The excitement is building—your Norway adventure is just around the corner! With only one more post left in this planning series, this update will help ensure you have everything in order before takeoff. If you missed earlier posts, check them out here:
- Plan for using my points to get Norway
- Norway 9 Months Out
- Norway 6-7 Months Out
- Norway 4-5 Months Out
Now, let’s dive into the final travel preparations!
1. Finalize Travel Documents
If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to double-check your travel documents. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. If any family members need a passport renewal, send in applications immediately. Also, review entry requirements for Norway and any other countries on your itinerary.
2. Book Flights & Accommodations
While flights and hotels should ideally be booked months in advance, last-minute plans sometimes require flexibility. My cousin and her family recently decided to join us, and they’re working through hotel options. If availability is limited, consider alternative locations or adjusting your itinerary.
I also made a small accommodation change due to family members arriving later. I initially looked for budget-friendly alternatives but ultimately stuck with my original booking—great location, free breakfast, and air conditioning (just in case!).
3. Research & Plan Your Itinerary
I’ve mapped out most of our itinerary, leaving some flexibility for spontaneous adventures. I store everything in a Google Sheet with links for easy reference and sharing with family. The first half of our trip is city-based, so I’ve planned more structured activities.
Since my extended family is joining, we may split into smaller groups based on interests. I’ll share our final itinerary post-trip!
4. Arrange Transportation
Most of our transportation is booked except for city travel passes, which I’ll purchase next month. Since my cousin’s plans are still evolving, their transport needs may shift slightly. We’re also doing the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which will be a highlight!
5. Secure Travel Insurance
Protect your trip with travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage. I have some coverage through my credit cards but am considering additional insurance. Read the fine print on your policies to understand what’s included. If you booked flights with different credit cards (as I did), verify coverage for each leg of the journey.
Link: Travel insurance, Chase and Venture (Venture X) (read information on credit card site for more information on Travel Coverage)
6. Buy Necessary Travel Gear & Check Luggage Restrictions
Start organizing what to pack! In my blog post about long layovers. In it, I mentioned I’m considering switching to a Kindle instead of bringing physical books.
Check airline baggage policies—Air France weighs carry-on and personal items together. While we should meet the weight requirement, I’m concerned about our luggage dimensions, so we may check our bags (which is free with our tickets). To be safe, I’ll pack essentials like swimsuits, a couple of outfits, and pajamas in my personal bag.
Links: Kindle
7. Brush Up on Language & Culture
A fun way to prepare with the kids! We plan to learn a few Norwegian phrases each week and incorporate them into daily conversations. Assigning each child a research project on a destination can also be a great way to engage them in the trip and learn more about culture.
8. Plan for Phone & Internet Access
I’ve been asking coworkers for recommendations. One suggested sticking with Verizon’s international plan, while another had mixed experiences with eSIMs. Our hotels and Airbnb’s have WiFi, so I’m still evaluating the best option.
9. Organize Home & Work Responsibilities
Think about what needs to be handled at home while you’re away. We have a dog, and I considered boarding him at a vet clinic since he’s not fond of new people or other dogs. We’ve also had a teenage neighbor pet-sit in the past, but for a longer trip, that may not be ideal.
At work, I requested time off when we booked our flights, but now’s the time to ensure everything is prepped before leaving.
Final Thoughts
The countdown is on! These posts aren’t meant to overwhelm you but to help you stay organized so you can fully enjoy your vacation. Travel prep can also build excitement—get the whole family involved and make the most of this special time!
What’s left on your checklist before a big trip? Let me know in the comments!
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