So, five years on, this music is brutally annoying and always has been, and I'm sorry (it was a rush job and I have regrets...) Captions are up and correct if you are struggling to hear, and I promise I don't mind if you have to mute me (because honestly, same). Thanks for watching!
Great videos. As a Asturian born I have made The Caminos several times from Oviedo (Camino Primitivo) and from France from both Navarra&Huesca frontier passes...I remember 20 years ago when it was no so popular and you have the trails and road just for yourself...days on end with just 3-4 walking companions...I met my best friends in The Camino...I met love in The Camino...I met myself in The Camino...I met pure life in The Camino... Now I'm planning to jump on my touring bike and go for my next Camino, from Roscoff in Brittany all the way down to Fisterra...from Finistérre to Finisterra...from one end of the known land to another... So if you see a crazy Spaniard with a trek 520 or just walking... playing his pipes anywhere along The Camino at the end of the day...that is me. Just be sure that when you hear those pipes, you will be close to a friend and a free cold beer... Buen Camino to everyone! Cheers!
I know it's been a while since you went, but instead of full size pegs, because most of the clothes are thin and/or lightweight, I use hemming clips. These are tiny, but robust pegs that sewers(people who sew, not the black water pipes 🤔😂..) use instead of tacking pins, and really do the trick on lightweight tees and undies etc. I lived in Portugal, in São João do Estoril, and would love to do the Camino from Lisboa (from the UK), and your videos have really helped me out. ♥
Love watching your videos, my 17 year old son and I have started planning our Camino for 2017 and you are our go-to person for great tips and ideas. Thank you and Buen Camino!
Thank you for your video! It really helps to release pressure, since you make it obvious that one can walk the camino without super-duper high end outdoor equipment! After watching a couple of (certainly well made) videos from other people it really started to stress me out what kinds of stuff most people advise to bring! Buen Camino to you!
I'm glad to hear it was approachable! I was definitely overwhelmed most times I've walked at the prospect of getting the gear right. I work for an outdoor retailer now, and certainly know a lot more about gear than I did when I made this video, but you certainly don't need ALLLLLL these expensive things people carry with them to make it a good camino.
Super practical and spot on. I'm going to do the Camino Portugese in a few weeks, starting in Faro. I'm planning to camp out for some of the nights with a bivvy bag, so I hope I can keep the weight down to a minimum. The last time I did it, the bag weighed about 6.5 kilos which was pretty good. I think this time, it will be close to the same, as I have realised a lot about what wasn't needed.
Thank you Lindsey for your videos!! As we are preparing our Camino 2018 as a family, my 14 years old daughter enjoy watch your videos and learning tips from you. Thank you!
Great stuff. I recommend the glide product. I use a similar one from Band Aid. I call it chap stick for the feet. Before discovering that gem I would get blisters and such even with silk linings and other type of socks. The band aid friction block is the best I have used, and works well with all socks!Buen Camino
It is my great desire to go from Canterbury to Santiago we Compostela dressed as a Medieval woman, if God heals me of a dreadful, fatal disease, caused by a mutation in my liver. I did, in fact, VOW to go to Compostela on the 1st Day of Summer, 2019. Will you offer a prayer for me, that I may fulfill this vow?
Great video! I am au pair-ing in La Guarda at the moment and I have spontaneously decided to take a few days to do the coastal camino to Santiago! It will be a great adventure. I am grateful to have come across your videos! Thank you!
Hey there Lindsey. I really like your videos, and they were a great help to me whil preparing for my Camino last year at about this time. I walked from Astorga to Santiago, then on to Muxia, then back to Santiago and then the other route to Fisterra. An amazing journey... Before going, I also had the male version of your new pack (which, by the way is absolutely stellar). My Osprey Stratos was with me a year before that (2014) on a long trip through the Yucatan, and I loved it to pieces. For the Camino, however, I decided to go with the Osprey Talon 33. It is even lighter than the Sirrus/Stratos, yet holds pretty much the same amount. Many people thought I must be nuts carrying such a small pack, but my gear came it at just around 4kg and I love the way the Talon feels like it's not even there, regardless of how much was in it... And... my packing list was not unlike yours (except for the sports-bras - I'm, a guy ;-)). " Shirts, 2 Shorts, Undies, 3 Pairs of socks, very light Deuter Sleeping Bag, NorthFace rain jacket (extremely light), long-sleeve warm layer. Then the usual: toiletries (folding toothbrush, tiny bottle of showergel, everything pretty much tiny), super lightweight towel, tiny first-aid kit, tiny flashlight, 1 Cash-Card, Passport, phone and charger, water bottle. And that's all she wrote. Plenty of room left over inside the pack to carry the odd Bocadillo or Chorizo and some fruit/veggies... Nary a blister, but all the other aches and pains that go with the task ;-) Oh yeah - shoes: Salomon Speedcross (trail-running shoes). Super light, great support and cushioning. All the fellow peregrinos with fancy hiking boots got blisters - my recommendation is trail-runners or something like what you have there... Thanks again for you videos, tips and shared experiences. Looking forward to your recap of the Camino Portugues... Buen Camino!
