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How to fly with your bike | Packing, weight limits and surcharges explained

Our complete guide to travelling with your bike on a plane

Benedict Pfender

There’s always good riding to be had at home, but sometimes you need to get your bike fix somewhere else.

Often, flying remains the easiest way to get abroad, but figuring out how to transport your bicycle can sometimes feel like a bit of a battle. So we’ve done some research to make it easier for you.

We've also got 15 tips for travelling with your bike from our readers, a separate article with detailed advice on how to pack your bike , our pick of the best bike boxes and bike bags , as well as our guide to bicycle insurance - just in case things do go wrong on your flight.

How to pack your bike for travel

If you’re flying with your bike, you’re going to have to pack it up. The days of chancing it and showing up at the airport with an unpacked bike are over. Instead, we recommend you take a bit of time to prepare.

Whether you’re using a basic bike bag or a more elaborate hardshell case, always ensure your pride and joy is stowed securely and safely.

As a rule, you’ll have to take off your wheels, pedals and bars.

We’ve put together two detailed guides on how to pack your bike for travel, which should provide you with all the information you need to keep your bike safe in transit.

Note too that your airline may have additional restrictions on carriage of the battery if you plan to travel with an electric bike . Some ban batteries altogether, while others stipulate a maximum capacity, usually 160Wh, that's a lot smaller than most electric bike batteries .

Do I need to deflate my tyres and shocks?

Many airlines, but not all, stipulate that tyres and shocks should be deflated or part-deflated for carriage. Aircraft cabin and hold pressures are lower than that at sea level, around that experienced at 2,500m (8,000ft). This might not cause your tyres to explode, but it's probably worth letting some air out.

On the other hand, some air left in your tyres will help to protect your wheel rims, so squidgy, not flat, is probably best.

What to pack it in – a bike bag or box?

We would advocate a dedicated bike bag or box, but recognise that the cost can be off-putting, especially if you don’t plan on travelling with your bike very often. So, there are some cheaper alternatives you could consider.

A cardboard box

You could try to get a cardboard bike box from your local bike shop, though it’s unlikely to be a particularly compact option, so it’s worth checking the baggage size restriction with your airline.

Cardboard is also not the most impact-resistant material (nor durable if it’s sitting outside in the rain), so we’d recommend padding out the box to protect your bike.

It is worth bearing in mind that some airlines don’t accept anything other than a 'recognised bike bag', so you should check beforehand precisely what is meant by this.

While this option is decidedly cheaper than buying a dedicated bike bag or box, if you are travelling regularly then the prospect of investing in a bike bag can seem more reasonable as a purpose-built solution for transporting your bike. It should protect your bike better as well.

A dedicated bike bag or bike box

There are two options here: a hard or a soft case. The former will usually provide a bit more security and protection, while the latter is generally a little cheaper, lighter and easier to store when not in use.

You also get hybrids that are designed to combine the best of both worlds. That usually means a soft shell that has an internal frame to add extra rigidity and protection for your bike.

The main advantage of a dedicated bike bag is it's designed specifically to hold your bike and as such has padding in all the appropriate locations. Being purpose-built means it will also have compartments, straps and all the necessary measures to hold its contents and accessories securely.

We have additional reviews of bike travel cases on site.

As always, the sky's the limit when it comes to protecting your ride – we reported on this decadent $50,000 bike case from Fairwheel bikes a while ago, but there are definitely some more reasonable options available.

We’ve listed some of our favourites for you below:

Evoc bike bags

Evoc bike bags have become a go-to in the cycling world. We gave the Travel bag a 4.5-star review . It’s not the cheapest, but provides very good protection and still comes in cheaper than a hard case.

Scicon Aerocomfort

The Aerocomfort is a soft-sided bag, but includes an internal bike stand and the design provides space to keep the bars and seatpost in place. There are options for MTBs and triathlon bikes, as well as road bikes. Look out for airlines' maximum linear dimension limits though.

