{"id":91,"date":"2018-04-10T05:34:30","date_gmt":"2018-04-10T05:34:30","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/robscamino.com\/?page_id=91"},"modified":"2025-05-28T07:50:23","modified_gmt":"2025-05-28T07:50:23","slug":"faq","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/faq\/","title":{"rendered":"Frequently Asked Camino Questions &#8211; Camino de Santiago FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_image=&#8221;https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/04\/Rob-Camino-2018.jpg&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;80px||80px|&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.25.0&#8243; header_font=&#8221;||||||||&#8221; header_text_color=&#8221;#ffffff&#8221; header_font_size=&#8221;40px&#8221; header_text_shadow_style=&#8221;preset3&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h1 style=\"text-align: center;\">Frequently Asked Camino de Santiago Questions<\/h1>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; admin_label=&#8221;section&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;row&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;|150px||150px&#8221; custom_padding_tablet=&#8221;|70px||70px&#8221; custom_padding_phone=&#8221;|30px||30px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Frequently Asked Camino Questions&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.27.4&#8243; header_font=&#8221;Open Sans|600|||||||&#8221; header_2_font=&#8221;Open Sans|600|||||||&#8221; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<h2>Some Common Questions about the Camino de Santiago<\/h2>\n<p>I&#8217;ll jot down a few obvious Camino questions here and then add to and edit the answers over time&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>Note. These are based on my Caminos of 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2023 and the questions I get here and on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@robscamino\">YouTube<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Would you do the Camino de Santiago again? No. (well&#8230;probably not&#8230;.but I did)<\/h3>\n<p>That might sound strange, as many people walk multiple Caminos. But I specifically walked this as a &#8216;Pilgrimage&#8217; on which I was seeking specific answers and experiences. And all of my expectations were met. I feel blessed that my Camino was such a personal success and I now want to take my Camino lessons forward into my life. I don&#8217;t want to keep going back to School&#8230;. (But I did in 2016, 2018. 2023 and will again in 2026. I just miss the experience too much)\u00a0 \u00a0Note. I ended up walking a 1200 km Camino in 2023!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What would you do differently? Nothing.<\/h3>\n<p>If I was to do it again \ud83d\ude42 Though I might skip the Sarria to Santiago section, or walk a different final 100 to avoid the crowds. That section just had such a different feeling that I didn&#8217;t enjoy as much. (I did that section again in 2016 and 2018).\u00a0 In 2023, I decided I would try to only walk &#8216;new&#8217; Caminos.\u00a0 Routes I had not walked before.\u00a0 That was great.\u00a0 So peaceful (the Camino Invierno)<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Would you use different gear? No.<\/h3>\n<p>I researched and tested my gear for 18 months. It all worked really well. But I would take less stuff. (A lot less. Aiming for 7KG all up).\u00a0 I&#8217;ve used basically the same gear since 2015.\u00a0 I&#8217;m noew down to about 6 kg (plus food and water).\u00a0 A light pack makes a huge difference.\u00a0 As does losing bodyweight!<\/p>\n<h3>Do you transport your luggage?<\/h3>\n<p>I did so out of necessity now and again on my first Camino in 2015 and it became a bit of a logistics headache. But I would travel lighter anyway. (I had to transport some of my gear again in 2016 as the injury is now permanent, but carried all my gear in 2018)\u00a0 For 2023, I managed to lose a lot of body weight!\u00a0 \u00a0That made things a whole lot easier.\u00a0 \u00a0Carried all my gear 1200 kms without problems.\u00a0 If you pack light, there is really no need for luggage transport.\u00a0 It just becomes another thing to &#8220;manage&#8221;.<\/p>\n<h3>Do you prefer to walk the Camino alone? Yes.<\/h3>\n<p>I have tried both.\u00a0 In 2015 alone, in 2016 and 2018 with my wife Pat, and in 2023 alone.\u00a0 2026 will be with Pat again.\u00a0 If I want a true &#8216;Pilgrimage&#8217; experience, whatever that means, I prefer to walk alone.\u00a0 No distractions, no decisions to make, stay and eat where I want to, walk as far as I want&#8217; stop when I want.\u00a0 It&#8217;s like total freedom of mind and body.\u00a0 With a partner is great too, but it&#8217;s not really a Camino for me in the sense of a reflective pilgrimage.\u00a0 The other person becomes a distraction, all decisions have to be discussed and agreed, their preferences and abilities have to be taken into account and so on.\u00a0 \u00a0It&#8217;s just not the same sense of freedom.<\/p>\n<h3>Would you walk the final hundred from <em>Sarria<\/em> again? I don&#8217;t think so.