Hi there! Thanks for your support! Yeah, my gear worked out perfect for my this time around. My shoes were perfect, I didn't get a single blister or tendonitis this time around. I'm tempted to buy more pairs of them haha. The pack was the perfect size and I didn't even feel it on my back after about 2 days, and loved that I still had room for my bocadillos too. My dad walked with the Stratos and loved it, but he's crazy because he had about twice as much clothing as me. But then, he's used to things like the West Coast Trail and more serious backpacking, so carrying 25-30 lbs on the Camino was no big deal to him. My shoes were perfect, I didn't get a single blister or tendonitis this time around. I'm tempted to buy more pairs of them haha. I've just started editing a video about the Portuguese route, so stay tuned. :) Cheers! Lindsey
I love your videos Lindsey! They are super helpful. I will do my first Camino next June and I can´t wait for it! This video was really great for me since I should start thinking about all the things I´ll need. I´m doing the Camino frances and from what I´ve heard it is the best option for the first Camino and also I´m on a budget. I´ll be walking 16 days and I´ll start ina town in Palencia. I also feel that I need to go so urgently, so I understand how you feel :-)And I´m definetly bringing a journal! that is like the most essential item for me! Keep up the great videos and buen camino! :-)
+aisayah Thanks so much for the support! Glad to hear the vids have been helpful for you so far. Definitely feel free to ask any questions you've got, and I'll certainly be posting a ton more content when I get back, both advice videos and personal videos from my trip. Good luck and buen camino to you too!
Hi Lindsey! After contemplating on going on the camino for some years, finally I'm going on the Camino Frances end Sep - October this year! I've watched your videos multiple times since last year. Even when i didn't have a concrete plan for going on the camino, I sometimes just watched your video to get the feeling of what it would be like, and just to enjoy the excitement of packing for the trip :) It took me almost three years to take the time to do it. I'm so excited about it! I want to say thank you for putting this video on youtube! Wherever you are now, and whatever you are doing, wish you all the best in life and health for you. Send you a big hug from Switzerland.
Hey Lindsey! Leaving to do my first Camino in about 2 weeks - I'm beyond excited!!! Taking the Northern Route. I know you mentioned in one of your videos that your dad was getting ready for that particular one, so was wondering should I take a rain jacket with me, give it will be August after all.. Thanks :) !
Thanks Lindsey for the feedback on the backpack. I had an xs size which was right for me but I wasn't 100 % okay with it so returned it and am trying other ones. It is good to know the front access is a little limiting but still useful and that the pole holders are useful. I like that you can stuff your poles in so easily unlike many other packs that you would actually have to take your pack off to stow them. I like the light weight of Osprey packs, and their lifetime guarantee. Thanks again adventurous woman!
So useful to be able to try things out and return them, hey? As always, so glad you found my stuff useful! Thank you so much for the support as always, Rosie. I'm so excited to you to take your own journey. xx
Hi! I'm going on the Via de la Plata in May/June. I loved the way those socks looked! Would you happen to remember what brand they were and did they end up working well for you?
Hey Lindsey, thank you very much for posting this list which I will be using as I prepare to do El Camino Frances this coming June. Question: How did you manage to take hiking poles and Swiss Army knife? I was told you could not. Did you placed them in with your checked backpack??? Great videos, keep up the good work.
I really like the simplicity of your drinking water system. I used a Nalgene bottle with a SmarTube and was very happy with it, but I am tempted use your approach. Looking forward to more videos. Thanks!
I'm so glad I found your videos! So! I'm thinking about doing the Camino de Norte in May...possibly...sort of a last minute thing but really feel like it's something I want/need to do. My question is, well, first have you done the Norte? I know you mentioned your dad had but what is the best way to travel to Irun, I believe is where it starts? I live in Oregon and was thinking of flying into Madrid although flights from here to there are always ridiculous in price, then I thought maybe I should fly into Paris and then take a train down. I don't know! I'm hoping to get more info on travel plans getting to the trail and leaving the Camino as opposed to actually being on the trail. Or maybe some good sites/guidebooks for 2018? I feel like it's just getting more and more popular where pretty soon all the routes are going to be super busy!
How exciting! 😆 A new Camino! I used the Osprey 36 and loved it. Very good choice! I also used the spork and it was seriously irreplaceable. 😄 I spent the end of my Camino in Setubal, which is a short bus ride from Lisbon. If you can make it I highly suggest checking it out! The beach is gorgeous and the town is super cute!! 😄 Buen Camino! Can't wait to see how this one goes!
Great info. Definitely my current situation. Don't have a ton of funds but feel I need to go to the camino with everything going on in my life. So I said F it and bought my tickets and I'm going in 2 weeks. Pretty nervous and stoked.
Thanks for sharing this, Lindsey! I love your videos, have watched them all, took notes and got the lush shampoo :) Looking forward to your video on the Camino Portugues. I'm taking the camino for the first time in September and I'm taking the Portuguese route leaving from Porto. Still uncertain as to whether take the classic route or the coastal one. If you have any insights about this, plase share :))) Best wishes!
Haha glad to hear it, Laura! I took the central route on the Portuguese. I heard that there are some good views on the Coastal, that it is a quieter route and that it is not as well marked. I also heard that there was more road walking on the Coastal route. But I only did the one, so all of that is hear-say! Video coming soon. :) Good luck!
I wondered the date of this and the the galaxy phone came up and oh yeah I had one and I still think it was one of the best I had. Your vids are clear, fun to watch and informative, oh I forgot to say I'm watching this in Oct. 2022.
Love the videos! Looking for the 'after-action-report' on your Camino Portuguese! Just wanted to tell you I appreciated all the areas you covered, especially packing because its common sense 101. And the albergue advice. I have been wanting to make my Way since I heard Matthew Kelly talk about it (and write about it). 2006 or 7 I think. Life constantly gets in the way but I plan on retiring from my clunky job at the end of next year, so I am collecting supplies, and walking myself into shape. 2018 here we come. My wife gave me thumbs up, and I am walking extra through France and Portugal - about two months +. Starting on the Arles Rd. Thanks again - and keep up the good info!
