Tips for packing your backpack

What should I take with me?

It is a well-known fact that every pilgrimage begins with packing your backpack. We like trying to cram everything in—into our backpacks, and into our lives. As much as possible, as quickly as we can. Yet, we actually need so little for a fulfilled pilgrimage and life.

Less is more: take it or leave it?

Our experienced pilgrimage guides have put together a packing list to help you with your packing decisions:

Clothing

• Cap/sun hat/headband
• Sunglasses
• Hiking boots
• Hiking/touring trousers
• Sufficient clothing incl. spare clothing (functional clothes)
• Rain protection (also for the backpack)
• Fleece jacket, pullover
• Jacket (Goretex or windbreaker)

Toiletries & sun protection

• Sun cream (with UV protection)
• Dental hygiene products
• Soap
• Towel (microfibre)
• Handkerchiefs

Ascent/descent

• High-quality hiking backpack
• Telescopic poles/pilgrim's stick

Additional equipment

• Mobile phone, ID card, ATM card
• Plasters/blister plasters
• Spare shoelaces
• Lighter
• Headlamp/electric torch
• Pocket knife
• Binoculars (optional)
• Notebook & pen (optional)
• Camera (optional)

Eating and drinking

• Food/Snacks
• Water bottle
• Muesli bars

It is not only important WHAT you pack but also HOW you pack it.

In general, the total weight of the backpack should not exceed 25% of your own body weight (for well-trained persons) or 20% (for moderately trained persons). Apart from that, the perceived load of the backpack can be influenced by the distribution of its contents.

The following packing method is recommended:

• Stow light equipment at the bottom, for example, put the down jacket in the bottom compartment, which also makes it easily accessible at all times.
• Medium-weight luggage, such as clothing, is placed further up and towards the outer edge of the backpack.
• Heavy items (e.g., water bottles) are packed at shoulder height and as close to the body as possible.
• All small items that you need regularly during the hike (e.g., sunglasses) should be placed in the top compartment.
• Generally speaking, everything should fit inside the backpack. If you can't avoid attaching something on the outside of your backpack, make sure it is light-weight equipment only!