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[Plumber1000]

Hi everyone I'm Stuart from Scotland. Planning to do The Way in early September on my lonesome. Was thinking of camping but not sure what tent to buy. Anyone got any ideas? Lata amigos

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Using a tent may not be any less expensive than staying in albergues. Most of the camping spots will be on the grounds of albergues, and they probably will charge you to use the shower since energy to heat water is their number one expense! Regular campgrounds cost more than a bed in an albergue. No open fires are allowed in Spain because of the drought. Wild camping is permitted only on public property outside of towns and not within a couple of kilometers of a campground (to protect revenue, probably). The weight of a tent and cooking equipment will increase your pack weight considerably, and a light pack is commonly suggested in this Forum.

Regardless of your decision, have a buen camino.

 

[Plumber1000]

Thanks for the response very interesting . Looks like I will be ditching the tent idea was just scared I didn't get a bed on some nights if it's busy. Thanks again.
Regards Stu

 

[Snake]

Stu,

I am used to backpacking and sleeping in a tent also. My fears of not finding a bed led me to buying a "sea to summit" poncho. It covers your pack, weighs in at 13 oz and can be made into a shelter. Check out the video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2m95EwExnc

either way, you need some form of raingear, it may be heavier than a plastic poncho, but has multiple uses and is much tougher.

Hope this helps

 

[BandoGMG]

Hey Stu,

I'm Jose (Puerto Rican living in the Bronx, NY) I too am planing to walk el camino from SJPP to Santiago also in Sept. Maybe we can start together if are dates match or meet up en el camino.

 

[vagabondette]

Thanks for the response very interesting . Looks like I will be ditching the tent idea was just scared I didn't get a bed on some nights if it's busy. Thanks again.
Regards Stu

I'm walking at the same time as you and I'm not overly concerned about finding a bed. From everything I've read, September isn't THAT busy (usually) that there's a bed race and I don't intend on following the stages outlined in the guides which seems to be the key to finding a bed easily.

 

[Plumber1000]

Thanks for all the info. Sea to Summit looks a great idea and weighs very little hopefully I can get one here in sunny Scotland. Jose you are welcome to join me on my trek but be warned I'm not the fastest walker on the planet lol. Thanks again for the help. What is the best ruck sack to fit a bottle of Johnny Walker Black Label Whisky in lol. Cheers guys

 

[Sojourner47]

What is the best ruck sack to fit a bottle of Johnny Walker Black Label Whisky in lol. Cheers guys

Only 1 bottle??

 

[JohnnieWalker]

I can assure you that Johnny Walker is available in red, black, green, gold and blue labels here in Spain. Much as I've tried I've never manage to create a shortage. Don't worry about the weight of the bottle - it won't be full for long.

Sláinte

John

 

[CaminoJono]

Jonathan from Australia here. I'll be beginning about 8 Septemeber so keep an eye out for me. Cheers

 

[Plumber1000]

Hi Jonathan hope to see you on my travels. My hip flask will be full so you're welcome to accompany me if you don't walk to fast and share the delights of Mr Walker lol.

 

[Rebekah Scott]

Oooh. A pilgrim who is a plumber. YOu may be waylaid in Moratinos!

Reb.

 

[JohnnieWalker]

Oooh. A pilgrim who is a plumber. YOu may be waylaid in Moratinos!

Reb.

A pilgrim who is a plumber and is happy to be paid with Johnny Walker may not be allowed to leave the Spain.

 

[tyrrek]

You'd be well looked after in Moratinos. Not sure what impact your toolbox will have on your backpack weight, though!

Buen Camino!

 

[tyrrek]

What is the best ruck sack to fit a bottle of Johnny Walker Black Label Whisky in lol. Cheers guys

I had the Berghaus 35+8l, which has a pocket on the back specifically for a water bladder. 'Water' bladder...yeah, right! :lol:

Buen Camino!

 

[Plumber1000]

Thanks all for the messages guys. Might be a challenge getting my plumbing tools in my ruck sack lol

 

[BandoGMG]

Hey stu
No problem in walking slow lol I've set out 60 days to enjoy and
To finish the camino. Every plumber needs a helper and I already
Have some know how.

 

[Plumber1000]

Hey Jose sounds like a plan. 60 days sounds good to me. I won't be in a rush to get back to Scotland. Even might stay if they need a plumber lol.

 

[BandoGMG]

Hey Jose sounds like a plan. 60 days sounds good to me. I won't be in a rush to get back to Scotland. Even might stay if they need a plumber lol.

I will let you know when I get my itinerary settled early next week.
I too am in no hurry to return to the states once I commense.