What is the best way to purchase this ticket?
Is traveling with luggage manageable?
Is there a way to check a bag from Bergen to Oslo and not carry it on the nutshell portion?
Thank you!
You must purchase tickets ahead of time via www.norwaynutshell.com
There is no way to send your bags ahead. Taking all of your luggage with you isn't a big deal, in fact most people do just that. There is plenty of space on the trains, boat, and bus for all your bags.
Another option, if you have the time and are not returning to Oslo, is to see if you can ship your luggage ahead by Haukeliekspressen bus. The bus has three departure times to Bergen each day right now from Oslo Bussterminal: 9:30, 13:30 and 22:30. The bus station in Oslo is very close to the central train station. (http://web2000.reiseinfo.no/Nor-way/Nor-way/Haukeliekspressen/).
Then take only carry-ons on the train and pick the luggage up at the Bergen bus station after your arrival. I have found this well worth the extra cost.