Nicolette E
New Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- September (2015)
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My wife and I are also Canadian and will be walking the Camino Frances (August 26 until sometime in October). We have a blog site at http://rglongpre.ca/pilgrim/ Read a bit and ask away. We are 66 (me) and 65 (her) and are celebrating our 44th wedding anniversary en route.Hello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
Howzit goin eh? Starting my fifth Camino in one week. The only things I know for sure about the CaminoHello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)?
I took a pair of Keen walking sandals and a cheap pair of flip flops for wearing in the shower.What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes?
I had gloves and toque but didn't use them. No down filled jacket - go for layers - i wore wicking t-shirt/lightweight walking shirt/lightweight fleece and my waterproof/windproof jacket over all that if required.Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
PM me if you would like a copy of my packing listAnything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Hope to meet you along the way Lydia. My wife and I and another couple friends in LA will be starting our walk from Sarria on Sept 2.Hi Nicolette,
I am also starting my first Camino (Frances) in early September, so my experience is from backpacking and camping.
I do expect some rain toward the end in mid-oct onward. I am packing light fleece jacket and a light weight rain jacket. I don't expect it to be too cold, and if I run into cold morning then I will wear both together. Each can be worn by itself as well depending on the weather. Rain jacket is probably fine with light rain, which I am praying for. But we are expecting an El Nino year this year, so if I ran into heavy rain then I would get a poncho and gaiters on the Camino (maybe in Leon). Leave the down jacket at home. It is useless if it get wet, and would take forever to dry.
I am an boots person, so my boots are waterproofed. If you shoes were to get wet, and they don't dry overnight, do you think you can still walk the next day with dry socks and not worry about blisters? Do you have time to hang around for a day waiting for your shoes to dry? Can you walk the next day in your second pair of shoes? If your answer is no to these, then it is probably best to go with waterproof. The tradeoff is waterproof shoes do not breath as well, and we know that sweaty feet are prone to blisters. We do have the solutions for that, and it is to air out our feet when you take a break or change socks midday.
Since I am using poles, I am bringing fingerless bike gloves. If you think you will need gloves for the cold, then wait until it is cold and buy it on the road. You can also use your socks as gloves on those rare cold morning.
As for touque (hat for cold morning?) how about a bandana or buff, which you can wet and wear a round your neck on hot days. They also helps keep the sun off your neck. I am in the bandana camp; I use it as a wash cloth too.
Crocs are my second pair of shoes. I can hike in them, with or without socks, and I can cross deep creeks too. I don't worry about stubbing my toes in them. They are kind of ugly and a bit bulky, but they are light.
Most people do no indicate what month they walk and what the weather was like. This missing info makes the advise confusing.
I'm not sure what a toque is, but I wore a cheap buff almost non-stop.
Wecome Nicolette, I too am a (Canadian) newbie and will walk Sept/Oct. Isn't it amazing how much it takes to prepare... to take as little as you can! You will find wiser pilgrims than me on this forum. But I have found much of the joy is in the preparation. Stay tuned to this forum. You will be helped immensely. Buen Camino..I hope our paths cross.Hello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
A 'toque' (or tuque - rhymes with Luke) is a very Canadian word. It's what everyone else in the world calls a knitted cap. Everyone in Canada wears a toque, not a knitted cap
I completed The Camino France's in 2013. We started the last week of August and completed our journey on October 1st. The weather was warm through out the month of September. No rain until we got to Galicia. Then three days of raining, thunder and lightening at times in Galicia. The evenings and early mornings are cool. When we return to do the Camino again, we want to go at the same time of the year without hesitation. Buen Camino.Thank you so much to everyone for your advice and insight - what a kind and thoughtful group.
Buen Camino!
