The Ultimate Minimalist Solo Women’s Camino de Santiago Packing List

Calling all solo female pilgrims embarking on the epic Camino de Santiago! Get ready to embrace the ultimate minimalist adventure. Packing light isn’t just a practical necessity; it’s a liberating experience that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the journey without being weighed down by unnecessary baggage (both literal and metaphorical!) Imagine the freedom of carrying everything you need on your back, unburdened by excess possessions. With each step, you’ll feel lighter, more connected to the present moment, and more attuned to the beauty that surrounds you. Minimalist packing is the key to unlocking a truly transformative Camino experience. So, let’s ditch the overstuffed backpack and embrace the art of traveling light. Trust me, your body (and your soul) will thank you for it. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey, where every ounce counts and every item serves a purpose or two. Embrace the minimalist mindset, and let the Camino de Santiago reveal its magic to you in the most authentic way possible. I will include links (coming soon) to my favorite gear (items I actually USE and LOVE.)  *At the very bottom of the article, I will put the clean list with links (coming soon) but no commentary.  FOR THE BACKPACKING LIST GO HERE.

Let’s get packing!

“When I walk, I have an empty, happy heart, and I see things.” ~ Maria Kalmein

The Perfect Backpack

Investing in a high-quality, lightweight backpack is essential. Look for one with a capacity of 25-40 liters, a comfortable hip belt, and a breathable back panel. Some recommended options include the Osprey Sirrus or Tempest 24, the Osprey Eja 38, or the Gregory Jade 28 or 38. I used the Osprey Mira ag 34, and loved it.  It is not in production anymore (as of this date) but you can find it on discount sites and ebay. I use the Osprey Eja 38 for both backpacking, and Camino style treks (hostel to hostel or hut to hut.)

Don’t forget a waterproof pack cover! Some Osprey packs come with a detachable rain cover. Aim for a pack that is under 3 lbs.

Packing Cubes or Compression Stuff Sacks

Packing cubes are a game-changer for many staying organized on the trail. They help compress your belongings and make it easier to find what you need without rummaging through your entire pack. I prefer stuff sacks. I chose several sizes of ultra-light compression stuff sacks by Sea to Summit. I may try the cubes next time; I’ll let you know if I do, and what I think. 

Lightweight Sleeping Bag and/or Liner

While many Albergues provide blankets, a lightweight sleeping quilt or silk liner can add an extra layer of warmth and cleanliness. This is my FAVORITE featherweight sleeping quilt: Get Out Gear down blanket. This year I brought the down blanket and a 100% silk liner.

Trekking Poles

Invest in a pair of lightweight, adjustable trekking poles to reduce the impact on your knees and improve stability on uneven terrain. I use them mostly because I like my arms to do some work; otherwise they get bored. I buy them when I get there. They were 17 euros in 2024 at Decathlon. After the trip, I leave them at an Albergue “free box” in Santiago or Casa Ivar.

Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder

Stay hydrated by carrying at least two water bottles or a hydration bladder with a capacity of 2-3 liters. I take two 1 liter compressible water bottles that sit at my side, and crush down for air travel. There are many places to fill water. I do not like, nor have I ever used a bladder for a backpacking or camino trip. On the rare occasion that I would need more than 2 liters, I have another lightweight 3 liter water bag that lives in the bottom of my backpack. To be honest, I didn’t use it once!

Trail Runners

Your feet are your most valuable assets on the Camino, so invest in a good pair of lightweight trail runners. (I wear the Altra Timp, but many pilgrims choose Altra Lone Peak, which is lighter than the Timp … or the Hoka brand.) Look for a breathable option with good traction. Do not get waterproof footwear; trust me, your feet need to breathe. Pilgrims who choose traditional hiking boots often end up switching out for a lighter option. I also bring a barefoot type sandal like the EARTH RUNNER. They weigh next to nothing and I often hike in them. 

Hiking Socks

Pack two or three pairs of high-quality, moisture-wicking hiking socks to prevent blisters and keep your feet dry and comfortable. I take two pairs of toe socks: one coolmax, one wool and wash/rotate them daily. Creepers or coolmax toe socks.

Base Layers

One merino wool or quick dry short sleeve ( I use Smartwool or Icebreaker.) One wool tank top (Smartwool, Icebreaker, or wooly.) One jog bra ( I love THIS ONE!) Mostly I go braless (tiny boobs.) Two or three pairs of underwear. I take two, as the liner in my shorts is my third. I love THESE (synthetic) and THESE

Hiking Pants and Shorts

One pair of lightweight, quick-drying hiking pants, and shorts (with built-in liner.) I wear the REI quick dry active pursuits tech pants.

