I believe is 10C. It weighs next to nothing and keeps me warm. The few nights it is really cold I have worn some extra clothes.Unfortunately, I think that you've put the cart before the horse. It would have been better if you purchased your gear first, then found a pack that comfortably fits your gear.
You don't need a fleece and a Nano Puff. One that or the other will be fine.
I don't think that you need a silk liner if you are going to bring a sleeping bag.
I would guess that it weighs at least 10% of the nothing that you are carrying on your back!a light sleeping bag... that I believe is 10C. It weighs next to nothing
I also tend to get cold easily
You need to think about the combination of things available to keep you warm at night - i.e. the "sleep system." In October you will get a variety of conditions and you should be prepared for all. You can take a light sleeping bag (you might need to be more concerned about bulk than weight, given your small backpack) but be prepared to supplement it with layers of clothes. I would take a merino base layer in October. You can sleep with it - top and bottom (plus another layer of top and bottom if needed), plus your puff jacket, wool socks and buff. In other words, if it is cold, you will be wearing all of your clothes except one walking outfit that might be drying at night. You might even find that tossing your poncho over everything at night is helpful.I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days?
I don't understand what is meant by this. I am not being disrespectful. I just don't understand. Shouldn't 1 kg outside of backpack equal 1 kg inside backpack? Please explain. Thank you.1 kg in shoes equals 5 kg in rucksack.
Keep your 28L. You can walk a successful Camino with that pack. Get a very light sleeping bag. Get yourself a lightweight set of base layer that you can keep handy if you need it walking and wear it as pajamas. Go lightweight. Anything that you find that you really need can be purchased along the way—every large city has several “Camino oriented” outdoor stores.Dear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
The Naked Pilgrim strikes again!I went with a 35L pack and the 10% rule but I had a lot of bulky stuff like fleece jacket, clothes, sandals... while everything fit, is was torture packing every morning. And if I dared stopped to get something out, that was hell, too.
After I tossed the sleeping bag, jacket, sticks, food and half the clothes my daily life greatly improved.
Good point - so wear trail runners or sandals and don't put your muddy boots in your rucksack!1 kg in shoes equals 5 kg in rucksack.
It means that you should use the lightest footwear that work for you. The weight that is carried on your feet uses more of your energy/effort than the weight in your backpack.I don't understand what is meant by this. I am not being disrespectful. I just don't understand. Shouldn't 1 kg outside of backpack equal 1 kg inside backpack? Please explain. Thank you.
Mind sharing the model name and the size?Here are our packs we used last year (fall 2022). We will use them again in spring of 2023. They were great although I don’t think you can get this specific type but this size was perfect.
This what I wore most if the time in fall (Sep) 2021. What I would do a different is a poncho that is longer so it goes past my knees but not much further. I found that it would ride up when you’re walking against the rain and get my pants wet.Here are our packs we used last year (fall 2022). We will use them again in spring of 2023. They were great although I don’t think you can get this specific type but this size was perfect. I would agree with everyone else on this thread who says that 10% is a good guide to shoot for. Our pack suede about 16.5 pounds each including water. You’ll love it good luck. View attachment 130783
Dear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
It didn't rain that much when I walked in October. Maybe only a handful of days. Galicia was damp and humid but not overly rainy.I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
I know that down jackets can have problems when they get damp, but I don't think that you can say that about all puffy jackets. Those with synthetic fill shouldn't have the same problems, and indeed many down jackets are treated to be able to withstand longer periods of dampness.But... puffies are awful in the damp
I think they are a really over-rated piece of outdoor clothing that's been pushed more from fashion than functionality in recent years. Yes, you can get water-repellant treated natural down that stops the clumping that wet down traditionally suffered from but even with synthetic when you start sweating into a puffy jacket they still get damp, especially as the insulation from down can often be overkill for anything active. And it's worse if you're using that as insulation under a rain-shell.I know that down jackets can have problems when they get damp, but I don't think that you can say that about all puffy jackets. Those with synthetic fill shouldn't have the same problems, and indeed many down jackets are treated to be able to withstand longer periods of dampness.