Biknd produces soft bags that add additional protection with inflatable side panels. We’ve reviewed the JetPack in the past, and while it's pricey it performed very well.

B&W hard case

If you want the ultimate in protection, a hard case is the way to go.

Something such as the B&W Bike Box is a cheaper option that provides good protection. However, it doesn’t appear to fit mountain bikes.

BikeBox Alan

There are numerous other examples out there. One we have particularly liked in the past is the BikeBox Alan, although it's another box that might fall foul of airlines' maximum linear dimensions regulations.

• Buy the BikeBox Alan

Split your bike in two

In order to pack bikes smaller, frequent travellers might choose to go with travel bikes that have a frame that can be split in two.

These usually enable you to then check your bag as normal, rather than as outsize luggage, saving significant costs.

One of the slickest solutions we’ve seen is the Ritchey Break-Away.

We've reviewed the Break-Away Carbon , and while it's quite an investment, it could easily be used as your only bike. There’s no compromise on ride quality, just a tiny bit of added weight due to the fittings that enable the frame to be disassembled.

S&S couplings

S&S couplings are a precision-fitted, threaded linkage that can be retrofitted to many (round-tubed) frames.

The tubes of your bike can then be split for transport but reassembled without any performance impact. In fact, S&S couplings are said to be stronger than the tubes themselves.

There are a limited number of approved frame builders and you can check out the list here . S&S makes cases specifically to fit the compact, disassembled frames.

Take a folding bike

If you just want a bike to get around a city when you arrive, a folding bike can be a compact solution that will pack into a case that's a lot smaller than a standard bike bag.

Brompton sells a wheeled soft case for its folders, and B&W has a hard-case option with a drag handle. Other folding bike brands also offer soft or hard cases for their bikes, such as Gocycle's travel case for its electric folding bike .

You may be able to avoid airlines' oversized baggage restrictions, but look out for baggage weight limits and, if you're taking an electric folding bike, restrictions on carrying batteries.

What else to pack

Don’t forget, you’ll need to take all your riding accessories with you too. Make sure you have your essential tools, pump, nutrition, bottles, clothes, helmet and anything else you usually take with you when riding.

Bear in mind that bike bags tend to add quite a bit of weight on top of the bike itself (and so will your padding if you’re doing a DIY version). Keep an eye on the maximum weight limit for luggage on your flight and make sure you don't exceed this or pack any restricted items.

Some airlines stipulate that a bike box can't be used to transport anything except your bike.

If your bike goes missing in transit, you can potentially hire a bike while you're at your destination. However, other items such as cycling shoes in the right size and your favourite helmet are going to be trickier, so you might want to take those in carry-on luggage.

There's usually a maximum packed weight for the bag, that's often 32kg but may be lower. Airlines may also stipulate maximum 'linear dimensions', which is the sum of a box's length + width + height.

Travelling without a bike

So far, the focus here has been on travelling with your bike. However, you may want to consider just leaving your bike behind and hiring one at the other end when you arrive.

There are an increasing number of providers who offer high-quality bike rentals in various destinations, and in some cases this can work out cheaper or easier to organise than transporting bikes yourself, especially when you consider transfers. Often they're dream bikes and stock is updated annually, so you might get to ride an almost-new top-spec bike – and not have to clean it.

Getting your bike on a plane – fees and weight limits explained

The above information is all well and good, but when selecting your flight things start to get complicated. As a rule, we will use a comparison site such as Skyscanner or Tripadvisor to figure out which flights are cheapest, although you might find a better deal on an airline's website and some airlines are not covered by comparison sites.

However, hold fire before booking your tickets – figure out how much transporting your bikes will cost because we’ve found that in some cases choosing an initially more 'premium' flight can work out cheaper overall.

Different airlines will treat bikes differently, with some accepting a bike bag as part of your baggage allowance, even though it's outsized, while others will require you to pay a surcharge on top of your flight cost to be able to carry your bike with you.

