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Poncho vs Rain Jacket : What Keeps You Dry on the Camino?

Created by Colleen | Updated : 11 March 2025 | ,

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If you want to spark a debate in any Camino or outdoor forum, just ask which is better; a poncho or rain jacket? Much like boots vs shoes, there really is no correct answer—both have their merits.

However, the question you should be asking isn’t which is better but what will keep me dry when hiking the Camino. After all, staying dry and warm is what we need; no matter what the weather throws at us.

For more than a decade, I’ve tested multiple ponchos and rain jackets. I’ve walked in all kinds of weather and walked around the world and through trial and error, I’ve figured out what works for me.

If you’re trying to decide which rain gear is best for your Camino then read on. I’ll break down the pros and cons of poncho vs rain jacket, I’ll share what’s worked well for me, and help you decide which combination is best for your own adventure.

pilgrims in brightly coloured rain jackets and poncho leaving St Jean Pied de Port in the rain

In A Rush? My Top Picks for Staying Dry On the Camino

Best Poncho : Altus Poncho Atmospheric J30 – Designed in Spain for pilgrims, offers full coverage, great in windy weather too.

View Altus Atmospheric Poncho

Best Budget Rain Jacket : Marmot PreCip Eco – Affordable, breathable, fully waterproof, comfortable and durable

View Marmot PreCip Eco

Best Premium Rain Jacket : Rab Kinetic Alpine – Super comfortable, high-performance waterproofing, premium guarantee and kept me dry in awful weather.

View Rab Kinetic Alpine

Best Windbreaker: Patagonia Houdini – Ultra-light, excellent for breezy days and a great price for what it offers

View Patagonia Houdini
pilgrims in ponchos walking to Santiago in the rain

The Camino Landscape And Why You Need Wet Weather Gear

The Camino de Santiago isn’t just one route—it’s many. You could walk through the sun-scorched lands of Extremadura or the misty northern coastline, or the mountain passes of the Camino Frances.

You can hike across Spain and the weather varies from region to region. And weather is unpredictable. In a single week, I’ve been sunburned on the Meseta and caught in a snowstorm at O Cebreiro. And while the Camino isn’t a technical hike, it does expose you to the elements, so choosing the right gear can mean the difference between comfort or misery.

It doesn’t matter if you choose a poncho or a rain coat; both have pros and cons. What matters is finding a solution that works for you and that usually means layering.

colleen by the pilgrim statue at Gozo near Santiago, in heavy rain and mist

Ponchos, Rain Jackets, Puffer Jackets And Windbreakers

Over the years, I’ve tried a range of options and variations and concluded that no single coat can do it all. A rain jacket will keep you dry but might not keep you warm. A puffer will keep you toasty, but is useless in the rain. That’s why I have options—because different walks and different weather call for different solutions.

Why Use a Poncho?

A poncho is a loose-fitting, waterproof covering that drapes over your body and backpack, providing full coverage in wet weather.

They’re often lightweight and easy to throw on—although my first Vaude poncho weighed 500 grams! Ponchos are generally well-ventilated due to their open design, making them great for warmer conditions or for hikers who tend to overheat. That said, not all ponchos are equal—some trap heat more than others. But one undeniable advantage is that they’re easy to put on and remove again when the rain stops!

Why Use a Rain Jacket?

Gerry introduced me to rain jackets. I was a poncho girl until we walked together in 2016, and he raved about his Marmot PreCip. I envied how easy it was to wear, and since it kept him dry, I decided to switch.

A rain jacket is a fitted, waterproof outer layer designed to keep your upper body dry. Unlike ponchos, rain jackets seal in warmth and block wind.

Lower-priced rain jackets can make you sweat, but if you spend a little more, breathable materials make them comfortable for all-day wear. They also come with features like hoods, pockets, and zippers for extra protection.

Why Use a Puffer Jacket?

Puffer jackets are insulated and filled with down or synthetic fibres to trap heat and keep you warm. They’re not waterproof, but they’re essential for cold temperatures, making them a great mid-layer when paired with a rain or windproof jacket.

We bought ours before hiking in the high mountains of India and Peru. Since weight and warmth were key, we invested in RAB down jackets—and they’ve been amazing! But I also bought a much cheaper Decathlon puffer in Canada, and I’ve been seriously impressed.

