Luggage transfer on the Way of St James: how it works

In short: Yes, the rule only concerns your own journey. Your luggage plays no part.

On the well-known routes in Spain and Portugal you can have your backpack taken from one place to stay to the next. Many people feel embarrassed about this, but there is no reason to.

How it works

In the evening you fill in an envelope, put the money inside and attach it to your bag. In the morning a driver collects it and takes it to the next address. The Spanish postal service offers this kind of service too.

The costs

You usually pay a few euros per stage. Over a long route this adds up, which is why some people only book it for the hard days.

What to keep in mind

Always carry your documents, money, medication, water and rain jacket yourself in a small daypack. Give the exact address of your next accommodation. You need a confirmed place to stay at the end of the stage, so you have to plan ahead.

Who it makes sense for

The service is a great help if you have knee or back problems, are older or are recovering from an injury. There is more on this in our article Pilgrimage in later life. If you have simply packed too much, though, you should make your backpack lighter.