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Yes, Built in sunscreen.Sunscreen? Does your facial lotion have this built it?
Nyquil - does this serve an actual purpose or is it "in case"?
You have shampoo and conditioner and facial scrub. Consider combining / condensing these. The liquid in them adds weight. Lots of threads with discussions on that.
Happy planning
You guessed it, I’m a lady. LOLI did the CdN July-August last year - and LOVED it. I'm looking forward to my partial CF next year, but I know I'll be back to the Norte soon. I just miss it. So I'm super excited for you that you're giving this one a try!
I carried a little more than you did and there isn't a single item I regret carrying (yes, not even the sarong that I used as a dress/blanket/ocean swim towel or the knife and fold-up tupperware!). You're an experienced pilgrim, so you will know best whether wear-one-pack-one is best for you, but if I understand your post right, you're taking only two changes total. I would at least add a light sleeping layer if you can; mine came in at 140g more and it was more than worth it. From what I've heard about the Frances, the Norte albergues are generally smaller and often more rustic (particularly after Gijon). You'll want to be comfortable when you can - evening/sleep clothes help. It'll also mean you have something dry and 'clean' if you happen to have two sets of wet clothes due to rain/laundry difficulties. It happens....
It rained more than half of my Camino (only clearing significantly after we left the coast!); the year before a friend did it in May and she had only 2 days of rain in the 33 she was out there. Weatherwise, the Norte is much less predictable than the Frances, for example, and you should both be physically and mentally prepared for that. I recommend a poncho even with the pack cover - this will keep your straps dry and stop water potentially flowing between your jacket and your pack. I got a great, light one from Decathlon. You'll also likely get less soaked than you would in a jacket if you're caught in a downpour, as it's better ventilated.
I wouldn't do it without trekking poles, particularly in the Basque country. You can always strap them to your back if you have a day when you'd rather walk without them. The ball cap is essential, for rain and sun. I ended up dumping my sunglasses and just using the cap after 2.5 weeks. I had a bandana/buff that I doubled up on my wrist to wipe sweat and rain from my forehead - can only recommend you pick up a cheap one.
I used a silk sack and I was one of the only ones who did last summer. I hated it, and next time I'll take a 10-15°C bag. It wasn't quite warm enough on a few nights (and I'm a warm sleeper) and I didn't know how much the feeling of the silk on my atypically dry feet and skin would bother me. Be sure this is the direction you want to go before you commit to it. The rain/ocean will chill you and a warm shower is not guaranteed on the Norte. I would also recommend a small tub of nivea cream or vaseline unless you're sure you sure you don't need them, and 1+ compeed and a needle, just in case.
From one long-haired lady to another (bra + eyeliner, I'm making assumptions here), ditch the bottled haircare and get some shampoo/conditioner bars. I used a lush one (shamp+cond together) with a round storage tub; I could actually have easily only taken half of it and it worked as body wash too. Wasn't the hair smell or texture I was used to but it was super light and easy for daily use, and I never had to worry about finding replacements on the Way. I also took along an eyeliner - wore it only 5-6 times but on those days I just wanted to wear it for me. Would do it again
Unless you're attached to a guidebook, I'd say use an app instead. Less weight, less hassle. My tip to anyone is also to download the google maps for each major stop to major stop stretch (Irun-Bilbao-Santander-Gijon-Ribadeo-SdC) - just find a wifi connection. It's a handy back-up. You'll be carrying your phone anyway. And use a Bible app too if you can; YouVersion lets you download a number of versions so it'll always be there.
You'll possibly need to carry more than a snack/granola bar as emergency fuel as some stages are quite remote. 15-20km without a cafe/town/church happens more than once if you follow the standard stages, and (possibly also due to the rain) I only encountered 2 donativo stalls on the entire 32 day walk from France to Fisterre - don't count on them but celebrate then when they're there.
Only 1 pair of socks, undies and bra? I would recommend carrying at least 2 of each.
And you've forgotten sunscreen.
Sorry about the essay! But hope it helps. Buen Camino!
Oh yes the sarong.....I loved it on the Frances
It seems I will have to say NAY to the umbrella. I received it today and was surprised to see it doesn’t retract, is not compact by no means
Only other suggestions I have are a headlight/flashlight, compeed and moleskinYou guessed it, I’m a lady. LOL
Oh yes the sarong.....I loved it on the Frances (I might consider it again) But I’d rather do sleep ware first. I really need to keep pack as light as possible due to lower back.
I have a buff and will be taking it. i forgot to mention it because I’ll be wearing it.
Of course I am praying for little rain but will most likely add a cheap poncho to cover me and my pack.
I have a nice sleeping bag I used on both CF’s but was hoping to do with just a liner that comes with a down blanket (these are custom made and weigh less then bag and less bulky) i never used a liner before but might try it for the reduced weight.
