The Camino de Santiago is a unique experience that always provides great physical, psychological, and emotional well-being to those who undertake it. But on the Camino, it’s smart to be prepared, as mishaps can happen, like the dreaded blisters or a fall on a downhill path. That’s why we shouldn’t forget something essential when packing our backpack: the basic first aid kit for the Camino de Santiago. In this article, we’ll see what you shouldn’t forget to include in your pilgrim’s first aid kit to make your experience as safe, comfortable, and enjoyable as possible.

The Importance of a Basic First Aid Kit on the Camino

Before starting any of the Jacobean routes, pilgrims already feel that tingle of excitement while preparing their backpack, thinking about how much fun they’ll have on their pilgrimage adventure. When considering what to pack, a basic element is the first aid kit for the Camino. Walking tens of kilometers for several hours is not something our bodies are used to every day, so we need to take care of them. The Jacobean trails are very safe, but trekking the Camino is still a hiking activity where we rely on our bodies.

Our skin will be exposed to the sun, insect bites, or allergic reactions. Our feet will tread on uneven or slippery grounds, and our knees and ankles will face steep descents: chafing, blisters, and strains are common on the Camino. Thus, besides taking care of our bodies, to prevent possible mishaps during our walk, it’s crucial to carry a basic first aid kit for the Camino.

What to Include in Your First Aid Kit for the Camino?

You don’t need to buy out the entire stock of a pharmacy, but there are certain things you shouldn’t forget to include in your first aid kit. Let’s take a trip to your local pharmacy and make a basic list of what you should carry in your first aid kit for your adventure on the Jacobean routes:

Basic first aid kit for the Camino.

  • General Medications: aspirin, paracetamol, and ibuprofen, plus any you need if you’re on a specific treatment.
  • Antihistamines: whether oral or topical, in case of an allergic reaction.
  • Antidiarrheal: sometimes, meals away from home can upset our stomachs while traveling.
  • Pain relief and anti-inflammatory cream, gel, or spray: for muscle pain relief.
  • Sunscreen: protection against the sun, even on cloudy days.
  • Moisturizer: advisable after sun exposure.
  • Latex gloves: to prevent infections when treating your or a companion’s wounds.
  • Compeed: for treating blisters and sores that might appear.
  • Sewing needle, thread, and scissors: also useful for treating blisters.
  • Antiseptics, disinfectants: betadine, mercurochrome, hydrogen peroxide, or sanitary alcohol, for treatingpossible wounds and blisters.
  • Sterile gauze: very effective for proper wound cleaning.
  • Band-aids or dressings: necessary for minor wounds.
  • Bandages: key for securing dressings.
  • Adhesive tape: for fixing bandages.
  • Vaseline: helps prevent chafing and blisters.
  • Lip balm: for cold weather (or if you eat a lot of salty sunflower seeds).
  • Dietary supplements: tablets or pills to combat physical exertion.
  • Towel: a clean towel or cloth to lay out your first aid kit away from the ground or other surfaces.

You might think this list is very long, and of course, these are just our suggestions. It’s up to you to include everything or just some things, as you can choose what’s most indispensable for you. Plus, if you need something you didn’t include, you can always go to a pharmacy.

Other Preventive Elements for the Camino

We also suggest, to prevent injuries that you could treat with everything in your first aid kit, there are certain things that can help. We’re talking about knee braces, ankle supports, blister-resistant socks, and walking sticks. The first two, although they might seem insignificant, if bought in your size (very important!), can help prevent injuries. The warmth and support they provide, placed on the knee and ankle joints, allow you to safely face the descents and steep slopes of the Camino.

As for blister-resistant socks, you can find them in any sports store. They’re not magical, but they help prevent blisters. Also, remember to wear suitable footwear that’s been worn in… never wear new shoes on the Camino!

Regarding the walking stick or pilgrim’s staff, there are many types available on the market. Many don’t use them, but they can be very helpful on descents. Some, when very tired, even use any straight stick or branch they find in the forests of the Camino.

Where to Get a Good First Aid Kit?

Once you’ve made your first aid kit inventory and bought everything at a pharmacy, you need to pack it. It’s advisable to carry everything in a suitable pouch or toiletry bag, as compact as possible, padded and waterproof. You can get one in any textile or accessories store and then put all the items from our list in it.

However, the most convenient option, which we recommend, is to buy a first aid kit that already includes everything or almost everything. You can find them at any pharmacy or large sports retail store, and there are different models more or less equipped. Our monitors and guides who accompany our groups on the Camino always carry complete first aid kits. They include all the basics to prevent and treat wounds, blisters, chafing, bites, etc., in case a pilgrim needs help in a mishap.

Pilgrims looking for the first aid kit on the Camino.

Advantages of Carrying a First Aid Kit on the Camino

It’s obvious: what if you have an accident or mishap? Carrying your first aid kit on the Camino will allow you to treat any discomfort or injury you may have. Plus, and this is very much in the pilgrim spirit, you can assist and help a fellow pilgrim who wasn’t as prepared and lacks a first aid kit. That’s the pilgrim spirit, and surely your first aid intervention will be the start of a beautiful friendship on the Camino.

Better Safe Than Sorry

A first aid kit won’t save lives, but it helps make the Camino more bearable and ensures you reach your destination. Not having a first aid kit could mean having to end your adventure before reaching Santiago, which can be heartbreaking. Besides being well-equipped, you can assist your fellow Camino companions and other pilgrims. And remember, if something more serious happens, call 112 and/or go to a medical center, because health comes first.

To make your experience on the Camino unforgettably positive, put a basic first aid kit in your backpack. Your body, and likely your mother, will thank you. Do it for yourself, for others, and for a safe Camino de Santiago.