My Winter Camino Packing List for a Buen Camino
The Camino de Santiago pilgrim route through Spain is one of the most life-changing journeys, both internally and externally. Over the past few years, I’ve been fortunate to have walked numerous Camino de Santiago routes.
The many diverse Camino routes are busy during the summer months, and with increasing popularity, the spring and fall are becoming busier as well. So, when I had the chance to walk a winter Camino, I got excited! Then I realized that I had to order and change out some of my gear. Mentally, I am preparing for a very different and isolated journey.
So I started testing gear and perfecting my winter Camino packing list.
I successfully walked the Camino de Invierno, or the Winter Way in February 2024 from Ponferrada. It was spectacular and everything I could have hoped for.
After now walking 6 Camino de Santiago routes, one thing I don’t pack anymore is fear. This helps keep my backpack light. This winter Camino packing list is similar to my staple Camino packing list, just modified for the unpredictable and cooler weather.
If walking during the Winter months in Spain, expect more rain, so my shoes and clothing did look a little different than my typical Camino packing list. I also prepared for cooler nights, which added warmer gear.
Here is my winter Camino packing list for a very “Buen Camino!”
Table of Contents
- Things to Consider About This Winter Camino Packing List for the Camino de Santiago
- Winter Camino Packing List | What Shoes for a Winter Camino?
- Winter Camino Packing List Clothing
- Winter Camino Packing List Socks & Intimates
- Winter Camino Packing List Outerwear & Warm Gear
- Camino de Santiago Winter Gear List
- What Backpack to Pack for a Winter Camino?
- Camino Electronics [Optional]
- More Useful Things to Bring for a Winter Camino [Optional]
- What’s Missing from My Winter Camino Packing List
- My Personal Winter Camino Packing List
- Conclusion | Winter Camino Packing List & Tips
Things to Consider About This Winter Camino Packing List for the Camino de Santiago
This is my personal packing list for my Winter Camino, but there are a few things to consider when deciding what to pack for the Camino de Santiago. Season and route may alter your decision on shoes, gear, backpack, etc. This is for a 2-week winter Camino during January and February.
As I walked the Camino as a solo female, this is Camino packing list geared for women. The good news is that a lot of the items are unisex or there are similar products for men.
The infrastructure along the Camino de Invierno isn’t as good as the Camino Frances or the Camino Portuguese from Porto. Additionally, it will be winter and many accommodations and restaurants will be closed. There are Albergues (cheap accommodations for pilgrims) along this route, but I’m going to have to book maybe a day or two in advance.
While I always sleep at Albergues, the off-season may mean that I might have to sleep at pensions or guesthouses some nights. One thing I’m packing mentally is extra flexibility. I understand things will be closed and I may have to walk farther or shorter depending on what’s open.
I’ve done a lot of research on items to pack for a Winter Camino. There were some items I was really on the fence with, so I’m including them as options. Remember, like in life and on the Camino, always walk it you’re way. We are all different and some things that work for me may not work for you.
Let go of judgments and simply enjoy the journey.
Winter Camino Packing List | What Shoes for a Winter Camino?
What shoes to pack for the Camino is a huge debate, even for the summer months. Everyone’s feet are different. Some prefer trail runners while others can’t part with their hiking boots. Now, add in winter conditions, snow, and lots of rain, and the shoe debate gets even more complex.
The bottom line is that shoe choice will always be a personal preference. No matter what shoe you choose, it’s important that they are properly broken in and walked in over a variety of terrains.
On my past Caminos, I’ve always worn Altra Trail-Running Shoes and swear by them. They were super lightweight and dried quickly. However, with the conditions and slippery rocks and mud, I knew the Altras weren’t an option for the winter Camino packing list.
I’ll be spending quite a bit of time in Galicia, so I had to factor in GORE-TEX shoes. As of now, I’ve got it narrowed down to two pairs of shoes. I’m currently walking in the Wisconsin winter testing them out.
☛ A general rule of thumb for walking the Camino de Santiago is to go at least 1/2 or a full shoe size up as your feet will swell daily from walking. I have sized up a 1/2 size for winter walking.
