My Camino Journey - Part 3: Following in the Footsteps of Pilgrims: Preparing for My Camino

Each year on July 25, pilgrims around the world pause to celebrate St. James Day, honoring the apostle whose journey gave birth to the legendary Camino de Santiago. For me, this day has taken on a new level of meaning, as I prepare to walk the final 110 kilometers from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela this October. It's more than a trip, it's a personal pilgrimage, a physical and emotional reset, and part of a much larger journey I’ve been preparing for in many ways.

A Path Worn by Centuries of Pilgrims

The Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, is a centuries-old pilgrimage route leading to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, where tradition says the remains of St. James are buried. For over a thousand years, people from every corner of Europe have walked its trails, seeking healing, penance, clarity, or simply a deeper connection to the world around them.

While the Camino once served mostly devout Christians, today it welcomes people of all backgrounds. I find the spirituality intriguing as I have never been religious at all but always fascinated with religion in general – both historical and physical churches. Some walk for faith, others for fitness, grief, celebration, or curiosity. What unites us all is the simple, timeless rhythm of the journey - one step at a time.

Marking St. James Day with Purpose

This past St. James Day, I didn’t just reflect on the significance of the Camino - I recommitted to my own preparation. I’ll be walking with the support of CaminoWays.com, an organization that helps pilgrims plan and complete their trek with confidence. Their resources, guidance, and logistics support have been invaluable as I prepare both mentally and physically – their website has all kinds of training information for anyone to view.

Training and Transformation

When I started preparing, I bought a larger Osprey (tm) backpack, but quickly realized that for my body, agility, and comfort were key. I went to REI for a fitting, and they added 10 lb. sandbag, which was too heavy for me, and the 5 lb. created imbalance. I’ve since switched to a waist daypack and began training with a 3-pound weight inside to simulate carrying essentials. The difference in balance and endurance has been tremendous. This pack will be the one I will use and it’s big enough for my daily needs, such as raincoat, sunblock, snacks, and my trekking poles.

I also began a weekly Wednesday walking group – a few fellow walkers showed up on the first day and one has become a joyful part of this journey. Together we explore local trails, share stories, and encourage each other toward our goals. It’s a reminder that even solo travel can be fueled by community. Of course, I put in miles many other days on my own.

Packing for the Camino... and Beyond

Of course, walking the Camino is only one leg of a three-part journey. After Santiago, I’ll fly directly to Morocco for 10 days, trading Galicia’s misty forests for desert landscapes and warm sun. Then, I head to London for 4 days to attend a professional trade show.

Packing for this range of climates and activities in just one small, checked bag and a carry-on, is my latest challenge. I am flying from Marrakesh to London on Ryan Air, who are notorious for the adherence to bag size and weight, testing my packing skills further. Of course, Camino clothes need to be breathable, lightweight, and quick-drying. Morocco calls for loose, modest attire for heat and sun (temp during the time around 80’)…And London? Business casual and weather ready. It’s a real-life test of strategic packing!

Why I Walk

At 68, I’m drawn to journeys that stretch me—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Walking the Camino is more than ticking a box on a bucket list. It’s an invitation to slow down, to reconnect, to walk in the footsteps of thousands before me, and to be fully present for every step of the way. I read stories daily of the resilience of those undertaking any and all parts of the Camino, and with each one grow stronger knowing that I can do this and will do this. From my first inspiration by the amazing, Cala D., to a story I just read, my resolve and excitement grows.

This isn’t just about arriving in Santiago (although that will be an amazing moment in time), It’s about who I’ll become on the way.

As I continue to prepare, I’m inspired by the motto that guides so much of what I do:
Adventure doesn’t retire - it rewires.

Buen Camino!

For my latest episode I interview a couple who've done the Camino numerous times as older travelers Their story is amazing! Here's the video!