Talon 33 is more than enough. Next to skin items such as socks, pants and t shirts wear one and have two spares of each in your bag. Mid layers and shorts wear one and have one spare, outer layers just one. Flipflops for the shower and albergue use. Block of shampoo and very modest toiletries. Water containers. You dont really need anything else. I live on the northern route and see thousands of pilgrims every year with 65+ liter packs. They look miserable and their feet are sore, they blame their shoes and never blame their 65 liter packs. Travel light, you will be happier!
I like how you categorized the layers and quantities. Question: I’m taking those sexy pants with zip off legs. How do I count that? Underwear? My feet sweat heavily. I was planning on doubling my socks and changing out mid day as my comfort splurge. Thoughts from experienced walkers…
@@DunRovinRanch-1969 zip off legs are pretty handy for a chilly morning. As the day warms up you can strip down. I love merino wool socks and t shirts. Worth their weight in gold. They resist odors, shed sweat and you can wear them fir a couple if days if necessary.
Osprey 40 here. I'm a very plus size lady so all of my clothes are bigger than average so I needed a bigger pack. I had myself fitted by a very helpful Spanish man at Paddy Pallin in Perth Western Australia. He put various weights into the pack to give me an idea of how the pack fit and would feel when I'm carrying it. Thanks Rob. Lots of great tips as usual.
1) what makes a set up comfortable is having as little weight as possible in the pack. 2) no reason anyone should have more than 10 lbs for the Camino. And if you can do that, then you can have a much smaller, lighter backpack. 3) There are 1 lb packs without hip belts that are very comfortable because that’s all you need for a 10 lb base weight. Not having a hip belt is super comfortable, safer, allows for more freedom of movement and visibility. It’s also very easy to take on/off, which is actually a big deal as packs get heavier and as it gets to be more difficult to properly strap the hip belt. 4) the smaller frameless packs use running style vests which are very comfortable and distribute weight intelligently to the front of your body and back instead of shoulders. No hip belt needed, and with just 10 lbs, the weight isn’t an issue. Running style vest straps are a game changer. 5) There are plenty of Camino ultralight hikers who have less than 7 lb base weights. Easy to do on a summer Camino especially. I saw a woman on the Camino flying by people. We chatted at a rest stop. She looked to be late 50s, was in her 70s. Her backpack was 1/3 the size of mine. No hip belt. ONE THIRD. I thought she was a day hiker who lived in the town. Nope. She’s a retired nurse who did 12 caminos. Twelve. Doing caminos is basically her life. And she does it with a super light backpack that actually included a lightweight sleeping bag (since it was a fall/winter Camino). She showed me how to be ultralight. I walked with her for an hour or so to pick her brain. The ultralight packs with roll-tops allow for flexibility to add more stuff if you really need the room, but you won’t on the Camino. The best packs have pockets underneath the pack so you don’t even need a waist pack, or to stuff help belt pockets. Stuffing help belt pockets seem handy, but not if you’ve had the underside pockets without a hip belt. Much freer and plenty of room underneath. People take these packs from Mexico to Canada on the PCT and along the Appalachian trail. Those are the people to watch and learn from if you want lower base weights and hip belt-less packs. And they need room for tents, sleeping systems and cook systems - all stuff you don’t need on the Camino. Ray Jardine figured out long ago that the most comfortable, fastest and safest hike is the lightest hike. It was true 30 years ago, it’s true today.
All fair points. I just don't like any weight at all on my shoulders. My pack with a good hip belt means zero weight on my shoulders. I could almost take the shoulder straps off! Only the pack would fall away from my body 🙄 We all have preferences. None are wrong. 😉
@@robscamino preference is subjective. Weight and safety are objective. Lighter weight is safer, more visibility is safer, better balance is safer. Less than 10 lbs on shoulders doesn’t feel like much wherever the pressure is. But the packs I mentioned don’t put weight on shoulders, they use running vest style straps, which are wide, thin, very elastic. Nothing like the thick puffy foam on traditional backpacks. The shape and style of running vests creates comfortable spread out pressure around the front sides of the body where straps go around and down the front and at the points of contact along lower back. This is why runners wear these packs. Hip belts get in the way, reduce mobility, visibility and balance. The worst is when people stuff hip belt pockets to create more imbalance and visibility problems. You won’t see the Palante Joey or Zpacks Nero or Nashville Packs Cutaway at a Pamplona Decathlon. Running vest strap packs are next gen, but proven over many years and growing among the ultralight community in the US. Expect the Camino to be 10 years behind whatever is popular in California. Just look at how zero drop wide toe box trail runners were popular a long time ago on the pct and AT before Camino pilgrims started catching on. Same with trends on toe sock liners. Just look at what successful pct and AT hikers wear today and you’ll know what pilgrims will be doing in 10 years.