I just can’t compromise on the hair and facial products. This is my luxury.
I like the idea on using an app instead of guide book but will take my small Bible. I love the feel of the onion skin pages and the Word feels more alive to me when holding the Bible. It’s a small bible like the size of a cell phone. It will be in my fanny pack.
I will consider 3 pair socks and 3 undies in total. 1 wear, 2 pack.
I appreciate all your suggestions and I can feel your excitement. What part of the CF will you do?
I have a headlamp but will most likely leave it behind and utilize the flashlight in my phone if need be. There is plenty of daylight in the summer months.Only other suggestions I have are a headlight/flashlight, compeed and moleskin
You’re so kind to offer critique.My thoughts, anything unmentioned is a yes.
hands free umbrella for rain/hot sun yes
this is everything that will be in my pack
1 socks - Take 3 including the pair you are wearing, same for undies
1 undies
I have pack cover so leaning towards the wind/rain jacket just incase the temps drop Yes
silk sleepsac with pillow case - no, take down quilt
conditioner Buy on Norte if you decide it is mandatory
deodorant No - if body wash works, shouldn't need this
facial scrub No - not much time for all this prep work
guide book - also have wise pilgrim Norte app, and if possible, guide book on Kindle in case you lose hard copy
What will be in my fanny pack:
phone charger, European outlet adaptor,
eye liner - A possible irritant - why take the risk
My Norte Packlist: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1TIO-Uant4ULke420zos-fcymExxO8f3WD-i4i0uHEbk/edit?usp=sharing
I’m not a big drinker, but thanks!!I would take a lightweight corkscrew
I found the umbrella a lot less useful on the Norte than the Frances, mostly because I used it on the Frances for sun protection, and there is a lot more shade on the Norte. I would probably still take my new ultralight umbrella on the Norte again though.I will take extra pair of undies and socks.
Still not sure about the umbrella. I survived CF in the heat and rain. I really do need to keep it light.
Of course I think that the sleep sack and down blanket will work better - and save you almost a pound in weight.The sleepsac I am considering comes with a small down blanket to slip inside.
I have a Mountain Hardware down flip 35/50 F sleeping bag that weighs 1lb 12oz. Would you take it over the sleepsac?
I bring mascara for the same reason!Eyeliner makes me feel good. Has never been an irritant. Not for everyday use, just because.
Take the sarong and ditch the travel towel. You can use the sarong as your towel. That's what I took on the Norte, and it worked well until I left it behind in an albergue.
Did you get the telescoping model? It's not super small, but does compact. I brought a lighter weight non-handsfree umbrella - the Light Trek Ultra, which is much smaller and lighter. I rigged up attachments out of velcro, but it didn't work as well, and wasn't as easy to deploy as the hands free model. That said, I didn't use it nearly as much on the Norte as on the Frances. I think that I will adapt the attachments that came with the handsfree model to fit the smaller shaft of the lightweight one for my next Camino.
Will you send me a pic of the down blanket? I know the weight is about a pound less. I like that.I found the umbrella a lot less useful on the Norte than the Frances, mostly because I used it on the Frances for sun protection, and there is a lot more shade on the Norte. I would probably still take my new ultralight umbrella on the Norte again though.
Of course I think that the sleep sack and down blanket will work better - and save you almost a pound in weight.
I bring mascara for the same reason!
As far as hair care goes, after my first Camino I totally switched to bar shampoo. I also have long hair, that's wavy/curly/frizzy. My hair is so much smoother and healthier looking using the bar shampoo. I also have a solid conditioner bar, but honestly, my hair does fine without it. I can easily comb through it with a wide tooth comb in the shower. Then I put my hair up in my Buff while I get dressed. I used to have to use tons of conditioner. I don't use the soap based shampoo bars like Liggets, which really dry my hair. I buy mine from a couple of different Etsy shops, and they have all been good. You might want to give it a try before the Camino. I use the shampoo bar for my body too.
These are the Etsy shops that I've bought the shampoo bars from: https://www.etsy.com/listing/68495093/hair-care-that-rocks-n-rolls-solid?ref=user_profile&frs=1Will you send me a pic of the down blanket? I know the weight is about a pound less. I like that.
I’ll research the bar shampoo and conditioner. You say Etsy has them. Any particular kind you like best? Fragrance? Ingredients?