Just wanted to say thanks for making these videos they really helped me figure out what I was gonna take on my Camino next week. I made my own packing video I don't think it is as good yours but thanks for the inspiration and keep up the good videos.
Hi Lindsey! I'm walking my first Camino in about a month! Lourdes to Santiago, but I'll jump on the Frances route and then bus the middle flat part (due to time limitations). What are your thoughts on the plausibility of sleeping outside on this route, in regards to safety? Any tips?
Thank you so much for sharing your valuable tips, Lindsey. We will be starting from Porto on 5 June - hope your caminho hasn't been toooo wet?! Like yourself, my partner Iwona struggles with her footwear. She has bought a pair of Brooks goretex sneakers. They are a half size bigger than she normally wears and they seem to be a little bit too big while wearing them around the house. But half size smaller was snug. She's wondering whether the extra space in her shoes will be helpful (or annoying and unnecessary) as she walks. Your feedback would be much appreciated. Cheers and warm regards, Ian.
Hi Ian! it has been quite wet, I was thankful for the waterproofing in my shoes! In my opinion, just from my limited experience, shoes that are too big or too small and not ideal... There were lots of shoes that I tried on that I liked the idea of, but the fitting didn't seem quite right for me. I went for one that fit me perfectly right off. However, lots of people advocate for shoes that are slightly bigger than your normal size, but I'd say if it's slipping around at all, it might cause more problems than anything. thicker socks or a liner sock, or after market insoles might help. If she's already started breaking them in, probably better to make them work than start fresh at this point as it's coming up fast. I didn't get to break mine in at all and was lucky they worked out perfectly! (Also, my dad LOVED his Brooks he wore last time. Swears by them.) Best of luck to both of you! Buen camino!
Good advices! Having done the camino 15 days ago from St. Jean, I'd recommend you use the shoes before, never start the Camino with brand new boots. Plus, bring a hat, a cap, anything to cover your head! Sun is on you almost every day! (well, I'm bald...), in June/July/August, sun rises at 7.00 and goes down at 21.30. And the vaseline for your feet, a massage before putting the socks on is absolutely necessary against blisters! And... BUEN CAMINO!
Hey Lindsey! I'm from Vancouver, WA, USA (south of Vancouver B.C. on the bottom of Washington state.. map it) :-P I'm currently living and working in the UAE as an ESL teacher, and this summer break I'll be hiking the Camino Frances! I first heard about it in 2015 watching the movie The Way. I fell in love. I've watched all your videos, specifically in the past 3-4 months and have purchased gear accordingly. I'm leaving June 30, 2018 from UAE and returning to UAE August 19. Should be enough time, right? To reach my flight back? Hopefully including hiking/busing to Fisterra. Your videos have been so helpful! Thank you! Any other tips here would be great! Do you have an updated video, considering these last ones are 2016? What are your thoughts on summer hiking? Cooler evenings? Temperatures? I ask in the case of packing a jacket or just a long sleeved shirt or two. Thank you again! Hope all is well!
This is so great! I'm heading to Spain in two days for the Camino Francés (just from Ponferrada) :) Thank you for all your tips Lindsey. Buen Camino :)
+Lindsey Cowie Hi Lindsey are you back yet? and did you walk from Porto to Santiago? Looking at doing this walk and would love to hear your experience.
+Ntsiki Ndumela Hi! Yes, I finished from Porto to Santiago. I'm currently walking a portion of the Frances, haha. I'll be back on 1st June and will make videos again. Let me know if you have any specific questions!
I really like this packing list the last ones where wayyy too much. I'm only 4"11 can't carry too much. Lol.. BTW out of curiosity why have you done the capmino 3 times
Dude! You rock! I'm doing the Camino next year (may 2017) with my dad for his 50th birthday. I have not walk it but I was in Bilbao last month and got to see lots of people walking through Bilbao. I'm actually starting a backpacking trip in 4 days. I'm staring in Buenos Aires and making my way all the up to Colombia. Anyways, it's always refreshing to find people so eager about backpacking. Buen Camino!
That's awesome man! I loved doing the Camino with my dad. Will you be doing the Norte then? Hope your backpacking is going well, I'm hoping my next trip will be South America! Buen camino!
+Hailey Merritt Haha good eye! Yeah, got mine at the new Indigo on Granville St. It was a moment of weakness, I just needed it. I'm loving it so far and have written it in twice a day thus far!
Question about your sandals: didn't small stones, twigs and grit go in and because of the toe garden, not have a way of getting out, unless you take them off? That's what happens to me. And love your Costco buys!
Hi Lindsay how comfortable did you find the shoulder straps on your Osprey Sirrus 36? I am 5ft 2in tall and small across the chest and they seem to be digging in to my upper arm/ shoulder. Thank you for your videos...they are so helpful. I haven't hiked with a pack before and am doing my first Camino next year so have bought a pack to get practising. How did you find the front loading feature and the airspace frame? Thanks
Hi again Rosie! I find the pack very comfortable but I'm a good 6 inches taller than you and probably have a wider frame. The airspace frame was great, I still found the front loading didn't open up quite as much as I would have liked, but definitely easier access than my previous pack. I also really found the loops to secure your poles very handy.
Off to do another Camino, well done Lindsey. Wish you well. My turn again in May - July 2018 - Le Puy to Santiago. We look forward to hearing about your journey. A grande Buen Camino to you.
+Brent Smith Thanks very much Brent! My dad is currently walking the Norte as well which is really fun, we hope to be able to meet up in Santiago and walk to Fisterra and Muxia together! What fun. Enjoy your journey as well! Bon chemin
@lindseycowie I'm loving your videos and I'm planning to il camino next year. One quick question, do you book everything through a company or do you plan everything yourself?