Nicolette
hi,oh how i wish i were you!BUT WORRY NOT ,!I THINK YOU MY WELL HAVE THE MOST VITAL THING SORTED AND IT WEIGHS NOTHING !!! SENSE OF HUMOURHello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
Beanie, knitted cap...I don't know why everyone else in the world doesn't call it what it really is: a toque, haha. (Someone once said to me, "nice knitted cap". And I was like, huh? What's that?) And don't confuse it with 'toke'. You can't smoke a toqueOh, just like a "beanie"! (bee-nee)
I never knew the "real word" for it. A tuque is a tuque is a tuque. But always felt odd when fitting the word in English. Now I know what it's called.A 'toque' (or tuque - rhymes with Luke) is a very Canadian word. It's what everyone else in the world calls a knitted cap. Everyone in Canada wears a toque, not a knitted cap
Problem is you will need when you are in the middle of nowhere and will have to walk in the rain for 3 days before you a store that may carry what you need. Love the rain pants, worn over leggings I use as PJs at night. Mine are Mac Sac in a bag, ultra light. They are replacing my MEC pair that are heavier but still a blessing. Make sure all your items are as light as possible, but bring all the items you need.Spain is a modern, European country with all the advantages and all the faults. Take whatever you decide - almost anything you might miss - excepting perhaps the toque - can be purchased in Spain. Likewise, anything superfluous can be left on the table in any alberque for a pilgrim who might need it. Don't even worry about it.
No, a beanie is decorative, or just about. A tuque you wear when skiing, in real winter weather.Oh, just like a "beanie"! (bee-nee)
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Hi David, I think perhaps you might not be the oldest; I hope to celebrate my 80th in Santiago on Nov 2nd. Start Sept 25 in St. Jean. I wish you burn Camino.Hi Nicholette and others starting in September. I also will be starting early Sept - probably 8th or 9th for my fourth camino. I have walked 2 previous in Sept and Oct, and 1 in May/June, and I consider Sept and Oct to be best. But that is just my opinion. This time I will start in Pamplona so I hope to see all along the way. I will probably be the oldest guy you see and will be wearing the red and blue fleece in the photo, and walking slowly.
I always wear shorts, no matter what the weather (and I have had snow at O'Cebreiro), wear waterproof boots, and have never had a blister. I take lightweight gloves because from mid-Oct it will be frosty first things in the mornings, and I have rheumatism in my fingers which is very painful when cold. Regarding other items, I leave it to others. Anniesantiago and peregrina2000 have both had masses of experience and are very wise.
One important thing though. Be really brutal with what you take and keep the weight of your pack low. My pack is a 22 litre day pack and I have just weighed it at 4.8kg. It is then a pleasure rather than a burden.
Hope to see all you Septemberites.
Buen Camino
Sorry David….Yikes!! 'burn Camino?" Wish you buen Camino:>).Hi Nicholette and others starting in September. I also will be starting early Sept - probably 8th or 9th for my fourth camino. I have walked 2 previous in Sept and Oct, and 1 in May/June, and I consider Sept and Oct to be best. But that is just my opinion. This time I will start in Pamplona so I hope to see all along the way. I will probably be the oldest guy you see and will be wearing the red and blue fleece in the photo, and walking slowly.
I always wear shorts, no matter what the weather (and I have had snow at O'Cebreiro), wear waterproof boots, and have never had a blister. I take lightweight gloves because from mid-Oct it will be frosty first things in the mornings, and I have rheumatism in my fingers which is very painful when cold. Regarding other items, I leave it to others. Anniesantiago and peregrina2000 have both had masses of experience and are very wise.
One important thing though. Be really brutal with what you take and keep the weight of your pack low. My pack is a 22 litre day pack and I have just weighed it at 4.8kg. It is then a pleasure rather than a burden.
Hope to see all you Septemberites.
Buen Camino
No, not like a beanie ... a toque is well ... a toque !! Frequently sporting a pom-pom on the top !!Oh, just like a "beanie"! (bee-nee)
I walked the French route from SJPdP in 2012 during the whole month of September. I used my rain pants twice although I only really needed them once. And when I say I needed them, I would have been sitting in the albergue or bar until at least noon with every other pilgrim before starting the day's walk the day on a mountain when freezing rain poured down - and sideways - for hours. I'll never leave my rain pants behind after that. Getting wet is not so much an issue. Staying warm was vital.
I walk in Keen low-cut trekking shoes that I love. Once a day or so, I have to pull out a pebble but my feet don't have trouble with being wet, even when I am wearing my shorts in the light rain. My second pair of shoes are Keen sandals that can double as walking shoes, airy evening shoes and bathroom slippers.