I was just looking at the rock and roll Lather Up site. My hair is already silky smooth and soft. I’m so reluctant to try something new and these aren’t cheap. Will think about it. Thanks!These are the Etsy shops that I've bought the shampoo bars from: https://www.etsy.com/listing/68495093/hair-care-that-rocks-n-rolls-solid?ref=user_profile&frs=1
https://www.etsy.com/shop/ScenterSquare?ref=shop_sugg§ion_id=11560472
And this is where I bought the conditioner bar, which lasts forever. I cut mine in half for the Camino https://www.etsy.com/listing/189275869/solid-conditioner-bar-argan-oil-shea?ref=user_profile&bes=1
I'll send you a picture of the blanket
Right, I already have an adapter. Did I say charger? Not what I meantYou don't need to spend money on a European charger just get an adapter they are cheap and work just fine. I wear an Outdoor Research Sun Runner Cap. It has a removable skirt that protects your face and neck. It was really sunny for the first half of my Camino Norte this fall. I don't know when you are leaving but I doubt it will be cold. The last couple of weeks at the end of October it was really cold. In fact it was colder in a few of the albergues at night than it was outside! I just have a sleep sac and I was fine most of the way. Later on all the allergies had blankets so I was fine, although a few nights I slept in all my clothes.
I'd add a swimsuit or make sure some of your clothes can double as swimwear....maybe your running shorts and a sports bra that can dry quickly. I loved the beaches on the Norte and many albergues are within walking distance. You might also want to consider a hat that will offer a bit of shade for your ears as the sun can easily "fry" them.This is what I am hoping/planning to take on my Summer del Norte.
Please offer any suggests or give me the thumbs up...........
Clothes (wear one, pack one)
I will wear a ball cap for shade and keeps rain off face
sunglasses
trekking poles
hands free umbrella for rain/hot sun (yeah or nay)
this is everything that will be in my pack
1 short sleeve
1 running shorts (has handy pocket on leg for cell phone)
1 socks
1 undies
1 bra
2 coolmax sleeves with thumb holes (trying something new) takes place of long sleeve shirt.
wind/rain jacket or poncho (haven't decided yet)
I have pack cover so leaning towards the wind/rain jacket just incase the temps drop (Yeah or nay)
silk sleepsac with pillow case
travel towel
flip flops
ziplock for moneybelt
shampoo
conditioner (hair is long)
travel hair brush
body wash/laundry soap
deodorant
facial scrub
facial lotion (olay)
toothbrush
toothpaste
floss
Advil regular and PM
Nyquil gel caps
earplugs
pilgrim passport
guide book
water/snack
What will be in my fanny pack:
phone charger
chapstick
eye liner
gum
money for the day
small Bible
I will wear a money belt
Okay so I hope to stick with this list - I hope that's it (it still seems like too much)
Third Camino is the charm - in more ways then one - right?
I have only used a sleep sack on all 4 of my Caminós and I always start around the 3rd week of September. Buen CaminoRight, I already have an adapter. Did I say charger? Not what I meantI usually wear a buff around my neck to protect it from the sun and my cap has a nice visor for protection. I am going in summer and will most likely take the sleep sac. It will also save me a pound in weight. If I take the sleeping bag, I’m afraid I’d be too hot most nights. Thanks so much. I’m feeling excited today.
Hey Bob from L.A. I am originally from SoCal, OC and L.A. area. I miss it.I would lean more towards the poncho as it does not cling close to the body, (It breathes) covers your pack, has an integrated hood (No neck exposure), can be shaken dry, does not retain water, easy to fold up (Bundle) and provides some simultaneous mid body coverage as well.
I did the CDN this last July/August and needed it about every 2-3 days. Stayed dry and no problems. Just my opinion though..........
One other item....It can also double for a bed/floor liner if you needed it as well.
I walked the Norte this summer, and while there was a lot of rain, I was never cold.Hey Bob from L.A. I am originally from SoCal, OC and L.A. area. I miss it.
I like the poncho option, I used one on the CF. Did it get cold at all during your summer CDN (meaning Camino del Norte, right) ? Was there a race for beds? I will be staying in albergues mostly. I'm so nervous, yet excited too.
Thanks,
Angela
Darn it..........I know summer is busy season but I really don't want to race for a bed but can't afford much more then the albergue........hmmmI walked the Norte this summer, and while there was a lot of rain, I was never cold.
There was more of a race for beds than I experienced on the Frances. There are more pilgrims in the summer, and much fewer albergues compared to the Frances. Many of them are also quite small.
Don't worry. I think that it just requires a bit more planning than the Frances. Lots of people that I met along the way only stayed in albergues. Some did have to sleep on the floor, but they were accommodated. One place that was tricky was Ribadesella - the youth hostel there has been taken over by a surf school in the summer which was fully booked out. But a little more than 5 km is a large albergue in San Esteban de Leces. I stayed at a hotel in Ribadesella, but a lot of people walked on to San Esteban. I had already walked over 30 km in the rain so I was happy to have the reservation. In my guide there's a warning to bring food to the albergue in San Esteban as there are no stores nearby, but I heard that some pilgrims called and had pizza delivered!Darn it..........I know summer is busy season but I really don't want to race for a bed but can't afford much more then the albergue........hmmm
I am giving myself plenty of time so may have to stop more often, go off stages so to speak.