Why Use a Windproof Jacket?

In 2014, I bought a Berghaus windproof jacket as an alternative to my poncho for days when it wasn’t raining. It’s as light as a feather, and I still can’t believe how well it blocks wind. I love this jacket, although mine has seen better days.

Specialist wind jackets are made from thin, breathable materials and are perfect for layering in cool, breezy conditions. It’s showerproof but not designed to keep me dry—I usually wear it under my rain jacket for extra warmth or as a lightweight jacket on its own.

crossing Pont Eiffel in the rain on the Camino Portuguese

What Features Are Important With Wet Weather Hiking Gear

Each of the above options offer advantages and disadvantages and when choosing your solution you need to ask what is important for you.  I loved my Marmot Precip for keeping me dry but I didn’t like the hood design.

I really do see the value of throwing a poncho on quickly but a poncho isn’t fool proof so I wanted to find a back-up for keeping my gear dry in prolonged rain; dry sacks and a pack cover became part of my solution.

What functionality is important to you? Your list will be different than mine but you should consider the following :

1. Breathability & Ventilation

When I first walked the Camino, I bought a cheap waterproof jacket from Decathlon. On a training walk, I felt like I might explode from the heat and I was more damp inside the coat than out. Whilst a budget rain jacket might be fine for a quick dash, it’s not suitable for a day on the trail.

So, how well does a poncho or rain jacket allow airflow and prevent that heat and sweat buildup?

Poncho

A poncho is a bit like a wearable tent, creating a natural air gap that helps vent out body heat and moisture. This makes it great for summer rains, when staying cool is important.

  • Excellent airflow due to open sides and loose fit.
  • Great for humid conditions, allowing heat to escape easily.
  • Can flap open in stronger wind, exposing you to rain and cold.
  • Some enclosed ponchos like the Altus have less breathability.
  • Cheap plastic ponchos can feel hot and clammy, especially on warm days.

Rain Jacket

A rain jacket provides a more fitted barrier against rain. However, breathability depends entirely on the material and the better the breathability the more expensive the coat. A high-quality jacket will wick moisture and keep you comfortable, while a budget rain jacket can leave you soaked in sweat.

  • More fitted and protective, keeping rain out.
  • High-end breathable materials can help release moisture.  Our Rab Kinetic jackets have never felt sweaty and the fabric is incredibly comfortable.
  • Cheaper models trap heat, making you sweat and feel damp inside.
  • Pit zips or ventilation panels are often needed to avoid overheating and the Marmot Precip has these and it helps
  • Technical, higher quality jackets can be expensive

Who Wins : An traditional poncho will offer more ventilation unless you’re prepared to pay more for a premium rain jacket

pilgrims walking the Camino Frances in a forest wearing ponchos and rain coats and hoping to stay dry

2. Coverage & Gear Protection

Someone once told me that the belt-and-braces approach is best when it comes to keeping your gear dry. In other words—assume that rain will get through your coat or poncho, and take every precaution to protect your pack and belongings.

In 2013, I bought five Sea to Summit dry sacks, and all but one is still going strong, so no matter what the weather throws at me, I know that inside those bags, everything will stay dry.

That said, which rain gear option actually provides better coverage for you and your backpack?

Poncho

One of the biggest advantages of a poncho is that it covers both you and your pack. If you’re carrying a small waist bag or fanny pack, that will often be covered too. Most ponchos provide head-to-knee protection, ensuring that everything underneath stays dry—at least in theory.

  • Covers both you and your backpack in one piece—no separate pack cover needed.
  • Quick to throw on, making it ideal for sudden downpours. This is one of the major reasons why I love a poncho!
  • Can blow around in the wind, leaving parts exposed; in prolonged rain, a poncho alone won’t keep you or your pack fully dry.
  • Water can run from open sleeves or a loose neck opening. For me, this has always been an issue—no matter the poncho, rain seems to find its way in.

Rain Jacket

A rain jacket only covers your torso and arms, so you’ll need a separate pack cover or liner to keep your backpack dry. But regardless of your choice, I still recommend dry sacks.