I appreciate your perspectives and the time to explain your thoughts on this. And certainly lighter has many benefits, there is no doubt in that. But...... The Camino is not a 'technical' hike like the AT, PCT or other Thru Hikes. I can appreciate how additional weight could impact comfort and safety. The Camino is more a 'stroll' along prepared tracks in the main. And whilst I could probably reduce my overall pack weight to 4-5 kgs I choose not to. I prefer to 'trade off' some weight for added comfort and convenience. I recall being in the Military many years ago ( a 20 year veteran) and being taught when packing gear, that "any fool can be uncomfortable". Not that I am implying that ultra lite hikers are fools! But the Camino is far more than just a hike. And a bit of extra weight for some comforts or additional clothing items, really don't make that much difference. I walk with a pack that is about 8kg. Would I prefer to walk with a pack that weighs 4kg? Of course. But (for me) that would mean sacrificing quite a bit on comfort, medical items that I need, some additional clothes and sleeping gear for comfort/convenience and so on. For me, that is worth the extra weight. If I had to, I could probably walk carrying 2-3 kgs! Would I want to? No. I admire your passion on the topic though. 🙂
If I was going to walk a Camino a lot faster than I do..........for example 30-40 kms a day, I would definitely consider ultra lite gear! (I would have to) But I amble along............about 20-25 kms / day........smelling the roses...... Indeed though running style 'vest' packs look great. But I'm strolling, not running. And in the heat I really like my pack with a speed back that leaves an air gap between the pack and my body.
@@robscamino you’ve done the Camino many times. My comments aren’t about you or your preferences but the many people who haven’t done a Camino and are thinking about doing one. The ones who do not reduce their weight and don’t have experience hiking all day are the ones that can barely make it to Orisson and then bail out at Pamplona with feet full of blisters. Of course the Camino isn’t technical. And yet, countless people get blisters and other injuries that knock them off and get them bus/train tickets to Burgos and then Santiago, and the Camino is full of markers of people who died on the Camino. All those people - with blisters, injuries, heat stroke and heart attacks - would’ve benefited greatly from far less pack weight. Not for more mileage, but because it’s safer. Esp when it’s hot. And when people are out of shape, and get bad shoes, etc. the margin of error goes way up with lighter packs and way down with heavier ones. You do you - but my comments are the for the people who don’t know what they are doing and haven’t done a Camino before.
I'm close to needing one. So I made sure to lose lots of weight before I went. If I needed a CPAP, I'd get a lightweight travel one and carry it. I've used transport services in the past due to injury and they are a pain to be honest. One more thing to worry about, restrictive.......
@@robscamino "Restrictive". Our thoughts exactly. It's a hindrance to flexibility. I'll take your advice on board and grab that mini-air travel CPAP and find the best bag possible. Hoping it's not going to be too heavy. The travel CPAP plus all the essential accessories are around 1.5kgs. I'll have to find the lightest materials of everything we'll carry with us. :)
I walked October/November and has the Osprey 33L - was more than enough for warm gear and rain gear. And was good to limit the bad to that size as it kept me from "packing my fears" and taking too much
I had a ferrino 40 liters for my first camino along the Portugal coastal route and although it was fall ( end of October) and I had bulkier clothes,it was too much. Now I have got an Osprey Myra 32 liters for my June camino and my extra week of holiday around Spain and I think it is a great size. For a woman I wouldn’t go over 32/34 liters, if you have lots of space you add more stuff and it gets heavier! I think in the summer two items of each work great and maybe in fall/spring 3 items are great.
Very good video I am packed will do the Madrid San Salvador and the Primitivo I have got a Gossamer fast Kumo 36 lt everything fits in there On the 6th of April the fun starts
Rob--than you for this timely subject. I have four mountaineering backpacks and I was hoping to use one of those, to save myself having to buy a new backpack. I have two that are 55L--I know, much bigger than most people use but it just doesn't seem to make sense to go out and buy a 40L when I have a garage full of backpacks. I guess the trick would be to just not fill it up! Of course, I would refrain from using my 75L!