In September, I found my Altus rain jacket invaluable as it covers both me and my pack. I still use a pack cover for when I don't feel like wearing the jacket. Again, you will sweat under the jacket so it's not used to keep you dry; it's to keep you warm. You drip dry quickly after the sun comes out.
Some other things that I found useful include a length of thin rope for a clothesline and small binder clips to use as clothespins. Not all albergues have enough space for everyone. Buen Camino!
Hello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
Thanks I thinkUrbantrekker, you rock! We can now close all the threads on equipment,you said it all!
I meant it! Short ansd sweet list with options to wear to layer. I was a bit concerned at first though whe. You said you didn't need a pair of undies to wear and one to carry , then I read you carry 3, not 1.Thanks I think
LMAOI meant it! Short ansd sweet list with options to wear to layer. I was a bit concerned at first though whe. You said you didn't need a pair of undies to wear and one to carry , then I read you carry 3, not 1.
It's also called a watch capOh, just like a "beanie"! (bee-nee)
I've made a note and I will do that David. And you're almost right; I live on Vancouver 'Island' in Victoria, where some might say we're even a tad nicer! But nice folks are everywhere. Buen Camino to you.Movinmaggie. At 80, you are just a young kid, whilst I have always looked immature! But all is forgiven as you are from Vancouver where only nice people live.
If you are in Estelle between Sept 30 and Oct 15, I will be hospitalero at San Miguel albergue, so do drop in and say Hi
Buen Camino
When it comes to the Camino, camping, or traveling, what you take with you is a personal preference. So lets take things in the order you have put them. Sales People, unless they have walked the Camino or are dedicated back packers they will be clueless. Ask! Shoes: Priority ONE, a good fit. Priority TWO, must be broke in. I wear GorTex shoes and my feet get wet if it rains hard enough but they dry quicker and clean easier that leather. Rain gear: I carry a zip up poncho. Keeps most of me and all of my pack dry and I can drape it over my pack between rain showers. It makes a ground cloth, shelter, and blanket. Extra Shoes: Last year I took ECCO sandals, good for walking lousy in the shower. Next Camino I'm taking Crocks. Gloves: Nice for cold mornings but that's it. Use a extra pair of socks if its cold or buy some there. Touque: I was a Sailor. In the Navy we called them Watch Caps and I carry a light one. Keeps the head warm if its cold inside or out. Down Filled Jacket: LEAVE it at home. Too bulky Too Hot. You want to dress in layers! I use a ultra lite down vest and a light weigh technical fleece. I also carry a lite waterproof wind breaker. Everything I carry on the Camino is quick dry synthetics except for my wool socks and the down in my blanket and vest. Some people like Moreno Wool underwear, shirts, and,pants. I don't.
Clothing: Except for socks and underwear, everything is "wear one carry one", you wash clothes every day. 2 pair zip off pants, 2 short sleeve and 2 long sleeve tee shirts, 1 pair light weight base layer bottoms, the top is 1 of my 2 long sleeve tees, 3 pair wool socks, 3 pair under shorts, 1 pair lite sun sleeves, 1 pair heavy sun sleeves, 1 lite down vest, 1 lite fleece, 1 lite rainproof windbreaker, 1 poncho, 1 fleece watch cap, and Corcks. Add to that a down sleeping blanket, towel, minimal toiletries, personal first aid kit, must take medications, camera, tablet, adapter, charging cords, head lamp, and important documents. All this fits inside my Osprey Talon 44 pack with room for water, snacks, and lunch .
My first Camino I too was a bundle of nerves. The proverbial stranger in a strange land. The people and the country are quick to put you at ease. You can't help but have a good time. Don't worry be happy "the Camino takes care of its own". Buen Camino
Happy Trails
Hi Nicolette,Hello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
For people "freaking out" because we're doing our first Camino (Sept 15-Oct 30 2015) at 73 and 71 respectively, I will let them know of your celebrating your 80th in Santiago de Compostela Nov 2nd. A bit early: Feliz cumpleaños y buen camino.Sorry David….Yikes!! 'burn Camino?" Wish you buen Camino:>).
