On this page I’ll provide some gear that I find useful. Please use your own judgement and get what suits you! I’ve provided links here so that you can see what I’m referencing, but I would urge you to shop around, prices can vary quite a bit. In addition to Amazon and REI, try Moosejaw, Campmor, Sierra Trading Post and others.
Packable Day Pack 20L I never travel without this, folds up super small but holds 20L.
Here’s another more full featured packable daypack, and my current favorite: Eddie Bauer 20L Packable Daypack
Eagle Creek Tailfeather Med. I find this fanny pack works well for keeping my iPad mini and other valuables with me at all times. The medium size will fit an iPad mini the small is a little more compact. Unfortunately doesn’t seem to be made anymore, but link to info page provided so you can see what it looks like.
Hiker Money Belt I’ve been very happy with this web belt, money belt with plastic buckle, goes through security without needing to be removed and I wear it daily.
Dry bag Selector. I pack my gear in two 13L dry bags of different colors keeps it organized and dry.
Patagonia Down Sweater: Since I bought this jacket I rarely travel without it, folds into its own pocket, keeps you warm down to low temperatures, yet comfortable in warmer weather. Consider also the synthetic version, called a Nano Puff.
Northface Thermoball Vest Here’s a puffy vest that works well.
Although not specific to the Camino, these pants have saved me from a pick pocket, and are well made and look nice: Clothing Arts. See the story here: Pick Pocket Story.
Tooth Brush:
Do not tote your 2lb. Sonic care that needs charging every night. Instead buy yourself a disposable electric toothbrush for about $7. Be sure to use it a few times before you leave on your trip as occasionally there are battery issues. Buy this at your local drug store so you can make sure that it works before you go home. Pulsar Oral B Electric.
Flashlights and Headlamps:
Be sure to get something that is either rechargeable or uses normal AA, AAA or 9V batteries. Avoid lights that require specialized obscure, expensive batteries. A headlamp can be very useful as it keeps your hands free to do other things, try to get one with a red LED function so that you don’t disturb others, here’s one example: Black Diamond head lamp. There are plenty of options and brands. For a flashlight, I’ve been very pleased with the Fenix brand, but they are pricey: Fenix Flashlight. You could also just use a power bank with a flashlight, such as Flashlight powerbank. I have not used this product so buyer beware.
Here is a battery that works well and will charge your phone: Anker Astro E1
Clothing:
Merino wool t-shirts are the best I’ve found for hiking trips. They don’t get stinky, are comfortable, wash and dry easily and last a long time. Many synthetic products develop a stink that will not wash out. When you get to Santiago, you’ll know who is wearing synthetic. I’ve been very happy with Icebreaker products, but there are quite a few alternatives including Ibex and Smart wool.
I’ve tried various kinds of convertible pants, and find that the REI Convertible is the one that works best for me, although the newer versions are not as good. Almost every major brand of outdoor retailer makes a version, I would suggest you get ones that are lightweight, breathe well and don’t have mesh pockets.
Boots:
This is the 3rd rail of Camino discussions. I’ll just make some idea suggestions. Be sure to walk with your loaded pack and for some distance before deciding that your boots are the right ones. I found that boots that were comfortable for daily wear, did not work so well when I had a full pack and long distances. I personally wear Keen Voyageur Mids, one of the few boots available in a sufficiently large size for me, but this is very individual thing. If you have an REI near you, this will be a good place to get boots as you can try them out thoroughly and return after wearing them for a few days. The general advice is to go up a size from your normal wear so that when your feet swell there is some space, note that Keens are notoriously small and need to be sized up. I find that waterproof boots are much hotter and cause your feet to sweat and therefore prefer non-waterproof versions. Here’s a good discussion of that topic from an expert: Why Waterproof boots won’t keep your feet dry.
Body Glide. This stuff is magic for preventing blisters and any other kind of chafing in sensitive places, be sure to have some with you.
Poles:
I like collapsible poles because they allow you to make length adjustments easily. I would avoid the Folding ones and stick with the adjustable. Skip the shock absorbing fancy stuff, don’t bang your poles into the ground and everyone will be happier. Be sure to get Rubber Tips for your poles! I’ve been very happy with the Black Diamond poles, but there are much cheaper and much more expensive models. Black Diamond Trekking poles. Please, please, watch some videos on how to use your poles correctly, here’s one, there are many available: Using poles
Backpack:
This is another 3rd rail topic in Camino circles. The important thing is that your pack is comfortable for you. Generally, look for a pack between 30-45 Liters. Pay attention to the empty weight. Make sure it has a good waist belt. I prefer packs that are called “Panel Loaders” meaning they can be unzipped like a suitcase, but the most important thing is fit and comfort. I also like an outside “stuff it” pocket because this is where I put my Platypus Hydration System system. Most packs have a hydration pocket that is unusable when the pack is full. If you are new to this, I highly recommend going to your local REI and getting properly fitted REI Backpack Fitting Guide. Osprey offers a wide range of packs and has a good guarantee, so that can be a good starting point.
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Tips and Advice for Walking the Camino 