<\/h3>\n<p>Parts of it are very pretty, but it just felt too much like a Circus. It felt like very few people on that section were actually walking a Pilgrimage, but were rather using the &#8216;route&#8217; as a convenient hiking or cycling path. Though I do explore these thoughts in more depth in the blog! It&#8217;s not that simple, and we need to accept that everyone walks their own Camino in different ways. (I&#8217;ve walked that section 3 times, but won&#8217;t again)\u00a0 In 2023, I walked the Camino Invierno as the last section into Santiago.\u00a0 It was wonderful.\u00a0 Check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/category\/camino-invierno-to-santiago\/\">2023 Camino Blog<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What were the best parts of your <em>Camino<\/em>? That&#8217;s tough.<\/h3>\n<p>In terms of geography the early stages on the Frances out of St Jean to Burgos. Emotionally and Spiritually the 2nd and 3rd weeks. And each time the Camino &#8216;taught&#8217; me a valuable lesson&#8230;.. Which was a daily occurrence!\u00a0 In subsequent Caminos I have learned to love it all, and cherish it all.\u00a0 It&#8217;s over far too quickly.\u00a0 \u00a0Some people worry about the section know as the Meseta.\u00a0 A flat, fairly featureless plateau.\u00a0 I love it.\u00a0 Those huge skies!\u00a0 \u00a0I like it so much it drove me walk the Via de la Plata which has hundreds of kms just like the Meseta on the Frances.\u00a0 Glorious&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What were the most memorable moments?<\/h3>\n<p>The peaceful walk virtually alone down the Pyrenees to Roncesvalles. The emotional &#8216;high&#8217; walking out of Granon listening to music. Those little moments of giving and receiving support amongst fellow Pilgrims. Meeting &#8216;David&#8217; en route to Astorga. Leaving my Stone at the Cruz de Ferro. A hand on my shoulder and a &#8216;Well Done &#8211; God Bless You&#8217; from a Priest friend who was surprised I had made it thus far, (his timing was perfect), those times of true &#8216;connection&#8217; with my surroundings, numerous conversations with fellow Pilgrims, and some magical moments of Spirituality that I might share later&#8230;.. (I have. See the stories tab)<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Did you &#8216;find&#8217; Santiago? Yes.<\/h3>\n<p>In weeks 2 and 3. Whilst I found the &#8216;city&#8217; of Santiago at the end of my Camino, &#8216;he&#8217; wasn&#8217;t there for me. We had worked out our &#8216;stuff&#8217; together long before Santiago.\u00a0 \u00a0In 2023 I really found Santiago!\u00a0 Check out the blog post from my <a href=\"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/day-60-fisterra-to-muxia-videos\/\">last day into Muxia.\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Did you discover faith? Yes.<\/h3>\n<p>But not in a &#8216;traditional&#8217; going to Church on Sundays sense. I built on the foundations of spirituality that I already had to find that I did not need Churches or formal rituals to practice my &#8216;faith&#8217;, for it was already all around me and within me. I just needed to open the door to it and embrace it.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Did the Camino meet your expectations? Yes, Yes, Yes.<\/h3>\n<p>Ten times over. Which is partly why I first felt I did not want to do it again. My &#8220;post Camino&#8221; is to practice what I learnt, not to keep trying to learn more of the same. ( But later &#8230;.. I now feel I want to walk it every year, whilst I am able. Maybe different routes. I just miss it too much)\u00a0 \u00a0But&#8230;&#8230;&#8230;the Camino pulls you back!\u00a0 In 2016, 2018, 2023&#8230;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Do you need to be &#8216;Super Fit&#8217; to walk the Camino? No.<\/h3>\n<p>I was not fit. I was 57, and 10 kg overweight. I met people of 80 years of age, and people who were even more overweight. Being healthier and fitter certainly helps though! But no need to go crazy. Regular walking and building improved all round fitness is fine.\u00a0 \u00a0My 2023 Camino was probably the easiest even though I was now 67 and it was 1200 kms. Why?\u00a0 I lost weight before to not be too overweight and I packed lighter.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Was Your Pre Camino Training Adequate? Yes and No.<\/h3>\n<p>I actually ramped up my training 3 months out from my Camino. From walking 5-7 kms twice a week, to about 7-10 kms per day. Sometimes 14. That increase was too rapid and caused injury (Achilles Tendonitis). (Also I did too much road walking) The best thing I could have done would have been to lose weight! I was about 10 kg overweight, which probably caused the injury in the first place&#8230; I think some fairly broad fitness and walking training is more than enough. Make sure you wear your Camino boots\/shoes and a light pack, and build up slowly. I actually used the first week on the Camino as training. And it worked. I started at 8kms and built up to 20 kms over 5-6 days. (I used that slow build up during the first few days of the Camino with Pat in 2016 and again it worked well)<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Did you get Blisters? No.