This article on choosing clothing for the Camino in spring is part of a long series dedicated to the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage. You'll find plenty of practical information on how to organise and prepare your trek (routes, equipment, season, clothing, physical preparation, tips...etc). At the bottom of this article you'll find the list of links to the other articles in the series!
If you've decided to set out on the Camino de Santiago in spring, that's a smart choice — it's a pleasant season well-suited to long-distance hiking. But before you prepare your departure, you need to choose the right gear to pack in your rucksack. Here's our advice for selecting clothing for the Camino in spring and completing the trek of your dreams in the best possible conditions.Clothing for the Camino in spring: upper body
In spring, across the entire route you may encounter fairly changeable weather but with limited temperature variation. Expect mild temperatures but with the risk of rain nonetheless. However, evenings and mornings can be cool.
For upper body clothing you'll need to prioritise long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirts, a few t-shirts, add a fleece jacket and pack a waterproof windproof jacket in your bag. With this combination you should be able to face all possible eventualities.
You might also add t-shirts for the warmest days or if you're travelling at the end of spring.
Finally, for the coolest periods, consider taking with you some technical and warm base layers that will protect you effectively in the early morning or during the coldest days. They'll also be useful if you opt for bivouacking and a tent.
Clothing for the Camino in spring: lower body
Generally this is a part of the body where you shouldn't feel too cold at this time of year: the effort of walking will be enough to keep your legs warm.
You can therefore choose to set off with a lightweight hiking trousers. It's also possible to pack waterproof or warmer trousers for cooler days. Another solution in case of a temperature drop is to take long johns in your bag. This type of technical and warm base layer will be very useful under your trousers to protect you if it gets a bit colder.
Nevertheless, you should have milder and warmer temperatures, particularly on the Spanish section after the Pyrenees. You can then also add shorts to your rucksack, which are very pleasant when the sun comes out.
Alternatively, convertible trousers are worth considering. They're a very practical solution that will save you weight and volume. Zip-off trouser models allow you to switch from trousers to shorts in barely 1 minute, either way!
Finally, a small pair of shorts is always useful, especially if you're travelling in late May-early June when temperatures are usually higher. Plus, shorts shouldn't weigh down your travel bag too much or take up too much space!
Clothing for the Camino in spring: socks and shoes
Above all, don't neglect the choice of socks and shoes for the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage! Remember that your feet will be put to the test throughout the route and they're essential to your wellbeing and endurance. First tip: don't set off with brand new items! Whether shoes or socks, you must have used them for a few weeks before your departure and be certain you have products that suit you and cause no discomfort. First and foremost, shoes are of course essential. The Camino de Santiago is not technically difficult and doesn't require shoes for walking on glaciers or scree. But it is necessary to set off with walking or hiking shoes and not standard sports shoes. Depending on your habits you can opt for mid-cut walking boots or lightweight low-cut hiking shoes, or even hiking sandals. In the latter case, however, you need to be careful not to set off during a period that's a bit too rainy. Whatever the case, do several outings with your shoes to break them in and learn to maintain and repair them in case of problems. Regarding socks, don't make the mistake of setting off with standard everyday socks. Over one day you wouldn't see the difference but after a week, it would certainly be a disaster for your feet.
In spring you'll mainly need lightweight hiking socks. The ideal choice is double-skin anti-blister socks which are perfect for long days of effort. You can also opt for high-performance and durable hiking socks with right foot / left foot ergonomics, a heel and toe in CORDURA 4 times stronger than polyamide, and merino wool to limit odours. This is often ideal for long distances like the Camino.
Plan to set off with enough pairs to change each day if you can't wash your socks every evening (lack of time or facilities at the hostel). Ideally have at least 4 pairs with you.
Finally, to aid your recovery, don't hesitate to get compression recovery socks which help reduce the feeling of fatigue and limit the onset of cramps and calf pain. They're easy to use: simply put them on once you've arrived at your stop and wear them for 2 to 4 hours to revitalise blood flow.
Other articles in the Santiago de Compostela series:
