Pack size

[SaraC]

Hi everyone,

I'm heading off to do my mini-Camino (starting in Sarria) in a few months, and I'm trying to decide how I want to organize my luggage. I'm heading south afterwards to see some other sights, so I'm pretty sure I'll be packing a larger rolling bag for that portion, and since I've booked through a tour company they can transfer that bag as part of the package. The tour also includes accommodation along the trail, so I won't have a need to pack a sleeping bag or sheets.

At this point, I think that all I want to bring on the trail is a small daypack with a small first-aid kit, room for water and some snacks, extra socks, a poncho, and some warmer clothes. I know that if I bring a large pack, I *will* bring too much stuff--I've done it before on numerous other occasions.

Does this seem naive? Will I look like an idiot with my tiny backpack starting in Sarria as the other pilgrims roll on through? (As you can see, I'm probably too concerned with how I'll be percieved... hopefully I can break that concern along the Camino!)

Thanks in advance, everyone!

 

[tyrrek]

Hi Sara!

I think you have the right idea. If you're just packing what you need for the day's walk a day pack (max 20l maybe?) will be fine.

You say you're walking in a few months so Sept/Oct? You may find yourself walking in a t-shirt if you're lucky with the weather, but enough space for a fleece and rain jacket/poncho should be available.

If you're worried about how you will be perceived by those who have walked further, make sure your boots are never clean, and have a thick layer of dust on them at all times. In fact, just make sure you are never clean and have a thick layer of dust on you at all times. Only joking. Try to mix with people away from the tour group, though. They might have a little joke at your expense but meeting people is half the fun.

Buen Camino!

 

[SaraC]

Thank you, tyrrek! I'll be sure to step in every mud puddle I see as I attempt to train for the long walking days! :wink:

I will definitely be trying to make new friends along my short stretch of the Camino, and I'm looking forward to meeting new people! I'll be there in October, and I'm hoping it won't rain *every* day, although apparently it's really wet at that point in the year. :?

Buen Camino to you as well!

 

[wayfarer]

Try to avoid anything this size.

 

[SaraC]

LOL!!! :lol:

See, that's what typically happens to me!

 

[Sojourner47]

Many a true word is spoken/posted in jest.
On another walking forum: Scottish Highlands etc, a poster did the West Highland Way - 152kms - carrying, get this, 30 kilos. He needed 2 people to actually lift his pack onto his back at the start of each day......can you believe it?

 

[tyrrek]

I can believe the weight, although I can't believe people were willing to indulge him every morning by lifting it onto his back!

My pack has always been 'normal' size and weight, and it was my friend rather than my enemy if you understand me. I never thought, 'Oh no, I've got to carry that $%^&* for the next 10kms' or whatever. It just became part of me and my Camino. I almost felt lost without it. (Berghaus 35+8, by the way, but I don't work for Berghaus or have any benefit from promoting it!)

Buen Camino!