Quick Advice, please!

[geep]

Hello,

I'm walking the first three days of the Camino Frances in mid-May and need some advice as I made my plans on a bit of a whim and my start date is now less than a month away. I start at SSJP and end in Pamplona three days later (all being well).

I have never done this sort of walk before, but I'm 35yrs old and fairly fit. I'm not trying to fit an unusual amount of distance into each of the three days, so I'm hoping that my body will hold out and get me to Pamplona in one piece.

A few things that I've kind of decide and a few things that I need your advice on, please!....

- What is the best book to buy about the Camino de Santiago which will give me all the essential info' that I need and is light enough carry on the walk? (I intend to do the rest of the route in the future).

- Can I just show up at the office in SSJP and ask for my 'pilgrim papers' or do I need to do something in advance? I don't really know what 'Pilgrim Papers' are but I assume it is something to show the albergue owners to prove that I'm a pilgrim?

- I'm going to book my accommodation for the three nights in advance if I can. I think i'm doing a stop in Orrison because I read that it is a nice place to stop.

- I'm going to wear trainers and have waterproof socks with me in case it is wet, as other comments seems to lean towards trainers over walking shoes/boots.

- I'm going to buy a sleeping back liner to sleep in/on. Is it just a very thin/light sleeping bag which is easy to carry, I've never heard of a sleeping bag liner before?

- What size rucksack do I need if I'm carrying a sleeping bag liner and other essentials? Which rucksacks are best in terms of weight, comfort etc? (I'm on a low budget btw.)

- What clothes/footwear should I pack and how much of each for three days? What other items should I definitely take or not take? How much cash do I need to have on me each day if I stay in albergues?

- How much food and drink do I need to put in my rucksack before I start walking each day?


If anyone has time to come with me it might be quicker than answering all these questions, haha

Thanks!

 

[Dorpie]

Hi Geep.

To be honest for this stretch I wouldn't bother with a guide, the route is obvious and there really isn't that much that a guide book is going to help you with.

Yup, Just show up at the office. The piece of paper you need is the credential.

You'll be leaving yourself with two tough 30km+ days if you stay at Orrison on night one. Yes it's beautiful but I'd aim for Roncesvalles for night 1, you can always stop at Orrison for lunch and enjoy the views.

A sleeping bag liner is literally what it says, a liner for sleeping bags, but on the Camino when heading towards summer it tends to get pretty warm in albergues packed with people so a lot of people (including me) don't bother with a full bag and use a liner instead. Mine was a Sea to Summit Coolmax Adaptor Traveller and for me it was perfect.

For size of rucksack I'd say around 40 litres, some may well say less, for me I like the flexibility and the extra bit of material doesn't exactly weigh a lot. Which one is best for you is very personal. Head to your local shop, tell them what you're looking for and try a few out.

For footwear come mid -May you'll probably be fine with trail runners, trainers or even walking sandals. Unless the weather is particularly bad I'd say boots are out. Also bring some flip flops or crocs for post walk comfort and showers if you're sensitive about that kind of thing.

Just a couple of changes of fast drying stuff should be fine for your purposes with maybe three or four pairs of socks. Lots of packing guides on Youtube, Lyndsey Cowie does a good one I think.

You're unlikely to walk more than three hours before finding somewhere to fill up with food or water so one meal's worth is really all you need, but do make sure you have plenty of water, on that first day to Roncesvalles on a hot day I got through well over 6 litres of water!!!

That's the basics, trawling the forum will bring up more detailed info.

Buen Camino.

Rob.

 

[Stroller]

Hi

1. Wise Pilgrim app will give all you need to get to Santiago and weighs nothing.

2. Yes, they will give you credential and details of elevation and routes.

3. If stopping at Orrison book quickly it gets filled up.

4. You won't need boots but be sure that you shoes and socks combination are comfortable, fit your feet well and are broken in. I wouldn't use waterproof socks.

5. Yes, it's a thin, usually, silk or cotton, bag that you sleep in it is also used in a sleeping bag to keep it cleaner and reduce washing/cleaning.

6. Depends on how much you are going to carry. I walked to Pamplona with a 70+yr old guy who carried all he needed in a shoulder shopping bag. If you buy a rucksack try it on loaded with all you are going to take and make sure it fits well. There are too many reputable manufacturers to list but we all have our favourites and no doubt you will get some trenchant views.