Sometimes, we have found it cheaper to upgrade your class of travel rather than adding additional baggage to your booking. You’ll often have a more generous baggage allowance, so it can be worth looking through the fine print to figure out what will work best.

One thing we would add is it’s always worth calling ahead to let airlines know you intend to carry your bike. Find out all the information you need in advance because paying for excess weight allowance or excess baggage at the airport is almost always prohibitively expensive. Keep a note of who you talked to and when.

If you have a transfer flight on a different airline, you should make sure both carriers will accept your bike on board.

It's recommended that you insure your bike because airlines won’t cover any damage to your bike. Make sure to check your bike over once it arrives at the other end too so that you can flag up any issues immediately.

We’ve collated the terms and conditions of the major airlines here, but do please also take the time to double-check them yourself - they do change, usually for the worse.

Flying with a bike from the UK and in Europe – rules, costs and weight limits explained

Most of these airlines fly internationally and long-haul. However, for the purposes of this article we’ve done a rough grouping according to whether the airlines fly predominantly in Europe, the US or Australia.

Details updated 23 March 2023

• Requires approval from customer service department at least 48 hours before flight
• Bikes are not a part of baggage allowance
• 23kg maximum weight
• Bike transport within Europe and to some French DOM-TOMs costs €55
• Price ranges from €40 to 125 depending on five different flight zones
• Max dimensions of 120x90cm
• Max ebike battery 160Wh, must be removed from bike
• Weight limit of 23kg
• For more details visit Air France here
• A bike will cost €50 per flight or €40 if booked online
• Weight allowance up to 23kg
• Part of standard baggage allowance for flights to/from North America
• For flights to/from North America, bikes can be carried as part of your luggage allowance
• Extra luggage is charged at €75 / $100 each way
• Business class passengers carry sports equipment for free
• Electric bikes: contact customer services
• For more details visit Aer Lingus here

British Airways

• Bikes allowed as part of your free checked baggage allowance if packed
• Call 72 hours ahead of time to confirm your bike reservation
• Permissible dimensions of 190x95x65cm
• No clothing or other personal items to be packed with bike
• Above 32kg, you will have to ship anything as freight
• No electric bikes
• For more details visit British Airways here
• A bike is counted as large sports equipment
• One piece per booking, no refunds
• Costs £45 per flight pre-booked / £55 at airport with weight allowance up to 32kg
• Must be packed in a bike box
• No items other than your bike may be transported in the bike box
• 32kg maximum weight
• For more details visit EasyJet here
• Okay, we know this one doesn't leave the ground
• Email [email protected] to book a space
• Drop off at luggage area before departure
• Only available on certain services from London to Paris
• Folding bikes in a protective bag/case up to 85cm long can be taken on board
• For more details visit Eurostar here
• Register in advance to reserve space
• 32kg max weight
• £43/€50 for short haul flight
• For more details visit Eurowings here
• Bike counted as part of luggage allowance for long-haul flights
• A €40 fee applies for short-haul flights if booked in advance, €50 for medium-haul
• Weight allowance up to 32kg
• Permissible dimensions of 131x72x21cm
• Can buy a 131x72x21cm box for €20 at some airports
• No ebikes, no tandems
• For more details visit Iberia here

Ita Airways

• €60 per flight in Europe, €100 per flight intercontinental if booked in advance
• Not larger than 300cm
• For more details visit Ita Airways here
• Must be pre-booked
• Taking a bike starts at £30 / €37
• For more details visit Jet2 here
• Not a part of baggage allowance
• Within Europe €55
• Prices range from €40 to €100 depending on five different flight zones
• Max linear dimensions 300cm, up to 23kg
• Ebike batteries must be removed and be smaller than 160Wh
• For more details visit KLM here
• Register bike at least 24 hours before departure
• Bikes counted as part of your baggage allowance (except in Economy Class Light)
• Weight allowance up to 23kg for economy, 32kg for business
• Sum of linear dimensions of 2.8m maximum
• Additional baggage costs from €70 to €250 / $80 to $287
• For more details visit Luthansa here

