What this tool does
The Camino de Santiago has 350,000 walkers a year. Most underestimate two things: how much water they need (especially summer) and how their blister risk compounds over a 25km day. This tool gives the actual numbers — calories, water, distance between water sources, where you're likely to develop blisters.
The four real costs of a Camino day
- Calories: Walking 25km with an 8kg pack burns 2,500–3,500 kcal. You need to eat that much, plus a buffer. Pilgrim menus (€8–12) typically deliver 1,800–2,200 kcal — not enough on hot days.
- Water: 0.5L/hr walking, 0.7L/hr in summer. A 25km day needs 3–5L drinking water plus cooking. Refill points are every 4–6km on the Francés, more sparse on the Primitivo.
- Salt: Hot days: lose 3–5g sodium through sweat. Standard water bottles don't replace it. Add salt tablets or electrolyte drinks.
- Feet: Blister risk is highest days 3–5 and 8–10 (when you think you're used to it). Change socks at midday if possible. Stop at the first sign of "hot spot" — a blister forming is not inevitable.
Frequently asked questions
Should I send a luggage transfer service?
Yes for first-timers. Companies like Correos (Spanish post) transfer bags between stages for €8–15/bag. Saves your knees and back, costs €200–400 over the whole Camino.
Best Camino for first-timer?
Francés. Best infrastructure, social, every town has services. Norté is more scenic but harder and sparser. Portugués is easiest (flat) but less "pilgrim" feel.
Best month to walk?
May and September. April/October have rain and fewer pilgrims. June/July/August are hot (35°C+) and crowded. Winter is for serious walkers only — some albergues closed.
Limitations
Calorie/water math assumes healthy adult, no chronic conditions, walking on flat-to-rolling terrain. The Primitivo has 2,000m+ elevation gain/loss — the same 25km burns 30–50% more calories. Listen to your body more than this calculator.