Hey sorry for the late reply. There are certainly a lot of companies popping up if that's more your style, but it's very manageable to do everything yourself. You just walk, eat, sleep, how hard can it be? :P
Did you get bored at all on the second time? I'm thinking of doing the Camino again, but I'm worried about it feeling way too "samey"?! Obviously the people will be completely different!!
Hi Lindsey! I'm currently living in Spain and next week I will do a part of the original trail (Pamplona to Logroño). As a female traveling alone, do you recommend this part? Will it be safe for me? I've been telling a lot of people what I'm planning and they always say exasperated "SOLA?" ahhh
aaaaah so excited for you! and I see you went with an Osprey instead of the new Gregory packs :P I ended up with an Osprey as well. Did you happen to weigh your pack? It would be cool to see weight before/after. Enjoy your trip! Can't wait to see more videos!
+Allison Chiliak haha I did indeed! The Gregory ones were too big for me, turns out I need an XS for my tiny disproportionate torso! I weighed it at the airport and it was about 5 kilos, but that was without water, the clothes I was wearing and the stuff I had in my carry on. I would wager about kilos or so in total.
+Lindsey Cowie yeah when I had my torso measured I realized the Osprey packs would fit better for me as well. Also, most airlines should allow that size of backpack to be a carryon, did you get up checking it because you found your Swiss Army knife? Hope you're having a great trip!
Hey Lindsey!I have a couple of questions. Do you check or carry-on your backpack? If you carry-on, what do you do with your Swiss Army knife and trek poles?Thanks! (Love your videos!)Melissa
So, five years on, this music is brutally annoying and always has been, and I'm sorry (it was a rush job and I have regrets...) Captions are up and correct if you are struggling to hear, and I promise I don't mind if you have to mute me (because honestly, same). Thanks for watching!
Thank you for the video. But why do you need a sleeping bag? Aren't there plenty of places to spend the night?
@@johnd5508 yes but they don't always have blankets, so it's handy to carry your own
Great videos. As a Asturian born I have made The Caminos several times from Oviedo (Camino Primitivo) and from France from both Navarra&Huesca frontier passes...I remember 20 years ago when it was no so popular and you have the trails and road just for yourself...days on end with just 3-4 walking companions...I met my best friends in The Camino...I met love in The Camino...I met myself in The Camino...I met pure life in The Camino...
Now I'm planning to jump on my touring bike and go for my next Camino, from Roscoff in Brittany all the way down to Fisterra...from Finistérre to Finisterra...from one end of the known land to another...
So if you see a crazy Spaniard with a trek 520 or just walking... playing his pipes anywhere along The Camino at the end of the day...that is me. Just be sure that when you hear those pipes, you will be close to a friend and a free cold beer...
Buen Camino to everyone! Cheers!
Thank you for the great share! Heading out on my first May/June 2020 and so excited for all the possibilities.
I've watched a few videos on packing for the camino and yours is my favorite. You are on a budget just like me. Thanks for sharing! It was helpful.
I know it's been a while since you went, but instead of full size pegs, because most of the clothes are thin and/or lightweight, I use hemming clips. These are tiny, but robust pegs that sewers(people who sew, not the black water pipes 🤔😂..) use instead of tacking pins, and really do the trick on lightweight tees and undies etc. I lived in Portugal, in São João do Estoril, and would love to do the Camino from Lisboa (from the UK), and your videos have really helped me out. ♥
Thank you for that witty, light-hearted yet seriously helpful post.
Love watching your videos, my 17 year old son and I have started planning our Camino for 2017 and you are our go-to person for great tips and ideas. Thank you and Buen Camino!
That's wonderful Jillian! Have an amazing time, buen camino!
I love the video thank you for sharing your honesty and love that’s what humanity needs to learn to keep Loving.
Im doing my first camino in September. Your videos are getting me very excited! Thanks for sharing x
Excellent video!! I'm doing my first Camino this year. Buen Camino!!
Too cool!
love how passionate you are! See you in the camino! bom caminho
Been watching your vids. Real helpful in planning my trip. Thanks.
thanks lindsay i am doing camino this May, very helpful
Fab videos Lindsay! Glad to have found you. The key light, and lots of other stuff you shared is great! Camino Portugues 2020!
Thank you for your video! It really helps to release pressure, since you make it obvious that one can walk the camino without super-duper high end outdoor equipment! After watching a couple of (certainly well made) videos from other people it really started to stress me out what kinds of stuff most people advise to bring!
Buen Camino to you!
I'm glad to hear it was approachable! I was definitely overwhelmed most times I've walked at the prospect of getting the gear right. I work for an outdoor retailer now, and certainly know a lot more about gear than I did when I made this video, but you certainly don't need ALLLLLL these expensive things people carry with them to make it a good camino.
Super practical and spot on. I'm going to do the Camino Portugese in a few weeks, starting in Faro. I'm planning to camp out for some of the nights with a bivvy bag, so I hope I can keep the weight down to a minimum. The last time I did it, the bag weighed about 6.5 kilos which was pretty good. I think this time, it will be close to the same, as I have realised a lot about what wasn't needed.
Lindsay', this packing video rocks! you are so helpful for planning the walk. thanks !
Thanks! :)
Thank you Lindsey for your videos!! As we are preparing our Camino 2018 as a family, my 14 years old daughter enjoy watch your videos and learning tips from you. Thank you!