Norwegian Air

• Adding a bike will cost £30 online / £50 at airport
• Max size 250x79x112cm
• Print and take travel receipt to airport
• For more details visit Norwegian Air here
• Fixed £60/€60 fee per flight
• Max weight 30kg
• Must be packed in a bike box or bike bag
• For more details visit Ryanair here
• Space must be reserved in advance
• Bikes are part of your baggage allowance
• Must be packed in a box or bag
• Additional fees outside allowance are very expensive
• ebike battery must be removed, max 160Wh capacity
• For more details visit Swiss Air here
• Considered 'Special Luggage' and subject to a minimum €100 fee
• Add to booking online
• Max weight 32kg
• Max linear dimensions 2.7m
• For more details visit Vueling here
• Subject to Sporting Equipment fee of €45 if booked in advance, €65 at airport
• Add to booking online or via call centre
• Can carry an ebike battery up to 160Wh separately in carry-on baggage
• For more details visit Wizz Air here

Flying to, from or in the US with a bike – rules, costs and weight limits explained

• Bikes must be registered at least 24 hours in advance
• Specifically requests bikes are packed in purpose-built bike bag
• Bike can be counted as part of your baggage allowance, except on some flights where there's a $50 (CDN/US) fee
• Weight allowance up to 32kg for bikes, with no overweight charges for bikes below 32kg
• Maximum linear dimensions of 292cm
• No other items in bike box
• For more details visit Air Canada here

Alaska Airlines

• Alaska will waive $100 oversize and overweight baggage fees and charge bikes at standard rate of $30 for first bag, $40 for second bag, $100 for each additional bag
• Weight under 51lb, sum of dimensions less than 115 inches
• No items except bike in box
• For more details visit Alaska Airlines here

American Airlines

• Bike can be taken as part of checked allowance if in bike box/bag
• Must be under 50lbs / 23kg
• Must be under 126 inches / 3.2m in linear dimensions
• Above this will incur a fee of $150, increasing allowance to 70lbs / 32kg and 126 inches / 3.2m
• For more details visit American Airlines here
• Bag can be carried as part of your checked luggage on most flights
• Weight allowance up to 50lb
• Maximum linear dimensions up to 292cm
• Above those limits, bicycle is charged at minimum $150
• Limited release form must be signed unless in a hard case
• For more details visit Delta here
• Carrying bikes between US and Europe costs £66 / $83 within Europe, £92 / $116 to/from US per flight leg
• Pre-book for 20% discount
• Weight allowance up to 70lbs / 32kg
• Maximum dimensions of 87x22x40in / 221x56x102cm
• For more details visit Icelandair here
• Carried as part of checked baggage if under 50lb/62 inches
• $100 / £80 / €90 per leg plus any applicable checked bag fee for larger items
• Must be under 99lbs
• No liability for damage if packed in a soft-sided case
• No other items in bike case
• For more details visit JetBlue here

Southwest Airlines

• Bikes can be carried as part of checked allowance for a $75 fee per flight leg
• Must under 62 inches / 1.57m in linear dimensions
• For more details visit Southwest here

Spirit Airlines

• Bikes are charged at $75 each way
• Counts towards part of your checked allowance
• For more details visit Spirit here
• Bike can be carried as part of your luggage allowance
• Maximum of 292cm linear dimensions
• $150 for travel in North America if limits are exceeded
• $200 for travel everywhere else if limits are exceeded
• For more details visit United here

Virgin Atlantic

• Bikes allowed as part of your free baggage allowance, unless travelling Economy Light
• Pre-booking not required
• Overweight baggage charge from 23kg to 32kg
• Overweight luggage or adding extra bags starts at £65
• For more details visit Virgin here

Flying to, from or in Asia Pacific – rules, costs and weight limits explained

Air new zealand.

