Jenn
Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- First time planning
Not all of us are comfortable with 'roughing it' even though we love being active in the outdoors and consider ourselves adventurous. Sometimes a few little creature comforts make it all the more possible. We may just have a product in our pack you want to borrow so roll your eyes if you must, feel free to humour me, but no criticism please. It's not all superficial I promise.
Walking the Camino is a very personal journey and the challenges involved are vastly different from person to person. If you have a touch of 'princess syndrome' in you, (as I do,) don't be put off, you can do this! I embarked on my first Camino on my own and in my upper 40's.) And am definitely better for the experience. (I admit my biggest fear other than bed bugs was managing frizzy hair!)
So I thought I'd share a few tips to help others other girly girls by.
Girly tips -
1. Before you leave, get waxed and have your lashes tinted if that's important to how you feel.
2. You won't need or want a hair dryer but take good hair products (ie leave-in conditioner) in small containers and plenty of hair elastics. Most hotels have a hair dryer upon request if you feel the urge but mostly I was too exhausted to care and dragged my messy locks into a ponytail.
3. Don't wear rings or any precious jewellery. Your fingers may swell and you don't want to risk theft or loss. There's plenty of cheap souvenir pieces to buy along the way. I did however wear my fitbit which acted as my watch and I found helped me gauge what I'd walked and how much further to go each day.
4. Get an inflatable head rest/ pillow and eye mask if you have a very long flight.
5. Paint your toenails if you like but do not use shellac polish as it causes infections as it cuts into your feet after much walking. I have acrylic nails which I couldn't get removed but had them cut short and left them natural coloured.
Research a distance you think matches your allocated time and inclination. For me Astorga to Santiago was perfect and took 12 days (plus a rest day in the middle when my lovely new travelling partner got heat stroke) and 3 nights in Santiago including a day trip to Finisterre/Muxia. (We walked 16-26 kms a day.) Don't start until you have slept off your jet lag. (1-2 days) Start gently and build up the kilometres. Do plenty of regular long and hilly walks in the month preceding your journey. * allowing 3 weeks for this leg including 'before' and 'after' time is perfect.
I booked accomodation in advance, a mixture of hotels, pensions and albergues - both private/twin room and a few bunk bed dorms. It was nice to mix it up and ensured that I was able to socialise with other pilgrims but also get some restful sleep. I used booking.com and the 'wise pilgrim' app. Before leaving home I booked the first 3 nights and the last 3 in Santiago but from Sarria onwards we were inundated with crowds of people so I highly recommend you consider this for both accommodation and choice of commencement town. If your plans change due to distances walked, meeting new people, or illness/injury, most places can be cancelled without charge with 24-48 hours notice. You might lose the cost of a night at worst but it was worth it for me to have a planned destination.
I had my main pack transported each day. I had medical reasons for this choice and I thought I'd be embarrassed to not carry it but there were many many people doing the same. (To do this obviously you need a booked hotel/ albergue for it to be delivered to. ) This allowed me to achieve the distance without pain as well as taking a 10 kg backpack (transported) and carrying a small day pack. It costs 3-7 euro each day to transport a pack/suitcase (depending on the company and distance, it's slightly more expensive online I believe) and is as easy as writing your name and destination on a money envelope and leaving it with your bag at your accommodation reception each morning for it to be picked up.
In my small day pack I took;
- iPhone (camera/notes)
-A camel back water bag, but a large water bottle would do. Water is heavy to carry and in most situations there are places to refill every hour. It's super important to remain hydrated.
- sunscreen - especially on arms, neck and backs of hands. The typical Camino tan also is back of calves which seem to get hit by the sun as well.
- Light Rain coat and rain poncho to cover over you and your pack - the poncho is usually knee length. I bought a really light one and it tore on the first day so go for quality. (Look into those things that cover your shoes too if you expect wet weather. Really avoid wet shoes/socks as that causes blisters.)
- deodorant spray
- international passport, Compostela and money
- Lip balm with Spf
- Sun hat - good luck with finding one that is both functional and not really 'dorky' but you won't care by then. I had a vented cap and a 'buff' which can double as a head band or sweat scarf.