These two red packs are the Osprey, Manta 30L.Mind sharing the model name and the size?
I'm staggered by the amount of water people carry on the CF especially given the facilities. Its a balancing act but you can always adjust enroute.
My partner and I both used cheep 1L bottles from the grocery store that we filled along the way. We bought hoses prior to our trip from Amazon that screwed ointo the bottles so we could sip water along the way. I like having a hose like system like the bladder systems that come in most packs now days. I think it keeps us from getting dehydrated. It’s amazing how long these lite weight grocery store 1L bottles last.Water really is a balancing act. I carried two 1L bottles which was probably overkill but I'd rather have it and not need it. I saw plenty of people with those little metal bottles you get in kids lunch boxes, I think they are about 350ml and they got by just fine. But some didn't and I ended up donating water to people who were struggling on hot afternoons quite a few times. Never pass up an opportunity to fill a water bottle or to fill yourself with water!
Yeah, when you have to stop and pull a bottle out your pack it can be tempting to not drink often enough. I think you're right, it's probably better to sip as you go, taking a lot of water in one hit just goes straight through me so I don't know how great it is for hydration. I might have to look at those hoses you mention. My packs have bladder slots but the good brands of bladder are expensive and the cheap Chinese ones I've had always end up splitting.My
My partner and I both used cheep 1L bottles from the grocery store that we filled along the way. We bought hoses prior to our trip from Amazon that screwed ointo the bottles so we could sip water along the way. I like having a hose like system like the bladder systems that come in most packs now days. I think it keeps us from getting dehydrated. It’s amazing how long these lite weight grocery store 1L bottles last.
I find two 450ml Powerade bottles ideal. Not flimsy, nozzle top, easily replaceable enroute and reachable on either side of my pack. Any long or exposed stretches i can always supplement to get me to the next radlerMy partner and I both used cheep 1L bottles from the grocery store that we filled along the way.
Hmm I think I recognize those packs, were they accompanied by a large California bear crested hat when my daughter and I saw them on the CF in 2021? (Surely not fall 2022). I wear the Osprey Exos 58l which is more room than I need but it gives me room not to crush baguettes. Also during travel days it means every single thing can go into pack and not be misplaced.Here are our packs we used last year (fall 2022). We will use them again in spring of 2023. They were great although I don’t think you can get this specific type but this size was perfect. I would agree with everyone else on this thread who says that 10% is a good guide to shoot for. Our pack suede about 16.5 pounds each including water. You’ll love it good luck. View attachment 130783
Hey Bill. Hope all is well. Greg says hi. Yes, that was me with my California bear hat. Thanks for catching the typos. We are planning to do the Portuguese way next year.Hmm I think I recognize those packs, were they accompanied by a large California bear crested hat when my daughter and I saw them on the CF in 2021? (Surely not fall 2022). I wear the Osprey Exos 58l which is more room than I need but it gives me room not to crush baguettes. Also during travel days it means every single thing can go into pack and not be misplaced.
9kg? Why so heavy?My backpack is a 36 liter Osprey which was 9 kg. Perfect I liked to have a bit more room to place snacks and not to worry about precise packing at 6 am.
9kg - perfection, hope I can get mine that low for my 4th camino, I will try. Mine was just under 15kg during that heatwave in July, and it was fine after about day 4 as my body got used to it. It would have been easier though lighter so will do my best to take less stuff next time.9kg? Why so heavy?
I'm sorry but 15kg? What on earth were you carrying? The kitchen sink?9kg - perfection, hope I can get mine that low for my 4th camino, I will try. Mine was just under 15kg during that heatwave in July, and it was fine after about day 4 as my body got used to it. It would have been easier though lighter so will do my best to take less stuff next time.
No, but that was all I left behindI'm sorry but 15kg? What on earth were you carrying? The kitchen sink?