7. Footware for the days walk and a change of shoes suitable for the shower and a gentle stroll in the evening is sufficient. A light fleece is a good idea, it can be slept in if you'r cold, a change of underwear, at least one change of socks, rainwear of your choice, a spare shirt and possibly a tee shirt to sleep in.

8. Not vast amounts, water is in short supply over the Pyrenees so, for me, a litre/litre and a half is enough but you know your own body and it's needs. Carry a little more in the early days rather than too little. I usually carry only dried fruit, nuts, cheese and chocolate but no more than a couple of hundred grams ish. This works for a day, from breakfast to evening meal, for me but not for everyone. Again know your body. Sandwiches are available at Orrison and there are bars at Roncevalles and just after. Bars and shops are available at Zubiri all of these will supply the makings of a sandwich of cheese, ham and/or salami.

Don't worry too much, there will be others about if it all gets too much. Take as little as possible, you need less than you think. Start slower than you first think and walk at your pace not at that of someone else and above all enjoy it.

Sorry I have not given definitive answers about any of this but it is all a personal choice and what suits you best. Those three days will tell you, pretty exactly, what you need for the rest of the walk when you come back.

Good luck.

 

[MichelleElynHogan]

After reading your needs and Dorpie's response, I need to provide these points for consideration;

It is still Winter on the Camino. If you are starting in a couple of weeks, you need a sleeping bag, not a liner.

I use an Osprey Kestrel 48L but an Atmos model or any 40L will do.

Finally, if planning on staying at Orisson, which I hear is pretty well booked for May, it will take 4 days to get to Pamplona, not 3 days. Still on this point, many do split the first stage into two days, because of the effort needed to make it over the mountain.

 

[Dorpie]

It is still Winter on the Camino. If you are starting in a couplr of weeks, you need a sleeping bag, not a liner.

You'd better tell the weather- forecast is mid to high twenties for Pamplona for the next week . I travelled at precisely this time two years ago and it definitely wasn't winter, I used suntan lotion every day.

Edit: Three!! years ago. What happens to all this time???

 

[Anniesantiago]

You'd better tell the weather- forecast is mid to high twenties for Pamplona for the next week . I travelled at precisely this time two years ago and it definitely wasn't winter, I used suntan lotion every day.

And I almost froze to death in 2013.
In 2016 we had 70kph icy winds from SJPP to Orisson.
The weather is fickle.
It changes constantly.
I would never walk early May without a sleeping bag and I've been walking the Camino since 2004.
It's different every year.

 

[Dorpie]

And I almost froze to death in 2013.
In 2016 we had 70kph icy winds from SJPP to Orisson.
The weather is fickle.
It changes constantly.
I would never walk early May without a sleeping bag and I've been walking the Camino since 2004.
It's different every year.

Haha, I refuse to accept there is any Camino experience other than mine.

 

[Deleted member 67185]

Hello,

I'm walking the first three days of the Camino Frances in mid-May .........

Welcome to the Forum, geep; you've still got time to prepare, so take a few deep breaths and relax

First, in addition to the answers posted to your thread, also use the search engine on this forum to look up a lot of the information you are asking about; the knowledge base is quite extensive and deep.

Next, there are additional sources of information about Camino outside of the forum which can also help. For example, there are websites from various Pilgrim Co-Fraternities which are quite informative. I don't know from what country you are from, but in America there is the APOC (American Pilgrims On the Camino).

APOC has a good FAQ, plus you can order your pilgrim Credencial from them. It will be already filled out with your identifying information. Then, when you arrive in SJPdP, you can take that Credencial to the Pilgrim's Office and get your first sello (stamp), plus the additional information that the volunteers provide. Easy Peasy.
http://www.americanpilgrims.org/ http://www.americanpilgrims.org/request-a-credential http://www.americanpilgrims.org/frequently-asked-questions-faqs-

Keep in mind that you are not walking in the wilderness, but walking town to town. There are shops all along the way, except for that first day into Roncesvalles where a bocadillo or two, a couple of Snickers, and an orange or two will give you some good muscle juice . Otherwise, when you get hungry, you can stop in a town along the way and grab a bite to eat. Thus, you can pack very light.