<\/h3>\n<p>None. I avoided blisters by following all the advice from previous Pilgrims. Well fitting and worn in boots\/shoes. Double socks. Vaseline on my feet. Aired my feet every two hours. Fixed any hot spots as soon as I felt them.\u00a0 3,000 kms on Camino so far (as at 2024) and no blisters yet. <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/z42sdp7G38E\">Check my Avoiding Blisters Video.\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>What if I&#8217;m not a &#8216;Social&#8217; person? No Problem.<\/h3>\n<p>I&#8217;m not really. I prefer company in ones and twos or small groups. I avoided the &#8216;party&#8217; atmosphere that you come across occasionally. And actually I walked alone most of the time. If you want to be alone, you can be. If you want to socialise more, you can. If you feel awkward making friends normally, you&#8217;ll find it easy. They will find you.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>How do you maintain the inner calm and peace that you attained whilst walking?<\/h3>\n<p>I recently shared the story of my journey at a business conference and was asked this by one of the guests. I think it comes down to this. Remember the feelings and emotions you felt, at those most joyous moments of your Camino. Really feel them and reflect on them. And try to replay them in whatever you are doing now. So for example now, I rarely have a &#8216;bad day&#8217;. Because I know to just look for the positive things that are happening and not to focus on just the negative.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Is Walking Alone or with a &#8216;Partner&#8217; Better?<\/h3>\n<p>This is a tough call. I&#8217;ve done both now and both have their positives and negatives. I wrote a story about it here. <a href=\"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2015\/walking-with-my-wife-could-have-been-a-mistake\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2015\/walking-with-my-wife-could-have-been-a-mistake\/<\/a> I would like to do both again. alone and with Pat.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>Do You need to be able to Speak Spanish?<\/h3>\n<p>Not really, but a little goes a long way. I hardly spoke a word on my first Camino but I got by.\u00a0 Just be aware that you may be walking through areas where people only speak Spanish.\u00a0 And why not?\u00a0 It&#8217;s Spain!<\/p>\n<p>With new technology it&#8217;s easy to look up words or get instant translation, but it will never be as good or as fun as being able to speak and understand some of the Language.\u00a0 I also think it&#8217;s a common courtesy when visiting any country to at least learn a few basic words.\u00a0 Hello, thank you, please etc.<\/p>\n<p>For our 3rd Camino in 2018 I actually took a few private 1 on 1 Spanish lessons. I wanted to be able to telephone places to make accommodation bookings.\u00a0 I also tried learning language required in restaurants and shops, and a few important things for emergencies.<\/p>\n<p>So let&#8217;s see how it goes this time!<\/p>\n<p>Feel free to add more questions as comments below and I&#8217;ll do my best to add them to the list here and answer them.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3>How do you Fix Your Umbrella to your Pack<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\">The umbrella can be connected in a DIY fashion with velcro straps. Though now I use a clip. A tip. Once you find the right position for the upper clip, maybe sew it to the strap? This stops it rotating. <\/span><a class=\"yt-simple-endpoint style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\" spellcheck=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/redirect?event=comments&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbGJOeGZlVk91NkFLaG5DWDY2cFlST3laOVZyUXxBQ3Jtc0trYTJ3T1puVms2UWl2X05NOGY4bDIzZm1sQkU2U3FYdWZGVjVGVFlfdUkwMUdweXUya2NsRUdYTlpTVExjLTV3bEZHSkhSWktlQ1p3UWREMm5JTDNVemJDM2tvclY3ODZOSHFaakU2RjBtdTBrT1ZJTQ&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.backpackinglight.com.au%2Fproducts%2Fgossamer-gear-handsfree-umbrella-clip&amp;stzid=UgyXm8S2G5cgCna4RX54AaABAg.AIbnTp3bFPvAIbyFVA7jb2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.backpackinglight.com.au\/products\/gossamer-gear-handsfree-umbrella-clip<\/a> <span class=\"style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\">DIY straps on Umbrella: <\/span><a class=\"yt-simple-endpoint style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\" spellcheck=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=nvvfPk4TPB0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/youtu.be\/nvvfPk4TPB0<\/a> <span class=\"style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\">New Clip on my Umbrella: <\/span><a class=\"yt-simple-endpoint style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\" spellcheck=\"false\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=aJ-bF8uO1GQ&amp;t=746\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/youtu.be\/aJ-bF8uO1GQ?feature=shared&amp;t=746<\/a><\/p>\n<h3>Where would you suggest we Stop on the Camino Frances?