Soleful Packing List
Dear Wild Heart Walker,
This is your soleful guide to packing light, walking free, and being ready for the magic of the path. Pack with intention. If you need anything, you can always pick it up along the way; it is better to have less than too much. You’ll need less than you think, but what you do bring, let it be purposeful.
⚠️ Your Shoes Matter Most
Let your shoes be the most perfect fit you can find.
- Break them in now—walk in them regularly.
- Prioritize grip: Trail runners are your best friends.
- Avoid brand-new shoes. This is not the time to experiment.
- Bring a second pair (sandals or lightweight runners) for evenings.
I wear AllBird Trail Runners and they are perfect for MY feet. You must find shoes that fit you, that won’t give you blisters (no rubbing on the heels or toes). Everyone’s feet are different. You need to try on a few different styles and brands of shoes, or use the shoes that you already KNOW will not give you problems. This is not the time to worry about
👣 Clothing
2 moisture-wicking t-shirts (quick dry or merino wool)
2 pairs of hiking pants or leggings, or 1 pair of hiking pants and 1 pair of hiking shorts.
1 warm layer (fleece or down)
1 rain jacket (lightweight, breathable)
2-3 pairs of good hiking socks (merino wool is best)
1 sleep outfit
1 pair of shorts or dress (for evenings)
Sun hat or cap
Light scarf, buff, or bandana
🎒 Gear
Backpack (10 - 15 L with chest & waist strap), you can carry a larger pack, my daypack is 30 L, but it is light.
Backpack rain cover
Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
Trekking poles (collapsible)
Headlamp or small flashlight
Small Travel towel (quick-dry)
🧼 Toiletries (Travel-size only)
Toothbrush & paste
Biodegradable soap or body wash
Sunscreen & lip balm (with SPF)
Face cloth (optional - we stay in hotels and there is no shortage of towels)
Deodorant
Razor (if needed)
Tweezers, nail clippers
Minimal makeup or moisturizer (optional)
💊 Health & Safety
Basic blister kit (Compeed - or similar high-quality hydrocolloid plaster, tape, needle, alcohol wipes)
Pain relievers (ibuprofen/paracetamol)
Any personal meds
Electrolyte tablets or hydration salts
Hand sanitizer
Small first aid kit
📜 Essentials
Passport & Pilgrim’s Credential (we’ll get this in Porto!)
Printed itinerary & contact list
Phone + charger + European plug adapter
Small notebook & pen (for soul prompts)
Cash & debit/credit card
Copy of travel insurance
💡 Optional but Lovely
Lightweight journal or book
Tiny talisman, photo, or intention token
Swimsuit (for ocean or hotel pools)
Sleep mask
Small bag for laundry
Packable cloth tote