If you are taking a smartphone, a Camino app will be sufficient. I also carry Brierley's maps-only book; I make notes in it to remind me of stuff I've experienced at a specific location.

As I said above.... relax. Enjoy your pre-Camino planning time, as it is part of your Camino experience.

Wait until you gather the items together on your packing list, and have trimmed that down, to get your backpack. Then with everything in a grocery sack, take it to wherever you are buying that pack, and get a pack that is slightly larger than the volume needed to hold your stuff.

Get the lightest pack available that will fit you well. Make sure that you are fitted properly.
http://blog.gossamergear.com/how-to-size-and-fit-an-ultralight-backpack

There have been some recent threads on footwear, so after reading those you may be able to more narrowly target your questions and concerns if you have any.

 

[Rick Chollett]

I'm starting around the same time. I'm wondering if I should bring a heavier jacket now. I'm bringing a light blanket as well. My main question is, if the albergues are full where do you sleep? Is it feasible to sleep in nature?

 

[geep]

Thanks everyone! Not over/under-packing clothes seems to be tricky as the weather can vary so much! I'll probably stick with the sleeping bag liner and resign myself to sleeping in clothes if it's colder than expected.

I'm going to try to pack very light if i can. But i haven't started packing yet, so that might change

 

[trecile]

I'm starting around the same time. I'm wondering if I should bring a heavier jacket now. I'm bringing a light blanket as well. My main question is, if the albergues are full where do you sleep? Is it feasible to sleep in nature?

In my two Caminos I never met anyone who couldn't find a bed for the night.

 

[Anamiri]

If there are no beds in the village you end up in, then just taxi back or forward to another village. Its not that expensive, roughly 1 Euro per km. I never encountered a no-bed situation, and on the first Camino didn't book (even at Roncesvalles). Orrison has a lovely outdoors eating area, and if the weather is good, a great place for late breakfast/lunch with views out over the valley.

If you're pretty fit, SJPDP to Roncesvalles is not difficult. We arrived around 3pm, taking it very slowly as my friend suffered a heart arrhythmia just before we left NZ and tired more than usual (she was 69).
It will be a more enjoyable 3 days if you walk to Roncesvalles on day one, and even out the distances each day. The walk into Zubiri is pretty steep downhill as well, and shouldn't be underestimated. And you will probably want some time to look around in Pamploma, so a long day walking(30km) wont allow that. I found that on days when I walked long distances (40km) I was also too tired to look around much. Even though I was pretty fit before I set out, I found my fitness and strength increased a lot by about day 5, so in 3 days you may not achieve that. I would aim for similar kms each day. and make it easier on your legs and back.

We did our first Camino without a guidebook, just followed the arrows, or the French marker stripes.

The pilgrim office in SJPDP will issue you your Credential and your first stamp, just walk in. You will use the same credential until you arrive at Santiago, regardless of the number of trips it takes.

In three days you wont need a lot of clothes, just two sets of walking clothes I would think, but some extra additional layers as it can change from hot to cold really fast. The mornings tend to be coolish, but the day heats up. Layers that you can strip off works best. I started off in a jacket most days and by 11am was down to a T shirt. But after walking for days in the high 20's, one day it suddenly turned cold, 8 degrees, for a day. On the day I crossed to Roncesvalles it was hot and the wind was welcome. I think that would not be the case if it was overcast.

The atmosphere at Roncesvalles is great, you wont be missing anything by stopping there for the night. Most people have just finished day one, and are quite elated at having met the challenge. I didn't book at Roncesvalles, but from other threads it looks like booking is a good idea. There will be a lot more pilgrims at Roncesvalles than at Orrison, as it is quite small.

With regards to your back pack, its about comfort and weight. Make sure it feels right and try it with weight, most outdoor shops are used to spending the time to fit backpacks properly.

In May I used a light sleeping bag a couple of times, mainly slept in or on the liner.

I slept in the clothes I would walk in the next day. That is very common and most people seem to do that. If it was cold, I just put on more layers.

With regards to cash, roughly 30 Euros a day is what I planned, and that worked out more than enough. I often spent a lot under, but sometimes you may want to treat yourselves to a private room, or a special dinner. Pamploma will have ATM's.

