Abbie Mulder, Senior Travel Advisor at Worldwide Quest, is getting ready to join our Portuguese Coastal Camino Walking Tour next month. Here’s what she’s packing, what she’s learned, and the things she won’t leave home without.

There’s something about packing for a walking trip that makes you reconsider every item in your closet.

Do I really need three pairs of pants? What if it rains? What if we go somewhere special for dinner? And perhaps most importantly, how many pairs of shoes is too many?

Next month, I’m heading off on our Portuguese Coastal Camino, so my packing has begun. As I sort through what makes the cut, and what stays home, I thought I’d share what I’m bringing and a few things I’ve learned about packing for a walking tour.

The reassuring part is that you don’t need everything. A few well-chosen, comfortable, and versatile pieces go a long way.

First things first: think layers

One of the pleasures of walking in Europe is spending so much of the day outdoors—but that also means being prepared for changing conditions. A cool morning can become a warm afternoon, followed by a breezy evening.

I’m starting with long-sleeved T-shirts and lightweight shirts that can be layered as temperatures change. Breathable fabrics are comfortable when the day warms up, while an extra lightweight layer can make all the difference first thing in the morning.

My rule: if I can wear it more than one way, it earns a place in the bag.

For bottoms, I’m packing comfortable pants that I can happily walk in for several hours, plus something a little more polished for evenings. A walking tour isn’t all trails, after all. There are wonderful meals, inviting restaurants and evenings when it’s nice to change into something a little smarter, without packing an entirely separate wardrobe.

The jacket test

This is one piece of clothing I don’t want to underestimate.

I’m bringing a lightweight waterproof jacket with a good outer shell, along with rain pants. Even when rain isn’t in the forecast, weather can change surprisingly quickly when you’re outdoors for several hours.

A poncho is another option, particularly if you want something that covers both you and your daypack. It may not be the most glamorous item in your suitcase, but when the clouds roll in, practicality wins.

Shoes: this is where I’m paying attention

If there’s one part of your walking-tour wardrobe to think about carefully, it’s your footwear.

I’m bringing well-broken-in hiking shoes that I already know I can comfortably wear for several hours. This is definitely not the occasion to debut a brand-new pair.

Good walking socks matter too, as does a comfortable second pair of shoes for evenings. After a rewarding day on the trail, changing your footwear feels surprisingly luxurious.

My best advice? Get some kilometres into your walking shoes before you leave home. Wear them around your neighbourhood, take increasingly longer walks and make sure you’re genuinely comfortable in them.

Your feet will thank you.

What goes in my daypack?

While my main luggage is moved by van to the next hotel, I’ll carry a small backpack during the day. A 20- to 30-litre daypack is generally plenty of room for the essentials without making the pack itself a burden.

Here’s what I’m putting in mine:

• • Compact walking pole

• • Waterproof jacket or rain gear

• • A lightweight extra layer

• • Reusable water bottle

• • Snacks

• • Wallet

• • Phone and camera

• • Sunglasses

• • Pocket tissues

• • Waterproof daypack cover or liner

That last item is easy to overlook. A waterproof cover or liner can keep your electronics, wallet and other valuables dry when the weather changes.

And don’t underestimate hydration. Having water readily at hand is important when you’re walking for several hours, even on a cool day.

Don’t forget your head

I’m packing a sun hat with a brim for long days outdoors. One small feature I particularly appreciate? A strap. Coastal breezes have a habit of turning unsecured hats into souvenirs for the Atlantic.

For cooler mornings, I’ll also tuck in a lightweight beanie.

And, of course, sunglasses.

The little things that make a big difference

A good walking-trip packing list isn’t about preparing for every conceivable eventuality. It’s about having the right things at hand so you can concentrate on enjoying the day.

Comfortable socks, sunscreen, an extra layer, tissues and somewhere secure for your phone and valuables take up very little room but can make a noticeable difference.

I’m also deliberately leaving some space in my suitcase.

After all, walking through villages, stopping for coffee, browsing local shops, and lingering over lunch are all part of the experience. There’s a very good chance something will find its way into my bag for the journey home.

My final packing philosophy

As I put everything together, I’m reminding myself of one important thing: I’m going on a walking tour, not moving house.

Pack clothes you can layer. Bring shoes you trust. Be prepared for changing weather. Keep your daypack manageable. Then concentrate on what you came for: being outdoors, seeing a destination at walking pace and enjoying everything you encounter along the way.

Now, if I can just convince myself that I really don’t need that third pair of pants…Feeling inspired to lace up your walking shoes? Take a look at our upcoming walking and active tours and see where the trail might lead you next!