It's my pleasure, Peter! Using one of your mountaineering backpacks for hiking is a great idea. Just be mindful of how much you pack. It's always good to pack just what you need for your hike for it to be more comfortable and manageable.
I use a 33lt Osprey and a 4lt Osprey bumbag/fanny pack. Neither is full but they fit me really well, particularly the back length/ hip belt geometry. The bumbag has documents, phone, snacks etc. great for access and security. The weight saving on going to a 22lt backpack is noticeable (I have one as a day bag) but would be overstuffed and less comfortable. The other issue is water bottles. I keep two bottles in the side pockets and I find them difficult to reach on the 22lt. One of the benefits of being an old geezer no doubt.
Whilst it's not a great look, i put my water bottles on the front. Attached to the pack shoulder straps. One advantage is that they 'balance' the pack weight a bit.
Yes, Comfort is paramount. If you have a long torso your frame length is more important than pack volume. I had to go to a 60 plus liter Osprey before I had enough space between my hip belt and my shoulder strap. attachment point..FYI, I removed the detachable top zipper pouch to reduce some unnecessary volume and weight.
I used the REI flash 45 for my first Camino in 2017 and while it was good I definitely could of sized down. I realized about half way through that a lot of the stuff I brought I didn’t even use! I think I’m going to try a small pack for my next one.
Last year I had a 40l Quechua (Decathlon). This year it’ll be An Osprey tempest 34 (32l), wich fits me better and is still under 55cm long (handluggage airplane).
I think most of us have learned lessons on the camino. In August I'm going on my 7th camino. On my first it was a fjellraven 65L kajka. On my last one it was a patagonia refugio 28L and the next the new patagonia refugio 30L. In the summer months I've used a sleeping bag liner instead of sleeping bag and are generally very aware of what to bring and what not to bring.
Sounds like a great size. I'm just back from walking 1,200 kms with a 34 litre pack. I realise now, I can still cut down my packing list. I'm sure I could manage with a 28 litre.
@@robscamino I've seen people with the Fjellraven kanken 20L so it's definitely possible. I guess it's all a matter of what we really need. But I must admit that the 28L was/is the limit for me.
@@DavidHRyall what I often do, is take a smaller backpack, make sure it all fits and after that put it in a bigger one which often has better support. 😉
On my first Camino I had a 65L backpack weighing 3 kg - way too big and heavy, then I bought an Osprey kestrel 48, which was a little too big and a litte too heavy, next backpack was an Osprey Exos, regrettably a 48L - should have been a 38. but it is very comfortable and weighs a little less than the Kestrel. In 4 weeks I am doing part of the Francigena, this time I will bring a Mammut Lithium 30L, its is light - 930g, my stuff fits in it, and I can take it as carry-on. I have other backpacks for other uses - you can never have too many backpacks :-)
I use an osprey tempest 30l perfect size for my annual September Camino. Definitely big enough for me but I may need a bigger one as I’m thinking of bringing my CPAP.
I’ll be walking my first Camino in April , I have a 34 L from REI, I’m struggling with keeping the weight down. Everyone says I need to be prepared for cold and warm weather. I think my pack shouldn’t weigh over 15-15.5 pounds. I am planning on transporting my pack on the first several days from SJPP so I have a lightweight pack for those days. I live in Florida US. I’m not used to walking on steep inclines.
Hi Rob! I've been enjoying your videos, thank you! Did you walk the VLDP in 2022? How did your weight-loss journey go for you? For weight loss my wife really likes intermittent fasting. There is a book by Gin Stephens called Fast Feast Repeat that has really helped her.
Our gear is remarkably similar! Exactly the same items and brands. She just adds a couple of sports bras! She is a lot smaller than me so can manage with 24 L. (smaller clothes etc ) Obviously we are not both carrying some items. So I've got the 1st aid stuff, the laundry stuff and so on.
I originally bought a Kestrel 48 for my first Camino, fortunately I exchanged it (at REI) when I realized that I didn't need so much space.. I carry a small sleeping bag and an Altus poncho. I think 33-40 is probably very good for the majority of people. I wouldn't mind having a clamshell rather than top and bottom loading pack. ¡Buen Camino!
I think you're right. 33-40 L seems to be the sweet spot. Mine is a kind of clam shell. The whole top half unzips. Saves me digging down to find things.
