Pilgrim equipment & tips

Here you will find a handy checklist to help you on your way.

Footwear – depending on the season and terrain, waterproof walking boots that have been broken in before the pilgrimage, and light slippers or non-slip socks for overnight stays.

Clothing/underwear – comfortable clothing in layers (multi-layer principle)

Rain protection – rain jacket, important: hood with a visor to protect the face and long sleeves with Velcro fasteners so you can tuck your hands in to keep them dry. Waterproof zip. Rain trousers, important: full-length zip on the sides of the trouser legs. They should also be longer – possibly with elastic loops under the shoes – so that water does not run into the shoes from above. Poncho – these are also available with integrated rucksack protection Scarves for neck/head, cold/wind. ‘Buff’ = these can be twisted to serve multiple purposes

Socks – provide protection and act as a functional layer between the foot and the shoe – never wear new socks, they must extend beyond the edge of the shoe, no coarse knitwear against the skin. Merino, cotton, bamboo and silk are ideal materials.

Sun protection for the face, body, neck, throat and head. Sunglasses, sunscreen.

Drinks – 2 bottles or thermos flasks for weight distribution – material should be high quality.

Food – pressure-proof packaging, dried fruit and nuts for snacks.

Miscellaneous – pocket knife, whistle, clothes pegs, string, safety pins. Insulated padding for sitting. Thin, 100% waterproof pannier bags in various colours with air valve = space-saving, – ¼ l, – 10 l, (small ones for money/passport...), cash, E-card, passport (Czechia)

Mobile phone – battery charger cable, adapter (Czechia), power bank

Writing materials + maps, trail folders – packed in waterproof packaging

Toiletries – small packs + eco-friendly toilet paper + tissues, medication as required

Hiking poles – only if physically necessary

Earplugs – ‘noise protection’ in hostels

Emergency equipment – standard first aid kit. Notebook with all important telephone numbers (taxi, doctor, hostels, bus times, Bad Leonfelden tourist office, emergency numbers)

Rucksack, 25 to 30 litres, maximum 10% of your own body weight. Please note the following: ‘good shoulder fit’ (try it on when buying, walk around in the shop for a while with it filled, e.g. with mineral water bottles), waist belt to close, this is where the weight of the rucksack rests. Water bottle pockets on both sides. If possible, choose a rucksack with a central zip to make it easier to access your belongings (otherwise you have to ‘dig down’ from the top to find something).