Great to hear! Thanks for the support! Buen camino
Great stuff. I recommend the glide product. I use a similar one from Band Aid. I call it chap stick for the feet. Before discovering that gem I would get blisters and such even with silk linings and other type of socks. The band aid friction block is the best I have used, and works well with all socks!Buen Camino
It is my great desire to go from Canterbury to Santiago we Compostela dressed as a Medieval woman, if God heals me of a dreadful, fatal disease, caused by a mutation in my liver.
I did, in fact, VOW to go to Compostela on the 1st Day of Summer, 2019. Will you offer a prayer for me, that I may fulfill this vow?
Again, loved the video. Many thanks.....!
In less than a month I wil walk to Santiago for the first time (100 km) and omg I can't wait :D
Thanks for the tips!
Great video! I am au pair-ing in La Guarda at the moment and I have spontaneously decided to take a few days to do the coastal camino to Santiago! It will be a great adventure. I am grateful to have come across your videos! Thank you!
Ooh wonderful, good for you girl. Enjoy your beautiful adventures!
Thank you! All the best :)
Buen Camino! God be with you.. :)
Thank you for posting these videos... I'm planning on going this September and I'm finding your videos helpful and inspiring.
You're very welcome! I'm hoping to post many more before then, let me know if you have questions!
Buen Camino! I'm headed to the Camino Portuguese, Coastal Route, starting June 1 for my second Camino. Thanks for the great video.
Oh excellent! I heard awesome things about the views but that it's easy to get lost. A guidebook might come in handy. Good luck!
Great information! Very helpful videos. Will be doing my second Camino this September.
Congrats! Enjoy!
I have learned a great deal from your videos and been inspired by your stories and passion. Best to you as you start this new journey.
That's awesome to hear, Rob. Thank you so much
Hey there Lindsey. I really like your videos, and they were a great help to me whil preparing for my Camino last year at about this time. I walked from Astorga to Santiago, then on to Muxia, then back to Santiago and then the other route to Fisterra. An amazing journey...
Before going, I also had the male version of your new pack (which, by the way is absolutely stellar). My Osprey Stratos was with me a year before that (2014) on a long trip through the Yucatan, and I loved it to pieces. For the Camino, however, I decided to go with the Osprey Talon 33. It is even lighter than the Sirrus/Stratos, yet holds pretty much the same amount. Many people thought I must be nuts carrying such a small pack, but my gear came it at just around 4kg and I love the way the Talon feels like it's not even there, regardless of how much was in it...
And... my packing list was not unlike yours (except for the sports-bras - I'm, a guy ;-)). " Shirts, 2 Shorts, Undies, 3 Pairs of socks, very light Deuter Sleeping Bag, NorthFace rain jacket (extremely light), long-sleeve warm layer. Then the usual: toiletries (folding toothbrush, tiny bottle of showergel, everything pretty much tiny), super lightweight towel, tiny first-aid kit, tiny flashlight, 1 Cash-Card, Passport, phone and charger, water bottle. And that's all she wrote. Plenty of room left over inside the pack to carry the odd Bocadillo or Chorizo and some fruit/veggies... Nary a blister, but all the other aches and pains that go with the task ;-) Oh yeah - shoes: Salomon Speedcross (trail-running shoes). Super light, great support and cushioning. All the fellow peregrinos with fancy hiking boots got blisters - my recommendation is trail-runners or something like what you have there...
Thanks again for you videos, tips and shared experiences. Looking forward to your recap of the Camino Portugues...
Buen Camino!
Hi there! Thanks for your support! Yeah, my gear worked out perfect for my this time around. My shoes were perfect, I didn't get a single blister or tendonitis this time around. I'm tempted to buy more pairs of them haha.
The pack was the perfect size and I didn't even feel it on my back after about 2 days, and loved that I still had room for my bocadillos too. My dad walked with the Stratos and loved it, but he's crazy because he had about twice as much clothing as me. But then, he's used to things like the West Coast Trail and more serious backpacking, so carrying 25-30 lbs on the Camino was no big deal to him.
My shoes were perfect, I didn't get a single blister or tendonitis this time around. I'm tempted to buy more pairs of them haha.
I've just started editing a video about the Portuguese route, so stay tuned. :)
Cheers!
Lindsey
I love your videos Lindsey! They are super helpful. I will do my first Camino next June and I can´t wait for it! This video was really great for me since I should start thinking about all the things I´ll need. I´m doing the Camino frances and from what I´ve heard it is the best option for the first Camino and also I´m on a budget. I´ll be walking 16 days and I´ll start ina town in Palencia. I also feel that I need to go so urgently, so I understand how you feel :-)And I´m definetly bringing a journal! that is like the most essential item for me!
Keep up the great videos and buen camino! :-)
+aisayah Thanks so much for the support! Glad to hear the vids have been helpful for you so far. Definitely feel free to ask any questions you've got, and I'll certainly be posting a ton more content when I get back, both advice videos and personal videos from my trip. Good luck and buen camino to you too!
Buen Camino, Lindsey! Looks like you're good to go. Your backpack looks so light and small. It's great that you can fit everything in there. Byebye :)
+shirurirun Haha just barely! Thankfully I already forgot my scarf at home sooo that clears up a tiny bit more space...
Hi Lindsey! After contemplating on going on the camino for some years, finally I'm going on the Camino Frances end Sep - October this year! I've watched your videos multiple times since last year. Even when i didn't have a concrete plan for going on the camino, I sometimes just watched your video to get the feeling of what it would be like, and just to enjoy the excitement of packing for the trip :) It took me almost three years to take the time to do it. I'm so excited about it! I want to say thank you for putting this video on youtube! Wherever you are now, and whatever you are doing, wish you all the best in life and health for you. Send you a big hug from Switzerland.
