9 Ways to Save Money on the Camino

With temptations like souvenir shops, cheap wine and luxurious Paradores everywhere, it’s very easy to spend money on the Camino. But it’s also possible to save a few euros here and there along The Way. 

If you’re on a budget, here are 9 great ways to save a bit of cash on the Camino.

Albergues are affordable accommodation on the Camino

Buy Second-Hand

The two things you should never skimp on are your shoes and your backpack. Be prepared to spend a bit of money on those. And get them fitted properly to your feet and body. 

But one big way to save money is to buy second-hand gear and clothing. Or, better yet, borrow from friends. You don’t need expensive clothes on the Camino. You’ll want to burn them all afterward anyway! And keep accessories to a minimum as every little thing adds weight. 

Cat with her backpack in front of a Camino waymarker
Properly fitted backpack. Shirt from Value Village.

Book Transportation in Advance

Start planning your Camino well in advance. Know where you’re going. Know how you’ll get there. Nothing breaks the bank like unexpected or last-minute emergencies that could have been avoided.

Book your transportation to and from the Camino in advance for cheaper fares. This includes your airfare and any train or bus transportation you may be using.

Renfe train with a sign to destination
My train to Oviedo

Stay in Cheaper Albergues

Stay in donativo, parroquia and municipal albergues. They are cheaper than private albergues, individual rooms and hotels.

If you choose to camp, research the regulations when it comes to camping. Rules may vary depending on the region.

Donativo albergues are “bed by donation”. If you can, leave what you would pay at a municipal or private albergue. But if you can’t afford it, you will still be welcome.

An albergue with a Camino shell in front
Private albergues cost a little more but are still a good deal

Use the Donativos

You’ll see small “donativo” stands on the side of the road. They are loaded with fruit, snacks and water. If you need a little pick-me-up while you’re walking, help yourself. But they work on a donation (and honour) system, so always leave some money. 

Many albergues also have donation boxes. Pilgrims are welcome to take items at no cost. Maybe you’ll find something you need. But most likely, you’ll leave something you decided you can live without. You never know, you may be someone’s Camino angel with that sleeping bag or water bottle you didn’t want to carry anymore!

A donativo stand with snacks – give what you can

Cook and Share Food

Find albergues with shared kitchens. Buy some items at the supermarket and make your meals. Cooking a pot of pasta is not only inexpensive, but you can build connections with your fellow pilgrims over a shared meal. We often shared the cost and prep work of making a communal meal.

We made a pasta dinner together at this albergue

Order a Menú del Día

A “menú del día”, or pilgrim’s menu, is available in many bars, restaurants and albergues along The Way. They have a set price and a set three-course menu. And there are always vegetarian options. You’ll get an appetizer, main course and dessert, plus bread and wine (or a soft drink/bottle of water, if you prefer). 

The cost can range anywhere from €10-18.50, depending on where you are. And, overall, it’s a good deal. The food will change based on the region. After a while, any variety will be very welcome on the Camino!

One of my favourite Pilgrim’s Menus at La Griega in Tineo on the Primitivo

Go to Mass

Many churches and cathedrals now have admission fees. And sometimes, they can be quite steep. But a good way to get in the door for less is to attend mass. You won’t be able to spend hours touring and some parts may be closed off. But you can take a few minutes afterward to walk around. Just drop a couple of euros in the donation box on your way out!

If your timing is right, many churches also host musical concerts. Buy a ticket (sometimes they’re even free!) and you’ll not only hear beautiful music, but you can visit the church as well. It’s the perfect two-for-one.

The Cathedral of Santo Domingo de la Calzada has an entry fee

Tipping is not Expected

Unlike in North America, tipping is not expected. In fact, you won’t even see a tip option on machines at restaurants in Spain. Feel free to leave a euro or two if you feel the service was good. It’s appreciated but not obligatory.

Buy Travel Insurance

Never cut corners when it comes to health and safety. 

And don’t leave home without travel insurance. You’ll be charged for any visit to a doctor or hospital. Remember, you’ll be walking across a country in different conditions and terrain.

Don’t expect accidents to happen but be prepared just in case.

Also, leave wiggle room in your budget for anything else that could come up. For example, if you can’t walk and need to take a taxi. Or you don’t feel comfortable in an albergue and want to change to a private room. These things happen. Don’t compromise your health and safety to save a few bucks. It will cost you more in the long run. 

These are some of the ways that we have saved a few euros on our Camino. And we hope they will help make yours as budget-friendly as possible.

Buen Camino!

If you want to know how much to budget for your Camino, check out our article on how much the Camino costs in 2025

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