Sherrie and Doug, thank you for kind thoughts and because I've been learning some Spanish, I also appreciate the early birthday wishes. Yes, some families worry about their elders doing something like this, my family is every bit as excited as I am, especially by four grandsons. I hear the word 'Awesome' a lot…….bless them! A heartfelt Buen Camino to you both.For people "freaking out" because we're doing our first Camino (Sept 15-Oct 30 2015) at 73 and 71 respectively, I will let them know of your celebrating your 80th in Santiago de Compostela Nov 2nd. A bit early: Feliz cumpleaños y buen camino.
Nice honest post Nicolette - trepidation is quite normal, pre-Camino nerves and anxiety is quite normal. Once you are walking everything will fall into place - though it will take a few nights until refugios feel 'normal'.
More pilgrims leave from St Jean in September than at any other time of the year so you will have good company
With sorting your kit and packing you will try to put in everything that you think you may want - the trick is to be brutal and put in only what you REALLY need.
The waterproofs question is a thorny one. Personally I cannot bear being wrapped up and have found in the past that standing around in waterproof clothing seems ok but after a few miles of walking with a pack, even with so called 'breathable', one ends up sweaty inside and almost ready to faint from over-heating! So I use an Altus poncho.
September in Spain is usually delightful but we have been having odd weather patterns in Western Europe so one just cannot predict it. Checking on the forecasts before you go is a good idea.
As for the second shoes ... when you go into a refugio it is polite (and often compulsory) to remove your boots/walking shoes so something really light is handy. Flip-flops and Crocs are light and can be worn in the shower (you may find that you want to do this!!!).
There are some wonderful packing lists on here - what feels ok on your back for a few miles at home can be excruciating walking day after day on the Camino so be brutal in your choices!!!
Maggie, we get a variety of responses! Our family including grandchildren are all supportive, thankfully. Some people imagine one is walking "non-stop" for 800kms, and we have to explain that there is ample lodging along the way. "Felicitaciones" (congratulations) on your learning español. It is a beautiful language, and in my experience native speakers are so pleased that one is trying to communicate in their language and will help in any way they can. Buen camino.Sherrie and Doug, thank you for kind thoughts and because I've been learning some Spanish, I also appreciate the early birthday wishes. Yes, some families worry about their elders doing something like this, my family is every bit as excited as I am, especially by four grandsons. I hear the word 'Awesome' a lot…….bless them! A heartfelt Buen Camino to you both.
Hello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
Hi Davis I leave tomorrow,
and boy oh boy have the nerves set in i have had my children here for the week end , as they head home they burst into tears saying " mum I sorry worried about you"
sets the pace for anxiety with in me
any words to help me feel more at peace would be wonderful .
Buen Camino
Chelle
Hi @chelle, we are all at least a little anxious before we set off, it's natural. You are soon going to be surrounded by many pilgrims that are feeling exactly the same way and you will all help each other out. In a few days time you will probably be surrounded by a lovely little camino family and wonder what on earth you were worried about!
Your family will most likely worry anyway but you can allay their fears by trying to have a plan to keep in touch, explain that until you get used to the being a pilgrim your contact could be a little sketchy? Are you taking a phone? Using wee-fee? Once you have made first contact when you are on the camino I'm sure they will relax at least a little?
Please be at peace. The camino is a most wonderful experience. You and your family will one day talk about how your adventurous spirit brought you there and who knows? other family members could be inspired to follow in your footsteps?
Wishing you a wonderful, memorable journey
Buen camino
Sarah
Hi , I find it great that people what ever there age are walking the Camino or whatever kind of walk. On my last Camino I met a pilgrim in the Pyrenees and his age was 76 , and he was doing fine. So you see age is no issue. I wish you both well and a Buen Camino, Peter.For people "freaking out" because we're doing our first Camino (Sept 15-Oct 30 2015) at 73 and 71 respectively, I will let them know of your celebrating your 80th in Santiago de Compostela Nov 2nd. A bit early: Feliz cumpleaños y buen camino.
Thank you Sarah for your lovely , it brought tears to my eye's and a huge relief, to know what i an feeling is" normal".
Yes I am taking a phone , I have set up Skype with them all Facebook etc, so through wifi I should be able to touch base .
I will save this page and write once again on my return.
bless you and your family.
Buen camino.
