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!
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.
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.
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 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?
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
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!
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.
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.
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
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!
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 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!
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.
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!
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!
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!
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?
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!
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!
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
+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, 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.
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.
Hello Lindsey. I'll be coming from Singapore and want to pack as light as possible. Will I be able to buy stuff like those walking rods, poncho and waterproof baggies in SJPdP? Thanks.
Hi Brian, there are some outdoors-y stores in SJPdP but I'm not sure of exactly what they carry. Maybe look for a shop in whatever major city you have to go through to get to SJPdP?
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!
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!
got a question lady. The pillow situation, how does it work? every albergue has pillows? are they clean enough? (bedbugs), or carrying a small foldable pillow might actually be a good idea ? thanks m'aam and in advance
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!
min 7:45 - I don't really like how it looks or anything, but I have this purse :-). You crack me up. Great Content though as a newbie about to do my first camino.
Hi I am planning my first walk on the Camino in MAR/APR 2019. I know it will be colder and wetter, so I will prepare for that. Question - Why would I need to bring a sleeping bag (don't the albergues furnish blankets)? It seems it would add extra weight to pack one, if blankets are provided.
Hi Lindsey Could you please tell me where you found your water bottle holder? I've tried others but can't find any that work well, and yours look like it would be great. Thanks for your help. Chris
Ms. Cowie, Thank you for your videos they have helped my girlfriend and I plan for our Camino (Camino Norte) which we are set to start this May. I would like to ask if you think a camelbak bladder 2L is unnecessary I was considering taking one but it seems like you have done well with just the bottle.
Thank you. I would also like to ask if you had any difficulty finding places to fill your water bottle along the caminos or if filling it in the morning before you left a town you were staying in held over until the next town? Thank you once again.
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!
hi lindsey im going in a couple of months i heard that i should get a size bigger of my regular shoe size...was that your case? also didi u like the bag was it the rize size? im 5,3
Waterproof/Breathable means that the fabric of your jacket is woven so tight that air will pass through the fabric and water won't, in turn allowing your body to breath. When your body can breath you don't get condensation build up in your jacket!
ah great. were up here in Dublin so keeping an eye on the weather down in Portugal / Spain as its very changeable at the moment. . hope all your new gear and pack going ok for ya. be safe . ger
Ok I am think I am finally going to pull the string and go next year. Need some advice. Best time of year to go? I see you like to go in spring around May. Is that the best time and should it be later May or the first of June. Also how many days should I plan for 35+/-. What guidebooks should I look for or is there an ap for the phone?
Congrats Bob! Well, best time of year to go depends on what's most important to you. Depends on the route you choose as well. May-September is very busy but the weather is better. If I were to go again, I would go in a less popular time and just bite the bullet with the poorer weather, but that's my personal opinion. I took 35 days when I walked from St-Jean to Santiago, 32 walking with 3 zeros. John Brierly's guidebook is the most popular. There are some apps now I believe but I'm not sure of their accuracy or success.
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
The bits about not being able to afford certain items are very relatable (and also rarely mentioned in YT gear videos). Well done
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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?
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...
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 the video thank you for sharing your honesty and love that’s what humanity needs to learn to keep Loving.
love how passionate you are! See you in the camino! bom caminho
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 :)
Fab videos Lindsay! Glad to have found you. The key light, and lots of other stuff you shared is great! Camino Portugues 2020!
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
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!
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.
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.
Lindsay', this packing video rocks! you are so helpful for planning the walk. thanks !
Thanks! :)
Hey Lindsey, how was Camino Portuguese? Are you going to post a UA-cam update about it? Or do you have a blog?
Im doing my first camino in September. Your videos are getting me very excited! Thanks for sharing x
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
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!
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 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 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!
Excellent video!! I'm doing my first Camino this year. Buen Camino!!
Great information! Very helpful videos. Will be doing my second Camino this September.
Congrats! Enjoy!
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!
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!
Thank you for such useful tips... I hope to walk my first Camino soon...
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!
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.
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.
thanks lindsay i am doing camino this May, very helpful
I'm about to head out there very soon - I found your video very helpful - also the humor : )
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!
It would be nice to see how you actually organize and pack all the stuff. Enjoying the videos.
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!
Been watching your vids. Real helpful in planning my trip. Thanks.
Hey there Lindsey, I hope you're enjoying your Camino, thank you for your videos....
Thanks Jason! It was wonderful. Updates coming soon!
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
Lindsey thanks for the advice. How did it go ?
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
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?
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!
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!
Met you on your second camino. Great job making this video.
Bloody love your water pouch. I will definitely be doing something similar next Camino.
Haha yeah girl I know you do! :P
Thank you. Did you take poles? If so, any problems checking them on the flights there and back?
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!
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!
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.
Have a great trip!!! And stay safe!!! And have loads of fun!!! xxx
+Lee Woodhouse Thanks man!
Too cool!
In which town or city does the camino Portuguese start.? Thank you Duan.
Is there a need to bring a tent or is that overkill?
Enjoy your Camino! I am hoping to do it later this year (hoping, hoping, hoping!!)
+RowanTree Thank you! Fingers crossed for you/
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!
How much did your pack weigh?
great video . thanks . How much weight all your stuf ?
thank you Lindsey . i just made a list of wat you said in this video . great .
