Pilgrimage in the rain: how to stay dry and in a good mood

In short: A poncho also protects your backpack and lets air through well. A jacket is better in wind. Many pilgrims take a poncho for steady rain.

It rains often in Galicia, even in summer. If you walk to Santiago, you will almost certainly get wet at some point. With the right preparation it is not so bad.

Jacket or poncho

A rain jacket fits better and keeps out the wind, but your backpack stays exposed. A poncho covers both and lets air in from below. In strong wind, though, it turns into a sail. Test at home which works better for you, and combine a rain cover for your backpack with a jacket.

Dry feet

Wet feet quickly lead to blisters. Change damp socks at the next break. Overnight, stuff your shoes with newspaper and leave them somewhere airy, away from direct contact with the radiator.

Protecting your gear

Much of what is in your backpack should be packed in thin bags. This applies especially to your sleeping bag, spare clothes, phone and pilgrim passport. Even a good rain cover lets something through eventually.

On the path

In the rain, stones, roots and boardwalks get slippery. Walk more slowly, and use poles if you have them. If it gets too heavy, wait in the next bar. A café con leche has rescued many a day.