-sunglasses
- foot care in zip lock plastic bag with spare adhesive tape, Vaseline, compeed for blisters, hikers wool for hot spots, small scissors.
-Spare socks and safety pins to dry the first pair as you walk.
- Wipes for sanitising, hands and unanticipated toilet stops.
- Pain medication
I initially wore a 'bum bag' (fanny pack) for securing my passport, phone and money but hated wearing it so ended out carrying it in my day pack and just took it with me if I was ever putting my day pack down at rest/lunch stops. I found people on the Camino are very trustworthy but there are always stories that remind you to be cautious.
In my larger pack to be transported I carried;
2 X active wear 'gym' pants 3/4 length (or hiking pants)
2 X shorts - fast drying
4 X tshirts - 2 were merino, all were fast drying (buy some nice bright colours as I got really sick of myself in grey.)
1 X long sleeve fast drying top for warmth
1 X zip up sleeveless jacket
(It gets cold in Galicia even in summer. I would replace this with a fleecy. )
4 X Underwear/knickers - the merino wool ones are worth the cost as they absorb sweat.
2 X bras - one sports one and a regular one.
4 X socks - merino / smart wool
It would've been the same list had I have walked a month. I did washing every few days when at albergues and could buy detergent from them; most need coins to operate washer and dryer. I used hotel overnight laundry service once to wash everything which was bliss.
I also took light weight jeans and a tee shirt to wear out in the evenings and a light weight cotton dress. Okay 2! A girl needs choice! This seemed like such a treat to put on during evenings or rest days. I took a pair of 'Teva' sandals and resisted packing a pair of other favourite 'going out' shoes, but thankfully threw my well worn shoes on the fire at the 'end of the earth' and replaced them with some nice new dressy sandals at Santiago.
Sleeping bag liner, pillow case, fast dry towel -for nights in albergues. Lovely warm blankets and mattress/pillow protectors are provided.
Phone/fit bit charger/ ear phones
Toiletries bag
- shampoo and conditioner
- toothpaste and toothbrush
- skin moisturiser
- More foot care supplies (as above).
- foot lotion - for cooling massage
- face wash cloth
-razor
-brush/comb
-Moisturising soap in tub/plastic bag ie dove
- Tinted moisturiser with high Spf
sunscreen for face.
- Eye liner and natural coloured lipstick. (I feel too bare without it.)
Some people wore a little make up, ear rings and perfume in the evenings, to make them feel nice. Whatever works for you but keep it natural as possible to 'blend in.'
-Clothes line - twisty wire that has hooks and suction cups on ends.
Ear plugs - for snorers - and spares in case you become the snorer when you're totally exhausted! Oops
I packed a small spikey ball from my physio which was wonderful to run sore feet over (or shoulders etc,) and great to warm up stiff joints in the mornings before walking.)
Medication -
I took prescription anti-inflammatories and magnesium supplements to prevent muscle cramping....plus 'just in case' I had pain relief tabs, anti nausea, anti diarrohoea, antibiotics, anti hystmanine, anti constipation, anti thrush, anti virals etc all in flattened packs, labelled by my pharmacist. I actually only used the first two but the rest gave me peace of mind. I gave most of it away to fellow pilgrims who needs it but you can buy most of these products in pharmacies at any major town. I also had tampons, disinfectant and cotton buds which I didn't require but you never know. I should have perhaps taken cream for insect bites but didn't come across anyone with bed bugs so don't stress too much about that.
Walking poles - I was given some to take but was resistant to use them but by day two they were a God sent on the steep hills, both up and down and even a lot of the flat paths have uneven cobblestones. They prevent you from rolling an ankle and if used correctly, enable you additional power to push off from. I purposefully don't use them when on flat even paths as I feel it uses different core muscles and didn't want to become reliant. Some people also use fingerless gloves to prevent blisters on their hands. A connection clip to attach your poles to your day pack is useful.
A guide book - I'm ashamed to say Mr Brierley but I never once opened it after I left home. The print was so small and the maps I had already photographed in my phone along with a few notes. Luckily I ended out travelling with others who were great guides, there were plenty of exchanges of skills, knowledge and other offerings along the way. eg, snacks, music and an abundance of good conversation and humour And each time we missed a sign (yellow arrow) and got lost, it resulted in some magical experience or connection.