Ecco Biom 2.1 x Country Shoes [Men’s]
I was trying to avoid GORE-TEX shoes for walking a Winter Camino, but I changed my mind after I tried on the Ecco Men’s Biom 2.1 x Country Shoe. They are super lightweight and fit my foot perfectly. I kind of felt like Cinderella when I tried them on, even though they were men’s shoes.
I love how light they are and although my foot feels a little warmer, it’s not overbearing, I love the grippy cleat bottoms on the soles. I can’t believe how lightweight the thick sole is, which was a huge bonus. One critique is the shoe has been picking up a lot of mud.
While I’m happy with these shoes so far, I’m a little nervous about the fabric. Some reviews have been negative on the durability. I’m continuing to test them and break them in, but honestly, they felt pre-broken in on my foot immediately.
La Sportiva TX4 Approach Shoes – Women’s
I’ve been winter hiking in my La Sportiva TX4 Approach Shoes – Women’s. These shoes are wide, which I love, and are designed for rugged terrain. These hiking shoes are below the ankle and have leather uppers.
So far, I’m happy with the comfort and durability of the shoes. Again, these shoes felt instantly broken in. With the durable sole, this pair of hiking shoes is still lightweight (around 1 lb. 5 oz).
These shoes were recommended in a Camino Facebook group by multiple people who have used this shoe when walking the Camino. On top of that, some of the pilgrims used this shoe during their winter Camino.
One drawback to this shoe is that it’s not Gore-Tex and it’s leather. I’m a bit nervous about if they get soaking wet at how fast they will dry out.
Did I mention how cool they look? I’m really loving these shoes, but the real test will be if they weather the storms.
More Winter Camino Packing List Ideas for Hiking Boots
It seems more pilgrims are shying away from wearing hiking boots on the Camino. Oftentimes they are too heavy and the high ankle can cause Achilles Tendonitis to flare up. While many hiking boots are GORE-TEX, I feel like I can’t go back to ankle-high hiking boots. This is just my personal preference, and each person should understand their feet and body.
KEENS are a popular hiking boot for the Camino and again, Salomon makes superb hiking boots.
☛ Remember, the best shoe a winter Camino is the one that works for you.
Hiking Sandals
It’s extra weight, but I’m planning to bring my Chaco hiking sandals for a Winter Camino. The feet need to breathe after walking a daily average of 10 – 20 miles a day, so I’ll be wearing a heavy pair of Merino wool socks at the end of the day with my slip-over sandals.
Sandals are useful for walking around the Albergues and showering. However, the Albergues are pretty quiet during the winter months and see little usage. In all honestly, I never wore my sandals in the shower as I was typically the only pilgrim or female pilgrim at the albergue.
Winter Camino Packing List Clothing
Keeping an extra light backpack during a winter walk is a challenge. Like most Caminos, I’ll be hand washing some clothing at the end of the day. I won’t have the power of the sun to help me dry the clothes, so I’m going to have to rely on laundry machines more.
Again, the most important thing to remember when creating a Camino packing list is that all of the clothing is lightweight and quick-dry. To pack smarter every item should have a dual purpose, and be multifunctional.
For example, you can sleep in leggings AND wear them under a dress to visit churches or as an extra layer on a chilly day. I use my scarf to dress up an outfit and cover my legs, or on some days it acts like a makeshift towel when my towel is unusable. #pilgrimlife
On this winter Camino packing list, there are extra layers to stay warm.
Hiking Pants x 2
I’m trading out my shorts for two pairs of hiking pants. I like my prAna loose-leg pair of hiking pants, Halle II.
It was a sad day and I finally had to retire my beloved prAna Briann Pants because they were my go-to travel pants after 5 years of lots of wear and they wore too thin. They have also been discontinued, but I’ve replaced them with Duluth Trading Company’s Flexpedition Slim Leg Pants.
I love how the Flexpedition hiking pants are a little thicker (for more warmth) and how quickly they dry. Also, they come in some fun colors!
➜ More hiking pant options for Men / ➜ Women
Base Layer Tight Leggings x 1
I am also packing a pair of base-layer tight leggings. These are thin, yet warm and can fit under my hiking pants on really cold days.
