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There's no need to carry all the weight yourself. Several companies pick up your backpack from your accommodation in the morning and drop it off at the one for your next stage, so you can walk with just a small day pack. It's a very popular option for anyone with back or knee trouble, travelling with children, or who simply wants to enjoy the walk without a load. Here we explain how it works, which operators are available and rough prices.
Updated on August 12, 2026
The system is simple: the evening before, you book the service (by phone, website or app), leave your labelled backpack at reception or the agreed point in your accommodation before a cut-off time (usually 8:00 a.m.), and that same day you'll find it at the destination accommodation for your next stage. You walk with a light pack carrying water, food and the essentials.
You pay per stage and per bag. It's best to book a day in advance and confirm that both your departure accommodation and your arrival accommodation fall within the carrier's coverage area.
Correos Paq Mochila: the official service from Correos, covering the main routes (Francés, Portugués, Norte, Primitivo, Inglés and Vía de la Plata). The price is roughly 3-6 € per stage depending on the route, with the option to book full sections. It's the most widespread and reliable, being run by Correos.
Regional and local operators such as Jacotrans, Xacotrans or Tuitrans work mainly in Galicia and the last 100 km, with typical prices of around 4-8 € per stage. In each area there are usually local carriers as well.
Prices are indicative and change each season: always confirm them on the operator's official website before booking. We don't make up rates.
Yes, if you have back or knee problems, are walking with children or older people, want to do long stages without suffering, or would rather enjoy the scenery without carrying 8-10 kg. Also if you feel tired on a particular day: you can book it for just that stage.
Bear in mind that you depend on the pick-up times and on dropping the backpack off on time, and that many pilgrims feel that carrying your own weight is part of the experience. It's a personal decision; you can combine the two (carry it yourself most of the time and book the service on the hard days).
The hostels and lodgings on the most popular stages (Sarria, O Cebreiro, the last 100 km) fill up fast, especially in summer and during a Holy Year. Book ahead to secure a spot at the best price.
Frequently asked questions
Roughly between 3 and 8 € per stage and per bag, depending on the company and the route. Correos Paq Mochila is usually around 3-6 €. Confirm the current rate on the operator's website.
Yes, the usual practice is to book it the evening before and leave the backpack before the cut-off time (normally around 8:00 a.m.). You can book it for individual stages only or for full sections.
Correos Paq Mochila covers the main ones (Francés, Portugués, Norte, Primitivo, Inglés and Vía de la Plata). In Galicia and the last 100 km there are also regional operators. Check the coverage for both your departure and arrival accommodation.