How to Manage Shaving and Haircuts on the Camino
One of the more practical questions I received recently was from Peter, asking about maintaining personal grooming—specifically shaving and haircuts—while walking the Camino. It’s a great question, and one that’s particularly relevant for the guys out there. Here’s my take on it, based on my own experiences.
To be honest, I don’t worry too much about shaving or haircuts while on the Camino. It’s a time to relax and not stress about daily appearances. You might worry about looking a bit unkempt, but honestly, most pilgrims aren’t too concerned with their looks.
During my first Camino in 2015, I decided to let go of my usual routine. As someone with a military background, I was used to shaving daily. But halfway through the journey, I thought, “Why not try growing a beard?” It was a liberating experience to not worry about looking clean-cut every day. I ditched my razor, and by the end of the journey, I had a decent beard—one I’ve kept ever since.
For those who prefer to shave, I recommend carrying a lightweight disposable razor and a small bottle of shaving oil. It’s a compact and efficient solution that spares you from lugging around shaving creams or foams.
As for haircuts, I tend not to bother much. However, if you’re keen on maintaining a neat appearance, barber shops are available along the route. I’ve had haircuts in various towns like León and Salamanca. My approach before starting the Camino is to get a really short haircut—think a number six clipper all over and a level one trim for the beard. This usually lasts me a couple of months and requires minimal upkeep.
In summary, don’t stress too much about grooming while on the Camino. Embrace the freedom to let go a bit. But if you do feel the need to tidy up, know that there are options available. Thanks for the great question, and happy walking!
Hi Rob, I am wondering how you put together your hydration bottles; primarily looking for the cap and tubing for the bottle, and then was there a particular brand of bottle that you chose, and why it? Where did you find the bits and pieces to make it. I am planning on either rigging up one bottle (or maybe two?) on the shoulder strap(s), or to have the large 1 litre bottle in the pocket with a long hose attached.
I too live in Australia / Sydney, so hopefully rigging this up won’t be too difficult. Thanks. Caprice
Hi Caprice.
I use single use plastic bottles (but re-use them) as they are ultra light weight. There is some concern these days about doing that though. So in future I might replace them once a week or something.
So the drinking tube and cap arrangement, needs to fit ‘regular’ store bought drinking bottles. Most come with 2 or 3 different caps sizes.
I got mine on Amazon. This is the one I have. Shop around online and see what you can find. I have a few different ones. This doesn’t have a very nice bite valve on it, but those are easily replaced. (I carry a spare bite valve)
https://www.amazon.com.au/Blue-Desert-SmarTube-Hydration-System/dp/B000GM6LWS
I’m almost tempted to do without the tube to save weight. But it’s nice to have. Without the tube I have to unclip the bottle all the time.