Prior to hiking that first day, eat a good dinner the night before, get a good night’s sleep, and have a hearty breakfast. The first day’s hike over the Pyrenees is about 15 miles ( km) and you will climb to 4961 ft. (1430 Km). Carry plenty of water because there are only a few fountains along the way. Prior to leaving St-Jean-Pied-du-Port, buy a sandwich and snacks, there are no places to obtain food on the mountain.
Check the weather to be sure it is safe to climb that day or that you have the correct weather gear.