You may like to take a journal and pen. I kept a journal on my phone instead but often used a pen to date stamps, fill out forms etc. The photos will illustrate the spectacular countryside. So focus on describing the interactions, your thoughts, experiences and feelings. Expect nothing but be open to having your beliefs challenged. Put yourself 'out there'. Talk to people regardless of age, sex and race. Most people I walked and talked with were either a decade or two older or younger than me. Prepare to be surprised at how deeply you may feel and how openly you may wish to express, once the hectic 'day to day' stuff from home is removed. There's something very special that unites people who walk the Camino. True bonding, compassionate friendships are formed. You have much to offer and in return you will recover precious gifts and insight from others. There are no coincidences, it all will be exactly as it is meant to be. Just relax and let it happen. Take some time to be alone too.
At the end of the adventure, as well as attending the incredible pilgrim's mass in the cathedral, I highly recommend you treat your body to some pampering and relaxation before returning home. Services in Santiago are so cheap and well deserved.
Foot spa - pedicure (8-18euro)
Hair salon - Wash and blow dry (13 euro)
Stay in a nice hotel (70 euro)
Eat yummy food - you will probably be sick of the pilgrims meat and potato meals by then so enjoy some variation. Meals (10-15 euro)
Visit Finisterre/Muxia on bus - it's incredible and for me was quite emotional. Day Tours (35-50 euro)
Celebrate each day with your fellow pilgrims, the albarigno is wonderful. (1.50 euro!) Drink water between each alcoholic drink so you don't dehydrate. Choose fresh fruit and vegetables at every opportunity , try to avoid getting into the habit of eating bread and fries/chips with every meal, it's delicious but by the end, it won't make you feel good. Either will the Spanish cigarettes which are awfully strong. But the local chocolate is not to be missed. After all, rules are meant to be broken!
Take the time to rest and reflect - maybe go south for a few days (flights to Portugal or Malaga from Santiago are so cheap!) to lie on a warm beach, swim in the ocean, relax in the sunshine, sip on cocktails and shop for 'non hiking' clothes ... I know that's a huge contrast to the serenity of the Camino but for me, it rewarded my efforts, provided reflection time and left me smiling and nourished, ready to return home, rejuvenated.
Buen Camino! Xo
Walking the Camino is a very personal journey and the challenges involved are vastly different from person to person. If you have a touch of 'princess syndrome' in you, (as I do,) don't be put off, you can do this! I embarked on my first Camino on my own and in my upper 40's.) And am definitely better for the experience. (I admit my biggest fear other than bed bugs was managing frizzy hair!)
So I thought I'd share a few tips to help others other girly girls by.
Girly tips -
1. Before you leave, get waxed and have your lashes tinted if that's important to how you feel.
2. You won't need or want a hair dryer but take good hair products (ie leave-in conditioner) in small containers and plenty of hair elastics. Most hotels have a hair dryer upon request if you feel the urge but mostly I was too exhausted to care and dragged my messy locks into a ponytail.
3. Don't wear rings or any precious jewellery. Your fingers may swell and you don't want to risk theft or loss. There's plenty of cheap souvenir pieces to buy along the way. I did however wear my fitbit which acted as my watch and I found helped me gauge what I'd walked and how much further to go each day.
4. Get an inflatable head rest/ pillow and eye mask if you have a very long flight.
5. Paint your toenails if you like but do not use shellac polish as it causes infections as it cuts into your feet after much walking. I have acrylic nails which I couldn't get removed but had them cut short and left them natural coloured.
Research a distance you think matches your allocated time and inclination. For me Astorga to Santiago was perfect and took 12 days (plus a rest day in the middle when my lovely new travelling partner got heat stroke) and 3 nights in Santiago including a day trip to Finisterre/Muxia. (We walked 16-26 kms a day.) Don't start until you have slept off your jet lag. (1-2 days) Start gently and build up the kilometres. Do plenty of regular long and hilly walks in the month preceding your journey. * allowing 3 weeks for this leg including 'before' and 'after' time is perfect.
