The official Camino guidance recommends carrying identification and credit cards without carrying a large amount of cash. That does not mean walking cashless; it means dividing the journey money so one small pocket serves the stage without exposing the whole budget.
One hundred kilometres need more than one pocket
DAILY POCKET
Small euros + one card + credential
ON FOOT
The credential opens doors but pays no bills
The pilgrim credential records stamps, provides access to the public hostel network and supports the eventual Compostela request. Keep it with identification, but do not mistake it for a prepaid accommodation card.
Small cash is different from all the cash
The official packing advice says not to carry much cash. A practical interpretation is a day's spendable notes and coins in the easy pocket, with the larger reserve protected elsewhere.
The final stretch has a stamp rhythm
For the Compostela, walkers and horse riders complete at least the final 100 kilometres, while cyclists complete 200 kilometres. The credential needs at least two stamps per day over those final qualifying distances.
A card does not guarantee a cashless stage
Take the official advice to carry cards as backup, not as proof that every hostel, cafe or small service on a chosen stage accepts the same method. Check the next stage's accommodation and services before setting out.
Separate the route from the rescue
Keep emergency travel money, backup card and key documents apart from the daily pocket. Losing the pouch used for coffee and lunch should be annoying, not journey-ending.