It’s easy to underestimate water—until you find yourself sluggish, and miles from the next town. Dehydration is one of the most common mistakes among first-time pilgrims, and it can turn a beautiful walking day into a risky ordeal.
So let’s break it down: how much should you drink, what should you carry, and where can you refill along the way?
Why is hydration such a big deal on the Camino?
Because water isn’t just a comfort—it’s your energy source, your internal air conditioning, and your best protection against both sunstroke and hypothermia.
If you wait until you’re thirsty, it’s already too late. By then, your body is already behind on fluids. Dehydration can creep up slowly and hit hard, especially in the summer months. Staying hydrated helps you stay sharp, light on your feet, and emotionally grounded on the trail.
What’s the best water gear to carry?
Aim for containers that hold at least 1.5 liters (around 50 oz). You’ll find several options, each with pros and cons:
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Disposable plastic bottles – Lightweight and available everywhere, but bad for the environment and prone to warming up quickly. Avoid if you can.
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Reusable aluminum or stainless steel bottles – Eco-friendly, keeps water cooler for longer, and easy to clean. Slightly heavier, but worth it.
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Hydration bladders (CamelBak-style) – Ideal for hands-free sipping. Great for constant hydration, but harder to refill and clean, and may give your water a plastic taste.
Pick the option that suits your style and your backpack, but also think about the environment you are walking in! If you choose to use plastic bottles anyway: don’t throw them around in nature! Correctly dispose of them so they can be recycled.
Think ahead about hygiene: make sure your gear is easy to rinse and dry, especially on longer routes. If you use plastic bottles, dispose of them responsibly—don’t leave them on the trail.
How much water should I drink?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but as a general rule: ~1 liter every 2 hours of walking, and up to 2 liters per 2 hours in hot weather.
Drink a glass of water the night before your walk, and another 250–450 ml in the morning before you start walking. Hydration is a habit you build before you even take your first step.
And don’t overdo it—carrying too much water adds weight you may not need. Plan based on the day’s stage and local conditions.
Will I find water on the Camino?
Yes—but don’t assume it will always be available when you need it. That’s why checking your route each day is essential. On the popular Camino Francés and the Last 100 km, you’ll find frequent towns, bars, and fountains. But other sections, especially remote or mountainous areas, can stretch for hours with no reliable refill point.
Always check your guidebook or app, and know in advance where the refill stops are.
Where can I refill my water safely?
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Drinking fountains: Common in villages and along trails. Look for signs saying “Agua potable” (drinkable water). If it says “No potable”—don’t drink it.
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Taps and cafés: In most of Spain and Portugal, tap water is safe. Ask kindly in bars and they’ll often refill your bottle for free.
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Apps like Cloacsa Water: This free app shows you water refill stations around the world—including the Camino. Bonus: it rewards you for avoiding plastic!
What if I get dehydrated anyway?
Even with good habits, things can go wrong. That’s why we recommend you pack oral rehydration salts (ORS) in your first-aid kit. These small sachets help your body absorb and retain fluids effectively.
Avoid homemade versions—they’re not reliable for actual dehydration. Use the ORS with boiled or treated water, and always follow the instructions on the packet. You can find ORS in pharmacies, but it’s smart to bring some from home just in case.
Don’t stop hydrating when the walk ends
Many pilgrims forget to keep drinking once they arrive at their accommodation. But replenishing fluids after your walk is just as important as staying hydrated during it. Add a pinch of salt to your evening meal, have water with dinner, and keep a bottle by your bed.