I booked accomodation in advance, a mixture of hotels, pensions and albergues - both private/twin room and a few bunk bed dorms. It was nice to mix it up and ensured that I was able to socialise with other pilgrims but also get some restful sleep. I used booking.com and the 'wise pilgrim' app. Before leaving home I booked the first 3 nights and the last 3 in Santiago but from Sarria onwards we were inundated with crowds of people so I highly recommend you consider this for both accommodation and choice of commencement town. If your plans change due to distances walked, meeting new people, or illness/injury, most places can be cancelled without charge with 24-48 hours notice. You might lose the cost of a night at worst but it was worth it for me to have a planned destination.
I had my main pack transported each day. I had medical reasons for this choice and I thought I'd be embarrassed to not carry it but there were many many people doing the same. (To do this obviously you need a booked hotel/ albergue for it to be delivered to. ) This allowed me to achieve the distance without pain as well as taking a 10 kg backpack (transported) and carrying a small day pack. It costs 3-7 euro each day to transport a pack/suitcase (depending on the company and distance, it's slightly more expensive online I believe) and is as easy as writing your name and destination on a money envelope and leaving it with your bag at your accommodation reception each morning for it to be picked up.
In my small day pack I took;
- iPhone (camera/notes)
-A camel back water bag, but a large water bottle would do. Water is heavy to carry and in most situations there are places to refill every hour. It's super important to remain hydrated.
- sunscreen - especially on arms, neck and backs of hands. The typical Camino tan also is back of calves which seem to get hit by the sun as well.
- Light Rain coat and rain poncho to cover over you and your pack - the poncho is usually knee length. I bought a really light one and it tore on the first day so go for quality. (Look into those things that cover your shoes too if you expect wet weather. Really avoid wet shoes/socks as that causes blisters.)
- deodorant spray
- international passport, Compostela and money
- Lip balm with Spf
- Sun hat - good luck with finding one that is both functional and not really 'dorky' but you won't care by then. I had a vented cap and a 'buff' which can double as a head band or sweat scarf.
-sunglasses
- foot care in zip lock plastic bag with spare adhesive tape, Vaseline, compeed for blisters, hikers wool for hot spots, small scissors.
-Spare socks and safety pins to dry the first pair as you walk.
- Wipes for sanitising, hands and unanticipated toilet stops.
- Pain medication
I initially wore a 'bum bag' (fanny pack) for securing my passport, phone and money but hated wearing it so ended out carrying it in my day pack and just took it with me if I was ever putting my day pack down at rest/lunch stops. I found people on the Camino are very trustworthy but there are always stories that remind you to be cautious.
In my larger pack to be transported I carried;
2 X active wear 'gym' pants 3/4 length (or hiking pants)
2 X shorts - fast drying
4 X tshirts - 2 were merino, all were fast drying (buy some nice bright colours as I got really sick of myself in grey.)
1 X long sleeve fast drying top for warmth
1 X zip up sleeveless jacket
(It gets cold in Galicia even in summer. I would replace this with a fleecy. )
4 X Underwear/knickers - the merino wool ones are worth the cost as they absorb sweat.
2 X bras - one sports one and a regular one.
4 X socks - merino / smart wool
It would've been the same list had I have walked a month. I did washing every few days when at albergues and could buy detergent from them; most need coins to operate washer and dryer. I used hotel overnight laundry service once to wash everything which was bliss.
I also took light weight jeans and a tee shirt to wear out in the evenings and a light weight cotton dress. Okay 2! A girl needs choice! This seemed like such a treat to put on during evenings or rest days. I took a pair of 'Teva' sandals and resisted packing a pair of other favourite 'going out' shoes, but thankfully threw my well worn shoes on the fire at the 'end of the earth' and replaced them with some nice new dressy sandals at Santiago.
Sleeping bag liner, pillow case, fast dry towel -for nights in albergues. Lovely warm blankets and mattress/pillow protectors are provided.
Phone/fit bit charger/ ear phones
Toiletries bag
- shampoo and conditioner
- toothpaste and toothbrush
- skin moisturiser
- More foot care supplies (as above).
- foot lotion - for cooling massage
- face wash cloth
-razor
-brush/comb
-Moisturising soap in tub/plastic bag ie dove
- Tinted moisturiser with high Spf
sunscreen for face.
- Eye liner and natural coloured lipstick. (I feel too bare without it.)
