Clothing - May-June

[stassy]

Hi,
I am planning to begin the camino at St. Jean Pied de Port on May 17th or close to there, and I am wondering if anyone had advice in regards to clothing to wear when walking? Not sure if I need more than one pair of pants, and whether rain gear other than a jacket and a pack cover is necessary? I looked up temperatures, which seem to range between 12 degrees celsius and 25, but I think any of your personal experience could provide more info than I can infer! Also, but not gear-related, if you had been walking at this time, I was wondering if this is when the refugios start to get full every night? I've heard stories of having to get up at 5 am and race to get a bed...

Anyways, Thanks!!

[cairde]

Hola Stassy,
Assuming that you want to carry as little gear as possible, I would suggest you bring a plastic poncho instead of a jacket and maybe a fleece for the evening when at times it can get quite cold. As regards pants, a good idea is to purchase 2 pair of walking pants that have zip off lower legs - now you have shorts for the warm day and even the wet day you can stay quite dry under the poncho. Generally, peregrinos will start walking about 7/7.30 in the morning and finish in the early afternoon, as temperatures can climb into the high 20's....at that time of the year you won't have any problems getting a bed in a refugio at the end of the day, even as you get closer to Santiago.....no need to race along the path......you will never be without a place to stay.
Buen Camino

[stassy]

Pargaig,
Very comforting to know I will not be forced into 5 a.m races! And thanks for the advice on clothing, keep well!