Our full guide on the most common Mistakes To Avoid on the Camino de Santiago for your next trip to Spain.
The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, is a network of pilgrimages leading to the shrine of the apostle Saint James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain.
It’s a journey filled with spiritual, physical, and emotional challenges. To help you make the most of your pilgrimage, here are some common mistakes to avoid.
The Camino de Santiago is a unique and transformative experience. By avoiding these common mistakes and preparing adequately, you can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable pilgrimage. Buen Camino!
Read here Camino de Santiago by bicycle and Camino de Santiago French Route,
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Quick & Easy Tips
Break in your shoes months before you start.
Pack light—aim for under 10% of your body weight.
Train for long walking days to build stamina.
Stay hydrated and snack regularly to avoid fatigue.
Listen to your body—rest when needed to prevent injury.
Some Camino veterans argue that modern pilgrims are too focused on comfort and efficiency, missing the traditional hardships that give the journey its depth. They believe over-preparing or shipping luggage ahead dilutes the pilgrimage’s challenge.
Others counter that there’s no “right” way to walk the Camino. Whether you carry a full pack, stay in luxury hotels, or walk only part of the route, the personal meaning you take from the journey matters more than tradition.
There’s also debate over the Camino’s growing popularity. While increased tourism brings economic benefits to rural areas, some pilgrims feel the trail is losing its spiritual atmosphere, replaced by a more commercialized, crowded experience.
Mistakes To Avoid on the Camino de Santiago
1. Not Preparing Physically
Mistake: Underestimating the physical demands of the Camino.
Tip: Start training several months before your trip. Incorporate long walks into your routine, gradually increasing the distance. Focus on building endurance, strength, and flexibility.
2. Overpacking
Mistake: Bringing too much gear and heavy items.
Tip: Pack light. Aim for a backpack that weighs no more than 10% of your body weight. Stick to essentials like lightweight clothing, toiletries, first aid kit, and necessary documents. Remember, you can wash clothes along the way.
3. Ignoring Foot Care
Mistake: Not taking proper care of your feet.
Tip: Invest in good quality, well-fitting hiking boots or shoes and break them in before your trip. Use moisture-wicking socks and consider bringing blister prevention supplies like moleskin, blister plasters, and foot powder.
4. Underestimating the Weather
Mistake: Not being prepared for varying weather conditions.
Tip: Check the weather forecast before you leave and pack accordingly. Bring lightweight, breathable layers, a waterproof jacket, and a hat. Be prepared for hot, cold, and rainy weather.
5. Skipping Breakfast
Mistake: Starting your day without a proper meal.
Tip: Always eat a nutritious breakfast to fuel your body for the long walk ahead. Consider high-energy foods like fruits, nuts, yogurt, and whole grains.
6. Not Staying Hydrated
Mistake: Forgetting to drink enough water throughout the day.
Tip: Carry a refillable water bottle and drink regularly. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and health issues. Take advantage of fountains and refill stations along the route.
7. Overestimating Daily Distances
Mistake: Setting unrealistic daily distance goals.
Tip: Plan your daily stages realistically, considering your fitness level and the terrain. It’s better to start with shorter distances and gradually increase them. Listen to your body and rest when needed.
8. Ignoring Rest Days
Mistake: Not scheduling rest days during your pilgrimage.
Tip: Plan at least one rest day per week to recover and prevent injuries. Use this time to explore local towns, connect with other pilgrims, and enjoy the journey.
9. Not Respecting Local Customs and Etiquette
Mistake: Disregarding the local customs and etiquette.
Tip: Be respectful of local traditions, dress codes, and cultural practices. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish, such as greetings and thank you, to show respect and appreciation.
10. Skipping Pilgrim Credentials
Mistake: Forgetting to carry and get stamps on your pilgrim credentials.
Tip: Your pilgrim passport (credential) is essential for staying in albergues (hostels) and proving your journey to receive the Compostela certificate. Get it stamped at each stop, including churches, hostels, and cafes.
11. Not Budgeting Properly
Mistake: Underestimating the costs of the pilgrimage.
Tip: Budget for accommodation, meals, and other expenses. While the Camino can be done inexpensively, it’s important to have a financial cushion for unexpected costs. Research average daily expenses and plan accordingly.
12. Ignoring Signs and Maps
Mistake: Not paying attention to waymarks and getting lost.
Tip: The Camino is well-marked with yellow arrows and scallop shell symbols. Stay vigilant and follow the signs. Carry a reliable map or guidebook and use GPS apps if necessary.
13. Walking Alone Without Letting Anyone Know
Mistake: Not informing anyone about your whereabouts.
Tip: Always let someone know your plans and estimated arrival times. This is crucial for safety, especially if you’re walking alone. Join other pilgrims when possible for companionship and security.
14. Over-Reliance on Technology
Mistake: Depending solely on technology for navigation and communication.
Tip: While smartphones and GPS devices are useful, don’t rely solely on them. Carry a physical map and keep emergency contact information handy. Be prepared for areas with limited connectivity.
15. Not Enjoying the Journey
Mistake: Focusing too much on the destination and not the journey.
Tip: The Camino is about the experience, not just reaching Santiago. Take time to enjoy the landscapes, meet fellow pilgrims, and embrace the spiritual aspects of the journey. Reflect, meditate, and savor each moment.
Final Thoughts
The Camino de Santiago is more than just a walk—it’s a transformative journey that can leave lasting memories and lessons. Avoiding common mistakes ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without unnecessary stress or discomfort.
Preparation doesn’t mean overplanning. The Camino rewards flexibility, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected, whether that’s an unplanned rest day or a detour to a charming village.
In the end, the best Camino experience comes from balancing readiness with openness—being prepared enough to handle challenges, yet free enough to let the road surprise you.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.