After completing 1400 kilometres of walking two different Caminos in Spain and in Portugal, I knew I had to share my love of these journeys through a book. I have never written a book before this one. I have attempted many, but the inspiration was never as intense as now. There are so many books about the Camino that one would wonder why another one is necessary. All the books I could get my hands on regarding this subject were written about the authors personal journey or were written strictly as travel guides. I was inspired to write something different, so I wrote a preparation guide. I want to whet your appetite for your Camino journey. In addition, I want to help you cover all the details, large and small, in your planning so that your Camino will be safe and successful. Everything that is written here, in this guide for planning your trip, comes from lessons I have learned in preparing for and completing my Caminos. I have supplied you with information you need before you go and information that is good to have when you are there. Much of the information in this book is similar to what you will find on various web sites that are dedicated to El Camino. The advantage of using this book to plan is that all the information you need is within these pages. In addition to the general information, I have gone one step further and supplied you with essential tips for packing, travelling, eating, finding your bed and much more that the web sites do not provide. Enjoy your preparations, and... Buen Camino!