I have been testing my Helly Hansen Lifa Merino Lightweight Base Layer Bottoms and I’m so happy with this new addition to my Winter Camino packing list. I utilized the Merino wool as I knew these would be washed less than I liked.
Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt x 2
The Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Long-Sleeve Top is an essential gear item for walking the Camino. I won’t be carrying any short-sleeved T-shirts for the Camino, only two long-sleeved shirts.
As they are Merino wool, they add warmth and wick moisture.
The Smartwool All-Season Merino Base Layer is just that and works as a bottom layer. I also use one shirt to walk in and one to sleep in at night. This ensures that one is always dry.
➜ Men’s Merino Wool Tops / ➜ Women’s Merino Wool Tops
Warm Fleece or Merino Wool Sweater x 1
A warm fleece (lightweight is key) or a Merino Wool Sweater provides another layer for winter walking. I’ll be carrying a lightweight sweater that’s packable. This will be for cold and windy days when I need an extra layer.
Many of the Albergues are cooler and don’t have heat, so the more layers the better.
Warm Sleeping Clothing | Fleece Leggings and Thermal Top x 1
For cold nights, it’s nice to have a pair of comfy clothing to sleep in. In the winter months, I pack a fleece pair of leggings. I find Cuddl Duds Fleecewear Leggings to be one of my favorite warm leggings. These leggings can also be worn under my dress.
I also carry Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Quarter-Zip Base Layer Top to layer up when walking but the warm layer can work as an extra layer for nighttime.
Long Sleeve Dress x 1 [Optional]
I like to carry a long-sleeve dress in the winter. I wear warm leggings underneath it and it can easily be “dressed up” with a scarf. The dress is nice to wear if I’m washing all my clothes or can sleep in it if I’m washing my pajamas.
A dress is nice to wear at dinner or walk through town.
I usually carry a C’est Moi Bamboo Dress with long sleeves when I travel during the winter. However, the bamboo dress just doesn’t dry as fast as I like during cooler months.
I recently been loving this wrap dress by Toad & Co that comes in a long-sleeved style. For something thinner, I’m packing this Toad&Co Windmere II Long-Sleeve Dress.
Of course, if looking to keep your bag light, skip the dress.
Large Lightweight Scarf x 1
When traveling, I love carrying a large lightweight scarf and I always pack one for the Camino. A scarf can dress up an outfit and add warmth.
A scarf is multi-purpose on any Camino route and I’ve used it as a makeshift towel, a blanket, a privacy curtain, and a pillowcase.
Winter Camino Packing List Socks & Intimates
As I won’t be able to rely on the sun and heat for handwashing, I’ll be packing extra underwear and socks for a winter Camino. It’s also going to be wet, so I want to have enough socks and underwear.
Keeping your feet dry is one of the best ways to prevent blisters.
Merino Wool Socks x 3 or 4
Good hiking socks are essentials for any Camino packing list. In my opinion, it’s best to carry Merino wool socks to help keep feet dry with moisture-wicking properties and allow for the foot to breathe.
During a winter Camino, one of the most important aspects is to keep your feet dry. For this reason, I won’t skimp on socks for my packing list.
As I wear shoes that sit below my ankles, I prefer ankle Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Women’s Socks. These socks sit comfortably above my ankle. If you wear boots on a winter Camino, crew Merino wool hiking socks with medium cushioning will be a better fit.
I try to carry one pair of thicker socks if I feel a blister forming to help protect my feet. A thicker pair of socks can be worn at the end of the day or during the night.
I carry both Smartwool socks and the brand Darn Tough. These two sock brands have done wonders for my feet when walking the Camino.
Many pilgrims swear by sock liners to wear underneath socks to help prevent blisters when walking any Camino de Santiago route. I’ve never used liners.
Go Buck Naked™ Underwear by Duluth Trading Company x 3
I love Duluth Trading Company’s Go Buck Naked™ Performance Underwear for hikes and adventures. These undies are my go-to for the Camino. Not only are they super comfy, but the fabric is moisture-wicking and helps fight bad odors. They dry quickly and come in a variety of styles and different cuts.
In my opinion, these underwear run a little big in women’s size, so I typically size down.
Women should avoid carrying thong underwear, as long distances can cause unnecessary rubbing chaffing, and rubbing. If prone to chaffing, carry an anti-chaffing balm like this one.