• Items can be carried as part of your checked allowance
• Must be in a bike box/bag
• Items may weigh up to 23kg
• May not exceed 2m long
• Can pack accessories in box
• For more details visit Air New Zealand here

Cathay Pacific

• Contact at least 72 hours in advance to book bike
• Bike must be transported in a hard case or "recognised bicycle box"
• Bike counts as part of checked allowance
• For more details visit Cathay Pacific here
• Bikes must be booked at least 24 hours in advance
• Can be carried as part of your checked baggage allowance
• Weight limit of 23kg or 32kg depending on the class you are flying in
• Maximum linear dimensions of 300cm
• Additional charges are rather expensive
• For more details visit Emirates here
• Bikes are exempt from oversize rules
• 300cm linear dimensions
• For more details visit Etihad here
• Bikes can be carried, but must pay oversize fee
• Charged at AU$25 per flight
• Max 32kg weight
• Make sure to purchase enough weight allowance
• For more details visit Jetstar here

Malaysia Airlines

• Bikes will usually be accepted as checked baggage, with different allowances by cabin class
• Maximum 158cm linear dimensions
• Maximum 204cm linear dimensions to carry as oversize baggage
• Fees vary depending on airport
• For more details visit Malaysia Airlines here
• Bike can be carried as part of your baggage allowance
• Maximum weight of 32kg
• Dimensions of 140x30x80cm
• For more details visit Qantas here
• Bike will be carried as part of free baggage allowance
• Minimum $200 to add extra items of luggage to your booking
• For more details visit Qatar Airways here

Singapore Airlines

• Bikes are carried as part of free baggage allowance
• Weight limit of 32kg
• No stated dimension restrictions
• For more details visit Singapore Air here

Virgin Australia

• Bike accepted as part of checked luggage
• Must be packaged in specific bike case (soft or hard)
• Weight limit of 23kg (32kg in business class)
• Size restriction varies by type of aircraft
• Must be checked in at least one hour prior to departure
• ebike batteries maximum 160Wh
• For more details visit Virgin Australia here

At the other end

Once you land at your destination, be sure to consider how you are going to transport your bike. In all likelihood, you’re not going to be riding away from the airport, so check luggage restrictions on any public transport that you might be taking so you don’t run into any trouble.

Make sure you know how to get your bike to where you're wanting to go.

It may also be worth considering whether you need to fly. There are quite a few options that offer to transport you and your bike more conveniently. For example, in the UK, Bike Express offers transport to mainland Europe at relatively reasonable prices.

Always make sure you double-check terms and conditions before making your booking, and if in doubt contact the airline you intend to fly with.

We've flown with our bikes countless times and while it can seem a bit of a logistical headache, with a little bit of effort it's easy enough to get everything sorted out.

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Flying With Your Bike as Checked Luggage: Tips For a Trouble-Free Trip

If you’ll be traveling by plane to a bike race, tour, or cycling vacation, you’re probably wondering: how the heck do I fly with my bike? The short answer: you can bring your bike on a plane as checked luggage, just like a suitcase (sort of).

People fly with bicycles all the time, so it’s not as odd as you might think. You’ll need to do a little homework to choose the best (cheapest) airline and pack your bike properly, but your bike will almost certainly arrive safely at your destination.

I love to travel on my bike, which means I often travel with my bike to faraway places. I’ve taken my bike on an airplane at least 15 times (I might have lost count) on four different continents and a number of U.S. states.

I’ll be honest, I was pretty nervous the first few times! That tense wait at the oversize baggage claim seemed endless. But now that I know what I’m doing, it’s really not that hard, and I’ll explain everything you need to know in this post.

Read on to learn how to keep costs down, understand airline policies, find or make a bike box, pack your bike securely, and plan transportation to and from the airport.

