How to Pack Lightly for the Via Francigena Pilgrims Trail with Walk Local

Packing Guide for the Via Francigena

Walking the Via Francigena is an incredible journey, filled with breathtaking landscapes, historic villages, and the thrill of reaching Rome on foot. Whether you’re tackling a few stages or the entire trail, one thing is certain – packing lightly is essential.

At Walk Local, we focus on enjoying the journey, connecting with local culture, and keeping things simple. Here’s our ultimate guide to packing light while ensuring you have everything you need for a successful walk.

 

    .

Why Packing Light Matters

The Via Francigena can be challenging, especially when walking day after day. Carrying a heavy backpack makes the journey more exhausting and can lead to discomfort or even injury. Packing light not only saves your back but also lets you move more freely and enjoy the experience.

Packing light is key to enjoying your journey. The less you carry, the more comfortable you will feel as you walk. Remember, it’s about balance – carrying what you need without feeling weighed down.

Focus on practical, lightweight items, and don’t overthink your wardrobe. After all, the journey itself is the highlight – and having the right gear will make every step more enjoyable.

. .

The Essentials: Keep It Simple

Clothing

Since this is a long walk (24 days from Lucca to Rome), it’s important to pack light and quick-drying clothing.

  • Tops: Quick-dry, moisture-wicking shirts. Long-sleeve for sun protection if preferred.
  • Bottoms: Lightweight walking shorts.
  • Socks: Merino wool is a great choice to prevent blisters.
  • Underwear: Lightweight and quick-drying.
  • Insulating Layer: A fleece or lightweight down jacket.
  • Waterproof Jacket: Essential for unpredictable weather or a rain poncho.
  • Hat and Buff: Protection from sun and wind.
  • Comfortable Evening Clothes: Lightweight and comfortable for relaxing.
  • Sleepwear: Lightweight and breathable.

Pro Tip: One to wear, one to wash, one to dry – maximum.

Footwear: Invest in Comfort

  • Walking Boots or Runners: Well-worn and comfortable for long distances.
  • Thongs or Sandals: Lightweight for evenings.
  • Walking Socks: Moisture-wicking and blister-resistant.

Pro Tip: Test your footwear before your trip to avoid blisters.

Toiletries & Personal Care

  • Soap and Shampoo Bars: Lightweight and eco-friendly.
  • Clothes Washing Sheets: Lightweight and practical.
  • Travel Towel: Quick-drying microfiber.
  • Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Essential for sunny days.
  • Toothbrush and Small Toothpaste: Minimal size to save space.
  • First Aid Kit: Blister plasters, pain relief, antiseptic wipes.
  • Personal Hygiene: Tissues, wet wipes, hand sanitiser.

Gear and Accessories

  • Backpack: Capacity of 30+ litres, lightweight (under 1 kg), with adjustable straps and a breathable back panel.
  • Water Bottles/Hydration Pack: 1-2 litres capacity.
  • Trekking Poles: Essential for stability.
  • Power Bank: To keep devices charged.
  • Dry Sacks: To protect gear from moisture.
  • Earplugs and Sleep Mask: Great for shared accommodation.
  • Journal: Capture your journey.

Food and Snacks

Since meals are arranged, carry light snacks like energy bars or dried fruit for quick energy only if required.

Smart Tech Tips

  • Phone: Fully charged with a power bank.
  • Camera: Lightweight or just use your phone.
  • Charging Cable and Plug Adapter: Suitable for Italian outlets.
  • Travel Insurance Info: Digital copy on your phone.

What’s in My Backpack? The Ultimate Packing Guide for the Via Francigena

A common question I get asked is, “What’s in YOUR backpack?” As the person who carries the lunch supplies each day on our walks, I’ve become pretty meticulous about packing. Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned my packing list through trial, error, and a lot of reflection.

The last thing you want is to arrive in Rome and realise you’ve carried items for weeks that you never used. That’s why I always re-evaluate my pack at the end of each walk and think about what worked, what didn’t, and what I never needed. After many journeys, I’m pleased to say that I’ve finally nailed it!

What I Wear While Walking:

  • Shorts: Lightweight, quick-dry with built-in undies – I have Nike running shorts
  • T-shirt: Breathable and moisture-wicking
  • Socks: 2 pairs of breathable hiking socks (I use “Feetures” running socks).
  • Bra: 1 sports bra
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Hoka Runners: Comfortable, breathable and suitable for long-distance walking
  • Walking Poles: I love my Leki poles
  • Bumbag: This is great for my phone, suncream, essential documents, cards and money for easy access

In My Backpack:

  • Extra Pair of Shorts: Quick-dry and lightweight.
  • 1 Quick-Dry T-shirt: Easy to wash and dry or long sleeved hiking shirt for sun protection
  • Breathable Underwear: 1 extra pair
  • 1 Extra Pair of Hiking Socks: Moisture-wicking to prevent blisters.
  • Lightweight Spray Jacket: For unexpected chilly weather or light rain
  • Night Outfit: I take a lightweight dress
  • Nightwear: 1 lightweight nightie.
  • Swimming Costume: Needed for accommodation pools, thermal spas and river dips
  • Thongs or light weight sandals: Comfortable for after a shower or evening wear.
  • Rain Poncho: June is generally dry, but it’s wise to carry a lightweight plastic poncho from a budget store or  “Sea to Summit” Poncho which covers my body and backpack.
  • Travel Towel: Quick drying travel towel.  Usually hang off side of backpack.  Great if hot weather – wet and hang around neck to cool down.
  • 2 litre hydration bladder
  • Ipad: Used for work, reading books etc
  • Toiletries
  • First Aid Kit
  • electrical chords
  • 3 Dry Sacks – I love these! I put all my gear in dry sacks – 1 for clothes, 1 for toiletries etc and 1 for Ipad and chargers – so it is easy to organise and safe,  just in case something leaks in my bag.

Final Thoughts

Walking the Via Francigena with Walk Local is about immersing yourself in the experience. Packing light helps you focus on the journey rather than your gear. Remember, the less you carry, the more you can enjoy the walk. A lighter pack means a lighter spirit – and that’s what makes the Via Francigena so special.

Happy walking! See you on the trail.

. . .