That said, jackets have the edge when it comes to keeping the rain off of you and they don’t flap in the wind. If you want full-body coverage, you can pair a jacket with rain pants or gaiters—though, to be fair, you could do the same with a poncho.

  • More form-fitting, reducing rain entry in high winds and keeping you warmer in cold weather. I have walked in some truly awful weather and I know my coat has out performed other options.
  • Can be layered with rain pants for full-body coverage (though this applies to ponchos too).
  • Requires a separate pack cover to keep your gear dry—though many packs (like our Ospreys) come with built-in rain covers. Pack covers are also inexpensive in shops like Decathlon.
  • Only high-quality waterproof jackets truly keep water out in heavy prolonged rain—but the same is true of ponchos.

Who Wins : Having worn both in awful weather, I stay drier in sustained rain with a rain jacket. While a poncho offers better coverage for your gear, I would never rely on it alone for protection as water finds a way in.  That said, ponchos are great for a quick shower—they’re fast to throw on and cover everything in one go and they can work well in combination with a jacket.

colleen on the bridge at Orbiga; my red poncho makes me look like a pantomime horse!

3. Fit, Comfort & Mobility

No matter when you walk, expect rain. On the Camino, you’re not scrambling over technical mountain terrain, but you will walk on mixed ground, and freedom of movement matters. Getting snagged on plants, fences, or rocky paths is something to consider and avoid.

Another consideration is noise. A flapping poncho in high wind is frustrating—but so is the constant rustle of a budget rain jacket.

My Vaude poncho did a good job of keeping me dry-ish , but it was never comfortable. I’ve worn better ponchos since, but for me, there’s no doubt—rain jackets are better here.

Poncho

Without a doubt, a poncho is easy to wear—no arms, no zips, just slip it over your head and pack, and keep walking. But what about trekking poles, grabbing a drink, taking a photo, or… answering the call of nature?

  • Loose fit allows freedom of movement, even with a large backpack.
  • Easy to throw on and remove quickly—no zippers or adjustments needed.
  • Can be worn over multiple layers without feeling restrictive.
  • Can restrict movement in high winds or when walking on uneven terrain.
  • Loose fit can block visibility, making it harder to watch your footing.
  • Can snag on branches or fences as you walk.
  • Limited arm movement—tricky when using trekking poles, grabbing a water bottle, or taking a photo.
  • Water can enter through the cuffs as your arms move with trekking poles.
  • Lacks pockets, and hoods are often less adjustable and often not good at staying in place or keeping water out.

Rain Jacket

Rain jackets usually have a tailored cut, meaning less excess material, better mobility, and no flapping fabric. Adjustable cuffs, hoods, and hems help seal out rain while allowing freedom of movement.

I love the hood on our Rab Kinetic. I’m not a hat fan, but the hood cinches down perfectly, meaning it doesn’t flap or rustle loudly as I walk. The pockets are a huge bonus, especially in bad weather, and the ability to move freely and see your feet is an important consideration.

  • More fitted design—better for active movement.
  • Technical fabrics with stretch (like in my Rab jacket) allow a closer, more comfortable fit.
  • No flapping or getting caught on obstacles.
  • Usually has good-sized pockets, pit zips, and adjustable hoods.
  • Customizable fit—adjustable cuffs, hem, and hood for better protection.
  • More comfortable in cold and wet conditions.
  • Can feel tight over multiple layers if not sized correctly. (I always size mine to fit over a puffer or wind jacket).
  • Can trap heat if zipped up fully—especially when wearing the hood.
  • Cheaper jackets can feel clammy and hot if they lack breathability.
  • If too tight, they can restrict movement with a backpack.

Who Wins? For me, the jacket wins every time—especially if you have the budget for a higher-quality product. Even my Marmot PreCip, which isn’t premium, offered great comfort and adjustability.

colleen and gerry at Banff in Canada, wearing our RAB waterproof jackets

4. Price & Value

I wasn’t sure whether to include this section—you can find a few pricey ponchos, and it’s easy to spend a lot on a high-quality rain jacket but do they offer value for money?

Poncho

A Frogg Toggs or Decathlon poncho can come in under 30€. I picked up a lightweight poncho for less than 20€ in Pamplona.

And then there’s my sister’s solution—she spent a euro on a cheap plastic poncho. Not at all durable, but in an emergency, it did the job!

