How to pack your backpack for the Camino de Santiago: The BF Outdoor Shop guide
Every year, thousands of pilgrims set off for Santiago de Compostela. Some start from France, some from Spain, some only do the last 100km, and some tackle the entire route. But they all have one thing in common: a backpack on their shoulders.
And that backpack, if poorly prepared, can turn the most beautiful journey of your life into a nightmare of blisters, pain, and regrets.
For over 20 years, we have been helping pilgrims prepare for long journeys. Here's what we've learned.
The golden rule: 10% of your body weight
A loaded backpack should never exceed 10% of your body weight. If you weigh 70kg, your backpack should not exceed 7kg when fully loaded, including water. Does that seem little? It's already a lot after 25km a day.
This means that choosing the right backpack is crucial: it must be light, ergonomic, and of the right capacity.
Which backpack to choose: Ferrino Finisterre
For the Camino de Santiago, our favorite backpack is the Ferrino Finisterre: specifically designed for hiking, with an optimal carrying system, ventilated back, and ergonomic waist belt.
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For most pilgrims (200-300km): the Ferrino Finisterre 30L or the Finisterre 28L are the ideal choice. Light, compact, sufficient for those who travel essential.
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For complete or long journeys: the Ferrino Finisterre 40L or the Finisterre 38L offer more space without sacrificing ergonomics. Ideal for those tackling the entire Camino Francés or the Via Francigena.
There are also W (women's) versions with a back and belt adapted to the female anatomy: Finisterre 30W and Finisterre 38L W.
Shoes: Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4
We talked about it in our article on the right shoe for a hike: there is no perfect shoe for everyone, but there is the right one for you.
Among the models we recommend most for the Camino is the Topo Athletic Ultraventure 4: wide toe box, generous cushioning, Vibram sole with excellent grip. Perfect for long days on asphalt, dirt roads, and trails.
💡 Tip: take half a size larger than your usual size. Feet swell during long walks!
Socks: Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew
Blisters are the pilgrim's number one enemy. And in most cases, they arise from friction between the toes.
Injinji socks solve this problem at the root: each toe is separated, like in a glove, completely eliminating friction between the toes. The result? Goodbye interdigital blisters.
👉 Injinji Trail Midweight Mini-Crew — our choice for the Camino: medium weight, ankle height, perfect for trail and trekking shoes.
Bring at least 3 pairs: one on your feet, one drying, one spare.
Headwear: Buff Explorer Booney Hat and Merino Neck Gaiter
The Camino de Santiago can be done in all seasons, and the weather can change quickly. Two Buff accessories you shouldn't be without:
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Buff Explorer Booney Hat — a wide-brimmed hat, light and breathable. Protects from the sun on long summer stages across the Spanish Meseta. Essential.
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Buff Merino Lightweight Neck Gaiter — versatile and extremely light. Works as a neck gaiter, balaclava, headband, or hat. Made of merino wool, it regulates temperature and doesn't retain odors. Perfect for cold morning starts.
The rest of the backpack: what to pack and what to leave at home
Here's a quick checklist to get it right:
- ✅ Minimal change of clothes (2 technical shirts, 1 pair of shorts/trousers)
- ✅ Lightweight waterproof jacket
- ✅ Sleeping bag liner (mandatory in hostels)
- ✅ Basic first aid kit (plasters, Compeed, painkiller)
- ✅ Trekking poles (save your knees on descents)
- ✅ Water bottle or hydration pack
- ❌ Jeans, terrycloth towels, heavy paper books
- ❌ Everything you think "might be useful" but have never used
Come visit us in store
If you want to be sure you're setting off with the right equipment, come visit us in Rome. We'll help you choose your backpack, shoes, and accessories with our direct experience on the Caminos.
Book your podobarometric platform test to find the perfect shoe: https://bit.ly/TestPedana
Buen Camino! 🌟