Thanks Rob, I have been looking at this pack to purchase. It is a little long (23.62") for the maximum size for airplane carryon (max 22"). have you had any issues with this pack as a carryon or do you check your backpack?
I carry it on. But depends on the airline. They have different allowances. On Emirates they allow 45 x 35 x 20 cms. Which my pack is. Maybe the pack is 46 high. It's close. Sorry. No idea what that is in inches.
I still use it. I had considered one small change, in cutting the tube short to save weight. Currently it goes from the left bottle, across my shoulders to hang on the right side. But I like the idea of it being able to reach to a bottle inside my pack, or to a side pouch if required.
If you're young and healthy, and walking in Summer, a tiny 10 to 15 litre bag should be enough. Just spare t-shirt, underwear, toiletries, and a block of soap to wash yourself and your clothes with. A small lightweight sleeping bag can hang off of it, it should be large enough for a bottle of water and some food, and so on. It's when you get older and less healthy, and/or walk in a wetter or colder season, that you start to need something larger -- medicines, warmer clothing, better sleeping kit, and really just a greater volume of necessaries than one needs in one's youth. And I agree that over 40L is too much for nearly any Camino in southern Europe, I've found that sufficient even on the most isolated Camino routes in midwinter where I've had to sleep out. You could conceivably only need larger on some of the actual mountain Camino routes where some camping gear might be required ; or for some particular special needs, if it's a working Camino for example and you need a laptop with its protective cover or other more voluminous gear.
I have been stressing about getting the Stratos 34 onto the plane. 22 inch max length, and the 34 is 24 inches. My karma says I will be the one to not get past security or the gate, and then I am up a creek. So...I have decided to go minimalist with the Stratos 24 and a "large" waist pack that will go under the seat. I am hoping to be able to buy poles in Spain.
6 ear plugs 47 space blanket 94 ul swim shorts 98 tooth brush, Dr Bronner's soap 144 silk liner 175 black rain poncho ==== 564 g 19.89 oz 1.24 lb at night change into your swim shorts and poncho, wash your clothes. What else do you really need ? water bottle pilgrims passport money
@BobVerVoorn I'm sure it's 'doable' ....but it's about the level of comfort and convenience too I think. It's always a balance between not carrying enough and carrying too much.
What pack size are you bringing with you in Camino?
Talon 33 is more than enough. Next to skin items such as socks, pants and t shirts wear one and have two spares of each in your bag. Mid layers and shorts wear one and have one spare, outer layers just one. Flipflops for the shower and albergue use. Block of shampoo and very modest toiletries. Water containers. You dont really need anything else. I live on the northern route and see thousands of pilgrims every year with 65+ liter packs. They look miserable and their feet are sore, they blame their shoes and never blame their 65 liter packs. Travel light, you will be happier!
Totally agree. My pack is 34L. Most Pilgrims carry way too much stuff!
I like how you categorized the layers and quantities. Question: I’m taking those sexy pants with zip off legs. How do I count that? Underwear? My feet sweat heavily. I was planning on doubling my socks and changing out mid day as my comfort splurge. Thoughts from experienced walkers…
@@DunRovinRanch-1969 zip off legs are pretty handy for a chilly morning. As the day warms up you can strip down. I love merino wool socks and t shirts. Worth their weight in gold. They resist odors, shed sweat and you can wear them fir a couple if days if necessary.
Very informative
Glad it was useful......
Osprey 40 here. I'm a very plus size lady so all of my clothes are bigger than average so I needed a bigger pack. I had myself fitted by a very helpful Spanish man at Paddy Pallin in Perth Western Australia. He put various weights into the pack to give me an idea of how the pack fit and would feel when I'm carrying it. Thanks Rob. Lots of great tips as usual.
You're welcome, Auzzy!
Proper fitting is so important when it comes to backpacks. So, we have to pack wisely!
As a larger man I have the Gregory Stout 35L. Did you try the Gregory Stout backpacks?
@@christiaantheron9080 no, i haven't seen those.
1) what makes a set up comfortable is having as little weight as possible in the pack.
2) no reason anyone should have more than 10 lbs for the Camino. And if you can do that, then you can have a much smaller, lighter backpack.
3) There are 1 lb packs without hip belts that are very comfortable because that’s all you need for a 10 lb base weight. Not having a hip belt is super comfortable, safer, allows for more freedom of movement and visibility. It’s also very easy to take on/off, which is actually a big deal as packs get heavier and as it gets to be more difficult to properly strap the hip belt.