➜ Women’s Go Buck Naked™ Performance Underwear / ➜ Men’s Go Buck Naked™ Underwear
Saalt Underwear Period Underwear x 1 [Women]
I also carry one pair of Saalt Leakproof Comfort Bikini Underwear as a sustainable alternative to carrying tampons and feminine hygiene products. I LOVE THEM and used these undies on days I spot. However, the Saalt underwear is odor-absorbent and moisture-wicking, so it was easy to incorporate them into my Camino packing list.
I never had any issues with “leaks” and I was always left feeling dry, but some women prefer to carry a menstrual cup or disc as well. Saalt offers bundle packages, that include a menstrual cup, too.
💬 Real Talk | Period underwear is a great sustainable addition to a Camino packing list, but may not be for everyone. Make sure to test them before deciding to bring them. Every ounce counts.
Supportive Sports Bra x 2
A good supportive Sports Bra is a Camino packing list female essential. However, I’ve been wearing supportive bralettes when walking instead of sports bras. I don’t need as much support as others, so this has been working for me.
Winter Camino Packing List Outerwear & Warm Stuff
Outwear was one of the biggest tweaks to my winter Camino packing list. Staying warm and dry is the most important thing for winter walking.
Layers are essential.
REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket – Women’s
I bought the REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket – Women’s to test out over the early part of winter. This puffer jacket is warm and super packable. The entire jacket can be packed into the left pocket! I’m loving it and it’s keeping me warm with my baselayers.
The jacket is water resistant, but what I find most useful is that it fits under my rain jacket.
Rain Jacket or Poncho x 1
During the winter in Galicia, it rains…. a lot. I will be pairing my down jacket with my lightweight North Face rain jacket. The rain jacket works as a nice outer shell and is great for wind protection and as an extra layer on chilly days.
Some pilgrims feel restricted in a rain jacket and prefer to get an oversized rain poncho to cover themselves and their backpacks. It’s all personal preference.
☛ Remember, if your backpack doesn’t come with a rain cover you will want one. Once the backpack is wet, most likely everything will be wet. Part of the reason I swear by my Osprey Kyte backpack is that it comes with a built-in rain cover.
Thermal Buff x 1
A Buff is another nice extra layer during cold mornings. For the winter months, I’ll utilize the Buff around my neck to help keep me warm. I won’t need the Buff for sun protection or bugs, so it will strictly be used around my neck during the winter.
For this reason, I’ll be adding a Buff Merino Lightweight Multifunctional Neckwear to my winter Camino packing list.
To keep my ears warm, I’ll be packing a warm headband.
Warm Headband x 1
For my ears and head, I wear a Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Wind Headband. The headband packs down small and isn’t bulky.
Gloves x 1
I will also be carrying a pair of The North Face Sierra Etip Gloves. I think Etip gloves are important because I don’t like to remove my gloves when checking in on an offline map when walking.
These gloves offer protection from the elements and help retain heat. The grippies on the palm of the gloves are also convenient.
Camino de Santiago Winter Gear List
I always carry these essential gear items in my backpack when walking the Camino. Not much changes on this list, except for the sleeping bag.
☛ Want More Camino de Santiago Tips? Here are 16 Game-Changing Camino de Santiago Tips for First Time Pilgrims
Credencial del Peregrino | Pilgrim Credencial or Pilgrim Passport
The Credencial, or Pilgrim Passport is essential for walking the Camino de Santiago. The Credencial allows access to sleep at the many Municipal Albergues or Xuntas (in Galicia).
Pilgrim Credencials often provide discounts for Pilgrims to sites like stunning Cathedrals and Churches on the Camino de Santiago and Historical Museums.
Collect stamps in the Credencial each day. Upon arrival into Santiago de Compostela show your stamped Credencial to receive your Compostela (completion certification). For the last 100 KM of any Camino de Santiago route, you must collect two stamps each day to receive the Compostela.
☛ The Pilgrim passport is a €2 donation and can be found at various Albergues and Cathedrals along the Camino routes.
Trekking Poles
Almost all pilgrims walking the Camino use trekking poles. These are essential items to add to a winter Camino packing list. The most important guidance they assist with is snowy and muddy trails during the winter months.