  • Cheaper options available, often under 30€.
  • Great as a budget backup—even the cheapest ponchos work for emergencies.
  • High-end ponchos can get pricey, but I don’t feel they’re really necessary for the Camino.

Rain Jacket

It’s easy to spend a lot of money on a rain jacket—but if you’re going to get a lot of wear our of it, the investment is worth it. However there are options, I wore a Marmot Precip for years, and it offered fantastic value.

  • More variety in pricing—the cost usually reflects more technical fabrics
  • Higher-end jackets last longer and offer premium guarantees. My RAB was replaced free of charge after three years when it failed; no questions asked.
  • You can find great deals on last year’s model or by choosing a less popular colours.
  • Cheaper jackets often lack breathability or can be heavier

Who Wins? There’s no clear winner as I feel this result depends on your budget and needs.

  • If you’re on a tight budget, a poncho is the cheapest and easiest option.
  • If you want long-term durability and protection, a good rain jacket is worth the investment.
Then We Walked walking group leaving Obanos one rainy April day with a selection of coats and poncho

5. Versatility

I’ve included this section, though I feel it’s more relevant to thru-hikers than to those walking the Camino. That said, your rain gear can serve other purposes beyond just keeping you dry. What do you use if  you need to sit down, and the ground is damp.  And if you’re stuck somewhere—or even injured—could your gear double as some kind of emergency shelter?

Poncho

Thru-hikers and campers will tell you that a good poncho is more than just rain protection. While I’ve never needed to use mine this way, it’s clear that for some, a poncho offers extra versatility.

  • Can be uses as a tarp or groundsheet.
  • Can be thrown over gear or used as a seat on wet ground. I’ve often sat on my poncho at the side of the trail for a quick rest or picnic.
  • Not ideal for wearing off-trail a poncho looks a bit odd in towns. This was a major factor in my switch to a rain jacket.

Rain Jacket

A rain jacket isn’t going to provide shelter, but for Camino hikers, it has other practical uses.

  • Can be worn in towns and while travelling. I wear my RAB all the time—probably more than I should! It always comes on our travels, it’s a jacket that keeps me dry and it’s easy to throw in my bag.
  • Can double as a windbreaker, again the RAB works well for wind protection, but my Mac in a Sac doesn’t—however it was a lot less expensive too!
  • Not multi-use like a poncho (can’t be a shelter, pack cover, or groundsheet).

Who Wins : For trail use, a poncho has more versatility. But for the Camino—and travel in general—being able to wear my jacket as an everyday layer makes it far more useful. Maybe I’d call this a draw.

taking a break from the rain; expect sudden showers in Galicia!

6. Weather Resistance : Rain, Wind and Cold Conditions

Ultimately, it doesn’t matter how comfortable, light, or easy your rain gear is—the bottom line is will it keep you dry.

Many people think hypothermia is just a winter risk, but being wet and exposed to wind on a chilly day can put you at risk. Never underestimate the weather on the Camino. Your rain gear needs to keep you dry, but it also needs to help you retain warmth. So how does a poncho vs a rain jacket cope with cold, rain, and wind?

Poncho

A poncho is designed for rain, but in windy conditions, it can be harder to stay dry. If you try to use a poncho for warmth, it will block some wind, but you’ll still have a lot of drafty gaps. That said, when a poncho is draped over your pack, it can create a pocket of trapped warm air around your core in cold rain.

  • Covers your entire body and pack in heavy rain.
  • Works well in short rain showers—quick to throw on, preventing that initial soak.
  • Some models like the Altus Atmospheric Poncho have partial sleeves and elastic cuffs for better protection.
  • Can trap some body heat if worn over insulation layers.
  • Wind-driven rain can still sneak in from the sides, neck and sleeves
  • Not ideal for snow or very cold weather—a poncho keeps rain out but doesn’t trap warmth well.
  • Not designed for wind—it flaps around and can act like a sail, making walking harder and allowing rain to drive in.
  • Lack of adjustable cuffs and neck openings means water can seep in. This was my biggest frustration with my Vaude poncho, and why I’ll never solely depend on a poncho again.
  • Needs insulating layers but water leaks can make those layers wet which makes you colder

Rain Jacket

A specialist outdoor rain jacket is designed to keep you dry. The more expensive you go, the better they perform in prolonged rain. And you can tighten the cuffs, neck, hood, and hem, helping to seal out rain and wind.

