The Gear List

I figured if I shot for 15 pounds I'd get in under 20. The recommended weight for a Camino pack is 10% your body weight (without water), or 12 pounds in my case. That seemed like an impossible feat; 15 pounds seemed a little more reasonable, so that's what I aimed for. I purposely purchased a 40 liter backpack so I would be forced not to over pack.

For those who are curious, I've put together a gear list. With the exception of my electronics, wallet, and the gear I will be wearing, my pack weighed in at 17 pounds. Many of you who have not read about the Camino may be wondering how I will get by on so little.

People who trek the Camino de Santiago usually stay in Pilgrim Hostels known as Albergues which are dormitory style accommodations that cost between 3 and 10 Euro per night. Daily access to running water and laundry facilities make the trip a little bit easier than a wilderness backpacking trip and a lot less stinky.

Because the trip is fairly urban, I won't need to worry about cooking my own food either. I don't cook at home so why start now? Local markets and restaurants can accommodate that pesky little habit of needing to eat regularly.

Packing for this trip involved research and a willingness to invest some money (~$3,000) on high quality, light-weight gear that in total will weigh less than 20 pounds. During May, weather conditions in northern Spain are expected to be 55 - 65 degrees during the day, with 57% (on average) of the days expected to be rainy and windy. This means layers and rain gear. No one wants to be cold and wet; that would suck. I'm already hoping that I have too much gear so I can mail a few things home––there is no room for anything else––my pack is fully loaded. The good news is I'll have the option of mailing things home as needed. And if you want me to pick anything up for you, you'll have to write me and send me your address, otherwise, you get nothing.