Hiking poles can also help protect your knees and are useful to assist with stability and balance.
☛ REI summarizes all the benefits of trekking poles and how to find the perfect fit
Two top-rated trekking pole brands are Leki and Black Diamond. Be mindful that if you are checking your international luggage as a carry-on, some airlines do not allow trekking poles on carry-on luggage. If you are particular to your hiking poles, you will need to check your bag with them in it.
➜ Browse trekking poles from REI
Reusable Water Bottle
A refillable water bottle is a must when walking the Camino de Santiago and helps cut down on plastic waste. I carry my Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide-Mouth Vaccum Water Bottle.
This awesome water bottle is lightweight, yet sturdy. Bonus, Hydro Flask offers a lifetime warranty.
Warm Sleeping Bag
This is one major change on the winter Camino packing list, a warmer sleeping bag. Oftentimes on a Camino, pilgrims carry only a Sleeping Bag Liner or a lightweight silk liner.
Many of the Albergues and sleeping options on winter Camino routes do not have heat.
After Covid, many of the Albergues don’t offer extra warm blankets. It’s important to carry a warm enough sleeping bag, especially if you sleep cold. There can be blankets, it’s just not safe to rely on them being provided. Each albergue is on a case-by-case basis.
I upgraded my sleeping bag to the Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight Spark 40 Sleeping Bag and am so happy with this purchase. The down sleeping bag is extremely packable, super lightweight, and keeps me warm at night. This pack comes with a compression sack.
With fleece leggings and warm tops, the 40F sleeping bag is perfect for a winter Camino.
☛ Camino Packing Tip | A REI Co-op Lightweight Compression Stuff Sack is useful for bulky items.
Headlamp x 1
During the winter, there are fewer hours of daylight, so a reliable headlamp is a must for walking the Camino. Even during the summer months, I found my headlamp useful for early morning departures and to use at night in the Albergues.
While many of the Albergues will be quiet or empty during the Winter, the headlamp will be more beneficial for walking the Camino.
➜ Black Diamond Astro 300-R Headlamp is a smart headlamp option as it runs on a rechargeable USB plug
Lightweight First Aid Kit x 1
A small and basic first aid kit is a must on any Camino packing list no matter what the season. A simple first-aid kit is a great place to start and then add items from the local pharmacies as you go.
Another useful thing to add to a first-aid kit is a blister pack is also a good idea, especially if you’re prone to them. A small sewing kit with a needle and thread goes a long way for big blisters. A lot of pilgrims like Compeed blister pads for blister care.
It’s ideal to carry a first-aid kit with a lot of different band-aid sizes and options. While bandages are available at pharmacies along the way, they can be a bit more expensive in Europe than in places like the United States.
One item that I never leave home without in my first-aid kit is at least one Emergency Blanket. This essential life-saving piece of gear is so small but so important. Every winter Camino packing list should include at least one emergency blanket.
Small Ultralight Day Pack x 1
One small item that I love to carry when walking the Camino de Santiago is a Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack. This packable day pack works as my “secondary pack.” I use this condensed day pack when running to the grocery bag, walking around town, doing my laundry bag, and for other errands that I don’t want to carry my big backpack around with.
I loved this small day pack for running errands in town or exploring the larger cities. Although small, it fits my water bottle, journal, scarf, and an extra layer.
Swiss Army Knife x 1
A Swiss Army Knife is an essential gear for backpackers and useful when walking the Camino. Honestly, I always have one in my backpack and day pack, no matter where I travel.
Remember, if carrying your backpack as a carry-on on the airplane, you will not be able to take a Swiss Army Knife. Many grocery stores sell simple Swiss Army Knives for around 5 Euros.
Quick Dry Towel x 1
Some of the Albergues don’t provide towels, so make sure to carry a lightweight quick-dry towel for after showers. Another popular item that works great on the Camino is a Turkish Towel. Either way, if sleeping in the Albergues you will need some type of towel.
What Backpack to Pack for a Winter Camino?
What backpack to take on the Camino de Santiago is always such a personal choice. There are many factors from which Camino de Santiago route, what season, and if you want to utilize bag transfer companies. Please note that many bag transfer companies don’t run during the winter months.
