Essential Tips for Women on the Camino (Week 4 of 4)

Confidence, Comfort, and Connection on the Camino

Walking the Camino de Santiago is as much an inner journey as it is a physical one. Over hundreds of miles, women from around the world find new confidence, clarity, and connection — not just with others, but with themselves.

This is Week 4 of our ZipHers Camino Series, and we’re closing it out with everything you need to know to walk the Camino your way — safely, comfortably, and confidently. From packing lists to self-care strategies and a few honest tips about bathroom logistics, this is your all-in-one guide to making the most of every step.

Packing Smart: Less Really Is More

If there’s one universal lesson every pilgrim learns, it’s this: the lighter your pack, the happier your journey. Aim for no more than 10% of your body weight — including your water bottle.

Here’s a simple Camino packing list tailored for women:

Clothing

• 2 quick-dry shirts

• 2 pairs of underwear (moisture-wicking is best)

• 2 pairs of socks

• 1 lightweight fleece or long-sleeve layer

• 1 pair of comfortable, quick-dry pants or tights (ZipHers legwear is perfect for this)

• 1 pair of shorts or capris (for warm days or lounging)

• 1 packable rain jacket

• 1 hat or buff

Gear & Essentials

• Lightweight backpack (30–40L)

• Refillable water bottle or hydration bladder

• Trekking poles (optional but helpful)

• Small first-aid kit (blister pads, tape, ibuprofen)

• Microfiber towel

• Sleep sack or liner for hostels

• Power bank & universal charger

• Toiletries in travel sizes

The “Wouldn’t Leave Without It” Item

ZipHers legwear — discreet zipper access for quick bathroom breaks on long, remote stretches. Designed by women, for women who move.

Bathroom Breaks and Real-World Comfort

Let’s be honest: bathroom logistics are one of the most overlooked parts of Camino planning. Facilities aren’t always available when you need them, especially on rural stretches.

That’s where ZipHers changes everything. With its discreet zipher design, you can take care of business quickly, privately, and without having to remove layers or gear. It’s freedom, comfort, and peace of mind — exactly what you want on a trail that’s all about self-reliance and ease.

Many women say this one feature alone makes a huge difference in their confidence on the Camino. It’s the kind of small innovation that quietly supports the big moments.

Self-Care on the Trail

Walking 20–30 kilometers a day takes both physical and mental endurance. Here’s how to take care of yourself along the way:

1. Listen to your body.

Blisters, sore muscles, and fatigue are common — don’t push through pain. Take breaks, stretch, and let small issues heal before they become bigger ones.

2. Eat and hydrate well.

Cafés and bars along the Camino offer menús del peregrino — affordable, hearty meals with bread, salad, and protein. Carry fruit, nuts, or energy bars for between villages.

3. Prioritize rest.

Sleep matters as much as distance. Quiet guesthouses or small hotels (see Week 2!) can help you recharge after long days.

4. Keep your mind open.

You’ll meet people from every background imaginable. The Camino has a way of connecting hearts — sometimes with deep conversations, other times with shared silence.

5. Journal your experience.

Even a few notes a day can help you remember the little moments that make your Camino special.

Caring for Your Gear (and Yourself)

At the end of each day, give your body and gear a reset:

• Rinse and dry your clothes overnight — ZipHers fabrics dry fast and are ready by morning.

• Stretch before bed to prevent stiffness.

• Elevate your feet for a few minutes — it helps circulation and recovery.

• Reflect on the day’s highlights. Gratitude turns each day’s effort into energy for the next.

What Women Say About the Camino

Women who’ve completed the Camino often describe it as life-changing. It’s not just the miles, but the feeling of freedom that comes from carrying only what you need, relying on your own strength, and meeting others doing the same.

Many say it’s one of the few journeys where age, language, or background don’t matter — you simply meet as walkers on the same path.

And for women wearing ZipHers, that freedom extends even further. When you don’t have to worry about bathroom stops or outfit changes, you stay present in the moment — soaking in every view, every conversation, and every sunrise.

The Heart of the Camino: Simplicity and Self-Discovery

By the time you reach Santiago, the destination almost feels secondary. What you remember most are the moments in between — the laughter, the quiet, the strangers who became friends.

The Camino strips away distractions and reminds you of what truly matters: your resilience, your curiosity, and your connection to others.

That’s also what ZipHers stands for — giving women the freedom to move confidently, naturally, and without barriers.

Your Camino Doesn’t End Here

Even when you’ve returned home, the Camino stays with you. It changes the way you see yourself — and the way you move through life.

Whether you walked for one week or five, your Camino is yours alone. And when you’re ready for your next adventure, ZipHers will be right there with you — empowering you to walk your own path, anywhere in the world.

✨ Pilgrimage without limits. ZipHers is made for women who walk their own path.