On the Camino
Blisters on the Camino de Santiago
Ask any pilgrim about the worst part of their Camino and they will probably talk about their feet. Why blisters happen, how to stop them before they start and how to treat one step by step.
Blisters are the most common problem on the Camino, and almost always preventable. They come from three things together: friction, moisture and heat. Remove one of them and most blisters never appear.
Why blisters happen
- Untested shoes. New or barely used footwear rubs in new places.
- Damp socks. Sweat or rain softens the skin and makes it tear easily. Cotton socks are the worst.
- Heat and long days. Feet swell after hours of walking, and the shoe that fitted in the morning rubs in the afternoon.
- Ignoring the warning. Before a blister there is always a hot or stinging spot.
How to prevent them
- Walk at least 50–100 km in your shoes before the Camino.
- Seamless technical socks, two or three pairs; change them at midday if they get wet.
- Petroleum jelly or anti-chafing cream on friction points every morning.
- Toenails short and straight.
- Stop at the first hot spot, take off your shoe, dry your foot and cover the area with tape or a plaster.
How to treat a blister
- If it is small and doesn’t hurt, leave it alone and cover it with a hydrocolloid plaster until it falls off by itself.
- If it is large or painful to walk on, wash your hands and disinfect the blister.
- Prick it at the edge with a sterile needle.
- Gently press the fluid out with gauze, without removing the skin: it is the best protection.
- Disinfect again and cover.
- In the evening, let your foot breathe in sandals; the next morning, protect the area before you start.
FAQ
Should I pop a blister on the Camino?
Small ones, no. Large, tense ones are usually drained at the edge with a sterile needle, keeping the skin on top, and covered.
What are the best plasters for blisters?
Hydrocolloid plasters work very well on closed blisters. On open wounds, follow a pharmacist’s advice.
Can I keep walking with a blister?
Usually yes, well protected. If it is infected or very painful, rest a day or see a professional.
Do toe socks help?
Some pilgrims swear by them to avoid blisters between toes. Try them at home first.
