Undertaking the Camino de Santiago is an unforgettable experience, but keeping your clothes clean during the journey can be quite a challenge. In this article, we’ll share practical tips to help you wash and dry your clothes while walking the Camino de Santiago without any hassle. We’ll teach you how to make the most of the resources available at hostels and in the towns you visit.
Additionally, we’ll explain the best ways to organise your luggage, how to choose the right clothing, and of course, how to respect the environment by using sustainable products. Keep reading to ensure your clothes are always ready to wear.
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Planning ahead: how much clothing to take
One of the most important aspects when preparing for the Camino de Santiago is knowing how much clothing to take. When choosing, you need to consider several factors such as the weather, the length of your journey, and the weight of your backpack.
If you are planning a long journey, such as the Camino Primitivo: stages and tips, you’ll want to carry only the essentials to minimise weight without sacrificing comfort.
Factors to consider when choosing your clothing
During the pilgrimage programmes for the Camino de Santiago, the weather can vary significantly depending on the season and the region. It’s important to be prepared for sunny days, but also for rain or cold. Wearing comfortable, quick-drying clothing is essential so that you can wash and dry them easily.
Another factor to consider is the duration of your journey. If you’ll be walking for several weeks, you need to optimise the space in your backpack and reduce the number of garments. In this regard, technical clothing can be your best ally, as it weighs less and allows greater freedom of movement.
The right amount of clothing to minimise washing
It’s advisable to take only what you need to avoid unnecessary weight and reduce the need for washing. A good tip is to bring two or three sets of underwear and t-shirts, so you always have something clean while the other set is drying. Many hostels also have areas where you can wash and dry your clothes, making it easier to rotate your garments.
It’s important to plan carefully what to take based on the route, and to make the most of the resources available along the way to ensure that doing laundry doesn’t become a problem.
Common washing methods on the Camino de Santiago
During the route from Santiago to Muxía, washing your clothes becomes a daily task that pilgrims need to account for. Fortunately, there are several options for keeping your clothes clean without any fuss on the Camino de Santiago. You’ll find communal wash areas in hostels, or you can access self-service laundromats in some towns.
Hand washing in hostels
The most common option for pilgrims is hand washing. In most hostels, particularly along the route of the English Way from Ferrol, you’ll find washing areas and sinks where you can easily wash your clothes.
The process is simple: fill the sink with water, add some biodegradable detergent, and scrub your clothes. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly and remove all soap before hanging them to dry.
Additionally, many hostels have designated areas with clotheslines or drying racks. It’s a good idea to wash your clothes as soon as you arrive at the hostel to allow enough time for them to dry by the next morning.
Self-service laundromats
Another option for a more comfortable experience is to follow the English Way: tips and recommendations and visit the self-service laundromats in larger towns. These facilities usually have coin-operated washers and dryers, so it’s useful to carry change. This method is perfect if you need to wash several items at once and want to avoid waiting for them to air dry.
Using biodegradable soap
It’s important to use biodegradable soap to avoid harming the environment, especially when washing by hand in hostels. This type of soap breaks down naturally and doesn’t pollute the water, which is crucial for preserving the natural beauty of the route from Santiago to Muxía and other routes on the Camino.
Drying clothes: available options
During the historic route from O Cebreiro to Santiago, keeping your clothes dry can be a challenge, especially when the weather is unpredictable. However, there are several options that pilgrims can use to ensure their clothes are ready for the next day. Both in the hostels and along the route, drying your clothes efficiently is key to a smooth journey.
Stretching out clothes in hostels
In most hostels, you’ll find ropes and clotheslines available for pilgrims. To dry your clothes faster, it’s best to stretch them out well, as this allows air to circulate better and speeds up drying. If the weather isn’t favourable, or if you’re in a place with little ventilation, placing your clothes near a window or in a windy area can accelerate the process.
It’s a good idea to bring a few pegs to secure your clothes on the line, preventing them from blowing away. As mentioned before, it’s best to wash your clothes as soon as possible after arriving at the hostel, as nights tend to be cooler and the drying process can be slower during these hours.
Tips for drying on the go
If you don’t have enough time to dry your clothes at the hostel, one option is to hang them from your backpack while walking. Along the route, many pilgrims opt to carry lightweight, quick-drying clothing that can dry as they walk. You can use carabiners or small elastic cords to secure your clothes and let them dry in the sun or wind during the hike.
Another technique is to attach wet clothes to the outside of your backpack, making sure they don’t get tangled or dirty while you walk. This method is especially useful when the sun is strong and temperatures are warm.
Keeping your clothes clean and dry during the Camino de Santiago may seem like a challenge, but with the right tips, it’s a simple task that won’t interrupt your pilgrimage experience. Planning well and making use of the options available will allow you to enjoy the journey to the fullest, without unnecessary worries.
Remember, every step counts, and good organisation can make all the difference on your journey!