22 August 2017: Final Packing

In anticipation of guests arriving for 95% eclipse viewing in Bozeman, I started my packing routine over the weekend and continued some web research on Croatia. Here is the weather forecast:
September is set to be hot and dry in Croatia according to leading global meteorology forecasting service AccuWeather, who released their 2017 Europe autumn forecast today.
After a hot summer, which saw sizzling heatwaves and wildfires, above-normal temperatures and dry weather are set to continue in September before it gets wet in October and November.
“Drought relief will come in October and November as rainfall increases across both Italy and the Balkans following a hot and dry September,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys said.

. . . and beer advice:

The beer scene in Croatia is currently going through somewhat of a renaissance due to a growing interest in craft beer brewing. Classic Croatian brands Ožujsko and Karlovačko, which have over 100-year histories, now face some stiff competition. Resident ‘experts’ compiled a list of the top 10 Croatian beers.

1. Zmajsko Pale Ale

2. Vunetovo Aljaški Mrgud

3. Nova Runda – American Pale Ale

4. Varionica Pale Ale

5. ABV – 5th Element

6. Križevačko Tamno Pivo

7. Vukovarska Pale Lager

8. Velebitsko Pale Lager

9. All In 

10. Pivnica Medvedgrad Range

Packing

Given how most people travel on vacations, and the added element of leaving the USA for 3 weeks, I'm often asked how and what do I pack. Weight and volume are critical when powered by an aging, human motor. 

Organization limits stress. I start with a packing list, updated after each tour, and then adapt it slightly based on the location and forecast. I've compared my list with John Kulig, refined mine, and will share it upon request. 

Bike Friday Packed in Travel Case. While this looks to be a hopeless mess, packing is fairly routine. I line the case with bubble wrap, remove the front wheel, pedals, seat, seat post, split the handlebars, remove the front stems, fold the bike. I place it in the case, fit various parts around the bike, slightly different each time. I weigh the case (must be under 50# for air travel) and adjust, placing some parts in the duffel. This time the duffel has a trailer wheel and the under-seat pack. 

Packed Duffel Converts to Back Pack. I place heavier items in the lower portion and pack folded clothes in zip-lock bags. I minimize the volume by sitting on the entire pile and zipping them shut. Electronics (cables, chargers, etc) are cushioned in a single bag among clothing.

Packed Duffel and Helmet. Occasionally the helmet will fit in the duffel, but I usually have to carry it aboard as a hat.

Ready to Go. The standard, 30" hard case is checked as normal luggage. Depending upon airline regulations and fees, I usually check the duffel and travel with a tote bag containing my 11" AirBook, book, magazines, passport, and helmet. I can easily navigate airports with the duffel in backpack mode, tow the wheeled case with one hand, and leave the other hand free. With most US-based airlines charging $150-$200 each way to transport a bicycle, a quality folding bike like my Bike Friday is paid for in 5 or 6 trips. 

Dogs of the Day

As usual, I will endeavor to feature a Dog of the Day, or at least critter of the day, starting with our two family dogs. (OK, most of you know these are Nancy's dogs.)

Dog of the Day #1—Eli. Nancy's 12-year old male standard poodle. Eli is at about 85%, recovering from a particularly virulent form of kennel cough that swept through the Bozeman dog community. 

Dog of the Day #2—Lily. Nancy's 2-year old female standard poodle, Eli's sister with my sister, Paula. Lily is fully recovered from kennel cough, ready for anything, and everyone's friend.