Here are a few general guidelines to remember when picking out a backpack.
- Make sure you wear the correct-sized backpack for your body
- Try not to carry more than 10% of your body weight (This is hard during winter months as the gear and clothing are heavier than in the summer)
- Choose which backpack feels and fits your body the best, as it will be your daily companion on the Camino de Santiago
I always walk the Camino de Santiago with my trusty Osprey Backpack. My faithful Osprey Kyte 36 L has been my faithful walking companion over numerous Camino de Santiago routes. Even though it will be winter, I can still comfortably fit all my gear and food in my backpack.
The Osprey Kyte 36 L has been continued but Osprey now offers an Osprey Kyte 38 L.
I love Osprey backpacks because they come with a lifetime guarantee, are high quality, durable, and are built with little conveniences that make a huge difference on the trail. I only carry Osprey backpacks and have multiple bags for multiple purposes.
A game changer for me is that the Osprey Kyte 36 has a handy built-in rain cover that is removable. A rain cover is a must for a winter Camino. It also boasts two zippered hip pockets, and trekking pole loops, and has plenty of attachments for multi-purpose uses.
The Osprey Kyte 38 L has a built-in rain cover as well as the Osprey Sirrus 34 Pack and the Osprey Sirrus 36 Pack.
Seriously, this is my favorite Camino backpack, ever.
Finding the right backpack for walking the Camino is less about the brand and more about the fit. Both Deuter and REI Co-op make solid and reliable hiking backpacks.
More Popular Backpacks for Walking the Camino
In my opinion, I think for a winter Camino a 30 Liter bag should be the bare minimum size to carry just due to equipment.
✔ Osprey Tempest 20 – 40 L Packs
✔ REI Co-op Traverse 32 Pack – Women’s
Remember to check in on the rain cover and purchase one if not included with the backpack.
Packing Cubes [Optional Camino Packing List Female]
To help keep my backpack (and myself) organized, I always utilize packing cubes. Whether it’s my gear, clothing, or toiletries, I store all my items in packing cubes.
However, some pilgrims don’t care for them and just opt for plastic bags or nothing at all.
➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing
Camino Electronics [Optional]
Some pilgrims choose to leave behind their electronics, but again, that is a personal choice and the benefits of being connected to the world are essential for some.
During the winter there are fewer services open and a lot fewer pilgrims walking. The weather is also colder with the possibility of snow and rain showers. The days are also shorter with less daylight. For these reasons, I think a cell phone is essential for a winter Camino packing list.
Cell Phone
A cell phone is useful for offline maps, taking photos, and staying connected to loved ones.
As a personal preference, I do not purchase a Spanish SIM card. I connect to the Wi-Fi at the Albergues and cafes that I stop at along the way. This helps keep me on “the way” and in the moment with no distractions. At the end of the day, I connect my phone and catch up with loved ones. I found this to be the perfect balance (for me).
Remember, due to the winter conditions, some may be nervous not having access to their phone throughout the day. There are also emergency numbers posted along the way just in case, so it’s nice to have a phone with a SIM card.
Power Bank x 1
When walking on the Camino, I always carry an extra battery pack or power bank. Sometimes chargers can be limited at Albergues, so a battery pack can come in handy, especially if there are no outlets in the rooms.
Travel Adaptors
If traveling from outside of Europe to walk the Camino, you will need a European plug adapter to charge electronics. I carry a small adaptor or pick one up once I arrive at my destination.
This is a good adapter kit for international travelers.
Ensure that you have all your charging cords, too!
AppleWatch
I wear my Apple Watch daily on the Camino de Santiago to record my daily walking routes on Wikiloc. It’s also useful to help keep me in check with how many miles I’ve walked or need to walk throughout the day.
More Useful Things for a Winter Camino Packing List
Here are some useful, but optional items to add to your Camino packing list.
Guidebook
For me, John Brierley’s Guidebook for the Camino Frances was one of the most essential Camino items I packed. His guides are incredibly detailed and focus on not only the external journey of walking the Camino but the spiritual journey as well.
John Brierley has excellent resources for many of the Camino de Santiago routes, many with contact points for Albergues and guesthouses. This is super helpful when many places shut down for the winter.
