Walking the Camino is a transformative journey. But even the best planning can’t prevent missteps altogether. From overpacking to pushing too hard, many pilgrims make avoidable mistakes that turn part of the joy into friction. In this post, we’ll go through the most common pitfalls and how to sidestep them, with tips inspired by our experience at Follow the Camino.
Why talking about “mistakes” matters?
Before we dive in: errors aren’t necessarily bad. Sometimes you learn more from things that go wrong than things that go perfect. The goal here is not to scare, but to empower pilgrims to walk more mindfully, avoid unnecessary suffering, and get the most out of their Camino.
#1: Overpacking — carrying too much weight
One of the biggest errors pilgrims make is bringing too much. A heavy backpack quickly turns each day into a struggle.
Try to limit your pack to the essentials — ideally no more than 10% of your body weight. Remember, Spain and Portugal are well equipped with pharmacies and shops along the way, so you can buy what you need.
At Follow the Camino, our pre-departure guides include detailed packing lists designed to keep your load light and practical. We also offer luggage transfers, so you can walk freely without carrying your main bag every day.
#2: Starting too fast and burning out early
The first few days often bring excitement and adrenaline. Many pilgrims push themselves too hard, covering long distances too quickly — and pay for it with soreness or injury.
Start at a gentle pace, especially if it’s your first long-distance walk. Allow your body to adapt to the daily rhythm. In our itineraries, we design comfortable daily stages that help pilgrims ease into their journey and truly enjoy the walk.
#3: Not allowing enough time or rest days
Rushing the Camino is one of the surest ways to miss its magic. Many pilgrims underestimate how much time they’ll need for rest, reflection, or simply enjoying the towns and countryside.
Plan buffer or rest days into your trip — you’ll thank yourself later. When booking through Follow the Camino, you can customize your itinerary to include recovery days in charming towns such as León, Burgos, or Santiago de Compostela itself.
#4: Trying to keep pace with others
The Camino is social and inspiring — you’ll meet amazing people from all over the world. But trying to match someone else’s pace, especially if they walk faster or slower, can quickly lead to exhaustion or frustration.
Walk your own Camino. Everyone’s pace, fitness, and reasons for walking are different. Our self-guided tours are built so you can walk at your rhythm, with the reassurance that your accommodation and support are always waiting at the end of the day.
#5: Racing for accommodation
Many pilgrims worry about finding a bed each night and end up rushing their walk. This often causes stress and takes away from the experience.
When you book with Follow the Camino, your accommodation is pre-arranged in comfortable, hand-picked hotels and guesthouses — no racing or uncertainty required. You can focus on the journey, not the logistics.
#6: Wearing the wrong shoes or clothes
Poor footwear is one of the top causes of pain and blisters. Don’t start your Camino in brand-new boots — wear shoes you’ve already tested on long walks.
Choose moisture-wicking, quick-dry clothing and avoid cotton, which traps sweat. Always carry a lightweight rain jacket or poncho. Our Follow the Camino Packing Guide (available to all clients) includes practical advice on what to wear for each season and route.
#7: Ignoring the weather
Check forecasts daily, layer your clothing, and don’t underestimate rain or heat. Follow the Camino provides an in-house weather map and route information to all travellers before and during their trip.
#8: Forgetting to enjoy the moment
It’s easy to focus only on reaching the next stage or completing your kilometers. But the Camino is about the journey, not the finish line.
Take time to pause, take photos, talk to locals, and enjoy the scenery. Reflect on what brought you here. Many Follow the Camino pilgrims keep journals or photo diaries — beautiful ways to capture the emotional side of the walk.
#9: Mismanaging water and snacks
Carrying too much water makes your bag heavier than needed; carrying too little leaves you dehydrated. Most Camino routes have regular fountains, cafés, and refill points.
We recommend carrying a reusable bottle and refilling along the way. Follow the Camino provides route notes highlighting water stops and rest areas, so you can plan ahead without overloading.
#10: Overlooking local etiquette
The Camino runs through quiet villages and shared spaces where respect is key. Keep your voice low in dorms, greet locals with a friendly “buen camino,” and be mindful not to litter or disturb the environment.
We brief all our clients on local customs and good Camino manners so everyone contributes positively to the pilgrim community.
#11: Walking unprepared — no maps or navigation backup
Even with the famous yellow arrows, it’s easy to miss a turn, especially in fog or less popular routes and cities. Always carry a route map or digital GPX file.
Our Follow the Camino route packs include printed maps, GPX files, our navigation app and 24/7 assistance so you’re never lost, even offline.
Final Thoughts: Walk Smart, Walk Joyfully
The Camino is not about perfection — it’s about presence. Avoiding these small mistakes lets you focus on what truly matters: the people you meet, the lessons you learn, and the quiet moments along the trail.
At Follow the Camino, we handle the logistics so you can focus on your journey. From luggage transfers and cozy accommodations to expert route planning, our goal is to make your Camino stress-free and unforgettable.
FAQs: Avoiding Common Camino Mistakes
Q: How heavy should my backpack be?
Ideally, no more than 10% of your body weight. But if you’re walking with Follow the Camino, you can book our luggage transfer service and carry only a light daypack.
Q: What happens if it rains for several days?
Rain is common in Galicia and northern Spain. Our route specialists can advise on suitable gear and even alternative routes for extreme conditions.
Q: Can I walk at my own pace?
Absolutely. Our itineraries are designed for self-guided flexibility — your accommodation is waiting for you no matter what time you arrive.
Q: What if I get injured or too tired to continue?
We provide 24/7 support. Our team can arrange transfers, medical help, or adjustments to your route if needed.
Q: Do I need to speak Spanish?
Not necessarily, but learning a few phrases helps.