 

[Deleted member 67185]

Thanks everyone! Not over/under-packing clothes seems to be tricky as the weather can vary so much! I'll probably stick with the sleeping bag liner and resign myself to sleeping in clothes if it's colder than expected.

I'm going to try to pack very light if i can. But i haven't started packing yet, so that might change

With layering, one can pack very lightly in response to a wide range of temperatures and conditions. The key is to look at each piece of clothing as serving multiple uses.

For example, one doesn't need to bring both a windshell and a rain jacket. A lightweight rain jacket will serve both purposes. Add a lightweight base layer, and you only need a light long sleeved shirt and a light puffy vest to keep you comfortable from the chill of the morning thru the heat of the day to night time temps. That's 4 garments which serve all needs for upper body dress which, with reasonable research and budget, will weigh somewhere between 1.5 to 2.5 pounds.

 

[trecile]

I don't remember reading about anyone reserving at the albergue in Roncesvalles before last year, when they decreased the number of beds available there.

 

[geep]

Okay, so you've convinced me about the layering! My next question is about the type of material that my clothes should be made of. I've read various comments and seen a few videos which mention quick-drying clothes... does this mean that my clothes should be made of a specific type of material, and if so, which one? I read this article which recommends polyester and merino wool, but it also makes their downsides clear, so I was still not really sure after reading it (https://besthiking.net/quick-drying-clothes-hiking/) Most of my clothes are made of cotton, but it seems cotton is not a good walking material?

 

[trecile]

I love my lightweight merino wool clothing. It breathes well, and doesn't get stinky!

 

[geep]

One more question Of all the things that I need to take with me to do the walk, which things need to be bought from specialist outdoor shops or designed especially for walking? Outdoor shops are usually more expensive, so I'll avoid buying things there if I can. I guess a comfortable rucksack and decent shoes goes without saying.

And one more question... What weight is considered a lightweight rucksack? I've never considered the weight of a rucksack before. Do most of you use a hiking pole/stick on your walks? I'm not checking in baggage on my flight, so I'd need to buy it in France, but it's not something I've used before in any case.

 

[geep]

Thanks for the merino wool tip

 

[Deleted member 67185]

When talking of layering, there are three basic layers. The number of layers used is based on the weather condition you are walking in.

Base Layer

This is the layer next to your skin. It is usually used when the weather is chilly.

The base layer can be anything from a 'long johns' type of garment, to a button up shirt. In the warmer weather of late spring and summer and early fall, I use a very lightweight, long-sleeved shirt (about 7 ounces). In the early spring and late fall when the weather is cooler, I'll use a long sleeved 'long john' type of top.

The two most common materials are Merino wool or a synthetic blend.

Merino wool is very breathable, retains its insulation properties when damp or wet, resists getting stinky even when washing is infrequent. As with synthetic base layers, Merino wool is purchased in one of three basic 'weights': lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight. You choose the weight based on the expected temperature of the season you are walking in. For spring or summer, the lightweight base layer top is surprisingly comfortable from cool mornings thru hot afternoons.

Synthetic fabrics are called various names by different manufacturers. For example, my current favorite, if I am not using my Smartwool, is Patagonia's Capilene. Like Merino wool, it comes in different weights. It wicks moisture and retains insulation when wet, similar to Merino wool, but it does get real stinky if not kept washed after being exposed to sweat.

Cotton is not desirable as it keep sweat next to the skin, and when it becomes saturated will not just lose its insulative properties, but will actively chill via evaporation and conductivity, which you want to avoid during cool weather. Plus, cotton takes longer to dry than synthetics, and is less comfortable to wear when damp than Merino wool.

Insulation Layer

This is the layer that provides the most warming and heat retention capacity. Down filled garments (which now can have hydrophobic coatings on the down to keep them from wetting out), fleece, and synthetic fibers are the most common component of insulative garments.

During Spring, Summer, and Fall, there is a lot of flexibility in what to use as an insulation layer. The garments in these three seasons are lighter, as the temperatures are not as cold on the low end. With a lightweight, long sleeved base layer, I will use a down vest (mine is all of 4 ounces) and stay comfortable, with an outer layer, in 30 degrees F (0 C ). Lightweight fleeces and puffy jackets also work well, but weigh more.

