How not to be an asshole on the Camino De Santiago – … or any hike

On By NoémiIn #TravelTuesday, Camino de Santiago

You know, when we’re out hiking, every once in a while, we run into that person?
Yeah, the trail asshole.
…And no, I’m not just being oversensitive or judgy – there are actually some basic trail rules that some people either don’t know or just don’t care about.
Hiking’s all about getting outside, clearing your head, and maybe meeting some cool people along the way. But let’s be real – nothing kills the vibe faster than someone with a trash attitude.
Doesn’t matter if you’re doing the Camino de Santiago, hiking somewhere in the Lake District, or just walking in your local park – … a little respect goes a long way.

So here’s how not to be that person. Because honestly… nobody wants to be that person.

Don’t be the one who leaves trash behind

I genuinely cannot believe that in 2025 I’m still having to write this same old shit, but here we are. I’m constantly picking up random garbage on hikes, and not just on trails. I’ve seen it in Montjuïc in Barcelona, on the beaches of Playa del Carmen, Mexico… honestly, pretty much everywhere. Oh, and while we’re on the topic… Have you heard about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch? Yeah, it’s a floating island of trash out in the ocean that’s three times the size of France.
It’s so insane!
Super easy, people. Look… If you’re packing food, make sure to pack out what you pack in.
That means no candy papers, no foil, no banana peels, no sad half-eaten granola bars left behind for some poor bird to choke on.
No, the animals are not gonna eat it. No, it’s not gonna rot away fast.
Bring it home – or at least to the nearest trash can, and try to throw the garbage possibly in it – …not all around it.

Don’t be the one who blasts music

Look, some of us go hiking to escape all the noise of everyday life. If you wanna rock your playlist, please, for the love of god – I mean nature – use headphones, not speakers.
This whole “Bluetooth speaker” thing is weirdly becoming more and more common lately – everywhere. Trails, beaches, parks… you name it.
But trust me, nobody else came out to spend the day listening to your underground beats or Taylor Swift ballads on repeat. We came for birdsong, waves, or maybe a little inner peace – not Coachella.

Don’t be the one who goes off trail

… Especially where it’s specifically posted not to.

Take Chichen Itza, for example. There are clear rules about not climbing the pyramid anymore, right? It’s been closed to climbing for years to protect the site and preserve it for future generations.
But yet, somehow, you still see people every week climbing the steps. And no… no, they don’t throw people in Mexican prisons for climbing Chichen Itza – … too bad – but there are definitely consequences for ignoring the rules! The authorities can fine people, or they could be escorted off the site if they’re caught breaking the rules, and I mean… that’s embarrassing.

Don’t be the one who swims in the water when it’s not allowed

Okay, so we’re lucky that there are still plenty of epic places around the world where you can swim.
But here’s the thing: as tempting as those crystal-clear pools or waterfalls might be, sometimes there’s a reason those “no swimming” signs are there.
There might be fragile species they’re trying to protect, sharp rocks, dangerous currents, or even harmful bacteria or a freakin’ crocodile lurking beneath the surface.

Don’t be the one who is a bad dog parent

  • Put Them On a Leash
    I love dogs. – that’s a statement made here to begin with.
    But here’s the thing: not everyone does. Some people have had bad experiences, and a random dog sprinting up to them or jumping on them can be pretty scary.
    Not to mention if your dog isn’t well-trained. They can get overly excited, run up to other dogs – … and that doesn’t always end well – or wander off where you might not be able to call them back.
  • If your dog is not supposed to be on a trail, don’t bring them
    Look, there’s gotta be a good reason why some trails don’t allow dogs, and that’s it. They can mess with local wildlife – they can carry some disease or bacteria that is more dangerous to other animals, even just their scent can throw things off. So, if the trail’s got a no-dogs rule, just respect it. It’s there for a reason.
  • Clean up and dispose the bag properly
    … oh boy, really? Do I really have to tell this to some people? Jeez… Just… Pick up your dog’s 💩, please.

Don’t be the one who pets the wildlife

Wildlife is not here for your entertainment – they’re, in fact, wild animals, not your personal zoo.
Seriously, don’t feed them and certainly don’t touch them – even if they look cute or friendly.
Seeing wildlife on a hike is magical… until the cute squirrel goes from being adorable to feral.

… this is just a bunny eating a raspberry, relax.

Don’t be the one who doesn’t let faster hikers go

It’s totally cool to go at different paces – …hiking isn’t a race, and not all of us hike like mountain goats! BuuUuuUuut… If you’re moving at a slower pace, just step aside and let the faster hikers go ahead. If you’re with a group, don’t block the entire trail.

Now, if you’ve ever hiked the last 100 km of the Camino de Santiago, you know how crowded it can get. That final stretch is so popular – first-timers, seasoned walkers, and pilgrims on bikes – …sometimes horses.
So, if you’re not in a hurry, just step aside and let people pass. It makes everything smoother and way less stressful, even for you – …have you ever had anyone breathing down your neck while you’re trying to enjoy the hike?

Be the one who smiles

Honestly, this one’s easy. Simple kindness goes a long way on the trail.
But when in doubt… just treat people how you’d want to be treated. Simple as that.
A quick smile says, “hey, we’re all in this together” – no need for a deep conversation… A little wave, a nod, a “hey there” – it’s all it takes to make the trail feel a bit more friendly. And when you’re passing someone, just something like “on your left” it saves everyone from that awkward surprise shuffle where no one knows which way to step.