Related reading:

• Shipping vs. Flying With Your Bike
• Bike Box or Roller Bag: Which is Most Convenient?

Table of contents:

• Cost of flying with a bike
• Understanding airline policies
• Choosing a bike box, bag, or case
• Packing your bike for air travel
• What to expect at the airport

When you buy through affiliate links in this post, I may earn a small commission. Thanks for your support! I always offer unbiased opinions based on real experience from the road and trail. Learn more .

How much does it cost?

The cost of flying with a bicycle depends on the airline, which is why you need to choose your airline carefully.

I’ve seen fees anywhere from $0 to $250+ for a one-way itinerary. Some airlines make exceptions for sports equipment even if oversize and overweight, some charge a reasonable fee, and some get greedy. Generally speaking, if an airline does charge a bicycle fee, longer routes will be more expensive.

In the United States many airlines are becoming more bike-friendly. Currently Alaska Air, Delta, American Airlines, and United all allow bike boxes for the price of a regular checked bag (usually around $30).

I’ve found international airlines to be hit or miss, sometimes charging as much as $250+ for a bike (looking at you, Lufthansa) and sometimes charging nothing at all (thank you EVA Air!).

Alternative: Shipping Your Bike

If you’re stuck with an airline that charges a lot to check a bike as luggage, you might look into shipping your bike with bikeflights.com or shipbikes.com . It’s not cheap, but if you’re flying domestically within the US it may be comparable to the more expensive airline fees, and it’s definitely more convenient.

You’ll need to arrange a pickup location at your destination (perhaps your hotel or a local bike shop) and pack your bike very carefully . To learn more about the pros and cons, see Shipping versus Flying With Your Bike .

How To Choose an Airline and Calculate Cost

If you’re a bargain hunter like me, you’ll want to do some extra work to understand which ticket is cheapest with your bike included . Airline policies often include weight and size limits that are easy to exceed when flying with a bike. And with more airlines charging for checked bags of any kind these days, figuring out the total bill isn’t always easy.

When checking a bicycle as airplane luggage, the total cost of your ticket will be the sum of all these costs:

• cost of personal ticket
• cost of checked luggage (if not included in ticket, as is common on budget airlines)
• cost of an overweight/oversize/bicycle fee as indicated by the airline’s weight and size limits, unless specifically waived for bicycles

A few websites attempt to keep a list of fees by airline, like this one on thepointsguy.com . This can be a good place to start, but I highly recommend checking each airline on your own to understand the fees in detail. Here’s how.

1) Find the airline’s policy.

Search google or the airline website for “sports equipment,” “special baggage,” “excess baggage,” “bicycle fee” or similar combinations of terms until you find the airline’s policy. Usually it will be something like this one from Alaska Air , or this one from Eva Air (both have bicycle-friendly policies with no oversize or overweight fees, yay!).

2) Check oversize and overweight limits and fees.

Many US airlines have standard checked baggage limits of around 50 pounds in weight, and 62 inches combined dimensions (this is the length + width + height of your box, all added together, also known as linear inches). International airlines often have different limits, typically in metric units, so check carefully.

Here’s the catch: most cardboard bicycle boxes will exceed these dimensions . One typical box I’ve used was 43″ x 11″ x 32″, which adds up to 86 linear inches which is definitely over the common limit. Bike boxes could potentially exceed the weight limit too, if you have a large heavy bike and pack some accessories in the box with it.

This means your bike box is likely considered oversize and possibly also overweight and you will have to pay those fees, unless there’s an exception for bicycles.

3) Check for a bicycle fee waiver / exception

Some airlines waive overage fees for bikes and other sports equipment — yay! If you can’t find bicycles specifically mentioned in their policy, be prepared to pay the fees.

Beware, I have seen airline websites say bicycles are accepted with no extra fees, but only if they’re below size and weight limits that are essentially impossible for any real adult-size bike. Check the size and weight limits carefully!

