Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a minimalist? Well, life on the Camino is a good place to start.
Throughout my 36-day Camino Frances journey in the Fall of 2024, I learned many valuable lessons about ultralight packing, especially when fitting everything into a compact 24L backpack.
This choice made the difference between an enjoyable, manageable pilgrimage and a potentially arduous one.
Subsequently, I’ll share my experience with the USWE 24L backpack, packing strategies including a list, and post-Camino insights.
important considerations before choosing your ultralight backpack
When exploring gear selection for the Camino, you will notice a spectrum of gear alternatives across various price points, from backpacks to shower towels. Ultimately, the key is to find gear that balances your preferences, needs, and budget.
- First, decide what route you will take and in what season you will go; the decision made will help you narrow down your gear choices.
- When researching backpacks, seek advice from someone with a similar body frame and weight; this strategy saved me hours of research.
- Read reviews: But, learn to distinguish quality from preference. Remember to look for comments about durability, functionality, and performance separately from opinions on style, comfort, or taste because the latter is subjective.
- A good rule of thumb is to visit your local backpacking retailers and try on gear and test products. I understand that some stores like REI will help you choose a pack that is right for you. (I did not do this)
- Always Look for a store with a good return policy.
- Think about investing in quality where it matters most while carefully considering other cost-effective options without compromising quality and durability.
13 things to look out for when choosing your backpack
Selecting the right backpack for the Camino can be complicated, with opinions as numerous as the pilgrims walking the trail. Your decision needs to balance comfort, budget, and practical functionality. There may be a significant financial investment when purchasing your pack.
- Fit: Does the backpack fit your body? It is essential to have a pack that fits you well. The back should feel like an extension of you. Remember that you will carry this on your back, day in and day out.
- Weight: Some ultralights weigh under two pounds!
- Weight capacity: Can the bag accomodate more if needed? But remember the larger the bag, the more stuff you will put in it.
- Good Ventilation: Less perspiration getting trapped on your back means a more comfortable walk.
- Padded: For comfort
- Internal Frame: Although heavier, these are the most common on the Camino.
- Adjustable: Does it adjust enough for your frame?
- Good access points: Can you easily reach your water bottle or rain gear?
- Waterproof or rain cover: There will be rain in Northern Spain! Some packs are waterproof, while others contain a dry bag. Another popular option is a rain cover. My poncho was perfect for keeping my gear and me dry.
- Chest strap/harness: For balance and comfort.
- Hip belt: Some hip belts are removable, and some have extra compartments for gear that you can easily access.
- Hidden pockets: For documents or valuables.
- Walking stick carrier: It provides hands-free moments, protection from damage, and the peace of mind of knowing where your sticks are. It also prevents you from accidentally leaving them behind. Halfway through my journey, my poles were stolen; I left them by the cafe door while I sat at the counter having a cafe con leche.
My perfect backpack choice: uswe 25l hajker rolltop
Given the significant investment and potential overwhelm, I strategically sought advice from someone who shared my physical characteristics. As a 5’2″115-lb woman, finding a pack that fits my frame and functions well for my needs was crucial.
Laney from a YouTube channel called “Days We Spend” inspired me to try the frameless pack, which exceeded my expectations! Women’s Camino de Santiago Packing List: Camino Frances (ULTRALIGHT).
key features
- No Dancing Monkey (NDM) is an innovative design harness technology.
- Customizable fit: Velcro system for height adjustment
- Lightweight
- Stable, hugged my body
- Waterproofed main compartment
- Roll-top closure
- Removable waist pack.
Lightweight backpack contents
The packing list emerged through a meticulous process of trial and error. I refined each item with surgical precision over months of deliberate packing, unpacking, and precision weighing. In this ultralight game, every ounce counts. Every piece that didn’t meet my strict weight and functionality criteria was ruthlessly eliminated or replaced.
- 16 oz water bottle
- 2 pairs of lightweight cargo pants
- 1- lightweight cargo short
- 2-long sleeve, lightweight Marino wool hoodies
- 1-Marino wool spaghetti strap undershirt (used as a bra)
- 1- lightweight undershirt- to change and to sleep in
- 2- pairs of socks: double-lined
- Poncho:
- Lightweight down jacket with hood
- First aid kit
- Sleep mask
- Satin bed liner
- Lightweight airplane blanket
- Bluetooth earbuds ( for the flight)
- Urine cloth
- Buff
- Hat
- Shower shoes
- Wet wipes
- 2-towels: lightweight quick-dry
- Ear plugs (silicone)
- Ultra-lightweight foldable backpack: to carry groceries
- Whistle for safety, to alert others to danger, or call for help
Read details about ultralight clothing choices
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ultralight hip bag
A good way to keep your backpack at ultralight weight is to carry a hip bag. This practical safety and organizational tool became my security hub, and it helped keep my backpack ultralight. I chose a discreet design with various compartments, water resistance, and RFID blocking. I slept with it, always keeping it close by. In it, I housed my:
- Smartphone
- Pilgrim passport
- Country passport/ID
- Credit card/cash
- Chapstick
- Hand Sanitizer
- Headphones
- Celtic salt (for hydration)
Ultralight Toiletry bag
Choose a lightweight, water-resistant bag with a hanging hook.
- Mini shampoo and conditioner bars
- Travel toothbrush
- Toothpaste tablets
- Travel comb
- Compact mirror
- Tweezers
- Nail clippers
- Eyeliner
- Deodorant wipes
- Face wipes
ultralight FIRST AID KIT
I stored my first aid kit in the side pocket of my backpack’s removable hip belt. I packed a few products, planning to repurchase them once I ran out.
- 2 bandaids
- Antiseptic wipes
- Bee sting ointment
- Blister bandaids
- Aspirin/Ibuprofen/Excedrin Migraine
My systematic approach of weighing each item carefully, opting for lightweight alternatives, and prioritizing multi-purpose items was a challenging process, especially distinguishing between essentials and wants, but in the end, it was a success!
Ultralight but wise, flexible, and willing to adjust and prioritize comfort.
Gear and Packing for the Camino are highly individual processes, and your needs will differ from those of other pilgrims. Trust your instincts about what is essential and what you want. Consider what can be purchased on the Camino and what can be donated or discarded if unnecessary. Don’t overthink it, and adapt your strategy as you go along.
- Schedule at least one practice walk with all your gear on. My practice walk was 11 miles, and it rained!
- Decide on what you “need v/s what you “want.” Your needs, for example, are perhaps medication, a water bottle, and a toothbrush. Your “want” may be a shower cap or a book. Remember, every ounce counts!
- Approach your backpack selection as a strategic investment in your Camino experience and prioritize quality and fit over cost.
marking your pack
Loads of popular backpacks on the Camino make for accidental swaps. So, having a strategy to make your backpack recognizable and distinguishable is important.
- Try adding unique markings
- Look for a personalized name tag with your contact information
- Add uncommon and unique patches
“Less is more” is a valuable principle when walking the Camino, but flexibility is equally important. My experience taught me that while starting with minimal weight is ideal, adapting your packing strategy as you progress is essential for comfort and well-being.
As I walked, I added a cozy pajama set for better rest, two extra-lightweight T-shirts, a beanie, gloves for temperature fluctuations, and full-size hair care products. By Leon, my body had acclimated to daily walking, making it possible to carry these additions without compromising the ultralight principles.
While ultralight packing in a 24L backpack is achievable, the real-world adaptations made my journey more enjoyable. Stay open to adjusting your pack as your needs evolve on this transformative pilgrimage.
How about you?
Do you have ideas about a Camino packing strategy? Is ultralight packing right for you? Which ideas do you find helpful?