A Few Random Questions

Pcav182 said:

Hello all! I have e few questions that have been ruminating in my head for a while now in regard to my plans to walk from St. Jean to Santiago in July-August of this summer. Any help would be greatly appreciated.


1.) The first thing that I've been confused about is what it is like for you when you first arrive in St. Jean Pied de Port? Did you immediately befriend other pilgrims? Was it somewhat awkward not knowing anyone at first. How long did it take to find companions to walk with? (Right now I plan to bus to St Jean the day/evening before I walk. )

Not awkward at all. First thing I do is check in, find my bunk, then go get my credential. You'll find companions on the road. Don't worry

2.) Is it worth the space to take a bathing suit? Were there any situations you wish you had brought one?
I've never taken one and never have missed taking one but some folks do, and there are a few pools along the way, if you look.

3.) One matter that I know that I need to resolve ASAP is what I'm going to use for shoes. I've put some thought into perhaps buying hiking sandals because of its great circulation and air. What is your experience with this? Another route that I've considered doing is just use the current pair of sneakers I have now and just save the $70 to buy new shoes. Has anyone just used a pair of sneakers and had success? I'll begin my training soon so I will know whether sneakers work for me shortly.
Not sure what kind of "sneakers" you are talking about. I wear a new pair of New Balance trail runners every year and am very happy with those. Whatever shoes you wear, be sure they are lightweight, flexible, and have a wide/deep toe box. I usually buy mine a size larger than I usually wear because my feet swell walking 6 hours each day, as many people's feet do.

4.) While I plan to stay in primarily albergues throughout my time, I suspect that I will indulge a few nights and perhaps get a hotel room for some good night sleeps. What would be an appropriate amount to expect to pay for this. Is it worth the money in your opinion?
Every place is different. I generally pay 25-30 euros for a private room.

5.) Will I be able to bring my pack as a carry on for my flight from the US or should I expect to have to put it as check baggage? I know this is mostly dependent on airline policy, but what was your experience? (I have a 40L pack)
I strongly suggest you carry it on. 40L is awfully large in my opinion. I usually carry a pack 28L-30L. If it will fit as a carry on, better do it. I've known more than one pilgrim who arrived without their pack and had to buy everything new to start up. If nothing else, at least put the items you cannot replace in your carry on.

6.) Can anyone suggest some good books about the Camino to read prior to my walk and perhaps suggestions during my walk. The Imitation of Christ is already on the list. (Thanks @David )
Personally, I suggest reading as little as possible, so as not to have expectations. If I could insist people leave one thing behind, it would be expectations. It is what it is and each person's experience is unique. Go, be nice, use the rules you learned in kindergarten, have a wonderful time, and don't worry about what you should or shouldn't be experiencing.

7.) I'll be going in the absolute middle of the summer, so of course it will be very busy, but should I expect it to be a race for the beds every day? Does this become a source of stress when walking during such a busy time?
It can be stressful if you allow yourself to get caught up in a race for a bed. Please don't get into the race. Once way to avoid it is to walk "between" the Brierley stages. Another is to give yourself an extra few days and walk fewer hours each day. If you start by 7 am and end by 2 pm, you'll surely get a bed. If not, it's hot enough to sleep under the stars, or nab a bus or taxi to the next village.

8.) Did you notice many teens on the Camino? (I'm 18) Did the younger pilgrims mostly band together?
Lots of teens on the Camino! You'll find lots of friends!

9.) Lastly, I ask for any advice you may have for younger pilgrims. Any guidance is much appreciated.
Please remember to be responsible and to be considerate of others, when staying in an albergue. Many are older people who need a good night's sleep. If you plan on drinking yourself into oblivion, consider getting a private room for the night. If possible, offer the lower bunk to older folks who may not be able to easily get into the top one (less chance of bedbugs in the top bunk, in my experience!). Don't stress too much - just GO and have a wonderful time. Be open to new foods, new languages, and new ideas. Explore when you have a chance. Take rest days and see the Cathedrals, even if you aren't religious - some GREAT art to see there that will once day disappear. Be lighthearted. Don't push yourself too hard the first few days. Buen Camino!

Thanks you all so much for the help! Finding this forum has been a true asset.

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Pcav182 said:

Hello all! I have e few questions that have been ruminating in my head for a while now in regard to my plans to walk from St. Jean to Santiago in July-August of this summer. Any help would be greatly appreciated.


1.) The first thing that I've been confused about is what it is like for you when you first arrive in St. Jean Pied de Port? Did you immediately befriend other pilgrims? Was it somewhat awkward not knowing anyone at first. How long did it take to find companions to walk with? (Right now I plan to bus to St Jean the day/evening before I walk. )

I met a pilgrim lady waiting for the bus to Bayonne at the airport. We only parted in Sahagun! Plenty of other pilgrims in the albergue became friends. In Roncesvalles I met someone I still walk with every year.
If you don't want to be on your own, you won't be. It won't be awkward!

2.) Is it worth the space to take a bathing suit? Were there any situations you wish you had brought one?
I didn't take one the first year. It was incredibly hot (2012) so I did swim in my underwear. Second year, I took a bathing suit as we were walking with a 12 yr old and I wanted to take him swimming... It's up to you really, last year I didn't take one and I was glad as it was much too cold to swim. Brr (July/Aug. every time)
3.) One matter that I know that I need to resolve ASAP is what I'm going to use for shoes. I've put some thought into perhaps buying hiking sandals because of its great circulation and air. What is your experience with this? Another route that I've considered doing is just use the current pair of sneakers I have now and just save the $70 to buy new shoes. Has anyone just used a pair of sneakers and had success? I'll begin my training soon so I will know whether sneakers work for me shortly.

4.) While I plan to stay in primarily albergues throughout my time, I suspect that I will indulge a few nights and perhaps get a hotel room for some good night sleeps. What would be an appropriate amount to expect to pay for this. Is it worth the money in your opinion?

5.) Will I be able to bring my pack as a carry on for my flight from the US or should I expect to have to put it as check baggage? I know this is mostly dependent on airline policy, but what was your experience? (I have a 40L pack)

6.) Can anyone suggest some good books about the Camino to read prior to my walk and perhaps suggestions during my walk. The Imitation of Christ is already on the list. (Thanks @David )

7.) I'll be going in the absolute middle of the summer, so of course it will be very busy, but should I expect it to be a race for the beds every day? Does this become a source of stress when walking during such a busy time?
I have walked the Camino francés 3 times (Again, July/August) and there was never a race for bed. Other people will tell you differently no doubts but....that is my experience!
8.) Did you notice many teens on the Camino? (I'm 18) Did the younger pilgrims mostly band together?
Yes, in the Summers I walked there were quite a few young pilgrims and yes, they tend to find each other. But age doesn't really seem to matter on the Camino

9.) Lastly, I ask for any advice you may have for younger pilgrims. Any guidance is much appreciated.
The only thing that comes to my mind is 'take it easy' those first few days. You may find it much less demanding than an older pilgrim and therefore do too much (too fast, too long distances...) . If you take care to start with, you'll sail through it!
Buen Camino!!!
Thanks you all so much for the help! Finding this forum has been a true asset.

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