Rain jackets aren’t always designed to keep you warm; you can’t have breathability and waterproofing and warmth. They work best when layered, which is an essential consideration for the Camino.

  • Provides better rainproofing in wind, storms, and prolonged rain.
  • Can be paired with rain pants for full waterproofing (though the same applies to ponchos).
  • Better wind-blocking ability—even though warmth isn’t their primary function, jackets do trap body heat better than ponchos.
  • Works well with layering—a fleece, puffer, or wind jacket can fit underneath for insulation and stay dry.
  • A secure fit means your layers stay dry which is essential in prolonged rain
  • Requires regular DWR (Durable Water Repellent) re-coating to stay waterproof. We recently had to re-waterproof our RAB jackets, and they completely lost all water resistance—leading to a very wet week on the trail. Thankfully, many premium brands offer free replacements if the waterproofing fails.
  • Breathable models may let in some air—it’s great for ventilation, but not ideal in freezing rain although pit zips mean you can adjust this
  • Needs insulating layers underneath—a rain jacket alone won’t keep you warm.

Who Wins? For me the rain jacket wins. When considering weather resistance, it’s not just about keeping out rain—it’s also about staying warm and blocking wind. A rain jacket, when layered properly, provides better long-term protection against rain, wind, and cold temperatures.

A poncho will keep out most of the rain, and it’s quick and easy to put on. But it won’t trap heat and has more weak points where rain can sneak in.

colleen and gerry wearing 1 euro poncho at Niagra falls and struggling to stay dry with the wind and the water spray

7. Weight And Packability

Whether you’re carrying a full pack or a day pack, your rain gear will (hopefully!) spend most of its time inside your bag.

When choosing my gear I do prioritise lightweight options—but that has to be balanced against functionality and durability. A featherlight poncho is useless if it flaps uncontrollably in the wind, and a waterproof coat isn’t worth it if it adds a full kilo to your pack.

Poncho

My first poncho was heavy and took up loads of space at the bottom of my pack. My second poncho was lighter and smaller, but still quite bulky.

The poncho I use today is lightweight, but still a little bulky. If I were willing to spend more, I could go lighter. On the other hand, if I opted for a really cheap poncho, it would pack down tiny—but I’d lose durability.

  • Some inexpensive ponchos pack smaller and lighter than a rain jacket + pack cover—but are they as durable?
  • Specialist ultralight ponchos exist, but they come at a higher price.
  • Bulkier and heavier if made from thicker material.
  • Often less compact than a premium rain jacket.

Rain Jacket

Premium lightweight rain jackets can weigh as little as 200g and compress down to the size of your hand. Many pack into their own pocket, so you don’t even need a separate bag for storage.

  • Packs down small—often into its own pocket.
  • Can be extremely lightweight (some under 200g).
  • Requires additional weight for a pack cover—but you should have this anyway, even with a poncho.

Who Wins? For me an easy win for a rain jacket —it’s smaller, easier to stow, and often lighter. Of course, you can buy very cheap, ultralight plastic ponchos (even IKEA sells them!), but they can’t be compared to a performance rain jacket. Remember durability also matters.

preparing for the rain whilst walking the Camino Ingles

Seasonal Considerations

They say that the rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain, but many pilgrims will tell you it’s far more likely to fall in Galicia.  The weather on the Camino varies not just by season, but by region and if you’re walking from St. Jean Pied de Port to Santiago, you’ll be crossing mountain passes, trekking across the exposed Meseta, and potentially facing a wet Galicia.

Be prepared for all kinds of weather but also remember that your rain gear choice should reflect the season, terrain, and overall conditions you’ll be walking under.

Spring

  • Expect sunshine, but also plenty of spring rain, sometimes prolonged and heavy.
  • In higher elevations, temperatures are much cooler, with a chance of snow.
  • With warmer weather, make sure your gear is breathable—otherwise, you’ll overheat and get sweaty!
  • Best choice : Perfect season for layering and a poncho + jacket combo.