Some people wore a little make up, ear rings and perfume in the evenings, to make them feel nice. Whatever works for you but keep it natural as possible to 'blend in.'
-Clothes line - twisty wire that has hooks and suction cups on ends.
Ear plugs - for snorers - and spares in case you become the snorer when you're totally exhausted! Oops
I packed a small spikey ball from my physio which was wonderful to run sore feet over (or shoulders etc,) and great to warm up stiff joints in the mornings before walking.)
Medication -
I took prescription anti-inflammatories and magnesium supplements to prevent muscle cramping....plus 'just in case' I had pain relief tabs, anti nausea, anti diarrohoea, antibiotics, anti hystmanine, anti constipation, anti thrush, anti virals etc all in flattened packs, labelled by my pharmacist. I actually only used the first two but the rest gave me peace of mind. I gave most of it away to fellow pilgrims who needs it but you can buy most of these products in pharmacies at any major town. I also had tampons, disinfectant and cotton buds which I didn't require but you never know. I should have perhaps taken cream for insect bites but didn't come across anyone with bed bugs so don't stress too much about that.
Walking poles - I was given some to take but was resistant to use them but by day two they were a God sent on the steep hills, both up and down and even a lot of the flat paths have uneven cobblestones. They prevent you from rolling an ankle and if used correctly, enable you additional power to push off from. I purposefully don't use them when on flat even paths as I feel it uses different core muscles and didn't want to become reliant. Some people also use fingerless gloves to prevent blisters on their hands. A connection clip to attach your poles to your day pack is useful.
A guide book - I'm ashamed to say Mr Brierley but I never once opened it after I left home. The print was so small and the maps I had already photographed in my phone along with a few notes. Luckily I ended out travelling with others who were great guides, there were plenty of exchanges of skills, knowledge and other offerings along the way. eg, snacks, music and an abundance of good conversation and humour And each time we missed a sign (yellow arrow) and got lost, it resulted in some magical experience or connection.
You may like to take a journal and pen. I kept a journal on my phone instead but often used a pen to date stamps, fill out forms etc. The photos will illustrate the spectacular countryside. So focus on describing the interactions, your thoughts, experiences and feelings. Expect nothing but be open to having your beliefs challenged. Put yourself 'out there'. Talk to people regardless of age, sex and race. Most people I walked and talked with were either a decade or two older or younger than me. Prepare to be surprised at how deeply you may feel and how openly you may wish to express, once the hectic 'day to day' stuff from home is removed. There's something very special that unites people who walk the Camino. True bonding, compassionate friendships are formed. You have much to offer and in return you will recover precious gifts and insight from others. There are no coincidences, it all will be exactly as it is meant to be. Just relax and let it happen. Take some time to be alone too.
At the end of the adventure, as well as attending the incredible pilgrim's mass in the cathedral, I highly recommend you treat your body to some pampering and relaxation before returning home. Services in Santiago are so cheap and well deserved.
Foot spa - pedicure (8-18euro)
Hair salon - Wash and blow dry (13 euro)
Stay in a nice hotel (70 euro)
Eat yummy food - you will probably be sick of the pilgrims meat and potato meals by then so enjoy some variation. Meals (10-15 euro)
Visit Finisterre/Muxia on bus - it's incredible and for me was quite emotional. Day Tours (35-50 euro)
Celebrate each day with your fellow pilgrims, the albarigno is wonderful. (1.50 euro!) Drink water between each alcoholic drink so you don't dehydrate. Choose fresh fruit and vegetables at every opportunity , try to avoid getting into the habit of eating bread and fries/chips with every meal, it's delicious but by the end, it won't make you feel good. Either will the Spanish cigarettes which are awfully strong. But the local chocolate is not to be missed. After all, rules are meant to be broken!
Take the time to rest and reflect - maybe go south for a few days (flights to Portugal or Malaga from Santiago are so cheap!) to lie on a warm beach, swim in the ocean, relax in the sunshine, sip on cocktails and shop for 'non hiking' clothes ... I know that's a huge contrast to the serenity of the Camino but for me, it rewarded my efforts, provided reflection time and left me smiling and nourished, ready to return home, rejuvenated.
Buen Camino! Xo