<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\">Where would I stop? Really hard question. Even if you don&#8217;t take a day off as such, I would allow time to look around in Pamplona, Burgos, Leon, Ponferrada, but it really depends what interests you and how you feel on the day. I&#8217;ve had lovely breaks in tiny villages. It can depend on how you feel, who you meet, the vibe of the place. My overall advice would be &#8220;take it as it comes&#8221;. Let your Camino unfold. No need to plan it too much. Leave space for the unexpected. <\/span>\u00a0<span class=\"style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\">I tend to plan in detail, but it&#8217;s just because I enjoy the process and it&#8217;s a bit of research of the route. Places I might want to see or stay. I identified a couple of &#8220;must stay&#8221; albergues for example. Other than booking my first few days accommodation though (2-3) my &#8220;plan&#8221; is a rough guide. It tells me how many days I will need and when to book my return flight! That&#8217;s the main point. You&#8217;ll see that in my planning videos.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>What Footwear do you use on the Camino de Santiago?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">We started off with Gortex lightweight boots. Loved those. But the added weight as we get older, was too much on our joints. Think of the weight of the boot like it&#8217;s swinging on a pendulum. A couple of physios in Spain told me to lose the boots, due to the weight. Even though they are lightweight boots. Hers were 760 gms. Her new trail runners are 520 gms.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">We now both wear trail runners. But we tried about 10 pairs and bought four different pairs to try them out. It&#8217;s hard picking footwear! And what suits one person may not suit another. For example, one of the most popular trail runners I tried and had to give away. It was like walking on cobbles with ballet shoes. But others love them. There are too many variables. Foot size and shape, body weight, existing foot and tendon issues and&#8230;age! As we age, so the natural cushioning in our feet can degrade, requiring more cushioned footwear.<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">So we now wear Hoka Trail Runners. But there are many many styles. I&#8217;ve tried them all I think. The only ones that work for us are the Stinson ATR 6. Now no long made. Each time they upgrade footwear, so the materials and shape can change, as in this case. Lucky we bought 3 spare pairs each! Been caught like that before&#8230;<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">I used them on my last Camino and was very happy with them. Except that after 600 kms they started to fall apart. Gaffer tape held them together for the remaining 600 kms! I&#8217;ll use them again (new pair)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">The only downside is that they are not waterproof.<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">Now a lot of people don&#8217;t like waterproof footwear, saying it leading to hot feet, that get wet from sweat and so causes blisters. We have never had a blister.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">On my last Camino, my feet did get wet one day. Walking in rain soaked grass. My socks were sodden within about 20 metres. I was not a happy teddy bear. I reckon if I had wet feet like that for 2-3 days in a row, I would get blisters.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">So, long story, sorry. I will try waterproof soaks for the wet days on our next Camino. My wife is probably going to buy some new Hoka shoes, now that they have a waterproof version. And we&#8217;ll go through all the headaches of fitting and trying them again.<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">Back to the question. No easy answer. Pick what feels right for you and your feet. I think I posted a video on <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/z42sdp7G38E\">blister prevention here<\/a>. Most important.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<h3 dir=\"auto\">What is a Good Pack weight for the Camino?<\/h3>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\n<div class=\"xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">A common view is that your pack should not weigh more than 10% of your body weight for the Camino.\u00a0 \u00a0(excluding food and water) I&#8217;m not sure I agree.\u00a0 I would say that this is a maximum, and your pack should be as light as possible.<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\n<p>I envy those who are able to carry heavier packs than me. In my youth I could, but not anymore. So for me, getting my pack weight really low is essential to avoid injury. Of course I could use luggage transfers, but I prefer not to. (1) The logistics can be a pain at times (2) Only the popular routes tend to have luggage transport, and I prefer less busy routes (3) Luggage transfer encourages me to take more gear. (4) Carrying all my own gear gives a great sense of freedom and total flexibility. I don&#8217;t &#8220;need&#8221; to reach a certain place, because that&#8217;s where my bag is waiting.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">\n<p>But the overriding reason I like to pack light and carry all my gear, is the lesson that it teaches me.