The pilgrim’s first-aid kit

In this guide

1. The list
2. What you don’t need
3. How to use it
4. FAQ

The first-aid kit is one of the things people overpack most. On the main Caminos there is a pharmacy in almost every larger village, so you only need what solves everyday problems and one or two things for a pinch. It all fits in a hand-sized zip bag.

The list

For your feet (what you’ll use most):

• Hydrocolloid blister plasters.
• Cloth tape, gauze and small scissors.
• A sterile needle or small syringe.
• Petroleum jelly or anti-chafing cream.

For wounds and aches:

• Single-dose or small bottle of antiseptic (chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine).
• Plasters in several sizes.
• An elastic bandage.
• Painkillers you already tolerate (paracetamol or ibuprofen), following the leaflet.

For sun and countryside:

• High-factor sun cream and lip balm.
• Fine tweezers for ticks and splinters.
• A foil emergency blanket: it weighs almost nothing and keeps you warm in a pinch.

Your own:

• Your usual medication, with prescription or medical report if it is special, and a little more than you need.
• If you have a severe allergy, your adrenaline auto-injector, always to hand.

What you don’t need

Whole boxes (take the blister packs and the leaflet), “just in case” creams, or a full mountain kit for the Francés or the Portuguese. On quieter Caminos (Primitivo, Vía de la Plata), add a little more foot care.

How to use it

See blisters on the Camino, a sprained ankle and our Camino first aid guide.

FAQ

What medicine should I take on the Camino?

Your usual medication and a painkiller you tolerate well. The rest you can buy in pharmacies along the way. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if unsure.

How heavy should the first-aid kit be?

200–300 g is enough on the main Caminos.

Are there pharmacies on the Camino?

Yes, in almost every larger village on the main routes. Fewer on quiet ones: carry a bit more.