Again, loved the video. Many thanks.....!
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.
What brand is your backpack is it available in the USA
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!
Bon courage Lindsey -- thanks for sharing.
+Stephen Mundane Merci Stephen!
Hello Lindsey. I'll be coming from Singapore and want to pack as light as possible. Will I be able to buy stuff like those walking rods, poncho and waterproof baggies in SJPdP? Thanks.
Hi Brian, there are some outdoors-y stores in SJPdP but I'm not sure of exactly what they carry. Maybe look for a shop in whatever major city you have to go through to get to SJPdP?
Will do. thanks again Lindsey.
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!
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!
got a question lady. The pillow situation, how does it work? every albergue has pillows? are they clean enough? (bedbugs), or carrying a small foldable pillow might actually be a good idea ? thanks m'aam and in advance
+menemme Pillows are readily available in all albergue and are clean, some albergue provide disposable paper sheets and pillowcases
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!
great video but different subject what did you do about bed bugs
Never saw one! Advice: go in the spring I guess?
min 7:45 - I don't really like how it looks or anything, but I have this purse :-). You crack me up. Great Content though as a newbie about to do my first camino.
I am going on the Camino Norte to Primitvo to Santiago in August.
hi there, quick question
what about Weed? is it easy to buy some good weed???
Hahaha I do not have to answer to this my friend! Good luck!
+Lindsey Cowie my question was serious. please I need to know
Hi Lindsay, Checking out my late 2021 packing review video straight from the Camino :) Buen Camino
Hi I am planning my first walk on the Camino in MAR/APR 2019. I know it will be colder and wetter, so I will prepare for that. Question - Why would I need to bring a sleeping bag (don't the albergues furnish blankets)? It seems it would add extra weight to pack one, if blankets are provided.
They have light blankets/sheets that are not enough for many
thanks for being concise and informative!!!
Maybe I missed this, but should you bring towels on the Camino? I heard the albergues do not typically provide them...
Awesome videos!! I'm listen while walking st James!!
Hi Lindsey
Could you please tell me where you found your water bottle holder? I've tried others but can't find any that work well, and yours look like it would be great. Thanks for your help.
Chris
Hi Chris, it's from Outdoor Research, but I'm not sure if they make it anymore, I got it 6 years ago :)
Buen Camino! God be with you.. :)
Ms. Cowie,
Thank you for your videos they have helped my girlfriend and I plan for our Camino (Camino Norte) which we are set to start this May. I would like to ask if you think a camelbak bladder 2L is unnecessary I was considering taking one but it seems like you have done well with just the bottle.
I wouldn't say it's unnecessary, just a different option than what I chose! It'd be just fine.
Thank you. I would also like to ask if you had any difficulty finding places to fill your water bottle along the caminos or if filling it in the morning before you left a town you were staying in held over until the next town? Thank you once again.
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.
Are there also nice walks in America, that look like the 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!
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
Lindsey,
Do you think you could get away with just a sleeping bag liner on the Norte route in August? Love your videos!
Probably but I imagine you've found out either way by now! Ha! Sorry!
hi lindsey im going in a couple of months i heard that i should get a size bigger of my regular shoe size...was that your case? also didi u like the bag was it the rize size? im 5,3
Waterproof/Breathable means that the fabric of your jacket is woven so tight that air will pass through the fabric and water won't, in turn allowing your body to breath. When your body can breath you don't get condensation build up in your jacket!
How many steps you did per day? How many days it takes for minimum and for medium ? How much money to feel comfortable?
hi ya again Lindsey. hope your safe and well. dying to hear how your 3rd Camino went especially as its the Portuguese one.
Hi Gerry, thanks so much! Doing very well :) Video coming very soon about the Portuguese! Stay tuned :)
ah great. were up here in Dublin so keeping an eye on the weather down in Portugal / Spain as its very changeable at the moment. . hope all your new gear and pack going ok for ya. be safe . ger
hi planning to do el Camino gracias for sharing good info. One ? how you seen anyone doing this with a dog?🐕
I think I saw someone with a dog. It's quite a long way to take a pup, but easy terrain!
I'm doing the Camino Portuguese in September and I'm sooo excited!!!
Ooh awesome! Stay tuned for info on the route! :D
Hey Lindsay! How did the pack work for you? Thanks so much!
Splendidly! I love that lil guy! Would definitely recommend it. Plenty of extra room for all yours need.
Safe travels and Buen Camino✨🌻
+Yoli Marrero Obrigada!
How did the Columbia Titanium Outdry shoes work for you. I was thinking of buy those too.
Loved them!
Ok I am think I am finally going to pull the string and go next year. Need some advice. Best time of year to go? I see you like to go in spring around May. Is that the best time and should it be later May or the first of June. Also how many days should I plan for 35+/-. What guidebooks should I look for or is there an ap for the phone?
Congrats Bob! Well, best time of year to go depends on what's most important to you. Depends on the route you choose as well. May-September is very busy but the weather is better. If I were to go again, I would go in a less popular time and just bite the bullet with the poorer weather, but that's my personal opinion. I took 35 days when I walked from St-Jean to Santiago, 32 walking with 3 zeros. John Brierly's guidebook is the most popular. There are some apps now I believe but I'm not sure of their accuracy or success.