Thank you, Cheryl! I hope it was everything you dreamed of for all those years.
thank you Lindsey . i just made a list of wat you said in this video . great .
Buen camino Lindsey! I'm gonna walk my second camino in August, thanks for sharing :) And the leather cover for the journal is so cool! Ultreya!
Thank you Diego! Yeah, I've loved it! Buen camino!
It would be nice to see how you actually organize and pack all the stuff. Enjoying the videos.
thanks for being concise and informative!!!
Nicely done lady, I am going to subscribe since I like your tips. My wife and I are planning to do el camino next year.
Hey Lindsey! Leaving to do my first Camino in about 2 weeks - I'm beyond excited!!! Taking the Northern Route. I know you mentioned in one of your videos that your dad was getting ready for that particular one, so was wondering should I take a rain jacket with me, give it will be August after all.. Thanks :) !
Awesome videos!! I'm listen while walking st James!!
Thanks Lindsey for the feedback on the backpack. I had an xs size which was right for me but I wasn't 100 % okay with it so returned it and am trying other ones. It is good to know the front access is a little limiting but still useful and that the pole holders are useful. I like that you can stuff your poles in so easily unlike many other packs that you would actually have to take your pack off to stow them. I like the light weight of Osprey packs, and their lifetime guarantee. Thanks again adventurous woman!
So useful to be able to try things out and return them, hey? As always, so glad you found my stuff useful! Thank you so much for the support as always, Rosie. I'm so excited to you to take your own journey. xx
Hi! I'm going on the Via de la Plata in May/June. I loved the way those socks looked! Would you happen to remember what brand they were and did they end up working well for you?
Bloody love your water pouch. I will definitely be doing something similar next Camino.
Haha yeah girl I know you do! :P
Dude, you're videos are so helpful!! I'm not going till July 2017, but after watching ALL you're videos, I just want to go now. Thank you ❤️🇳🇿🙏🏽
Haha you're so very welcome!
Hey Lindsey, thank you very much for posting this list which I will be using as I prepare to do El Camino Frances this coming June. Question: How did you manage to take hiking poles and Swiss Army knife? I was told you could not. Did you placed them in with your checked backpack??? Great videos, keep up the good work.
I really like the simplicity of your drinking water system. I used a Nalgene bottle with a SmarTube and was very happy with it, but I am tempted use your approach. Looking forward to more videos. Thanks!
Thanks! It seems almost too simple, I've never run into anyone else with the same approach haha. Thanks so much, take care
I'm so glad I found your videos! So! I'm thinking about doing the Camino de Norte in May...possibly...sort of a last minute thing but really feel like it's something I want/need to do. My question is, well, first have you done the Norte? I know you mentioned your dad had but what is the best way to travel to Irun, I believe is where it starts? I live in Oregon and was thinking of flying into Madrid although flights from here to there are always ridiculous in price, then I thought maybe I should fly into Paris and then take a train down. I don't know! I'm hoping to get more info on travel plans getting to the trail and leaving the Camino as opposed to actually being on the trail. Or maybe some good sites/guidebooks for 2018? I feel like it's just getting more and more popular where pretty soon all the routes are going to be super busy!
Met you on your second camino. Great job making this video.
Thank you for such useful tips... I hope to walk my first Camino soon...
How exciting! 😆 A new Camino! I used the Osprey 36 and loved it. Very good choice! I also used the spork and it was seriously irreplaceable. 😄 I spent the end of my Camino in Setubal, which is a short bus ride from Lisbon. If you can make it I highly suggest checking it out! The beach is gorgeous and the town is super cute!! 😄 Buen Camino! Can't wait to see how this one goes!
+Megan Sternhagen That's awesome, glad to hear it! Thanks Megan!
Good luck for your camino! I wish I could go again now, too, but I will! Maybe next year..
Haha I think "maybe next year" is a pretty common phrase for us repeat pilgrims! Gracias!
I'm about to head out there very soon - I found your video very helpful - also the humor : )
Have a great trip!!! And stay safe!!! And have loads of fun!!! xxx
+Lee Woodhouse Thanks man!
Hey there Lindsey, I hope you're enjoying your Camino, thank you for your videos....
Thanks Jason! It was wonderful. Updates coming soon!
Great info. Definitely my current situation. Don't have a ton of funds but feel I need to go to the camino with everything going on in my life. So I said F it and bought my tickets and I'm going in 2 weeks. Pretty nervous and stoked.
Amazing! Big fan of last minute fuck-it travel decisions. Hope it's worked out for you.
Bon courage Lindsey -- thanks for sharing.
+Stephen Mundane Merci Stephen!
Buen camino !!!! now that I saw your video, I wanna go back immediately pack my backpack and leave.
wish u all the best
Haha do it! See you in Santiago! :P Thank you!
Thanks for sharing this, Lindsey! I love your videos, have watched them all, took notes and got the lush shampoo :)
Looking forward to your video on the Camino Portugues. I'm taking the camino for the first time in September and I'm taking the Portuguese route leaving from Porto. Still uncertain as to whether take the classic route or the coastal one. If you have any insights about this, plase share :)))
Best wishes!
Haha glad to hear it, Laura! I took the central route on the Portuguese. I heard that there are some good views on the Coastal, that it is a quieter route and that it is not as well marked. I also heard that there was more road walking on the Coastal route. But I only did the one, so all of that is hear-say! Video coming soon. :) Good luck!
Awesom video . Thank you so much .
I wondered the date of this and the the galaxy phone came up and oh yeah I had one and I still think it was one of the best I had. Your vids are clear, fun to watch and informative, oh I forgot to say I'm watching this in Oct. 2022.
