Extra: thoughts on equipment

Before I forget, and now that I'm well on the way to Santiago, here are some thoughts on equipment that has worked particularly well for me. Feel free to ignore, but they may be of some use to someone (P&J?)

- Altra Lone Peak 9+ (Vibram) wide version trail shoes - most comfortable shoes ever, durability good so far, no blisters. Best. purchase. ever

- Aarn pack - I have the Mountain Magic 50 Pro, with 50 litre capacity including the front pockets. Very comfortable, puts the balanced weight onto your hips not your shoulders

- Garmin fenix watch - apart from all its obvious features, the inbuilt torch eliminates the need to bring a head torch on the Camino. I preloaded the Camino sections onto the watch, and display the course and my progress as I walk. I wouldn't use it as the main navigation device, but it is handy being able to glance at it and confirm that I am still on the correct route

- Wise Pilgrim or similar app on phone that has info on villages and accommodation, and a live map overlaying your location on the Camino route

- eSIM - I am using JetPac, but presumably others are just as good. The mobile data reception has been good enough for WhatsApp video calls just about all the way along the trail. Note that most albergues also have ok wifi

And now some gear that I could have improved or that I should have brought but didn't...

- Poncho - I brought a poncho but not a rain jacket, and am happy with that decision. However, if you decide to do the same, get at least a knee-length poncho (mine is slightly too short for the Camino), and make sure you can get it on and off over your pack by yourself - check and practice this! Mine is very tricky to get on over the pack, although easy if someone is there to help

- Shower device/hanger to hold shower gear; and another one for clothes. Many albergue showers only have one hook, and some don't have any hooks at all

- Bum bag - I prefer having a separate bag containing my passport etc with me at all times, so for example when I take my pack off at a cafe, I've still got the essentials with me. However, unlike mine, I recommend one that's big enough to hold your pilgrims passport

- Gloves - I should have brought these, it can be very cold in the mornings, especially if you are using hiking poles

- Sun umbrella - on balance, yes it was worth bringing this. Make sure it clips to your pack so as to leave both hands free - in the sun and ideally also in the rain