With summer holidays just around the corner, I’ve officially entered full prep mode. I’m determined not to fall into my usual last-minute scramble, so this past weekend was dedicated to the essentials: laundry, ironing, and starting to pre-pack.

I’m flying out this Thursday – straight from work, no less – and the rest of the week is packed with evening commitments. So yeah, my bags are almost ready to go.

This time, I’m trying something new: vacuum storage bags for my clothes. Just picked up a cheap set from TEMU to test it out, and honestly? Even the budget version is a game changer. I used a small hand pump, and suddenly there’s space in my luggage for shoes and more. Now I’m eyeing an upgrade – maybe some more durable bags and a USB-powered vacuum pump for future trips. Hand luggage-only travel might just get easier after all.

The plan is to hit the road on August 7th, right after work, and head to Vigra Airport in Ålesund. I’ll grab dinner at the local Burger King – not my top pick, but it’s the only thing open along the way. I’ll also stock up on a few essentials: breakfast bites and snacks for the flight. No business class this time, which means no endless free snacks… unless someone wants to sponsor an upgrade? 😅

I’m spending the night before my flight at Smartrom at Vigra – a simple setup, but perfect for early departures. For 690 NOK (about $67 USD), I get a clean bed, a bathroom, and a TV just 300 meters from the terminal. Parking’s sorted too – 20 days for 850 NOK ($83 USD), which feels like a steal.

What’s left? I still need to dive deeper into my Portland and Denver itineraries. I’ve got a rough plan but want to fine-tune the details. I also ended up rebooking both of my rental cars. Scored an upgrade in Seattle – went one class up and saved $100 in the process. In Denver, I adjusted the booking after realizing my Calgary flight was moved four hours earlier. Bonus: I managed to swap the sedan for a Jeep Wrangler 4×4 at the same price. Win!

Now it’s just a waiting game. This week will feel long until I finally get to board that plane and head west. I’ll be posting trip updates every day or every couple of days – so stay tuned!

PS: I tried AI for the picture header. Sorry Port(l)and for missing a letter^^