Tips for First-Time Pilgrims

Mistakes to avoid and insider advice

Mario Picoas

5/8/20254 min read

Tips for First-Time Pilgrims: Mistakes to Avoid and Insider Advice

Walking the Camino de Santiago for the first time is a once in a lifetime experience (or hopefully more than once!), but it can also be simple to make mistakes that can take your pilgrimage from enlightening to exhausting. The good news is that once you prepare yourself mentally and physically, you can mitigate common mistakes to have an amazing and better journey. Here is a list of advice and essential gear that can help you to walk your best Camino.

Travel Light-Your Back Will Thank You

One of the most common mistakes new pilgrims make is packing too much. You’ll be walking long distances every day, and every extra item in your backpack will feel heavier as the days go by. Aim to keep your pack under 10% of your body weight. Focus on essentials: two sets of comfortable, quick-drying clothes, a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, a small towel, and a basic first aid kit.

A supportive, lightweight backpack is essential. Look for one with a comfortable hip belt, adjustable straps, and plenty of pockets for easy access. A packable rain poncho is also a smart investment, as it can cover both you and your backpack during sudden downpours.

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Break in Your Shoes and Train Before You Go

Blisters and sore feet are the biggest complaints among pilgrims. Never start your Camino with brand-new shoes. Instead, spend weeks breaking them in with long walks on varied terrain. Wear the same socks you plan to use on the Camino, and test your shoes on both pavement and trails.

Start training at least a month before your trip. Gradually increase your daily walking distance, and practice carrying your fully loaded pack. This will help you build endurance and identify any discomfort before it becomes a problem.

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Plan, But Don’t Overdo It

It’s smart to research your route, stages, and accommodation options, but don’t over-plan. Book your first night’s stay, then let the journey unfold. Most municipal albergues operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early increases your chances of getting a bed.

Consider stopping a little before or after the “classic” stage ends. This can help you avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter, more relaxed experience.

Insider Tip:
Consider stopping one town before or after the “classic” stage (etapa) ends to avoid crowds and enjoy quieter accommodations. Also, as you draw closer to Santiago de Compostela, you will encounter many more pilgrims walking the last 100k. Due to this, it's advisable to book your albergue in advance!

Listen to Your Body-Pace Yourself

The Camino is not a competition. The risk of injury and burning out can happen if you push yourself too hard. Take each day slow, build in rest breaks, and don't be afraid to adjust a stage or take a rest day if necessary. Stretch before and after walking and listen to your body when it comes to pain or discomfort. If you are in need of medical assistance, get it immediately- most towns have pharmacies that specialize in treating pilgrims.

Trekking poles can help reduce joint stress and make steep or uneven sections easier. And always have blister treatment on hand-hot spots can quickly become painful blisters if ignored.

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Prepare for All Weather

The weather on the Camino can change quickly, especially in spring and fall. A good rain jacket or poncho, a sun hat, and sunglasses are must-haves. Layer your clothing so you can adjust to chilly mornings and hot afternoons. Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal.

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Stay Hydrated and Well-Fed

Neglecting nutrition and hydration is a common mistake. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at fountains along the way. Eat balanced meals and keep snacks like nuts or energy bars handy for long stretches between towns.

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Embrace the Spirit of the Camino

The Camino is as much about the people you meet and the journey within as it is about reaching Santiago. Greet fellow pilgrims, share stories, and be open to spontaneous detours or rest days. Let go of expectations and walk your own Camino-there’s no single “right” way to do it.

Rising early to catch the sunrise and avoid the midday heat is a popular strategy. A lightweight guidebook or offline map app can help with navigation and provide useful tips along the way.

Insider Advice:

  • Rise early to catch the sunrise and avoid the midday heat.

  • Use a lightweight guidebook or download an offline map app for navigation and tips.

Essential Extras

A quick-dry towel is handy for hostels and albergues. Flip-flops are great for showers and relaxing at the end of the day. A headlamp is useful for early starts or late arrivals. Don’t forget your pilgrim passport (credencial), which is required for staying in albergues and collecting stamps.

  • Quick-dry towel: For hostels and albergues.

  • Flip-flops: For showers and relaxing at the end of the day.

  • Headlamp: For early starts or late arrivals.

  • Pilgrim passport (credencial): Required for staying in albergues and collecting stamps.

Conclusion: Make Your Camino Unforgettable

Your first Camino de Santiago will certainly come with challenges, surprises, and moments of joy. By avoiding common mistakes — overpacking, undertraining, overdoing it, and failing to take care of yourself along the way — you should feel good about taking full advantage of the Camino experience as it comes. Invest in a few good essentials, train your body and mind, and remember: the Camino is your Camino. Walk your walk and let each day happen as it happens.

¡Buen Camino!

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