Oh thanks! Whew!Don't worry. I think that it just requires a bit more planning than the Frances. Lots of people that I met along the way only stayed in albergues. Some did have to sleep on the floor, but they were accommodated. One place that was tricky was Ribadesella - the youth hostel there has been taken over by a surf school in the summer which was fully booked out. But a little more than 5 km is a large albergue in San Esteban de Leces. I stayed at a hotel in Ribadesella, but a lot of people walked on to San Esteban. I had already walked over 30 km in the rain so I was happy to have the reservation. In my guide there's a warning to bring food to the albergue in San Esteban as there are no stores nearby, but I heard that some pilgrims called and had pizza delivered!
What part of the CF will you do?
Don't worry. I think that it just requires a bit more planning than the Frances. Lots of people that I met along the way only stayed in albergues. Some did have to sleep on the floor, but they were accommodated. One place that was tricky was Ribadesella - the youth hostel there has been taken over by a surf school in the summer which was fully booked out. But a little more than 5 km is a large albergue in San Esteban de Leces. I stayed at a hotel in Ribadesella, but a lot of people walked on to San Esteban. I had already walked over 30 km in the rain so I was happy to have the reservation. In my guide there's a warning to bring food to the albergue in San Esteban as there are no stores nearby, but I heard that some pilgrims called and had pizza delivered!
God willing, I will be walking mid July to mid Aug 2019 from Hendaye.
Here is my 4.5 kg pack (before food & water) plus the clothes on me, please critique:
On me:
rain jacket
shirt - merino short sleeved
skirt - macabi
underwear
socks
sports bra
merino buff
1/2 UV buff
shoes
hair clip
glasses
bit of $$ in pocket
cicerone guidebook in other pocket
short gaiters
In Gregory Z30:
Light purse containing: credential, cash, debit card, visa card, health insurance card, clip sunglasses, glasses wiper, journal, pen with duct tape, New Testament, 8 hair elastics, camp TP, passport, 5 tampons, USB NA/Europe splitter, phone, earbuds, house key, 8 safety pins, 2 ziplock, SPF chapstick
rain cover
mesh bag
3 dry bags
sleeping bag with inflatable pillow
4 ear plugs
cloth grocery bag
2 merino shirts - 1 long sleeved with hood, 1 tank
running tights
shorts
sports bra, normal bra
2 socks
2 underwear
deodorant
2 lush solid shampoo
2 dye conditioner
travel hairbrush
kid toothbrush
travel toothpaste
travel sunscreen - 50 SPF
dry detergent
tevas
dry envelope
spork
swiss army card
hiking poles
water bladder
metal cup
nail clippers
6 Via instant coffee
deck of cards
med kit: 2 band aides, KT tape, 1 sheet moleskin, needle, 1 m thread, 10 ibuprophen, 10 gravol, 3 rehydration salts, 3 alcohol wipes, Neopsorin, Afterbite, tweezers
Thanks! Leigh
Thanks davebugg!Your kit looks fine. It looks like you wear your rain jacket while walking; is this even when it is dry out?
You have KT tape which is used as a musculoskeletal adjunct. I would also include something like Leukotape P or Omnifix tape for hotspots and as a supplement to the moleskin if needed for additional securement.
Needle AND thread . . . if the thread is for blister treatment consider NOT using it for that application as it is risking infection. If it for sewing, then ignore what I just wrote
Thanks davebugg!
1) the jacket - 1st camino I wore UA heatwear x 2 to avoid the sun and associated lotion. And almost froze a few mornings/evenings and brought no rain gear so I was occasionally also soaked. 2nd camino I found the open jacket (feels like a windbreaker despite being waterproof) with an additional merino top was a better combo for me.
2) I agree, I just had to stick it somewhere. It and the duct tape are for gear repair only. I have been fortunate enough to only have 1 blister in the last 10 years of hiking. It was from a long, long, long walk out of Lisbon to VFdX in 40+C and was between 2 toes. I pray my good fortune continues, hence the lack of Leukotape.
Hi Leigh
Looks good.
I would "think" twice about the water bladder. Water is quite plentiful and a plastic bottle (which can fit in your pocket) can assist you in alleviating weight. Just my thoughts and it worked well for me for 6 weeks last summer.
Usually bladders come in 50-100 liter sizes (weight) where a 12 oz plastic bottle can be refilled repeatedly throughout the day (as needed)
I meant to say say Ounces NOT liters.............Silly American
Here is my 4.5 kg pack (before food & water)
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