Well said. Weight saving is usually done at the expense of comfort. The bulk of the weight should be carried on the hips so the comfort there is critical. I can highly recommend Aarn packs. The fixation on price, brand and volume misses one crucial fact that you will have it for more than one meander. Get something that fits and is comfortable for YOU !I prefer to take a little larger backpack with a good suspension (frame) that transfers the weight to my hips rather than carrying it all on the shoulders. Also, don’t be too concerned over the #L. Each pack manufacturer as a different way of calculating their pack size so a 28L by one company may well have a very different capacity than another, ie. some include the outside mesh pockets in their sizing. Best to take what feels the best on and what carries the gear you want to take the easiest, and ignore what everyone else is doing.
I used a 36 litre Osprey for first two Caminos and have downsized to a 30 litre Osprey. We are training for our autumn Camino with full packs and the smaller backpack is all that’s needed. It weighs 12.5 lbs. without food/water. The smaller pack when empty weighs a pound less than my bigger one.My Osprey 30L works well for me but I'm a real minimalist and keep my pack under 5 kg when not taking a sleeping bag, a bit more with.
The advantage of walking in cooler weather is that you wear most of your clothing. I always take a lightweight fleece, even in the summer.
I also have an Osprey 36L but since buying the 30L I haven't touched the bigger model which is in itself heavier.
You get the prizeI did the Camino with a 24L osprey and wanted for nothing.
I am 154cm tall, weigh 58kg. I used a 28l Katmandu pack and it was fine. Only problem was that I had to strap my sleeping bag to the outside of the pack. I walked Sept until mid Oct and it was mostly hot with no heavy rain. A bit of misty rain in Galicia. I took a light Uniqlo down jacket and it was more than warm enough. Also took one set of thermals which I wore at night if it was cold. I found the rainy days were annoying more than cold and you and clothes soon dry. Don't forget a pillow case - nothing worse than those paper ones you get in alberguesDear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
What this guy says. Return the pack if you can and get a 30-40L one. I’m a 6’ male and I never filled my 40L bag completely even in November on two separate Camino’s but I always had room for the odd bits of extra food, packing my boots for the plane ride, carrying anything that I needed to pick up once there. The extra weight between a standard 28L and a 30-35-40L isn’t that much and you can use the pack more easily for backpacking overnights if you ever choose toFirstly, forget about the 10% "rule," because it's a guideline, not a rule.
Some people will find 10% to be too heavy, and some will easily carry more.
Unfortunately, I think that you've put the cart before the horse. It would have been better if you purchased your gear first, then found a pack that comfortably fits your gear.
You don't need a fleece and a Nano Puff. One that or the other will be fine.
I don't think that you need a silk liner if you are going to bring a sleeping bag.
Hi Stephanie, I also tend to get cold quickly hence I thought I would share how I coped with the varied weather conditions on my Camino Frances 2019. I started walking on 19th September and arrived in SdeC on 28 October. Day 1 up to Orisson was sunny and warm Day 2 we were blown about by chilly blustery winds that nearly knocked me over at one stage. We arrived in Burgos on 30th September and the evenings were beginning to get cold but the days were still hot, then towards the end of the Meesta leaving Bercianos, the morning temperature had dropped to single digits, thankfully we had windproof jackets, beanies, buffs and lightweight gloves. In Leon, I bought a poncho and needed it two days later. The next day just after we had checked into an albergue in Santibanez de Valdeigo there was a hail storm and the temperature plummeted. The next day in Astorga we visited Deportes Huracan pilgrim sports shop and bought liner pants (long-johns), water-wicking gloves and I bought a Mammut top as walking in my sleeveless puffer jacket resulted in body sweat, ultimately it became a soggy mess. The owners were amazing, gave us different price points and discussed with us the weather we would face once back in the mountains. Despite the cold temperatures, most albergues were only heated in the depth of the night and there weren't always a lot of blankets. While we'd often start out the morning at 1C once the ground fog would lower that, we walked with layers of clothes however, by late morning we'd be stripping off those layers and enjoying beautiful sunny days. We were very lucky and only had three miserable wet days.Dear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