Summer

  • Hot and usually dry, but sudden storms are possible.
  • Even if it rains, temperatures should stay warm.
  • A lightweight poncho is great in summer—it’s breathable, quick to throw on, and packs small.
  • Best choice: A lightweight poncho, possibly a compact rain jacket for cooler mornings or stormy days.

Autumn

  • September & October are usually dry, but rain is always a possibility.
  • Cool mornings, then warmer afternoons—layering is essential.
  • By November, expect more rain, misty mornings, and colder temperatures.
  • Best choice: Just like spring, this is a season where having a few options in your pack is smart.

Winter

  • Cold, damp, and can be windy.
  • Staying warm and dry isn’t just about choices—it’s about safety.
  • A strong waterproof system is essential, including insulation against the cold.
  • This is when my puffer jacket comes into play—sometimes under my rain jacket, and sometimes as my main outer layer in the dry
  • Best choice: A high-quality rain jacket layered over insulation (fleece/puffer) is key for winter comfort and safety.
two pilgrims walking in the snow on the trail between Las Herrerias and O Cebreiro

My Layering Strategy for the Camino de Santiago

Have I answered the question of poncho vs. rain jacket? Maybe not but I hope I’ve convinced you that having options is the best approach.

1. Start with Your Base Layers (Moisture-Wicking & Insulation)

Before we even talk rain gear, your base layers matter.

  • In warm weather, I wear a quick-dry short-sleeve shirt.
  • In cooler weather, I opt for a long-sleeve merino wool top.
  • In very cold conditions, I add thermal base layers—never underestimate a good base layer!
  • Don’t forget your legs! In cold weather, thermal leggings or running tights under hiking trousers can add extra warmth.

2. Add Insulation: Mid Layers for Warmth

Your mid-layer is what adds warmth—you won’t always need one, but it’s essential for flexibility.

  • In cool weather, I carry a light fleece.
  • In colder seasons, I use my RAB down jacket, which is light and compresses down into a small sack.
  • For milder temperatures, some hikers prefer a sleeveless down vest, which keeps the core warm without overheating.

A Rab Microlight Alpine is a lifesaver—from the high mountains of India to hikes near the Arctic Circle in Iceland. It’s a little pricey, but compresses down to the size of your hand, making it perfect for travel.

View Rab Microlight Alpine

If you’re on a budget, Decathlon offers great-value down jackets and vests—I wore mine in Ontario, Canada, in autumn, and it kept me toasty in the wind!

View Decathlon Down Jackets

3. Don’t Underestimate Wind Protection

I feel the cold, but I also overheat easily—so finding a breathable, windproof layer was a game-changer for me.

A windproof jacket adds just enough warmth without making you sweat. My Berghaus super-light windbreaker was incredibly breathable and weighed almost nothing. If you can find a good-quality windbreaker, the Patagonia Houdini is an excellent choice, it will last for years and work as a mid-layer, travel layer, and hiking essential.

View Patagonia Houdini

4. The All-Important Rainproof Layer

Regardless of poncho vs rain jacket, this layer is non-negotiable on a wet day. If your layers get wet in cold weather, staying warm will be impossible.

My Favourite Poncho

  • Altus Atmospheric Poncho – A Camino icon, made in Spain with a full-zip front, wrist cuffs, and hood visor. Less breathable than a traditional poncho, but does better in wind.
View Altus Atmospheric Poncho
  • Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2 – A really great budget option! Weighs only 250 gms, packs small, and offers solid rain protection.
View Frogg Toggs Ultra-Lite2
View Sea to Summit Poncho

My Favourite Rain Jackets

  • Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket – Best value for money. Fully waterproof, breathable, and durable. The PitZips and adjustable cuffs make it a great option for Camino walkers.
View Marmot PreCip Eco
  • Rab Kinetic Alpine – My personal favourite. Super comfortable, stretchy, durable, and high-performance waterproofing. Great for all kinds of awful weather.
View Rab Kinetic Alpine
  • Patagonia Torrentshell 3L – A new market leader! 3-layer waterproofing, highly durable, and reasonably priced. One to watch!
View Patagonia Torrentshell 3L

5. Don’t Forget Accessories!

Your head, hands, and feet are just as important as your core.