<\/p>\n<p>That I need very little gear to be safe and comfortable. That some of the things I want to take, but don&#8217;t really need, merely represent my fear of the unknown. That in my day to day life I&#8217;m surrounded by &#8220;stuff&#8221; and clutter. That most of these things I can do without, and actually be happier, feel greater freedom and feel less burdened.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">So for me at least. Packing light and carrying all my gear is not just about the weight of the pack. It&#8217;s the sense of freedom, flexibility and realisation that I&#8217;m more than OK with less.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">As an aside. My pack weighs about 6.5 kg (plus food &amp; water) and my wife&#8217;s 4.5 kg.\u00a0 Both closer to 8% of bodyweight. We have all we need for a Camino of any distance. My last was 1200kms. Totally blister and injury free. But I know an extra 2-3 kgs has a big impact on my feet and joints. (a few age-related things). So we pack light. I wish it was lighter, but I carry a few medical things that I need and use daily along the way.\u00a0 \u00a0And we don&#8217;t get our packs transported.\u00a0 There&#8217;s no need, they&#8217;re not heavy!<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Do You Carry Your Poles on the Plane?<\/h3>\n<p>No. <span id=\"expander-container\" class=\"style-scope ytcp-comment\"><span id=\"expander\" class=\"style-scope ytcp-comment\"><span class=\"style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\">(1) I don&#8217;t risk carrying the poles on the plane. So many different security rules around the World it&#8217;s not worth the risk. I like my poles and don&#8217;t want to lose them. I had to throw them away at the airport once. Long story. The more likely scenario is having to &#8220;gate check&#8221; the poles and maybe getting an extra charge or risk them being damaged. (2) I use a 34 Litre pack which is carry on size. I could check it in, but prefer not to. There is 10 years of accumulated Camino gear in that pack, most of which can no longer be replaced. So I don&#8217;t want to lose that gear. Even having it delayed could delay my Camino start. So (3) That leaves me with the poles. I use a mailing tube to protect these, and also put into the tube my pocket knife, trowel, liquids and so on. The poles and other bits and <\/span> <span class=\"style-scope yt-formatted-string\" dir=\"auto\"> pieces I could replace and not ruin or delay my Camino. I hope that makes sense? I check in the poles, but not my pack. The pack if checked-in could get damaged too. It&#8217;s just my logic and how I do it. It&#8217;s about risk minimisation and having a worry free journey. Lots of people do as you suggest of course. Put the poles in the pack and check it in.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Camino de Santiago Glossary<\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>I&#8217;ll start a handy &#8216;glossary&#8217; here and move it to a dedicated page shortly. Feel free to ask what other terms mean.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Albergue<\/strong>. A low cost form of accommodation that usually provides a bed in a dormitory and washing facilities. Meals are also sometimes available.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Bocadillo<\/strong>. A Spanish &#8216;sandwich&#8217; that is made using bread like a &#8216;French&#8217; Stick.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Brierley<\/strong>. John Brierley is the author of some of the most popular Camino Guide Books.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Cafe con Leche<\/strong>. A white coffee. A staple diet it seems for Pilgrims.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Camino Angel<\/strong>, is a term that is frequently used by Pilgrims walking the Camino to describe a complete stranger who seems to appear at just the right time with just the right help that is required.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Casa Rural<\/strong>. Lower cost private accommodation along the lines of &#8216;bed and breakfast&#8217;. May be in someone&#8217;s house or a dedicated &#8216;small hotel&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Compostela<\/strong>. The &#8216;certificate&#8217; that is provided to the pilgrim on proving that they have walked at least 100 kms to get to Santiago. (200 kms for those on bicycles). It is issued at the Pilgrims Office.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Credential<\/strong>. The Pilgrim&#8217;s passport. In this are collected stamps or &#8216;Sellos&#8217; as proof of the Pilgrims journey. It is also required to gain access to Albergue accommodation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Donativo.<\/strong> A type of Albergue with no fixed fee, that relies on the Pilgrim to &#8216;donate&#8217; what they can. It does not mean Free! A &#8216;fair&#8217; donation should cover the cost of a bed and if provided, meals, based on what you might pay elsewhere.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Etapa.<\/strong> A &#8216;stage&#8217; of the walk, usually equating to a full days walking. Often these are &#8216;suggested&#8217; stages in guidebooks.