Hi, Very useful information as we start our Camino Frances on 21st September. Your advice seems to be to prepare for any weather, even at start and finish of a day, never mind the period from the start to end of October. What style of Mammut top did you buy ? A fleece or wind/waterproof shell ?Hi Stephanie, I also tend to get cold quickly hence I thought I would share how I coped with the varied weather conditions on my Camino Frances 2019. I started walking on 19th September and arrived in SdeC on 28 October. Day 1 up to Orisson was sunny and warm Day 2 we were blown about by chilly blustery winds that nearly knocked me over at one stage. We arrived in Burgos on 30th September and the evenings were beginning to get cold but the days were still hot, then towards the end of the Meesta leaving Bercianos, the morning temperature had dropped to single digits, thankfully we had windproof jackets, beanies, buffs and lightweight gloves. In Leon, I bought a poncho and needed it two days later. The next day just after we had checked into an albergue in Santibanez de Valdeigo there was a hail storm and the temperature plummeted. The next day in Astorga we visited Deportes Huracan pilgrim sports shop and bought liner pants (long-johns), water-wicking gloves and I bought a Mammut top as walking in my sleeveless puffer jacket resulted in body sweat, ultimately it became a soggy mess. The owners were amazing, gave us different price points and discussed with us the weather we would face once back in the mountains. Despite the cold temperatures, most albergues were only heated in the depth of the night and there weren't always a lot of blankets. While we'd often start out the morning at 1C once the ground fog would lower that, we walked with layers of clothes however, by late morning we'd be stripping off those layers and enjoying beautiful sunny days. We were very lucky and only had three miserable wet days.
Merino is perfect as it works for hot days and cold days. Wearing a poncho over my waterproof/windproof jacket added another layer of warmth. As I use poles I wore bike gloves and wore these under my water-wicking gloves on those cold mornings.
I tested all my clothing in wet and cold weather but walking in an urban environment as opposed to the countryside meant a few items weren't warm enough; thankfully the Mammut top was.
Wishing you a great trip.
Starting on 21 September you should be fine if you have good wind/waterproof gear, but towards the end of the first week of October, the early morning temperatures dropped down to single digits we needed more layers. I bought a Mammut Aegility Long sleeve, half zip top - lightweight stretch, quick drying and breathable which I was recommended to wear next to my skin. Mostly though I wore it on top of my walking top and then put on my rain jacket. Wishing you a Buen CaminoHi, Very useful information as we start our Camino Frances on 21st September. Your advice seems to be to prepare for any weather, even at start and finish of a day, never mind the period from the start to end of October. What style of Mammut top did you buy ? A fleece or wind/waterproof shell ?
I bring only 2 t-shirts, but:Also, how much do I need to buy in terms of new shirts? Can I just walk in t-shirts and sportswear that I already own? Thanks!
Tommy, have a good hunt through packing lists on the forum and elsewhere, and what you have, pack it, weigh it, see how it all hangs together. I remember the investment - minimal, but it all adds up - on my first Camino. There is no right stuff. Just what fits you and your wallet/purse/card. You have such a great time ahead of you! (I had such fun packing and dumping and repacking the first time - now, the less I HAVE to take, the better! )I'm about 6"1 tall man and my first Camino. Would a 35L:45L backpack (Lowe Alpine AirZone Pro 35:45 Rucksack) be excessive? I'm seeing mixed opinions.
I also understand a sleeping bag might be necessary too at this time of year.
Also, how much do I need to buy in terms of new shirts? Can I just walk in t-shirts and sportswear that I already own? Thanks!
Added to this, the size of a pack isn't really a problem unless you jam it with everything. My pack is a 55l and during my first run I took far too much 13-14kg. Next run I learned a little and took 2kg less, next week I am 2kg lighter at 10. All with the same backpackTommy, have a good hunt through packing lists on the forum and elsewhere, and what you have, pack it, weigh it, see how it all hangs together. I remember the investment - minimal, but it all adds up - on my first Camino. There is no right stuff. Just what fits you and your wallet/purse/card. You have such a great time ahead of you! (I had such fun packing and dumping and repacking the first time - now, the less I HAVE to take, the better! )
I should say though - try to avoid cotton socks. I only wear my camino wool socks now, all year long when I am forced into shoes or boots.