I do love the way people on this forum support each other. Thank you @chelle for trusting us with your fears, and thank you @Griffin57 for responding so sensitively - may you both walk paths of flowers.
Hi.. I am starting Aug. 24...am from Winnipeg so will look for you...how is your hill climbing practice /My wife and I are also Canadian and will be walking the Camino Frances (August 26 until sometime in October). We have a blog site at http://rglongpre.ca/pilgrim/ Read a bit and ask away. We are 66 (me) and 65 (her) and are celebrating our 44th wedding anniversary en route.
Buen Camino
Howzit goin eh? Starting my fifth Camino in one week. The only things I know for sure about the Camino
It will rain, especially in Galicia
You will have blisters
You will have sore joints and muscles.
Nothing you buy will prevent the above from happening but everything you do will affect all three.
For example Gore tex will keep your feet dry if you step in a very shallow puddle. Not if you step in water that exceeds the height of your shoes upper rim or lace holes or allowing it to otherwise enter your shoe from above.
Blisters can be prevented by paying immediate attention to hot spots but not by buying Vibram soles.
You can stay bone dry by refusing to walk when it rains but...there is a lot to be said about the experience of overcoming adversity.
Pacing yourself and walking within your physical capabilities will help with muscles and joints, 45.00 wool socks will not.
Bon Chance et Buen Chemin!
Jim (Ottawa)
Hello - I am a newbie to the Forum - and am hoping you'll be gentle.
Anyone out there who's done the Camino Frances in September/October?
My journey on the Camino begins September 11th from Roncesvalles; I am excited, and quite overwhelmed by all the info and advice from friends/family and shoe/clothing sales people. Everyone has a different opinion about everything.
So, I thought I'd ask those of you who have actually done the Camino to help me separate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak.
Do I really need waterproof shoes, rain gear (ie pants)? What did you take as your 2nd pair of shoes? Did you need gloves, touque (I'm Canadian), down-filled jacket? Would you go for wind-proof/rain-proof (ie a shell) over warm (ie down)?
Anything else you can advise I need to take with me? I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, and hope that what ever I'm carrying will be able to do a variety of things.
I am also doing my best to breathe, remain calm and retain my sense of humor.
Thank you!
Nicolette
Does this mean you do not carry a sleeping bag with you?Hi Nicholette and others starting in September. I also will be starting early Sept - probably 8th or 9th for my fourth camino. I have walked 2 previous in Sept and Oct, and 1 in May/June, and I consider Sept and Oct to be best. But that is just my opinion. This time I will start in Pamplona so I hope to see all along the way. I will probably be the oldest guy you see and will be wearing the red and blue fleece in the photo, and walking slowly.
I always wear shorts, no matter what the weather (and I have had snow at O'Cebreiro), wear waterproof boots, and have never had a blister. I take lightweight gloves because from mid-Oct it will be frosty first things in the mornings, and I have rheumatism in my fingers which is very painful when cold. Regarding other items, I leave it to others. Anniesantiago and peregrina2000 have both had masses of experience and are very wise.
One important thing though. Be really brutal with what you take and keep the weight of your pack low. My pack is a 22 litre day pack and I have just weighed it at 4.8kg. It is then a pleasure rather than a burden.
Hope to see all you Septemberites.
Buen Camino
Vibrant Soles in my experience and from my cursory research are beneficial as a long life material and for holding form for comfort. Blisters, also in my experience, are caused by friction between the skin and a contact material. So my point was that unless you follow certain protocols and the example I used was immediate treatment of hot spots you will get blisters no matter the material.Just wondering about your comment on Vibram soles. What is your experience?
Leigh
What are your sandals that weigh only 6 oz?Seems a bit much to me but where to cut? I am going September/October too on the Camino Francés so all I can point out is the things I decided to leave behind. It seems you have thought out each piece though. I decided against a tablet & charger, long johns, pocket knife, and went with a lighter pair of second shoes than my Tevas (6oz vs 21oz) Other than that our packing lists are pretty similar other than the obvious male/female stuff (I no longer need a comb!) Your pack does weigh quite a bit more than my 20ltr Osprey Talon but it probably has a much better belt for carrying the weight too. I also have a full pound of photo gear. My pack is 11lbs without water.
