Remedy for lessons learned

Last winter I over-enthusiastically packed for a winter Camino. I brought to much and packed to heavy but learned as I went and by the end had pared it down to reasonable weight

I’m coming back though and am in the process of applying that lesson to build a Camino specific kit! It’s getting expensive but I think I’ve brought it down five pounds. I saved a pound with a better pack (50L Atmos to Stratos 34L) (would stratos 36 be better? REI didn’t have it but I think I’d like the top load better but maybe I’m just used to the Atmos ). I’m ten ounces lighter with an upgraded down jacket and another ten upgrading a power bank. Think I shaved two pounds and a lot of volume upgrading my sleeping bag. Ditched all the Poly and got wool shirts. New pairs of Darn Toughs that should last the journey. I’m pretty much all new except for the plastic water bottle I put 2,000km on last winter which is coming back for another round, the same pants I wore, and want to go with new rain gear but bringing the old and if it doesn’t work I’ll get a poncho en-route.

I’m not going ultra-light fanatical but have made some wise purchases that way and see how counting grams can be addictive. I’m weighing in around 17 pounds which I think is pretty good for a winter Camino with down jackets and other winter clothes.

I leave west coast US next Thursday, land in Bilbao Friday evening and if all goes well will be walking next Saturday

I’m pretty maldito excited. I sadly left last spring when you all told me it would be foolish to overstay my Visa. I had a to busy and frustrating summer with Camino visions constantly running through my mind. But the hard work paid off and I am Very much happy to return.

Wish me well in my travels and Buen Camino to you all

Walk in Beauty

klimmo said:

Have a great camino Wildtrout, where are you going?

I'm preparing for my GR walks on the Balear islands and it's still 25 to 30 degrees C there. Don't know what to pack!

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Plan is to restart del Norte where I left off last spring then head down to Via de La Plata with a start in Gibraltar.

I’m sure the weather will be much different when I finish from when I start so it does get confusing what to pack