… and if you’re on the Camino, there’s a classic:

“Buen Camino”

__________________


There are probably plenty of other ways people act like assholes that I haven’t even mentioned here. Shit, I might’ve even been one myself without realizing it?!

What are the things that make you crazy when you’re out on the trail?

Aaanyways…

See you at the next one,

Noémi

______________

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43 thoughts on “How not to be an asshole on the Camino De Santiago – … or any hike”

  3. Not all who wander are lost's avatar Not all who wander are lost

    Great advice! I really hate the people who blast music and especially as a dog owner find so frustrating when people don’t clean up after their puppies. It’s so rude. Love your article.

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  6. I believe you went through the whole laundry list of what not to do on a hike. Now thinking about it I don’t believe any longer that in 2025 these should have been well known by now. Some like trash disposal, probably. Others not so much because new generation are not growing up in the same style as we used to, so it’s a constant battle of educating the public about these rules. Maybe your parents weren’t hikers, but you got an itch to go or trying to impress someone you like… it sounds simple enough (to hike and follow a trail), but as you eloquently described there’s so many things that can go wrong when you don’t have common sense or you come with your modern urban mentality.
    I have learned about all these during my 14 years at scouts back in the 80/90s. My parents were not hikers so I’m not sure where else I could have learned about it.
    One thing you forgot: The person hiking up always gives way to the person hiking down. Some paths are very narrow/dangerous and only fit a single person. And of course at that moment say hi, nod and smile or wish a good day, which you mentioned.
    Saying hi to a stranger has become increasingly rare these days, so it probably feels strange to a younger generation. We used to say hi to strangers in the elevator. That doesn’t really happen anymore. When I lived in Finland I was friendly enough only with only one of 3 neighbors to say hi. But Finns are exceptionally private people. 😅

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  7. This post is a true portrait of human nature– on the hiking trail and off. I don’t know why some don’t think the rules apply to them. but sadly these people can be found everywhere. And I hate to be assaulted by loud, blaring music!

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  9. A great article that should be mandatory reading on hiking etiquette! Another common sense thing is not to hig the trail. I know that goes along with the Golden Rule and being considerate of others, but people still need to be area of hiking on the right. A pet peeve of mine is on trails shared by both hikers and cyclists when the latter forget to say “On Your Left” when often silently approaching walkers!

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  11. For new hikers, the easiest way to learn trail etiquette is to attend a group hike with a good leader. The news is full of stories about travelers carving their names into protected ancient sites to leave their mark, ignoring national park guidelines and we all have encountered a thoughtless hiker. On the trail or anywhere else, leave no trace, and allow others to enjoy the wilderness without distraction. And yeah, leave the animals alone. It’s their home, not the zoo.

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  14. I never understood the need for hikers to share the music they were hiking to. The same goes for neighbours near my house. Its your music, enjoy it. Most of us just want a bit of peace and quiet. Cheers.

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  20. oh yes, as a runner I have my list as well….i think both in hiking or running there’s that look right….that I the best or better than you..when they’re on their first run or hike ever…..

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  24. I love this – Thank you for sharing – I’d also include don’t be the one with the ongoing negative attitude and trashing talking the Camino. If you do your research, plan accordingly, let go of expectations, and be open to random spontaneity the Camino will be magical.

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  26. All very true! I’d also add that uphill hikers have the right of way—and when it comes to trail etiquette overall, it goes: horses, people, then bikes. A lot of what you mentioned really reflects broader societal behavior—folks acting entitled or chasing some kind of social media fame. I often talk about “city folk” in my blog: the ones blasting music, blocking the trail, and ignoring basic courtesy like yielding to uphill hikers. That’s a big reason I gravitate toward more remote or challenging hikes.
    Thanks for sharing this—great reminders!

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  29. Unknown's avatar Anonymous

    Enjoyed the article Noémi. Once again you nailed it.

    I would add that if the opportunity comes up, and as a courtesy, offer the bottom bunk to a senior. I understand it is first come, first served but climbing up to the top can be difficult for some of us.

    Also, please don’t put your backpack on the bed. Bedbugs can hop on the trip with you, and I’m sure that would not be welcome.

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  32. Bravo

    Been hiking the scenic wonders of my area for over 50 years and I’ve watched things get worse and worse with those who feel its “Their Right” to do as they wish and go where they want. Trashing everything wherever.

    Now a designated Wilderness Area that had been set aside as protected has been overrun to the point its lost its designation and the lost ancient artwork is gone and campgrounds have sprung up everywhere there.

    All because its “Their Right.”

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  33. Unknown's avatar Anonymous

    The Camino has been on my wishlist for years and now it’s really starting to knock on the door, so I’ll be coming back to read those posts too. But yes yes and yes – to all of this. It’s a shame it even needs to be said, but …

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  38. Yes, it’s amazing these things have to be reiterated, but, honestly, what is wrong with people. You’d think those to go to the effort to spend time in nature would automatically abide by these common sense modes of behavior. Thanks for this!

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  39. I’m from Philadelphia and hike Wissahickon Valley routinely. I’ve run into all of the above, those who fail to grasp the concept: Nature in “for us” not “about us.” I wish there was a way to broadcast your commentary on the subject because those who need it, won’t take time to read it.

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  40. Say it louder for the people in the back!!! Sadly the people who need to hear this won’t. It’s so frustrating because surely if you are getting out into nature, it’s because you enjoy nature – why wreck it?! I just cannot fathom some people’s behaviour.

    Also as a dog owner, I totally agree about leads and picking up after them. I can’t believe how entitled some dog owners are about this! Entitlement seems to be the way of the world at the moment… we are not entitled to anything.

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