Good luck with your decision and Buen Camino!
I love reading all these lists and comparing with mine. I'm still very concerned about my full pack weight, including a liter of water, about 18 pounds. I'm 73 and weight about 130. I think one reason the weight is "high" is that the pack itself isn't a small one. It's a Deuter 45+10 and weighs 3 lb 4 oz. I love the way it feels on my back, just right for my torso, at least when I'm wearing it right, with the weight on my hips. I could take a few things out--lite rain pants, pack rain cover (I'm taking a Ferrino poncho), headlamp, titanium cup (a luxury, I know), a pair of smart wool socks (I'll wear one with a liner and I'd planned on taking 2 more, with two more liners), a pocketknife, gloves and beanie. I'd miss some of those things those.I'm taking a lite fleece jacket, a lite windbreaker, a long-sleeved button-up shirt for sun protection, two short-sleeve t's (wearing one), very lite sleep shorts, long johns bottom and top, two pairs hiking pants (wearing one of those), two underwear and bra (wearing them too), a lite sarong, a medium travel towel, first aid stuff, personal care kit (contact lens solution, extra contacts, half toothbrush and small toothpaste, little comb, small bar soap for hair, self and laundry, a few baby pins and a couple of clips, a lite line, a penlite, and prescription medications. I think that's about it. Oh, very light weight Teva sandals to change into. Wearing low rise Keens, perfect for my feet. I'm going to use a waist pack for passport, credential, notebook and pen, credit cards, money, etc., stuff I'll need during the day. And I've decided to take my iPad Mini (with charger) instead of a guidebook, also in the waist pack. And my iPhone to double as a camera. It seems like a lot of stuff, but what can I leave at home?
And if you leave the albergues? I first found a pair of ultra lightweight sandals that had absolutely no arch at all, and I couldn't imagine walking through a village or city in them, after the day's walk. It was like walking barefoot and I need a bit more support. Maybe I should be happy with my 13 oz Tevas. It's so hard to know.I am taking Sockwa G4's that are neoprene with a rubber sole. They are mostly used for Beach Volleyball and for that "barefoot"feeling. I only plan on using them around the albergues and in the shower.
I think you should be happy with the TevasAnd if you leave the albergues? I first found a pair of ultra lightweight sandals that had absolutely no arch at all, and I couldn't imagine walking through a village or city in them, after the day's walk. It was like walking barefoot and I need a bit more support. Maybe I should be happy with my 13 oz Tevas. It's so hard to know.
Thanks so much for your input. I really am NOT trying to fill up my backpack. I just love the support it has, wide padded waist and shoulder straps. If I took just one pair of hiking pants, I wouldn't have anything to change into. I'm not sure what you're suggesting there. One zips off into shorts, the other doesn't but is also very lightweight and also comfortable. I don't think my first aid kit is large, but maybe. I have a few assorted bandages. I bleed easily (the slightest bump), a hazard of growing older, thin skin. I have the smallest neosporin/pain ointment and a small cortisone creme. A little packet of various pain killer from REI, just a few. An ace bandage, which my daughter insists that I take. Nail clippers and a little file. Paper tape, a small roll. A small amount of compede which I love. I think that's it. Is it too much?Yes, you could take out the pack cover if you have a poncho that covers your pack, but I'm not sure about the rain pants. You may still need them even with the poncho. At least bring some gators if you aren't going to bring rain pants (which ever is lighter). You just don't want to end up with wet socks which will suck the water into your boots. I've had it happen. You may not need the beanie and gloves. I didn't and I walked at the same time you are. I'm thinking one pair of hiking pants instead of two. I had one pair that zipped off into shorts - perfect. Also, not sure how big your first aid kit is, but there are many Farmacia's along the way, so bring a few handy first aid items for emergencies, but stop along the way to get extras as you need them. The rest sounds good.
If you do find that you've brought too much you can always mail things up ahead. I did after the albergue host in SJPDP weighed my pack and said it was 15 kilos. Yikes!! I know...terrible isn't it? I thought I needed everything too, but ended up letting go of three kilos before I left and four more when I got to Logrono. You soon find out you don't need everything you think you do and it's much easier to part with things when your hips are screaming at you ;-)
All in all...18 pounds (8 kilos) including your water sounds not too bad in my opinion. That's what I walked with for the remainder of the way between Logrono and Santiago and I found it perfect. I weigh 117 lbs although I was 44 when I went. My pack was also 55 litres so I understand how easy it is to want to fill it up. They say you should carry no more than 10% of your body weight which is very minimal. Not sure how people do it.
