The Camino de Santiago is a 790km pilgrimage route that runs across the northern part of Spain. It is an extremely popular route to make, having been the focus of several documentaries and even a movie in the past few years, and people from all over the world come to walk the trails. However, making the pilgrimage can be tough and you need to have a plan in place in order to last. Here’s our tips on how to get through the Camino de Santiago.
Do it your way
Taking on such a huge event such as the Camino de Santiago is no small feat. As it is the most popular route for people who are seeking more out of their lives, the Camino offers many options for every kind of traveller. It’s very important that you do the Camino your way. That is, if you want to stay in a hostel along the way, go for it. But if you need the creature comforts offered to you by hotels, then don’t hesitate to use them. This is your Camino, so let you be you.
Pace yourself
There’s a lot of pressure and expectation for you to keep up with others around you when you walk the Camino de Santiago, but everyone goes at their own pace. What you need to remember is that there is no right or wrong way to do the Camino. It will usually take a month to finish, but if you take longer, then that’s fine. If you push yourself to keep up with others, you will cause all sorts of issues that might prevent you from being able to finish. Go at your own pace and finish with strength.
Pack for every situation
The Camino is a long walk, and there’s many situations you can find yourself in. In summer, the middle regions of the walk are hot and dry, but some areas in Spain feature very unpredictable weather. By packing accordingly, you’ll be prepared no matter what the weather. Also, be sure to pack a footwear alternative that you can wear when your sneakers or hiking boots are giving you too much pain.
Get your stamps
Part of the whole appeal of the Camino de Santiago is that by the end of it, you’ve made a pilgrimage that has changed the lives of many people. At the start of the pilgrimage you will be given a passport, which allows you to collect stamps along the way. In order to receive the certificate at the end of the pilgrimage you need to collect the stamps in every town you visit, so be sure that you don’t forget.
The Camino de Santiago is an amazing experience and making the pilgrimage will enable you to discover Spain and, most importantly, yourself. The pilgrimage is a month long adventure, so planning for everything along the way is a must-do. We have provided you with the most important tips for doing the Camino de Santiago in order for you to be prepared and successful in your journey.