Just decided to try the again Camino again, probably the end of April. I know I had a lot of angst prior to beginning the first time in the Fall 18 months ago. I must admit, for me (male age 60), the best decision I made was to go it alone. I liked the freedom and one always has the chance to meet others for a bit. Also people along the way are so helpful, always asking if you need a bandage or something if they walk by and you are sitting there working on your feet! I met so many woman, of all age,s who were walking alone, many who had started in Germany, Switzerland, and Holland. Just like when I travel in India, or Southeast Asia, I am always impressed with the number of woman who are traveling for long periods of time solo. I did meet 5 ladies at different points along the Way who related how they had started walking with a life-long female friend only to find out that they were quite different and parted ways after only a few days. Several told me they might not ever see their old friends again!!
Unfortunately, the bed bug issue is real. I had encountered them one time prior to the Camino (not good). For several reasons I avoided the albergues, so did not have that issue. I know some people think that a silk liner can be protective but I know a lady who was attacked on one of her eye lids and could not see for a week. Packing is always the biggest issue. Due to back problems I had to try to pack very light; however, I realized as I went on I still packed too much. I was walking the trail in 20 days and after about two weeks I left my hiking boots at a hotel along with some other clothes and stuff and finished in light trail running shoes and a total pack weight of about 5 kilos or less. There are places to buys things if you come too light. One thing I also really appreciated on the Camino was how helpful the pharmacists were..... and the "trail angels" who seemed to just show up when you were lost or needed help.
Finally, as I wake up early I probably walked 40% of the Camino in the dark, often beginning between 4:00-5:00 AM. Beautiful stars, peaceful, critters on the trail, and sunrises! I never encountered any major problems. Once a dog about the size of a small bus was sitting in the middle of the trail in the dark. He just stared at me as I walked by. I did get lost in the thick fog a time or two, and also there was a time when I needed the "trail angel" who appeared out of nowhere walking his dog and he informed me I had made quite a wrong turn. Even a couple young drunk Spaniards who were leaving a bar at 4 AM helped me find my way. They thought (knew) I was crazy. I learned that walking very early in the morning, especially on the parts of the trail by major roads is nice as Spanish people do not get up early. No cars! Once, I did meet a lady who had a had started at 3 AM one morning as she needed to do 60 km. She seemed not to be too worried about walking alone in the dark.
Worrying enough to plan and to get in shape is good. Once you are there you will have to just take each day, one day at a time and go with the flow. You will have your own unique and rewarding experience. Best of luck!!!