It is.Added to this, the size of a pack isn't really a problem unless you jam it with everything.
Yes - I agree with what has been said here.It is.
A large bag draw you to carry too many useless things.
But a too small bag is not better. I walk from Le Puy to Puente La Reina with a light 30 L backpack. The problem is that when the water bag is full, if you jam too many things in it (for instance, heavy packs other fellow pilgrims have brought but cannot carry...), the water come inside the bag.
For next year, I have bought a 38L backpack which seems to be more convenient.
Hi- i’ve walked the Camino in October with a 28l. It was enough, but with little room for food. This year I upsized to a 38l because I was walking the 800k - same gear but wanted room for food. All gear in pack. This came in handy for the extra pair of shoes I had to pick up in Burgos to give my feet some blister relief. Every year I’ve carried a Gregory Jade. Never a rub or hot spot. My gear has been honed over the course of 5 Caminos because I too chill easily. I carry full rain gear and an extremely small lightweight down sleeping bag. No liner. For walking warmth I carry/wear a full zip icebreaker merino sweater jacket over long sleeve merino baselayer, 3/4 length merino leggings, trail pants, down vest, pocket merino cap, merino liner gloves, and all-weather shell jacket. In the cold blowing rain I wear rain pants and or use them for warmth. The only other clothing that I carry is an Ibex merino t-shirt and super lightweight silk shirt and lightweight pair of pants for sleeping, town use, and sometimes on the trail. The cut of the ibex t-shirt was perfect allowing air movement on hotter days. Highly recommended. This gear got me over the Pyrenees in freezing temperatures, and snow the beginning of April and into horizontal rain on the meseta (during which ponchos weren’t much good), and into 90 degrees at the end of the trail. A prior year I walked well into November - it was in the 70’s many days and virtually no rain. So, it is hard to know. No matter what the weather I wish you a wonderful journey!Dear all,
I'm doing my 1st Camino this October & I'm nervous about whether I made the right choice in buying a 28L Osprey backpack. I had initially purchased a 30L Macpac bag, but it was somehow abit too flimsy and this new pack feels better. I just don't know if I'll be able to pack as much as I should inside of it.
I can only carry 6kg max of stuff, going by the 10% body weight rule. I also tend to get cold easily so I was wondering about what I should pack as the most essential based on October temperatures to keep warm.
I'm looking for a sleeping bag now. Would a comfort level of 7degrees celsius be warm enough on cold days? I'll try to get a silk liner too.
Finally, I've been advised to get 3 layers: a base, a mid-layer and shell. I've got a merino base and I plan on getting the Altus poncho when I reach SJPP. For the mid-layer I will most likely get the Petagonia nano puff jacket. Would this suffice or should I also try to stuff a fleece jacket into my 28L pack?
I suspect it'll rain alot in October too. Any recommendations on waterproof gloves that are warm too? Hopefully something I can wear to bed too. Cos my extremities get cold at night.
Thank you all.
I will be walking the Camino in April 2023 and went to try on back packs at REI today. I was impressed with the Gregory Jade. They only had the 38L on hand, so I will try the 28L. I am 5' and the S/XS was a good fit. I will search on-line for the 28L and try that one out. Thanks for the great info.My wife walked with a 28L Gregory Jade - at 5’ tall, her clothes are small and it worked well for her. The use of compression packing cubes certainly helped with the tight fit of things, but it’s definitely doable and it keeps you from “packing your fears”.
Remember that you will wear an entire outfit at all times, so the pack simply needs to carry your secondary clothing. October CAN be cold and rainy, but when we walked in Oct 2021, it wasn’t - so prepare, but not overly so. We have found that a rain jacket makes a nice warm layer even when it’s not raining whereas a poncho has a singular purpose (something we avoid in our limited packing list).