4) the smaller frameless packs use running style vests which are very comfortable and distribute weight intelligently to the front of your body and back instead of shoulders. No hip belt needed, and with just 10 lbs, the weight isn’t an issue. Running style vest straps are a game changer.
5) There are plenty of Camino ultralight hikers who have less than 7 lb base weights. Easy to do on a summer Camino especially.
I saw a woman on the Camino flying by people. We chatted at a rest stop. She looked to be late 50s, was in her 70s. Her backpack was 1/3 the size of mine. No hip belt. ONE THIRD. I thought she was a day hiker who lived in the town. Nope. She’s a retired nurse who did 12 caminos. Twelve. Doing caminos is basically her life. And she does it with a super light backpack that actually included a lightweight sleeping bag (since it was a fall/winter Camino). She showed me how to be ultralight. I walked with her for an hour or so to pick her brain.
The ultralight packs with roll-tops allow for flexibility to add more stuff if you really need the room, but you won’t on the Camino. The best packs have pockets underneath the pack so you don’t even need a waist pack, or to stuff help belt pockets. Stuffing help belt pockets seem handy, but not if you’ve had the underside pockets without a hip belt. Much freer and plenty of room underneath.
People take these packs from Mexico to Canada on the PCT and along the Appalachian trail. Those are the people to watch and learn from if you want lower base weights and hip belt-less packs. And they need room for tents, sleeping systems and cook systems - all stuff you don’t need on the Camino.
Ray Jardine figured out long ago that the most comfortable, fastest and safest hike is the lightest hike. It was true 30 years ago, it’s true today.
All fair points. I just don't like any weight at all on my shoulders. My pack with a good hip belt means zero weight on my shoulders. I could almost take the shoulder straps off! Only the pack would fall away from my body 🙄 We all have preferences. None are wrong. 😉
@@robscamino preference is subjective. Weight and safety are objective. Lighter weight is safer, more visibility is safer, better balance is safer. Less than 10 lbs on shoulders doesn’t feel like much wherever the pressure is. But the packs I mentioned don’t put weight on shoulders, they use running vest style straps, which are wide, thin, very elastic. Nothing like the thick puffy foam on traditional backpacks. The shape and style of running vests creates comfortable spread out pressure around the front sides of the body where straps go around and down the front and at the points of contact along lower back. This is why runners wear these packs. Hip belts get in the way, reduce mobility, visibility and balance. The worst is when people stuff hip belt pockets to create more imbalance and visibility problems. You won’t see the Palante Joey or Zpacks Nero or Nashville Packs Cutaway at a Pamplona Decathlon. Running vest strap packs are next gen, but proven over many years and growing among the ultralight community in the US. Expect the Camino to be 10 years behind whatever is popular in California. Just look at how zero drop wide toe box trail runners were popular a long time ago on the pct and AT before Camino pilgrims started catching on. Same with trends on toe sock liners. Just look at what successful pct and AT hikers wear today and you’ll know what pilgrims will be doing in 10 years.
I appreciate your perspectives and the time to explain your thoughts on this. And certainly lighter has many benefits, there is no doubt in that. But...... The Camino is not a 'technical' hike like the AT, PCT or other Thru Hikes. I can appreciate how additional weight could impact comfort and safety. The Camino is more a 'stroll' along prepared tracks in the main. And whilst I could probably reduce my overall pack weight to 4-5 kgs I choose not to. I prefer to 'trade off' some weight for added comfort and convenience. I recall being in the Military many years ago ( a 20 year veteran) and being taught when packing gear, that "any fool can be uncomfortable". Not that I am implying that ultra lite hikers are fools! But the Camino is far more than just a hike. And a bit of extra weight for some comforts or additional clothing items, really don't make that much difference. I walk with a pack that is about 8kg. Would I prefer to walk with a pack that weighs 4kg? Of course. But (for me) that would mean sacrificing quite a bit on comfort, medical items that I need, some additional clothes and sleeping gear for comfort/convenience and so on. For me, that is worth the extra weight. If I had to, I could probably walk carrying 2-3 kgs! Would I want to? No. I admire your passion on the topic though. 🙂
If I was going to walk a Camino a lot faster than I do..........for example 30-40 kms a day, I would definitely consider ultra lite gear! (I would have to) But I amble along............about 20-25 kms / day........smelling the roses...... Indeed though running style 'vest' packs look great. But I'm strolling, not running. And in the heat I really like my pack with a speed back that leaves an air gap between the pack and my body.