Thanks so much for your input. I really am NOT trying to fill up my backpack. I just love the support it has, wide padded waist and shoulder straps. If I took just one pair of hiking pants, I wouldn't have anything to change into. I'm not sure what you're suggesting there. One zips off into shorts, the other doesn't but is also very lightweight and also comfortable. I don't think my first aid kit is large, but maybe. I have a few assorted bandages. I bleed easily (the slightest bump), a hazard of growing older, thin skin. I have the smallest neosporin/pain ointment and a small cortisone creme. A little packet of various pain killer from REI, just a few. An ace bandage, which my daughter insists that I take. Nail clippers and a little file. Paper tape, a small roll. A small amount of compete which I love. I think that's it. Is it too much?
Thank you so much, Tania. I'm likely to go with what I have and make ruthless decisions on the way then.I think your first aid kit sounds good and small. For something to change into after my days walk, I brought a black skirt that I wore every day. What about your sarong? Could that be what you change into at the end of the day? Definitely bring the pants that zip off into shorts. You'll love those! But honestly, I think 18 pounds (8 kilos) including your water is a pretty good weight.
Your welcome! I think you will be fine. These kinds of decisions along the way are all part of the journey. Things will work out. It's going to be amazing!Thank you so much, Tania. I'm likely to go with what I have and make ruthless decisions on the way then.
Yes, you could take out the pack cover if you have a poncho that covers your pack, but I'm not sure about the rain pants. You may still need them even with the poncho. At least bring some gators if you aren't going to bring rain pants (which ever is lighter). You just don't want to end up with wet socks which will suck the water into your boots. I've had it happen. You may not need the beanie and gloves. I didn't and I walked at the same time you are. I'm thinking one pair of hiking pants instead of two. I had one pair that zipped off into shorts - perfect. Also, not sure how big your first aid kit is, but there are many Farmacia's along the way, so bring a few handy first aid items for emergencies, but stop along the way to get extras as you need them. The rest sounds good.
If you do find that you've brought too much you can always mail things up ahead. I did after the albergue host in SJPDP weighed my pack and said it was 15 kilos. Yikes!! I know...terrible isn't it? I thought I needed everything too, but ended up letting go of three kilos before I left and four more when I got to Logrono. You soon find out you don't need everything you think you do and it's much easier to part with things when your hips are screaming at you ;-)
All in all...18 pounds (8 kilos) including your water sounds not too bad in my opinion. That's what I walked with for the remainder of the way between Logrono and Santiago and I found it perfect. I weigh 117 lbs although I was 44 when I went. My pack was also 55 litres so I understand how easy it is to want to fill it up. They say you should carry no more than 10% of your body weight which is very minimal. Not sure how people do it.
I knit caps for the kids in southern India where I volunteer. They are often cold during Jan/Feb ( whereas it is lovely and warm for me). I always laugh when they call them 'mupplers'. Somehow confusion came earlier on when I knit one of them a scarf, which I called a muffler..and the word stuck.I've just Googled 'toque' and was amazed at the variety. Apparently the word's been in use for eons. There's a woman's toque from the late 1800's in a museum in Los Angeles, and even a chef's hat is called a toque.
And I've seen toques, yes, knitted hats, being worn by persons in the tropics. Must try to find out what the folks in the tropics call them.
I love reading all these lists and comparing with mine. I'm still very concerned about my full pack weight, including a liter of water, about 18 pounds. I'm 73 and weight about 130. I think one reason the weight is "high" is that the pack itself isn't a small one. It's a Deuter 45+10 and weighs 3 lb 4 oz. I love the way it feels on my back, just right for my torso, at least when I'm wearing it right, with the weight on my hips..
Hi, I wish you a great journey and a Buen Camino, Peter.Hi.. I am starting Aug. 24...am from Winnipeg so will look for you...how is your hill climbing practice /
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