Finally, people live in Spain and they don‘t do it in the nude! Turns out there are a lot of stores there that sell clothing, jackets, and more, so if you discover that you need something while walking, you can find it there (new or used, since thrift stores also exist!). It’s good to plan, but don’t let the stress of preparation obscure the joy of the voyage.
It's a good idea to purchase all your gear before your backpack to make sure that it easily fits inside.I will be walking the Camino in April 2023 and went to try on back packs at REI today. I was impressed with the Gregory Jade. They only had the 38L on hand, so I will try the 28L. I am 5' and the S/XS was a good fit. I will search on-line for the 28L and try that one out. Thanks for the great info.
Thanks for the info. I have never used a backpack and thought that getting one or two to use at home while training would be a good idea. REI has a great return policy. I will place the clothing I have on hand for the trip and add some other weight until I get all my items. Hopefully sooner than later.It's a good idea to purchase all your gear before your backpack to make sure that it easily fits inside.
If you don't have all of the exact items that you will take you can simulate what you will bring by choosing clothing and other items that you already have to try it out.Thanks for the info. I have never used a backpack and thought that getting one or two to use at home while training would be a good idea. REI has a great return policy. I will place the clothing I have on hand for the trip and add some other weight until I get all my items. Hopefully sooner than later.
Does anyone wear fleece lined hiking pants? Or, do your legs just stay warm from all the walking?I agree with all of what trecile said. If you have a pack with a pouch on the back you can put the fleece there without a problem. I walk into December and walk with a light sleeping bag that I believe is 10C. It weighs next to nothing and keeps me warm. The few nights it is really cold I have worn some extra clothes.
When it comes to the weather it is impossible to predict. It could be rainy and it could be sunny every day. A poncho is a necessity I think. When it comes to gloves look online to see which gloves are available in your country and check out the reviews. Even better go to a good outdoor store and see for yourself. If you are cold at night you can buy some leggings from Under Armour or a similar brand. They will work great for sleeping. They are very light and you can wear them under your pants if it is a really cold morning.
Unless you are really sensitive to cold you should be fine at night. Get a light pair of gloves. You do not need a gloves made for skiing or winter. They are bulky, can be very expensive and probably way to warm for October.
We hiked in September/October, and we hiked with hiking zip off pants. We got a pretty early to see the sun go up on most days On super cold days we zipped the legging parts back on the paints. The rest of the time we were wearing the shorts part of the paints. I can only think of two days we did this. Normally after a few hours the day got warm enough that we didn’t need them. Have a great Camino.Does anyone wear fleece lined hiking pants? Or, do your legs just stay warm from all the walking?
I don't know how long it takes for those type of pants to dry if they get wet. When the weather starts to get colder in November I will stop in a bigger town that has a Decathlon or an outdoor store and buy something similar to a light pair of ski pants. They stay dry and are way warm enough for the temperatures in Spain. Once or twice when the weather was really cold about 25F I would wear the under armour under those pants. I have never spent more than about 40E for them. Maybe this November because of inflation I will probably have to pay more.Does anyone wear fleece lined hiking pants? Or, do your legs just stay warm from all the walking?
I haven't walked in really cold weather, but I think that you would probably get hot in fleece lined pants. Better to have some sort of base layer that you can also wear for pajamas to wear under your pants for really cold days. You could start out with both layers in the morning, then ditch the inner layer as it warms up.Does anyone wear fleece lined hiking pants? Or, do your legs just stay warm from all the walking?
It is much better to have layers. I like to be warm. Depending on circumstances, I have used rain pants + merino base layer (which I use for pajamas) or the rain pants over my lighter-weight walking pants. I could even wear all three if the weather were really frigid!Does anyone wear fleece lined hiking pants? Or, do your legs just stay warm from all the walking?
I strapped my sandals to the outside and thought it worked well.It’s a decent brand - but there’s only one real consideration; is it comfortable?
28l may be a little on the skinny side; but it’ll not be the smallest pack you see.
The advice above re:layers is good. Fleece is bulky and heavy for the insulation it provides. The nano-puff is better. You don’t need two.
Try to get everything inside the sack. Avoid strapping things on the outside.
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