Buen Camino Lindsey!! 💕
+maya mcqueen Thanks so much!
Enjoy your Camino! I am hoping to do it later this year (hoping, hoping, hoping!!)
+RowanTree Thank you! Fingers crossed for you/
Love the videos! Looking for the 'after-action-report' on your Camino Portuguese! Just wanted to tell you I appreciated all the areas you covered, especially packing because its common sense 101. And the albergue advice. I have been wanting to make my Way since I heard Matthew Kelly talk about it (and write about it). 2006 or 7 I think. Life constantly gets in the way but I plan on retiring from my clunky job at the end of next year, so I am collecting supplies, and walking myself into shape. 2018 here we come. My wife gave me thumbs up, and I am walking extra through France and Portugal - about two months +. Starting on the Arles Rd. Thanks again - and keep up the good info!
Congratulations on taking the plunge! Good luck with the planning!
Just wanted to say thanks for making these videos they really helped me figure out what I was gonna take on my Camino next week. I made my own packing video I don't think it is as good yours but thanks for the inspiration and keep up the good videos.
Awesome, so glad to hear it Cheyenne! Good luck, buen camino!
Safe travels and Buen Camino✨🌻
+Yoli Marrero Obrigada!
buen Camino!
Gracias!
Hi Lindsey! I'm walking my first Camino in about a month! Lourdes to Santiago, but I'll jump on the Frances route and then bus the middle flat part (due to time limitations). What are your thoughts on the plausibility of sleeping outside on this route, in regards to safety? Any tips?
Lindsey thanks for the advice. How did it go ?
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thank you so much for sharing your valuable tips, Lindsey. We will be starting from Porto on 5 June - hope your caminho hasn't been toooo wet?! Like yourself, my partner Iwona struggles with her footwear. She has bought a pair of Brooks goretex sneakers. They are a half size bigger than she normally wears and they seem to be a little bit too big while wearing them around the house. But half size smaller was snug. She's wondering whether the extra space in her shoes will be helpful (or annoying and unnecessary) as she walks. Your feedback would be much appreciated. Cheers and warm regards, Ian.
Hi Ian! it has been quite wet, I was thankful for the waterproofing in my shoes! In my opinion, just from my limited experience, shoes that are too big or too small and not ideal... There were lots of shoes that I tried on that I liked the idea of, but the fitting didn't seem quite right for me. I went for one that fit me perfectly right off. However, lots of people advocate for shoes that are slightly bigger than your normal size, but I'd say if it's slipping around at all, it might cause more problems than anything. thicker socks or a liner sock, or after market insoles might help. If she's already started breaking them in, probably better to make them work than start fresh at this point as it's coming up fast. I didn't get to break mine in at all and was lucky they worked out perfectly! (Also, my dad LOVED his Brooks he wore last time. Swears by them.) Best of luck to both of you! Buen camino!
Hi Lindsay, Checking out my late 2021 packing review video straight from the Camino :) Buen Camino
Good advices! Having done the camino 15 days ago from St. Jean, I'd recommend you use the shoes before, never start the Camino with brand new boots. Plus, bring a hat, a cap, anything to cover your head! Sun is on you almost every day! (well, I'm bald...), in June/July/August, sun rises at 7.00 and goes down at 21.30. And the vaseline for your feet, a massage before putting the socks on is absolutely necessary against blisters! And... BUEN CAMINO!
Exactly right about the shoes. They were brand new for me though. Do as I say, not what I do haha
Hey Lindsey! I'm from Vancouver, WA, USA (south of Vancouver B.C. on the bottom of Washington state.. map it) :-P
I'm currently living and working in the UAE as an ESL teacher, and this summer break I'll be hiking the Camino Frances! I first heard about it in 2015 watching the movie The Way. I fell in love.
I've watched all your videos, specifically in the past 3-4 months and have purchased gear accordingly. I'm leaving June 30, 2018 from UAE and returning to UAE August 19. Should be enough time, right? To reach my flight back? Hopefully including hiking/busing to Fisterra.
Your videos have been so helpful! Thank you! Any other tips here would be great! Do you have an updated video, considering these last ones are 2016? What are your thoughts on summer hiking? Cooler evenings? Temperatures? I ask in the case of packing a jacket or just a long sleeved shirt or two.
Thank you again! Hope all is well!
I'm doing the Camino Portuguese in September and I'm sooo excited!!!
Ooh awesome! Stay tuned for info on the route! :D
This is so great! I'm heading to Spain in two days for the Camino Francés (just from Ponferrada) :) Thank you for all your tips Lindsey. Buen Camino :)
+Juan Diego Villegas That's awesome! Buen camino friend!
+Lindsey Cowie Hi Lindsey are you back yet? and did you walk from Porto to Santiago? Looking at doing this walk and would love to hear your experience.
+Ntsiki Ndumela Hi! Yes, I finished from Porto to Santiago. I'm currently walking a portion of the Frances, haha. I'll be back on 1st June and will make videos again. Let me know if you have any specific questions!
Very useful, thank for sharing
Thank you. Did you take poles? If so, any problems checking them on the flights there and back?
I really like this packing list the last ones where wayyy too much. I'm only 4"11 can't carry too much. Lol.. BTW out of curiosity why have you done the capmino 3 times
May I ask what is your reason for doing the Camino walk multiple times? I really want to do the walk as soon as I get the chance. Thanks so much!
Buen Camino Lindsey.
Obrigada Susan!
Dude! You rock!
