Everything you want to know about the Camino

If you've never walked the Camino before, it can be difficult to figure out everything you need to consider before you set off. Here are some tips from those who have experienced the Camino:

• Follow the yellow arrows or shells. The beginning of the shell indicates the direction. If you feel like you've gone the wrong way, you probably have. Then walk back to find the last arrow or shell. No need to use your phone!
• If you are bound to a specific duration and you definitely want to reach Santiago, it is advisable to book or have your overnight stays booked (especially in Santiago itself).
• It's okay to tell your conversation partner while walking the Camino that you prefer to walk alone. The same goes for the cafes along the way.
• Aside from fruit, there are few vitamins available on the Camino. It's a good idea to take vitamin pills along the Camino for extra immunity.
• Changing your shoes halfway through the day will help reduce blisters. Rubbing your feet with magnesium powder twice a day is another way to prevent blisters.
• Earplugs (preferably custom-made) and a sleep mask are very useful during the Camino!
• To keep the chaos in your bag under control, separate pockets in your bag work best.
• On the Camino you always have cash with you.
• There isn't always something to eat on the road, so always take something sweet and something salty to nibble on in your bag and above all, enough water!
• Suffering is part of the Camino. It's not a walk in the park or a scenic hike. You encounter yourself, and that's how you learn. The Camino doesn't give you what you want, but what you need.

Download the packing list here to get the fun started!