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Writer's pictureRyan Ray

Ultralight Backpacking Gear for Trail Hiking

Updated: Jul 30

Embarking on a multi-day thru-hike—like the Camino de Santiago—is more than just a physical challenge, it's a life-changing adventure. To help you prepare, I've put together a packing list of essential ultralight backpacking gear—many of which I used during my walk across France and Spain in 2012 and my walk across America in 2015. To help support my work, hyperlinked items below may earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you decide to make a purchase.


Gear

Osprey Atmos 50 Backpack
"... the right backpack makes all the difference."
  • Osprey Atmos 50 Backpack

    • Measured by the volume they hold in liters, the right backpack makes all the difference. For me, a 5'9" man, this 50 liter pack was a great choice. While Osprey isn't the cheapest brand, they stand behind all their products with a lifetime "All Mighty Guarantee."

  • Big Agnes Fly Creek HV Ultralight Personal Tent

    • Over and over, I found the Big Agnes Fly Creek Ultralight lightweight tent to be an essential tool along the way.

  • Sea to Summit Spark Pro Ultralight Sleeping Bag

    • Essential for walking the Camino in winter, this sleeping bag comes in Regular or Long versions and will protect down to 30ºF.

  • Sleeping Mat

    • A good mat is used for more than just sleeping. On the Camino, I used mine for daily meditation, trail-side picnics, and even an impromptu yoga class.

  • Osprey Hydraulics 3L Backpack Water Reservoir

    • A hydro-pack is absolutely essential for a safe and enjoyable thru-hiking experience of any length.

30W Foldable Portable Solar Charger
"... avoid the crowded power outlets at the hostels."

Electronics

  • iPhone

  • iPhone Charging Cable

  • 30W Foldable Portable Solar Charger

    • While hiking, my solar panel ensured that my batteries stayed charged, allowing me to avoid the crowded power outlets at the hostels.


Clothing

ecco mens Yucatan Sport Sandal
"...any thru-hiking journey will be much more enjoyable with a shoe that will stretch and breathe"
  • ecco mens Yucatan Sport Sandal

    • Although I started my journey wearing hiking boots, I didn't end it that way. While closed-toed shoes do have their place, any thru-hiking journey will be much more enjoyable with a shoe that will stretch and breathe. If you need more convincing, read chapter 3 of my book, The Authentic Path.

Wrightsock Escape Crew Double-Layer socks
"Pair with a high-quality hiking sandal to stop friction and moisture problems in their tracks."
  • Wrightsock Escape Crew Double-Layer socks

    • A double-layer sock transfers any friction between your foot and your sock to the space in between the two layers of fabric, reducing the likelihood of blisters. Pair with a high-quality hiking sandal to stop friction and moisture problems in their tracks.

  • Shower Sandals

    • Another Camino essential for shared bathrooms.

  • Wide Brimmed Hat

    • I wore this every day to keep the sun off my head.

  • Face Warmer

    • Great for cold mornings at higher elevations.

  • Hoodie

    • A comfy defense against the chilly mountain air on the Camino.


Toiletries

  • Sunscreen

  • Shampoo

  • Soap

  • Hand Lotion

  • Face Cream

  • Clothes Washing Powder

  • Toothbrush

  • Floss

  • Toothpaste

  • Toilet Paper

  • Nail Clippers

  • Fast-Drying Travel Towel


First Aid

  • Bandages

  • AAA Ointment

  • Needle

  • Thread

  • Vaseline

  • Tylenol


Miscellaneous

  • Earplugs

    • After my Atmos 50L backpack, this was the second-most important item I brought with me on the camino. Without it, I would have endured many sleepless nights.

  • Multitool with Corkscrew

  • Rope for Clothesline


As you prepare your own list, remember that what you don't pack matters just as much as what you do pack. Every item above was carefully chosen to ensure comfort, convenience, and safety throughout the journey. Every ounce counts. Choose wisely, pack lightly, and embrace the freedom and comfort that comes with simplicity.


For more insights and personal stories from my own pilgrimage, check out my memoir, "The Authentic Path: 1,000 Miles of Adventure Along the Ancient Camino de Santiago". It's a heartfelt account of the trials, triumphs, and transformative moments I experienced on the Camino, and I hope it inspires you to find your own path and purpose.

Embark on your journey with love, joy, and excitement. The Camino is waiting for you, and it's ready to show you the magic of discovering purpose through every step.


Buen Camino!

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