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Hiking Poles<\/strong>. See walking poles.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Markers<\/strong>. Not so frequent in the more distant areas thankfully, but very frequent as you get closer to Santiago. They show the distance in kilometers from Santiago. (they are OK when they show 50 kms to go but a bit demoralising when the number is 650 kms !)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Menu del Dia<\/strong>. Menu of the Day. A &#8216;set&#8217; menu that is slightly better quality than the Pilgrims menu and may cost 2-3 Euros more.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Miam Miam Dodo<\/strong>. A useful French guidebook that provides a lot of accommodation details.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pilgrims Menu<\/strong>. A &#8216;set&#8217; low price menu from in cafes, hotels and bars. It will normally provide 3 courses with a drink for approximately 10 Euros. (as at 2016). It provides simple wholesome food and is good value.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Refugio<\/strong>. Another term for an Albergue<\/p>\n<p><strong>Rain Gear. <\/strong>Two main alternatives are popular. A &#8216;cover all&#8217; poncho or waterproof rain pants and jacket.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Sello.<\/strong> This is the stamp that is obtained along the way as proof of the Pilgrims journey. They are available in many places such as Albergues, Hotels, Bars, Cafes, Shops, Churches. Most &#8216;businesses&#8217; along the Camino seem to have them.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Senda<\/strong>. A man made track, usually fine gravel, that provides a path for Pilgrims to walk on.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Tortilla<\/strong>. A thick omelette usually made with egg and potato. Cafes and bars will often sell these in slices.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Walking Poles<\/strong>. An aid for waking that takes weight and pressure off the lower limbs and back. Most would say that two poles should be used rather than one.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row custom_padding_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;row&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;|150px||150px&#8221; custom_padding_tablet=&#8221;|70px||70px&#8221; custom_padding_phone=&#8221;50px|30px||30px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_comments _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Georgia||||||||&#8221; header_font_size_tablet=&#8221;51&#8243; header_line_height_tablet=&#8221;2&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; button_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221; button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=&#8221;off&#8221;]&nbsp;<br \/>\n[\/et_pb_comments][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Frequently Asked Camino de Santiago QuestionsSome Common Questions about the Camino de Santiago I&#8217;ll jot down a few obvious Camino questions here and then add to and edit the answers over time&#8230; Note. These are based on my Caminos of 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2023 and the questions I get here and on YouTube. &nbsp; [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"I'll jot down a few obvious Camino questions here and then I'll answer these questions gradually at the end of my Camino...\r\n\r\nNote.  I will keep adding to this list in the coming months\/years.....\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li><strong>Would you do this again?  No.  (well...probably not) <\/strong>That might sound strange, as many people walk multiple Caminos.  But I specifically walked this as a 'Pilgrimage' on which I was seeking specific answers and experiences.  And all of my expectations were met.  I feel blessed that my Camino was such a personal success and I now want to take my Camino lessons forward into my life.  I don't want to keep going back to School....  (But I did in 2016 and will again in 2018.  I just miss the experience too much)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>What would you do differently?  Nothing.<\/strong>  If I was to do it again :-)   Though I might skip the Sarria to Santiago section, or walk a different final 100 to avoid the crowds.  that section just had such a different feeling that I didn't enjoy as much.  (I did that section again in 2016)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Would you use different gear?  No<\/strong>.  I researched and tested my gear for 18 months.  It all worked really well.  But I would take less stuff. (A lot less. Aiming for 7KG all up)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Would you transport your luggage again?  Probably not.<\/strong>  I only did so out of necessity and it became a bit of a logistics headache.  But I would travel lighter anyway.  (I had to transport my gear again in 2016 as the injury is now permanent, but will try to carry all my gear in 2018)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Would you walk alone again?  Yes<\/strong>.  If I wanted a true 'Pilgrimage' experience.   Though if I ever walk the route again, I might do  so with Pat my wife in a more 'tourist' mode, picking specific sections only.  (we did in 2016 and will again in 2018)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Would you walk the final hundred from <em>Sarria<\/em> again?  I don't think so.  <\/strong>Parts of it were very pretty, but it just felt too much like a Circus.  It felt like very few people on that section were actually walking a Pilgrimage, but were rather using the 'route' as a convenient hiking or cycling path.   Though I do explore these thoughts in more depth in the blog!  It's not that simple, and we need to accept that everyone walks their own Camino in different ways.  (But I did in 2016)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>What were the best parts of your <em>Camino<\/em>?   That's tough.  <\/strong>In terms of geography the early stages out of St Jean to Burgos.  Emotionally and Spiritually the 2nd and 3rd weeks.   And each time the Camino 'taught' me a valuable lesson.....  Which was a daily occurrence!<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>What were the most memorable moments?  <\/strong>The peaceful walk virtually alone down the Pyrenees to Roncesvalles.  The emotional 'high' walking out of Granon listening to music. Those little moments of giving and receiving support amongst fellow Pilgrims.  Meeting 'David' en route to Astorga. Leaving my Stone at the Cruz de Ferro. A hand on my shoulder and a 'Well Done - God Bless You' from a Priest friend who was surprised I had made it thus far, (his timing was perfect), those times of true 'connection' with my surroundings,  numerous conversations with fellow Pilgrims, and some magical moments of Spirituality that I might share later.....  (I have.  See the stories tab)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Did you 'find' Santiago?  Yes<\/strong>.  In weeks 2 and 3.  Whilst I found the 'city' of Santiago at the end of my Camino, 'he' wasn't there for me.   We had worked out our 'stuff' together long before Santiago.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Did you discover faith?  Yes.  <\/strong>But not in a 'traditional' going to Church on Sundays sense.   I built on the foundations of spirituality that I already had to find that I did not need Churches or formal rituals to practice my 'faith', for it was already all around me and within me.  I just needed to open the door to it and embrace it.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Did the Camino meet your expectations?  Yes, Yes, Yes<\/strong>.   Ten times over.  Which is partly why I don't feel I want to do it again.  My Camino from here is to practice what I learnt, not to keep trying to learn more of the same. ( I now feel I want to walk it every year, whilst I am able.  Maybe different routes)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Do you need to be 'Super Fit' to walk the Camino?  No.  <\/strong>I was not fit.  I was 57, and 10 kg overweight. I met people of 80 years of age, and people who were even more overweight.  Being healthier and fitter certainly helps though!  But no need to go crazy.  Regular walking and building improved all round fitness is fine.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Was Your Pre Camino Training Adequate?  Yes and No.  <\/strong>I actually ramped up my training 3 months out from my Camino.  From walking 5-7 kms twice a week, to about 7-10 kms per day.  Sometimes 14.   That increase was too rapid and caused injury (Achilles Tendonitis).  (Also I did too much road walking) The best thing I could have done would have been to lose weight!  I was about 10 kg overweight, which probably caused the injury in the first place...  I think some fairly broad fitness and walking training is more than enough.  Make sure you wear your Camino boots\/shoes and a light pack, and build up slowly.  I actually used the first week on the Camino as training.  And it worked.  I started at 8kms and built up to 20 kms over 5-6 days.  (I used that slow build up during the first few days of the Camino with Pat in 2016 and again it worked well)<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Did you get Blisters?  No.  <\/strong>Well not exactly... I got one tiny one that I thought was just my normal foot pain from Tendonitis.  I fixed it overnight with a needle and thread.  I avoided blisters by following all the advice from previous Pilgrims. Well fitting and worn in boots\/shoes.  Double socks.  Vaseline on my feet.  Aired my feet every two hours.  Fixed any hot spots as soon as I felt them.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>What if I'm not a 'Social' person?<\/strong>   No Problem.  I'm not really.  I prefer company in ones and twos or small groups.  I avoided the 'party' atmosphere that you come across occasionally. And actually I walked alone most of the time.  If you want to be alone, you can be.  If you want to socialise more, you can.  If you feel awkward making friends normally, you'll find it easy.  They will find you.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>How do you maintain the inner calm and peace that you attained whilst walking?  <\/strong>I recently shared the story of my journey at a business conference and was asked this by one of the guests.  I think it comes down to this.  