- A Pilgrim’s Guide to the Camino de Santiago Camino Frances St. Jean Pied de Port-Santiago de Compostela
- A Pilgrim’s Guide to the Camino Portugués Lisbon – Porto – Santiago
- A Pilgrim’s Guide to the Camino Sanabrés & Camino de Invierno: Ourense or Ponferrada – A Laxe – Santiago
- A Pilgrim’s Guide to the Camino Inglés: The English Way also known as the Celtic Camino: Ferrol & Coruña – Santiago
- A Pilgrim’s Guide to the Camino Finisterre: Santiago – Finisterre – Muxía – Santiago
Helpful Online Resources for Walking the Camino de Santiago
Some people opt against carrying a physical guidebook and instead utilize the many Camino Apps available on their smartphones.
- Gronze is a popular Spanish Camino website with tons of useful information for multiple Camino de Santiago routes.
- Join the Private Camino de Santiago 2024/2025 Facebook Group for the most up-to-date information. Make sure to check the search tab if you have specific questions.
- Camino Ninja App is a Free Camino App
- Wise Pilgrim is another popular Camino App and varies in price depending on the route
- Booking.com is an excellent resource for securing private albergues, casa rurals, pensions, and accommodations along all of the Camino routes
- Maps.me is my go-to offline map
- I record all my routes with Wikiloc and thousands of hikers who have recorded daily walking routes
More Camino de Santiago Blog Posts
Journal & Pen
For me, a journal and pen are a Camino packing list essential items. During the winter it will be important to keep it dry or use a waterproof journal like this Rite in the Rain Bound Notebook.
The best way to reflect and process everything happening along “the way” is to journal. A journal is an amazing keepsake to look back on and retrace your steps.
Reusable Cutlery Set
A good way to cut down on waste and walk consciously is to bring a reusable cutlery set. EcoVessel WANDERWARE 6-Piece – Reusable Stainless Steel Utensil Set is an awesome cutlery set that has a sleek container and comes in some colorful designs, but for something more lightweight, a simple bamboo utensil set will suffice.
I use a reusable cutlery set almost daily on the Camino de Santiago, especially when I picnic.
Some of the pilgrim meals are big, so I often save my leftovers in a reusable food container to eat the next day.
Stasher Reusable Silicone Food Storage
Another optional item to carry is a Stasher Reusable Silicone Container. I always carry at least one for snacks and food when hiking and traveling.
These containers can also be used as a lightweight toiletry bag!
As I will be carrying more food to prepare on a winter Camino. I carry two containers, one with secure snaps for cooked food and one for snacks.
Charcoal Pills [in small pill bag]
I always add a small bag of Charcoal pills anytime I travel. Charcoal pills are helpful for upset stomachs and digestion issues. I carry at least a few and stuff them in my first-aid kit.
Neck Pouch or Fanny Pack
Many of the albergues don’t have lockers, so I usually carry my valuables in a Neck Pouch. Some travelers prefer a Fanny Pack. Either way, it’s nice to have something small to store valuables in the Albergue and for walking around town.
I find that a Neck Pouch can stow my Passport, cash, Pilgrim Credential, and credit cards with room to spare
Only Pack Small Toiletries
Do not carry large toiletries. I store minimal amounts of products in Humangear GoToob+ Large Squeeze Bottle – 3.4 fl. oz. These are just the right size for carry-on liquids for airplanes.
Silicone squeeze bottles are super durable and can hold everything from my favorite Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap to sunscreen, which were all items found in my very own Camino packing list.
There are many shops, stores, markets, and pharmacies on the Camino routes, so all of these items can be replaced and replenished when walking the Camino.
My Personal Camino Packing List Female Toiletries
✔ Toothbrush (Travel-size) & Toothpaste (Travel-size)
✔ Dr. Bronner’s Liquid Soap (for hand-washing laundry & shampoo)
✔ Dr. Bronner’s Natural Bar Soap (for body)
✔ Natural Leave in Conditioner
✔ Dr. Bronner’s Organic Magic Balm (applied to my feet every morning & used on dry sky and lips)
✔ Hair Ties x 3
✔ Wide- Mouth Comb x 1
I won’t be carrying sunscreen or bug spray on my winter Camino.