@@robscamino you’ve done the Camino many times. My comments aren’t about you or your preferences but the many people who haven’t done a Camino and are thinking about doing one. The ones who do not reduce their weight and don’t have experience hiking all day are the ones that can barely make it to Orisson and then bail out at Pamplona with feet full of blisters. Of course the Camino isn’t technical. And yet, countless people get blisters and other injuries that knock them off and get them bus/train tickets to Burgos and then Santiago, and the Camino is full of markers of people who died on the Camino. All those people - with blisters, injuries, heat stroke and heart attacks - would’ve benefited greatly from far less pack weight. Not for more mileage, but because it’s safer. Esp when it’s hot. And when people are out of shape, and get bad shoes, etc. the margin of error goes way up with lighter packs and way down with heavier ones. You do you - but my comments are the for the people who don’t know what they are doing and haven’t done a Camino before.
Spot on with the "CPAP" mention. lol I use CPAP machine and now in a dilemma whether to carry a bigger bag or hire a transport service.
I'm close to needing one. So I made sure to lose lots of weight before I went. If I needed a CPAP, I'd get a lightweight travel one and carry it. I've used transport services in the past due to injury and they are a pain to be honest. One more thing to worry about, restrictive.......
@@robscamino "Restrictive". Our thoughts exactly. It's a hindrance to flexibility. I'll take your advice on board and grab that mini-air travel CPAP and find the best bag possible. Hoping it's not going to be too heavy. The travel CPAP plus all the essential accessories are around 1.5kgs. I'll have to find the lightest materials of everything we'll carry with us. :)
@@tmrwic this one seems very light. easycpap.com.au/products/resmed-airmini-travel-machine
I walked October/November and has the Osprey 33L - was more than enough for warm gear and rain gear. And was good to limit the bad to that size as it kept me from "packing my fears" and taking too much
I know that problem well.
I had a ferrino 40 liters for my first camino along the Portugal coastal route and although it was fall ( end of October) and I had bulkier clothes,it was too much. Now I have got an Osprey Myra 32 liters for my June camino and my extra week of holiday around Spain and I think it is a great size. For a woman I wouldn’t go over 32/34 liters, if you have lots of space you add more stuff and it gets heavier! I think in the summer two items of each work great and maybe in fall/spring 3 items are great.
Sounds good to me. I'm using a 34 L and it's not quite full.
Very good video I am packed will do the Madrid San Salvador and the Primitivo I have got a Gossamer fast Kumo 36 lt everything fits in there
On the 6th of April the fun starts
Glad that you've managed to fit everything you need in it. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and experiences along the way!
Your videos have been so consistently helpful to me. Thank you!
My pleasure.
Rob--than you for this timely subject. I have four mountaineering backpacks and I was hoping to use one of those, to save myself having to buy a new backpack. I have two that are 55L--I know, much bigger than most people use but it just doesn't seem to make sense to go out and buy a 40L when I have a garage full of backpacks. I guess the trick would be to just not fill it up! Of course, I would refrain from using my 75L!
Exactly, the risk with taking a bigger pack is taking too much stuff 😂 I walked with a 33L and it limited me from overpacking
It's my pleasure, Peter! Using one of your mountaineering backpacks for hiking is a great idea. Just be mindful of how much you pack. It's always good to pack just what you need for your hike for it to be more comfortable and manageable.
Osprey Manta 24 for me. Doing the Camino Frances in June. As usual, another great video. Insightful and informative. Thanks.
I wish I could manage with a 24! Well done. I always seem to end up packing a few 'extras'......
My 35L Macpac Voyager. Good size, a separate bottom area and easy to use zip design. Worked well last camino
Sounds perfect!
Also good carry on plane size, very important.
I use a 33lt Osprey and a 4lt Osprey bumbag/fanny pack. Neither is full but they fit me really well, particularly the back length/ hip belt geometry. The bumbag has documents, phone, snacks etc. great for access and security. The weight saving on going to a 22lt backpack is noticeable (I have one as a day bag) but would be overstuffed and less comfortable. The other issue is water bottles. I keep two bottles in the side pockets and I find them difficult to reach on the 22lt. One of the benefits of being an old geezer no doubt.