Remember the feelings and emotions you felt, at those most joyous moments of your Camino.  Really feel them and reflect on them.  And try to replay them in whatever you are doing now.  So for example now, I rarely have a 'bad day'.  Because I know to just look for the positive things that are happening and not to focus on just the negative.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Is Walking Alone or with a 'Partner' Better?<\/strong>   This is a tough call.  I've done both now and both have their positives and negatives.  I wrote a story about it here.  <a href=\"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2015\/walking-with-my-wife-could-have-been-a-mistake\/\" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2015\/walking-with-my-wife-could-have-been-a-mistake\/<\/a>  I would like to do both again.  alone and with Pat.<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\nFeel free to add more questions as comments below and I'll do my best to add them to the list here and answer them.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\r\n<h2>Camino Glossary<\/h2>\r\nI'll start a handy 'glossary' here and move it to a dedicated page shortly.  Feel free to ask what other terms mean.\r\n\r\n<strong>Albergue<\/strong>. A low cost form of accommodation that usually provides a bed in a dormitory and washing facilities. Meals are also sometimes available.\r\n\r\n<strong>Bocadillo<\/strong>. A Spanish 'sandwich' that is made using bread like a 'French' Stick.\r\n\r\n<strong>Brierley<\/strong>. John Brierley is the author of some of the most popular Camino Guide Books.\r\n\r\n<strong>Cafe con Leche<\/strong>. A white coffee. A staple diet it seems for Pilgrims.\r\n\r\n<strong>Camino Angel<\/strong>,  is a term that is frequently used by Pilgrims walking the Camino to describe a complete stranger who seems to appear at just the right time with just the right help that is required.\r\n\r\n<strong>Casa Rural<\/strong>. Lower cost private accommodation along the lines of 'bed and breakfast'. May be in someone's house or a dedicated 'small hotel'.\r\n\r\n<strong>Compostela<\/strong>. The 'certificate' that is provided to the pilgrim on proving that they have walked at least 100 kms to get to Santiago. (200 kms for those on bicycles). It is issued at the Pilgrims Office.\r\n\r\n<strong>Credential<\/strong>. The Pilgrim's passport. In this are collected stamps or 'Sellos' as proof of the Pilgrims journey. It is also required to gain access to Albergue accommodation.\r\n\r\n<strong>Donativo.<\/strong>  A type of Albergue with no fixed fee, that relies on the Pilgrim to 'donate' what they can.  It does not mean Free! A 'fair' donation should cover the cost of a bed and if provided, meals, based on what you might pay elsewhere.\r\n\r\n<strong>Etapa.<\/strong> A 'stage' of the walk, usually equating to a full days walking. Often these are 'suggested' stages in guidebooks.\r\n\r\n<strong>Hiking Poles<\/strong>. See walking poles.\r\n\r\n<strong>Markers<\/strong>. Not so frequent in the more distant areas thankfully, but very frequent as you get closer to Santiago. They show the distance in kilometers from Santiago.  (they are OK when they show 50 kms to go but a bit demoralising when the number is 650 kms !)\r\n\r\n<strong>Menu del Dia<\/strong>.  Menu of the Day.  A 'set' menu that is slightly better quality than the Pilgrims menu and may cost 2-3 Euros more.\r\n\r\n<strong>Miam Miam Dodo<\/strong>. A useful French guidebook that provides a lot of accommodation details.\r\n\r\n<strong>Pilgrims Menu<\/strong>.  A 'set' low price menu from in cafes, hotels and bars.  It will normally provide 3 courses with a drink for approximately 10 Euros. (as at 2016).  It provides simple wholesome food and is good value.\r\n\r\n<strong>Refugio<\/strong>. Another term for an Albergue\r\n\r\n<strong>Rain Gear. <\/strong>Two main alternatives are popular. A 'cover all' poncho or waterproof rain pants and jacket.\r\n\r\n<strong>Sello.<\/strong> This is the stamp that is obtained along the way as proof of the Pilgrims journey. They are available in many places such as Albergues, Hotels, Bars, Cafes, Shops, Churches. Most 'businesses' along the Camino seem to have them.\r\n\r\n<strong>Senda<\/strong>. A man made track, usually fine gravel, that provides a path for Pilgrims to walk on.\r\n\r\n<strong>Tortilla<\/strong>. A thick omelette usually made with egg and potato. Cafes and bars will often sell these in slices.\r\n\r\n<strong>Walking Poles<\/strong>. An aid for waking that takes weight and pressure off the lower limbs and back. Most would say that two poles should be used rather than one.","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-91","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/91","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=91"}],"version-history":[{"count":32,"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/91\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5749,"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/91\/revisions\/5749"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/robscamino.com\/2018\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=91"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}