Outer Layer

This is your weather 'shield'. This is the layer that keeps the rain and wind at bay. Depending on temperature, it can be worn without the insulation layer. On a chilly morning or evening, without any wind or rain, this outer layer can add 15 to 20 degrees F of extra warmth. During warm months, this lightweight layer is all I need to keep me warm as I 'hit the town' at night.

 

[Deleted member 67185]

When it comes to gear, I look for value as it pertains to durability and function. The best deals generally come from online shopping rather than brick and mortar stores, although you can snag some great deals during sales.

And yes, outdoor stores which specialize in lightweight gear will give your the best performance to weight ratio. But, if I am looking at equipement and the cost of saving a few ounces or grams is a lot of dollars over a good quality piece of gear or clothing that is a bit heavier, I will live with a couple of extra ounces.

Keep in mind that most backpacking gear is designed to be more rugged and longer lasting; so it can be a false economy to have to buy, say, a less expensive sock, but then need to replace it more frequently then those produced specifically for trekkers and backpackers.

Backpacks from quality manufacturers use materials today that are tougher and far lighter than previous generations. And with backpacks especially here in America (I don't know about other countries), going lightweight and having a comfortable pack is not a financial penalty anymore. ULA, Gossamer Gear, Zpacks are examples of smaller manufacturers making very lightweight and comfortable and quality backpacks which are no more expensive than those from large manufacturers which, in a broad brush, tend to be heavier.

Ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain. Sure, I can carry 10 Kg of gear, but why would I do that if I can carry 5 Kg and still have everything I need

 

[trecile]

You can also buy inexpensive quick dry clothes in the sports/exercise wear department at stores like Target.

 

[Anamiri]

One more question Of all the things that I need to take with me to do the walk, which things need to be bought from specialist outdoor shops or designed especially for walking? Outdoor shops are usually more expensive, so I'll avoid buying things there if I can. I guess a comfortable rucksack and decent shoes goes without saying.

And one more question... What weight is considered a lightweight rucksack? I've never considered the weight of a rucksack before. Do most of you use a hiking pole/stick on your walks? I'm not checking in baggage on my flight, so I'd need to buy it in France, but it's not something I've used before in any case.

Use of poles is a personal thing, some use them, some dont. After many years I am now a convert to two poles. The poles are useful as you will find a lot of steep downhill in the first few days. Poles helped me with balance, and saving my knees from some of the impact. SJPDP had shops with gear, and I saw well priced poles there.

 

[trecile]

Use of poles is a personal thing, some use them, some dont. After many years I am now a convert to two poles. The poles are useful as you will find a lot of steep downhill in the first few days. Poles helped me with balance, and saving my knees from some of the impact. SJPDP had shops with gear, and I saw well priced poles there.

And on top of that, using poles keep your arms toned!

 

[Anamiri]

And on top of that, using poles keep your arms toned!

And stops your fingers from swelling up like little sausages

 

[kelleymac]

Thanks everyone! Not over/under-packing clothes seems to be tricky as the weather can vary so much! I'll probably stick with the sleeping bag liner and resign myself to sleeping in clothes if it's colder than expected.

I'm going to try to pack very light if i can. But i haven't started packing yet, so that might change

I packed a down sleeping bag (I've walked in March, April, May, Sept. and Oct.) I was happy to have snuggle down into it at night. If I walked in June through August I would consider a liner. At one albergue they did not have extra blankets and a young woman next to me who had a sleep sack was shivering that night and we were trying to figure out a way to help her be warm.

Clothes: Wear layers. I took two camisole/tank with a shelf bra, a fleece pullover with a zip up neck, an insulated travel vest with lots of pockets (exofficio), then a jacket with hood, then a rain jacket with hood. I could start out wearing everything on a cold morning, and then peel off layer by layer as it warmed up. I also took rain pants, microfleece lined pants and hiking pants.

We stayed at Orisson-- as we were still jet lagged-- then made it to Roncevalles by noon the next day. I think we walked to Pamploma two days later in the early afternoon.

 

[geep]

Thanks for all your advice. I'm leaving tomorrow for SJPDP and start my walk on Tuesday!

 

[Deleted member 67185]

Thanks for all your advice. I'm leaving tomorrow for SJPDP and start my walk on Tuesday!

Buen Camino, Pilgrim