Insulating Layers

A lightweight, packable down jacket and fleece to keep you warm during chilly mornings or evenings. I had several mornings and evenings of having ALL my clothing on, including my rain jacket for warmth. I use Marmot polartec Olden fleece with thumb holes, and a Mountain Hardwear light down puffy. Wool beanie, water resistant gloves.

Rain Jacket

A waterproof, breathable (Goretex) rain jacket is essential for protecting you from the elements. Look for one with pit zips for ventilation and a hood that can fit over a baseball cap. I love my Outdoor Research Aspire.

Sun Protection

Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen. (I don’t wear a hat or use sunscreen, so that saves weight for me.) I put on my white/tan linen shirt if the sun is too much.

Sleepwear

A lightweight, moisture-wicking sleepwear set or a quick-drying tank and shorts will keep you comfortable at night. Unless it’s cold, of course, and then you just pile on your clothes. Personally, I bring one soft bamboo t-shirt, and sleep in my hiking shorts, or linen town pants. I do laundry EVERY DAY that I can. 

Casual Clothes

*  OPTIONAL: Pack one set of casual, lightweight clothes for evenings in towns or Albergues (pilgrim hostels). I bring linen pants and a linen button shirt that doubles as a breezy sun shirt if needed. I also bring a lightweight scarf/pashmina to dress up anything.

Blister Treatment

Bring moleskin, blister bandages, and antiseptic wipes to treat any hot spots or blisters that may develop. This is a very personal list, and I pick up what I need as I need it.  There are Farmacias in nearly every town. Remember, the Camino corridor CATERS to pilgrims; it’s their whole economy. I got only ONE blister on the end of one toe from wearing slightly too tight running shoes. I upsized as soon as I could.  I also wear toe socks and often (very often) walk only in barefoot sandals. I’m not the barefoot chica for nothing.

Toiletries/First Aid

Again, this is very personal. Pack travel-sized, multi-purpose items like biodegradable soap, a quick-drying towel, and a menstrual cup or feminine products. zip-locks , small wipes or toilet paper/tissues. I ALWAYS pack TP, as many bathrooms simply don’t have it. Other items I pack: nail clippers, ear plugs,  toothpaste, toothbrush, face lotion, floss, q-tips, daily contacts, glasses, a small travel hairbrush, ponytail holders, LIP BALM, anti-inflammatories, vitamins, medications, and I always take an agave fiber exfoliator like THIS. I found Aquilea Potassium/Magnesium Effervescent Tablets indispensable for muscle cramps. I also pick up MegaLevure Probiotic Sticks if I get stomach issues from the quick change in diet. Both these items are found in every Farmacia in Spain and Portugal.

Headlamp

A headlamp comes in handy for navigating early mornings or reading in dimly lit Albergues. My favorite headlamp has no brand name. I found it at a wilderness register in Arizona.  It is rechargeable via USB.

Portable Power Bank/EU USB Adapter

Keep your devices charged with a lightweight, high-capacity power bank.

 * A note about power banks: All Albergues have plugs to charge phones, some have USB ports. However, I use an old iphone that loses its charge by the end of the walking day. A lightweight power bank is what I charge up in the evenings to get me through the next day. Get yourself a EU plug adapter for your phone charge cord.

Maps, Apps, or Guidebook

While many pilgrims rely on smartphone apps, a physical guidebook or a map can be invaluable in case of battery failure or lack of service. I use the Wise Pilgrim App AND I bring a waterproof map of the country I’m walking in. I like to see it laid out in front of me.

Snacks

Whatever you like to get you to the next place. But there are always cafes and little stores to stop at.  You don ‘t need to carry much for your day of walking.  I carried a couple bars for emergencies, and bread, cheese, and fruit if I knew I wanted a picnic in a beautiful place.

Journal

Capture your thoughts, experiences, and memories along the way with a lightweight journal and pen. Or keep thoughts in a notes app on your phone (my method.) 

International eSIM Card

As with this entire list, what you decide upon is a personal preference. One year I used HOLAFLY, the next year I used BREEZE. You may prefer to get a physical SIM when you land. I found BREEZE easy and cheap and had no problems.

Remember, the key to a successful Camino de Santiago journey is packing only what you truly need. By embracing a minimalist approach, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the experience without being weighed down by unnecessary items.

Happy trails, and ¡Buen Camino !

❥ The Barefoot Chica 

MY PLAIN LIST