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Walking holiday - Camino essentials
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items In 2023 I walked the full Camino de Frances with my husband. We travelled light. Here is a list of what we used all the time, or what we wished we had. We are already planning our next big walk.
We were lucky and did not have a lot of rainy days, but one thing that I would suggest you avoid, is a cheap rain poncho. It just does not work when it is windy. I felt like a packet of crisps! Rather invest in a light weight rain jacket and add rain...
Antora rain jacket
I use sunscreen on my face everyday, regardless of the time of year. This one is my favourite because it is light and does not feel greasy at all.
Ultra-Light Daily Facial Sunscreen UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++
When you walk all day, the right socks are as important as the right shoes. I had 6 pairs of these and never got a blister. Black is the most practical color for me and the Bamboo means they are comfortable and not too hot.
Bamboo Ankle Socks
My husband and I each had a day pack and a waterproof one is really handy, not only for rain, but also to avoid getting wet from sweat off your back.
Ozark Trail 15L Waterproof Backpack
These are so versatile, we used them all the time. Soak it, wring it, and cool down in seconds. Or use dry, as a scarf for chilly mornings. These also provide UPF 50 protection, blocking damaging UVA and UVB rays. (Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foun...
Scarf for cooling and sun protection
Two pants for the price of one - you can convert these into shorts! Also loved the pockets. I carried my phone with me all the time while walking, so it was in easy reach for taking a quick photo along the way. Also very easy to wash and dry, so I go...
Quick Dry Zip Off Convertible Hiking Pants
This was also one of our most used items. You can easily fold this into your back pack when not needed. Light, quick drying and versatile, as you can role up the neck flap if not needed. The mesh panels on the side are also great to keep you cool. Easy to wash, so it got used daily.
Sun Hat with neck flap and side mesh panels
On our last walk, I did not use any, but if I do ever get hiking poles, I will get these - foldable, adjustable and lightweight. Good for walking down hill, which I found the most challenging. Some people walked with poles the whole time, even on even street surfaces. If you can fold them and pack them away, it is easier to just use them for tricky terrain.
Ozark Trail Hiking Poles
I use lip balm every day regardless, but when walking long hours in sunny and/or windy conditions, you absolutely need to have this in your pocket. This was a life saver and I love that it is factor 30.
Blistex Lip Protectant/Sunscreen, SPF 30
I always put my glasses up on my head, so need a pair that can bend a little and not get tangled in my hair. These are very robust and are comfortable to wear for long periods. Comes with a handy pouch and cleaning cloth.
Sport Sunglasses Anti-Glare
If you are going to walk in the rain all day, I suggest a pair of rain pants. Although these are for men, I bought the smallest size. They are great for wearing over another layer and unzip at the bottom so you can take them off without taking your s...
Antora Rain Pants
Don't go anywhere without one of these. These are alcohol free, so kind to your skin and don't dry out your hands. They are also a handy travel size and we always had one in our bag.
Hand Sanitizer (3pack) Alcohol Free FOAM