Camino Pilgrim

Apps have been by far the most useful information source for me on the Camino. I get to know my GPS location on the map. I see how the trail runs, which is especially important in cities where the yellow markers are harder to see. Information about pilgrim resources in cities, towns and villages is kept well up to date. This is the main tool I use when planning my daily distances and knowing where I will most likely sleep the next night.

Books, for me, have more of an illustrative purpose back at home. I have a book for every Camino trail I have done in the past and even for those I plan to do in the future. I did carry a book with me on my first Camino, but after two weeks it was clear to me that I was using an app for reliable and fast information way more than I was using the book, so I gave it away to two Japanese pilgrims. 

What are the best books to carry on the Camino?

My favorite books are by CaminoGuideBook They are light, compact, have very good trail maps and lots of useful information on where to find what in villages. Unlike some other books, they also contain the suggested daily routes and are very detailed on the accommodation options.

When is a book better than an app?

Carrying a book with you makes sense if you do not live in the EU and therefore don’t have constant access to (kind of) free internet across the region. Alternatively, if you come from outside the EU, you can buy a prepaid SIM card while on the Camino and still use the internet on the go.

Most albergues do have free wifi, but not always. In cafes, free wifi is a luxury.

What are the best apps for the Camino?

My personal favorite is the Buen Camino app with the yellow arrow on the blue background logo. You can get access to pretty much any Camino trail that is out there. Of course, you can see your GPS location and the trail line(s). It is very easy to plan accommodation even when taking alternative routes.

My favorite part is that for the more commonly used trails, it also has elevation information for the daily distance you set and knows if you will face mainly soft or hard surfaces. This way, knowing how far your body can take you tomorrow can be planned with ease and accuracy.

Another popular app for Camino is Wise Pilgrim. Try out both apps and see which works better for you.

Why prefer an app over a book?

Apps are better than books because the accommodation information is mostly kept up to date. You will have a pretty good idea where to find food and water along the trail. There is really no fear of the battery running out on you, because you can charge the phone in every albergue and take care along the way.