  • Lightweight Beanie Hat : I bought mine from Decathlon in 2016, and it’s still going strong. Not waterproof, but keeps my head warm.
  • Gloves : A pair of liner gloves adds warmth on chilly mornings, but for extreme environments, I use thermal waterproof gloves.
  • Spare Socks : Wet feet = misery. Always carry a dry pair of socks.
  • Waterproof trousers : I used them once and never again! I find that keeping my core warm is more important, and I just accept my legs will get wet.

6. keeping Your Pack Dry

No matter which rain gear you choose, you must make sure your pack stays dry.

  • Clear waterproof bag for valuables – I’ve had one of these since 2014, and it’s still going strong! Protects passports, wallets, phones, and cameras in heavy rain.
View Clear waterproof bag
  • Sea to Summit Dry Sacks – Invest in 4 or 5 and sort your gear for ease of finding things and to ensure your gear stays dry no matter the weather!
View Sea to Summit Dry Sacks
  • Pack Cover – My Osprey pack has a built-in cover, but if yours doesn’t, buy one! Decathlon sells inexpensive pack covers, and they provide great peace of mind in a storm.
View Pack Cover

Top Tip: Always carry a dry spare layer (base layer, down jacket, and socks) in a waterproof bag. If you get soaked, you’ll be grateful for dry clothes!

Walking from Los Arcos on the Camino Frances under storm clouds

So Which Is Going To Keep You Dry?  A Poncho or a Rain Coat?

Wow! This has turned into a monster post. When hiking the Camino you need to find a solution that keeps you warm and dry and I hope I’ve given you a comprehensive review of the options. 

Ultimately it’s not a choice of poncho vs rain coat; it’s about finding a solution that works. Long-distance hikers and gear experts have debated this for years and that debate and their insights help us make an informed choice.  

In 2024 a survey of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers found that 88% of hikers used a rain jacket as their primary rain gear​ so I’m not alone in my choice.   But I also carry a lightweight inexpensive poncho to compliment my jacket.

Whatever you buy, test it before hitting the trail.  Go out in the rain, or stand under the shower and see if water finds a way in.  And see if you end up feeling too hot or too sweaty.

And finally, when you make your choice go bright.  Choose red or orange or something that will stand out in limited visibility, fog or heavy rain.  You want to be warm and dry but you also want to be seen!

In the end, having reliable rain gear will ensure that you can keep putting one foot in front of the other with a smile and help you stay warm and dry every day, regardless of the weather!

Want to learn more about the Camino? Then hop over to my Free Private Facebook Group | Walking The Camino De Santiago.

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pilgrims arriving in the rain at Santiago

Are You Walking the Camino De Santiago?

You may have noticed that I love the Camino. I’ve walked countless times since 2013. If you’re planning your own walk I have many other resources that can help :

Along with many other posts covering travel, insurance and currency, travel to St Jean Pied de Port and What to do in Santiago and pilgrim guides to Porto! I have a lot of great content for pilgrims!

If you’re planning your Camino or already on the trail, I’d love to hear about your experiences! Join my Camino Facebook Community, share your stories, and or ask questions and find inspiration for the road ahead.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Whenever you travel, you should have great travel and medical insurance.  None of us expect anything bad to happen, but in the event of an incident, you want to be sure that your insurance will cover you.

I’ve ended up in hospital in Peru, Indonesia, Portugal, Japan and Ireland. Every time my insurance took care of everything. I would never leave home without full and comprehensive insurance.

TrueTraveller : We have this policy and are very happy with the cover, especially considering our ages and pre-existing conditions.

Globelink: We have used and recommended Globelink for years and not heard of any issues. They are a great choice for European and UK Residents.

Genki : This is an EU based company offering long term policies for nomads and travellers. Their monthly rates are very competitive for longer trips too.

Safety Wing : Many of my travelling buddies from the USA recommended Safety Wing; we’ve not used them personally but know folks who have.

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Colleen in Salamanca on the Via de la Plata

Author : Colleen Sims

Hey I’m Colleen. I’m married to Gerry, we’ve three fabulous kids and been living in France for almost two decades. I fell in love with Spain in the 1980s and I’ve walked 1000s of miles along the Camino de Santiago. Now we’re exploring and walking the world and I can’t wait to share what we’ve learned!

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