Food & Snacks
There are plenty of local shops, markets, grocery stores, cafes, bakeries, restaurants, bars, and shops along the Camino route. They just may have more limited hours. Be mindful that everything will shut down between 13:00 – 15:00.
As there are fewer services open during the winter, I will keep a few staple items to have for meals in the Albergues. I carry at least one meal in my backpack with plenty of snacks.
What’s Missing from My Winter Camino Packing List
I debated adding these two things to my Winter Camino packing list. In the end, these were a personal preference. If I need to purchase something along the way, I will.
❌ Gaitors | I thought about packing Gaitors, but instead, I just opted for a GORE-TEX trail running shoe. I am hoping this is the right decision and if not will purchase some along the Way.
❌ Rain Pants | I’ve never been a fan of rain pants and walking long distances in them is just isn’t my thing. Rain pants are super warm and I tend to find myself being uncomfortable in them. This is why I opted for two pairs of quick-dry pants.
Overview | Personal Winter Camino Packing List
This is an overview of my actual winter Camino packing list.
Camino Backpack: Osprey Kyte 36 L (with built-in rain cover)
Camino Shoes: Still choosing between Ecco Men’s Biom 2.1 x Country Shoe trail runner or La Sportiva TX4 Approach Shoes. I went with the waterproof trail runners and I was really happy with this choice!
Winter Camino Packing List Clothing with Layers
✔ Hiking Pants x 2 | ( Duluth Trading Company Flexpedition Pants & prAna Halle Pants II)
✔ Base Layer Tights x 1
✔ Smartwool Classic All-Season Merino Base Layer Long-Sleeve Top x 2
✔ Merino Wool Sweater x 1
✔ Sleepwear | Cuddl Duds Fleecewear Leggings & Smartwool Classic Thermal Merino Quarter-Zip Base Layer Top
✔ C’est Moi Bamboo Long-Sleeve Dress x 1
✔ Lightweight Scarf
Intimate & Socks
✔ Hiking Socks 4 in Total | Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Women’s Socks x 2 & Merino Wool Hiking Socks with Medium Cushioning x 2
✔ Go Bear Naked™ Performance Underwear x 3
✔ Saalt Leakproof Comfort Bikini Underwear x 1 [Ladies]
Winter Camino Packing List Clothing with Layers
✔ REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket – Women’s
✔ Lightweight North Face Rain Jacket
✔ Buff Merino Lightweight Multifunctional Neckwear
✔ Smartwool Merino Sport Fleece Wind Headband
✔ The North Face Sierra Etip Gloves
Camino Packing Gear List
✔ Pilgrim Credencial
✔ Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide-Mouth Vaccum Water Bottle
✔ Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight 40F Sleeping Bag
✔ Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .3 Medical Kit
+ Emergency Blanket / Adventure Medical Kits Blister Medic Kit / Charcoal Pills
✔ Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Travel Day Pack
* Organized in Packing Cubes
Optional Electronics for the Camino de Santiago
✔ Cell Phone
✔ Travel Adapter (if coming from outside of Europe)
Camino Packing List Optional [But Useful] Items
✔ John Brierley’s Guidebook
✔ Journal & Pen
✔ Neck Pouch for U.S. Passport, Pilgrim Passport, and Euros
✔ Toiletries with liquids in Reusable Bottles
Conclusion | Winter Camino Packing List & Tips
In short, this is my ultimate winter Camino packing list and tips to have a successful walk during the winter season. This Camino packing guide includes my clothing, outerwear, and gear. Additionally, I go into detail about my Camino backpack and winter walking shoes.
A winter Camino will mean fewer services and pilgrims, but be prepared and flexible with walking stages. Also, be mindful of the weather and what albergues are open.
A winter Camino means more solitude, but there is plenty of magic to find along the way.
Maybe you will enjoy walking in the winter so much you will continue on the Camino Finisterre Muxia to the “End of the World.”
I wish you a special and safe Buen Camino!
Did you use this Winter Camino de Santiago packing list? Is there something else you packed for a Winter Camino and loved or something missing from this Winter Camino packing list? Let me know in the comments below!
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