Whether or not you’re religious, walking the Camino de Santiago is a unique experience. This weeks-long pilgrimage offers time for reflection, as well as a chance to explore magnificent landscapes, visit places steeped in history and have memorable encounters. Five different routes lead to the tomb of Saint James, four of them starting in France. To prepare for this long-distance hiking trip, it’s important to know what to wear on the Camino de Santiago.
What to wear on the Camino de Santiago in warmer weather
Spring and summer are the best seasons for the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. The days are longer and more pleasant for hiking.
The upper body
For the Camino de Santiago, choose lightweight, breathable clothing. Short- or long-sleeved shirts and T-shirts work well, with long sleeves protecting your arms from UV rays. It’s also worth packing a fairly light fleece jacket and a warm, packable insulated jacket just in case. The weather can change, especially in spring, when mornings and evenings may be cooler.
When hiking for several weeks, it’s a good idea to pack a windproof jacket, a waterproof jacket or a rain poncho. A poncho covers your whole body and backpack, while a jacket is much more breathable and comfortable. For sun protection, a hat or cap is essential, as are sunglasses. A hat also covers your neck and ears.
The lower body
For walking trails in the sun, lightweight hiking trousers or convertible trousers are ideal. They protect your legs while remaining breathable. You can also take shorts for the hottest days.
You can also pack a slightly warmer or waterproof pair of trousers. They’ll be useful on cooler days, particularly when crossing the Pyrenees. Leggings are another option and are handy at rest stops. For socks, lightweight hiking socks are ideal.
What to wear on the Camino de Santiago in colder weather
In autumn, winter and early spring, temperatures are lower, so dressing appropriately for the Camino de Santiago matters. Choose more insulating clothing that protects you from the elements.
The upper body
For your upper body, use the three-layer system, starting with warm, breathable technical base layers with long or short sleeves depending on the weather. We recommend merino wool clothing, which helps regulate temperature and does not retain odours, or synthetic fibres, which breathe well and dry quickly.
Taking two fleece layers of different weights can also be a good idea. This lets you adjust your insulation to the temperature. You can also replace a fleece with an insulated jacket.
Finally, your third layer must be windproof and waterproof. Its Gore-Tex® membrane or equivalent protects you from wind, rain and snow.
The lower body
For your lower body, wear lightweight hiking trousers with thermal leggings for extra insulation against the cold. You can also take lined or brushed trousers, which are ideal for winter. The Camino de Santiago is a long route, so take several pairs of trousers to alternate between. For maximum protection from rain, pack waterproof overtrousers.
Finally, protect your extremities with a beanie, neck warmer, balaclava, glove liners, gloves or warm hiking socks.
Walking the Camino de Santiago is a rewarding experience that calls for relatively few clothes, provided they’re good quality. Whether you hike in summer or winter, your clothing needs to suit the weather, the terrain and the length of the pilgrimage.
