Day 1 – Packing Light, Walking Far: My Portuguese Camino Begins

It’s Day 1 of my Portuguese Camino — and the pack on my back is (almost) the lightest it’s ever been.

I’m starting from Porto, planning to walk the Central Route over seven days. I’ve walked in other countries before, but this one feels different — more urban, more layered, and unmistakably pilgrim-like.

Below is my real packing list — not a “perfect” list, just what made sense for me. I’ll update this post later with notes on what worked (and what didn’t) after a few more days on the trail.

Backpack & Setup

• Sea to Summit Dry Sack (13 L) – used as a liner instead of a rain cover

Clothing

• 2 merino t-shirts
• 1 long-sleeve base layer
• 2 pairs of quick-dry shorts
• Rain jacket

Hygiene + Health

• Travel towel (super compact)
• Minimal first-aid kit – includes Compeed for blisters
• Toothbrush, paste, soap bar, deodorant, mini sunscreen

Tech

• Phone + USB-C cable
• Offline maps via Maps.me

Want to see a more structured, long-term gear guide? Visit our Gear section — it’s where I’ll keep updating trail-tested recommendations shared by the Wakahi community.

Have you walked the Camino or plan to?
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