I'm doing the Camino next year (may 2017) with my dad for his 50th birthday. I have not walk it but I was in Bilbao last month and got to see lots of people walking through Bilbao. I'm actually starting a backpacking trip in 4 days. I'm staring in Buenos Aires and making my way all the up to Colombia. Anyways, it's always refreshing to find people so eager about backpacking.
Buen Camino!
+Sebastian Angel My son and I are also doing the Camino in May next year for my 50th birthday. Hope you both have a wonderful time together!
That's awesome man! I loved doing the Camino with my dad. Will you be doing the Norte then? Hope your backpacking is going well, I'm hoping my next trip will be South America! Buen camino!
+Lindsey Cowie I haven't decide if I'll do the Norte or Frances. You're going to love South America! Let me know if you needs tips or anything!
+Jillian Epping Jillian, that's great! Perhaps we'll cross paths. Buen Camino!
i got that same journal at the chapters in the metro town mall :) good luck on the Camino
+Hailey Merritt Haha good eye! Yeah, got mine at the new Indigo on Granville St. It was a moment of weakness, I just needed it. I'm loving it so far and have written it in twice a day thus far!
Hey Lindsey, how was Camino Portuguese? Are you going to post a CZcams update about it? Or do you have a blog?
Thanks for the great video. I'm going in May. Did you have any problem with your trekking pole being able to get on airplanes?
I checked my luggage, so no.
I am going on the Camino Norte to Primitvo to Santiago in August.
Tnx for the video.Still smiling. A question: How much does your pack weigh all up with everything in place? Buen Camino!
About 6 kilo I think!
Question about your sandals: didn't small stones, twigs and grit go in and because of the toe garden, not have a way of getting out, unless you take them off? That's what happens to me. And love your Costco buys!
Hi Lindsay how comfortable did you find the shoulder straps on your Osprey Sirrus 36? I am 5ft 2in tall and small across the chest and they seem to be digging in to my upper arm/ shoulder. Thank you for your videos...they are so helpful. I haven't hiked with a pack before and am doing my first Camino next year so have bought a pack to get practising. How did you find the front loading feature and the airspace frame? Thanks
Hi again Rosie! I find the pack very comfortable but I'm a good 6 inches taller than you and probably have a wider frame. The airspace frame was great, I still found the front loading didn't open up quite as much as I would have liked, but definitely easier access than my previous pack. I also really found the loops to secure your poles very handy.
Off to do another Camino, well done Lindsey. Wish you well. My turn again in May - July 2018 - Le Puy to Santiago. We look forward to hearing about your journey. A grande Buen Camino to you.
+Brent Smith Thanks very much Brent! My dad is currently walking the Norte as well which is really fun, we hope to be able to meet up in Santiago and walk to Fisterra and Muxia together! What fun. Enjoy your journey as well! Bon chemin
Lindsey Cowie That would be so cool to meet your dad along the Way. Blessings to you.
How much did your pack weigh?
Maybe I missed this, but should you bring towels on the Camino? I heard the albergues do not typically provide them...
Good luck! Buen Camino! :)
Thank you! :) :)
Great idea on the water holder, where did you get it from? I've been looking everywhere for this... :)
I got it from MEC here in Canada, I think it may have been intended as a chalk bag for climbers but I'm not positive.
@lindseycowie I'm loving your videos and I'm planning to il camino next year. One quick question, do you book everything through a company or do you plan everything yourself?
Hey sorry for the late reply. There are certainly a lot of companies popping up if that's more your style, but it's very manageable to do everything yourself. You just walk, eat, sleep, how hard can it be? :P
Any 2017/18 Camino plans? Just found this channel sorry if you already addressed this. Love the videos. Very informative.
No, I probably won't be returning for a long time. Thanks for the kind words!
Did you get bored at all on the second time? I'm thinking of doing the Camino again, but I'm worried about it feeling way too "samey"?!
Obviously the people will be completely different!!
Hi Lindsey! I'm currently living in Spain and next week I will do a part of the original trail (Pamplona to Logroño). As a female traveling alone, do you recommend this part? Will it be safe for me? I've been telling a lot of people what I'm planning and they always say exasperated "SOLA?" ahhh
Yes. I have the same question.
Thank You!
aaaaah so excited for you! and I see you went with an Osprey instead of the new Gregory packs :P I ended up with an Osprey as well. Did you happen to weigh your pack? It would be cool to see weight before/after.
Enjoy your trip! Can't wait to see more videos!
+Allison Chiliak haha I did indeed! The Gregory ones were too big for me, turns out I need an XS for my tiny disproportionate torso! I weighed it at the airport and it was about 5 kilos, but that was without water, the clothes I was wearing and the stuff I had in my carry on. I would wager about kilos or so in total.
+Allison Chiliak Also, thanks! They will definitely be more when I get home in June!
+Lindsey Cowie yeah when I had my torso measured I realized the Osprey packs would fit better for me as well. Also, most airlines should allow that size of backpack to be a carryon, did you get up checking it because you found your Swiss Army knife? Hope you're having a great trip!
Good luck on the Camino and finding the swiss army knife :)
+Monster2munch I didn't find it :( Maybe will treat myself to a new one...
Did the portuguese camiño a couple of days ago too. Wish I saw this earlier. Hope everything went well.
Too bad we missed each other! Hope it went well xx
Is there a need to bring a tent or is that overkill?
Hey Lindsey!I have a couple of questions. Do you check or carry-on your backpack? If you carry-on, what do you do with your Swiss Army knife and trek poles?Thanks! (Love your videos!)Melissa
I checked my bag! xx
If you decide to carry your backpack, it shouldn't weigh more than 10 % of your weight.