Walking accross Ireland

I don't know if this is the right place for this. So move me if you wish

My friend and I have just decided to go walking accross Ireland during our 10 weeks of summer. I'm excited but ive never done anything like this before and I'm wondering how to prepare myself both physically for the trip and in every other way too. Ive only ever been out of this country once and that was with my school, ive not camped in  years. we'll be walking 12 hour days carrying a tent, clothes everything we need really and im hopelessly unfit. Anywone done any long amounts of walking and can share experiences with me? Or got any advice for me walking wise or anything else.

Also were going at the beginning of June.

I have to say, first up: Ireland is beautiful. Seriously, I am so jealous of you.

Invest in a good, sturdy pair of hiking boots, in thermals, in a good tent, in basic hiking gear. Do your research for what you will need to take.

You'll definitely need PLENTY of water. Take bottles, and I'm also sure that any villages and towns you come across will have somewhere (like a pub) that'd be willing to refill if you're low on it. Food: dried fruit, jerky, nuts, trail mix, crackers, energy/sports/protein bars (try to make your own, but if you're desperate you can buy them), and then things like tinned tuna and otherwise.

Try taking a look here: http://www.hikingdude.com/default.shtml. It covers what I've started, really. And again, I am so jealous!

A water purifier is also not a bad idea, I don't know what the water sources are like in Ireland but if you need to drink from natural sources you will need a purifier. Also a good backpacking stove and fuel bottles (I like the ones made by MSR). You need good socks as well as boots and you need to break in those boots before you go. Also go to a camping gear place like REI and get someone to help fit you for a pack. Your pack needs to fit you well and you should practice packing it well to distriubute the weight evenly. Also practice using the different straps to move the load between your shoulders and hips. If you go to REI they will help you with that.

thanks so much guys this is all stuff i hasn't thought of. My friend wants to camp light and rough. i have no idea what this mans ive never done this before (ive camped but not like this :P) how big and heavy do fuel cannisters tend to be bearing in midn we are going for a 10 week trip. I've stated im open to us visiting pubs and inns as she calls them to eat and what not. Thank you lalabanana i've never been so im really excited.