On the Camino Francés, the question is quickly answered: yes, bring trekking poles!

But on the Camino Portugués?

You do NOT NEED trekking poles on the Camino Portugués. The Portuguese Camino is quite flat and doesn’t have sections of terrain that require poles.

However, there can definitely be moments or short stretches where poles are helpful. For example, after heavy rain when the path is flooded and you have to make your way along the overgrown edge. Or when you occasionally have to descend over large, uneven stones.

• If you have pre-existing health issues, trekking poles can help take some strain off your joints.
• Even if you’re not very sure-footed, trekking poles are a great support on uneven terrain.
• If you start the Portuguese Camino in Lisbon, they can also give you a sense of security if you encounter stray dogs.

• if you’re fit and sure-footed
• if you’re trying to pack as light as possible
• if you’re flying with carry-on only (they are rarely accepted)

Most people don’t need trekking poles on this Camino.

There are reasons to bring them, but there are also good reasons not to: you may run into issues at the airport, they add extra weight, and the noise can be annoying for locals and fellow pilgrims.

My advice, as someone who has walked the Camino Portugués countless times: only bring trekking poles if there are health-related reasons—otherwise, skip them.