Whilst it's not a great look, i put my water bottles on the front. Attached to the pack shoulder straps. One advantage is that they 'balance' the pack weight a bit.
Yes, Comfort is paramount. If you have a long torso your frame length is more important than pack volume. I had to go to a 60 plus liter Osprey before I had enough space between my hip belt and my shoulder strap. attachment point..FYI, I removed the detachable top zipper pouch to reduce some unnecessary volume and weight.
Sounds like it worked well for you
I used the REI flash 45 for my first Camino in 2017 and while it was good I definitely could of sized down. I realized about half way through that a lot of the stuff I brought I didn’t even use! I think I’m going to try a small pack for my next one.
Me too! When I reach Santiago in 4 days, I'm going to ditch more gear before walking to Finisterre and muxia!!
Last year I had a 40l Quechua (Decathlon). This year it’ll be An Osprey tempest 34 (32l), wich fits me better and is still under 55cm long (handluggage airplane).
Sounds good!
I actually just bought the Osprey Sirrus 34 for our Autumn Camino del Norte this year. It fits PERFECTLY, and I can’t wait to give it a go 😊
That's great to hear! Have a great time on your Camino del Norte adventure!
The Osprey Stratos 34 is indeed ideaI. I chose this as my Camino backback!
I like it. It's classed as a 'day' pack due to it's size, but carries all I need for a Camino.....
I used that same pack on my first Camino. It’s awesome!
I think most of us have learned lessons on the camino. In August I'm going on my 7th camino. On my first it was a fjellraven 65L kajka. On my last one it was a patagonia refugio 28L and the next the new patagonia refugio 30L. In the summer months I've used a sleeping bag liner instead of sleeping bag and are generally very aware of what to bring and what not to bring.
Sounds like a great size. I'm just back from walking 1,200 kms with a 34 litre pack. I realise now, I can still cut down my packing list. I'm sure I could manage with a 28 litre.
@@robscamino I've seen people with the Fjellraven kanken 20L so it's definitely possible. I guess it's all a matter of what we really need. But I must admit that the 28L was/is the limit for me.
A bigger pack has the advantage that packing is very easy, you just throw it in! 😉
All the best! Kaat
That's true, a bigger pack can certainly make packing easier.
But then it has the risk of overpacking.....
@@DavidHRyall what I often do, is take a smaller backpack, make sure it all fits and after that put it in a bigger one which often has better support. 😉
I have a very comfortable 36, I don't regret it
A good size
On my first Camino I had a 65L backpack weighing 3 kg - way too big and heavy, then I bought an Osprey kestrel 48, which was a little too big and a litte too heavy, next backpack was an Osprey Exos, regrettably a 48L - should have been a 38. but it is very comfortable and weighs a little less than the Kestrel. In 4 weeks I am doing part of the Francigena, this time I will bring a Mammut Lithium 30L, its is light - 930g, my stuff fits in it, and I can take it as carry-on. I have other backpacks for other uses - you can never have too many backpacks :-)
Having the right gear for each adventure is always a good idea. Good luck with your upcoming Camino on the Francigena!
I use an osprey tempest 30l perfect size for my annual September Camino. Definitely big enough for me but I may need a bigger one as I’m thinking of bringing my CPAP.
You might... i'm using a 34 l now on the vdlp and i have a bit of space left
I’ll be walking my first Camino in April , I have a 34 L from REI, I’m struggling with keeping the weight down. Everyone says I need to be prepared for cold and warm weather. I think my pack shouldn’t weigh over 15-15.5 pounds. I am planning on transporting my pack on the first several days from SJPP so I have a lightweight pack for those days. I live in Florida US. I’m not used to walking on steep inclines.
It may pay for you to stop of at orrison .that's what I done.I booked the first 3 nights when I started
@@Bob-oo7sm I did! Thank you for your suggestion!
I would book something before you reach zubri also .I got caught out their and had to get a pension.
Yes, Zubiri can be busy!
Hi Rob! I've been enjoying your videos, thank you! Did you walk the VLDP in 2022? How did your weight-loss journey go for you? For weight loss my wife really likes intermittent fasting. There is a book by Gin Stephens called Fast Feast Repeat that has really helped her.
I walked the VdlP in 2023. Got back a month ago. I'm glad I lost weight before I started!
What’s in your wife’s 24L? How is your gear different?
