Brand new to Camino

[KathCraig]

Hi Everyone,
I have just decided to do the Camino Portugal in the beginning of May 2013 as I have only about 20 days to walk and I don't have anything prepared at all. I am finding it all a little overwhelming when reading the posts. How do I get a Camino Passport, work out where to stay and how to walk each day, where to go and where to purchase food? I am reluctant to carry books because they are heavy.I am presently in Greece and will be in Turkey just before going to do the walk and therefore my access to items is limited.I also need to purchase some items like a silk sleeping bag liner, and a light weight sleeping bag and can I do this in Porto? I have been traveling for about 6 months through Africa and Europe and therefore have too much stuff to take on the walk- including my laptop. I was thinking about dropping heavy items and things I don't need with Ivar in Santiago. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers Kath

 

[sempervivum]

Hi Everyone,
I have just decided to do the Camino Portugal in the beginning of May 2013 as I have only about 20 days to walk and I don't have anything prepared at all. I am finding it all a little overwhelming when reading the posts. How do I get a Camino Passport, work out where to stay and how to walk each day, where to go and where to purchase food? I am reluctant to carry books because they are heavy.I am presently in Greece and will be in Turkey just before going to do the walk and therefore my access to items is limited.I also need to purchase some items like a silk sleeping bag liner, and a light weight sleeping bag and can I do this in Porto? I have been traveling for about 6 months through Africa and Europe and therefore have too much stuff to take on the walk- including my laptop. I was thinking about dropping heavy items and things I don't need with Ivar in Santiago. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers Kath

Hi, Kath,
Welcome to the forum! You might find valuable information following the Camino Portugues topics.
I'm also starting my first Camino Frances this May and I've found almost everything I need reading the Camino Frances posts. So, here are the modest thoughts of someone preparing just like you:
1. Be confident. There were so many others before you and they did just fine.
2. Almost every village has an albergue where you can find a bed. As well as stores/ shops or caffe bars.
3. I'm for sleeping bag because I don't like been cold while sleeping.
4. I'll have one guide book and one notebook. I don't intend to read; I intend to feel and live. You won't need a laptop.
5. I guess you can drop everything is over 7 or 8 kilos. I packed and my backpack weights about 7 1/2 kilos without food and water.
6. The equipment is far more important than the food. Take confortable shoes or boots.
There are many other suggestions, more valuable than mine, on this forum. Take your time and explore it.
Remember, if you really feel like walking the Camino, you will do that, no matter what.

Bune Camino,
S