Our gear is remarkably similar! Exactly the same items and brands. She just adds a couple of sports bras! She is a lot smaller than me so can manage with 24 L. (smaller clothes etc ) Obviously we are not both carrying some items. So I've got the 1st aid stuff, the laundry stuff and so on.
Here is Pat's packing video in Thai and English. ruclips.net/video/lbZZh2m0ahI/видео.html
I originally bought a Kestrel 48 for my first Camino, fortunately I exchanged it (at REI) when I realized that I didn't need so much space.. I carry a small sleeping bag and an Altus poncho. I think 33-40 is probably very good for the majority of people. I wouldn't mind having a clamshell rather than top and bottom loading pack. ¡Buen Camino!
I think you're right. 33-40 L seems to be the sweet spot. Mine is a kind of clam shell. The whole top half unzips. Saves me digging down to find things.
Thanks Rob, I have been looking at this pack to purchase. It is a little long (23.62") for the maximum size for airplane carryon (max 22"). have you had any issues with this pack as a carryon or do you check your backpack?
I carry it on. But depends on the airline. They have different allowances. On Emirates they allow 45 x 35 x 20 cms. Which my pack is. Maybe the pack is 46 high. It's close. Sorry. No idea what that is in inches.
Deviating from this subject Rob (apologies) Do you still use the Blue Desert(?) Water bottle tubing system .. or have you changed to an alternative?
I still use it. I had considered one small change, in cutting the tube short to save weight. Currently it goes from the left bottle, across my shoulders to hang on the right side. But I like the idea of it being able to reach to a bottle inside my pack, or to a side pouch if required.
@robscamino Thanks so much Rob. I am going to give it a go. The brand ... you are happy with it??? PS .. enjoy your videos, 10/10 .. very helpful 👌
@@cathy5986 glad you enjoy the videos. I have some more interesting ones coming up, shot 'on location'....
@@cathy5986 I'm sure most brands are OK. it's just a tube and a bottle top and a bite valve
If you're young and healthy, and walking in Summer, a tiny 10 to 15 litre bag should be enough. Just spare t-shirt, underwear, toiletries, and a block of soap to wash yourself and your clothes with. A small lightweight sleeping bag can hang off of it, it should be large enough for a bottle of water and some food, and so on.
It's when you get older and less healthy, and/or walk in a wetter or colder season, that you start to need something larger -- medicines, warmer clothing, better sleeping kit, and really just a greater volume of necessaries than one needs in one's youth.
And I agree that over 40L is too much for nearly any Camino in southern Europe, I've found that sufficient even on the most isolated Camino routes in midwinter where I've had to sleep out. You could conceivably only need larger on some of the actual mountain Camino routes where some camping gear might be required ; or for some particular special needs, if it's a working Camino for example and you need a laptop with its protective cover or other more voluminous gear.
You make a great point Julian!
I have been stressing about getting the Stratos 34 onto the plane. 22 inch max length, and the 34 is 24 inches. My karma says I will be the one to not get past security or the gate, and then I am up a creek. So...I have decided to go minimalist with the Stratos 24 and a "large" waist pack that will go under the seat. I am hoping to be able to buy poles in Spain.
That sounds like a great plan! It is indeed stressful trying to get a larger backpack onto a plane, especially if it exceeds the maximum length.
I got the Talon 33L on the plane, just have to pack tightly - and no poles of course
@@DavidHRyallcould you tell please, did you buy a cabin bag or somehow carried the back pack as free small bag??
what did pilgrims carry on the camino de santiago 100 years ago ?
Probably a leather or canvas backpack. The modern backpack concept has been around about 150 years I think.
@@robscaminothe Iceman, found frozen in Switzerland, had a backpack. 5,000 years old.
@@RC-qf3mp wow. Interesting…
6 ear plugs
47 space blanket
94 ul swim shorts
98 tooth brush, Dr Bronner's soap
144 silk liner
175 black rain poncho
====
564 g
19.89 oz
1.24 lb
at night change into your swim shorts and poncho, wash your clothes. What else do you really need ?
water bottle
pilgrims passport
money
Hmm. So you go out for dinner in swim shorts and poncho, while your clothes dry for the next day? 🙂
add a short sleeve shirt, small day pack, lite weight shoes and eat at the albergues. is it doable ?
@BobVerVoorn I'm sure it's 'doable' ....but it's about the level of comfort and convenience too I think. It's always a balance between not carrying enough and carrying too much.
@@robscamino true
for me minimalism can feed ego/pride