4) Find how many checked bags are included in your ticket.

Some budget airlines, and even not-so-budget ones these days, do not include any checked baggage with their cheapest tickets.

If your ticket doesn’t include any checked bags, or if you exceed your baggage allowance, you’ll need to pay for a checked bag (your bicycle) regardless of whether the oversize/overweight fees are waived for bicycles.

5) Let the airline know, if necessary.

Some airlines request that you contact them at time of booking to reserve space for your bicycle box on the plane. If this is what the policy says, do it. I’ve only encountered this a couple times, usually on a very small plane or an international airline in a bureaucracy-loving country.

6) Add up the total cost of the flight.

Putting all this together, the best flight may not always be the one with the cheapest ticket.

For example, you’d be better off buying a $400 ticket on Alaska Air (which only charges $30 for a checked bag with no extra fees for bicycles) than a $350 ticket on an airline that charges $150 in oversize/weight fees for bicycles.

The Alaska Air cost will come to $400 + $30 = $430, while the other will cost $350 + $150 = $500. All else being equal, save the $70 and fly with your bike on Alaska (in this example).

Tips for Multi-Flight Itineraries

Itineraries with layovers usually aren’t a problem when flying with a bicycle. Just like any other checked luggage, your bike will usually be checked through to your final destination. There are just a couple uncommon cases to watch out for.

Multiple Airlines, Especially International

Checked luggage fees for multi-airline itineraries can be tough to decode, even without a bicycle along for the ride. It’s complicated, but the most common case (for flights originating in the US) is that you only pay the checked luggage fee for the first airline on your itinerary.

One exception is when you arrive in another country and then take a connecting domestic flight to your final destination in that country. In this case sometimes you must pick up your checked luggage during your layover, pass through customs with it, and recheck it.

If there’s a place to recheck it near customs, you probably don’t need to pay again. But if you’re required to recheck your luggage at the airline counter, essentially checking in all over again, then you may have to pay the fee of that airline, regardless of whether you already paid a fee for the bike on your earlier flight.

Difficult Layovers

A typical multi-leg itinerary, where your luggage is checked through to your final destination, will work fine with a bike too. Do make sure to read the fine print and keep an eye out for these more challenging layover scenarios:

• You must pick up your checked luggage, go through customs, and then recheck it. This can happen when flying through a main hub into a new country and then catching a smaller regional flight. Sometimes they make it easy to recheck your luggage nearby, but other times you have to transport it a long way yourself.
• Connections between different airlines where your checked luggage is not transferred for you, especially if flying in and out of different terminals in a large airport.
• Budget or DIY itineraries that fly in and out of different airports in the same region! Avoid these with a bike box, for sure.

If you do decide to take on one of these challenges — sometimes they’re inevitable when trying to get to interesting places — be sure your layover is plenty long enough to deal with it.

Bike Box, Bag, or Case?

Now that you have your ticket, you’ll need to decide how to pack your bike for air travel. The two most common options are a cardboard bike box (cheapest) or a purpose-built bike bag or case. For some types of international travel you might need to get scrappy (more on this below).

Related: Bike Box vs. Roller Bag: Which is More Convenient?

Check the Airline’s Policy

The airline has the ultimate say over whether they accept your bike as checked luggage, so read their policy carefully and be prepared to discuss it with the check-in agent. Some specifically require a hard-sided box or case (common in the United States) while others say something vague about how it must be “adequately protected.”

Liability is the airline’s main concern; they don’t want to transport a bike that can be easily damaged or might damage other customers’ luggage. If you have the option, pack your bike properly in a bag or box.

If you’re traveling internationally and need to DIY a scrappy packing job, check the airline’s policy carefully and be prepared to show it to the check-in agent. They’re often not familiar with the details of their own policy, and I’ve had some close calls!

Bicycle Case or Bag

If you travel with your bike often and usually fly into and out of the same city, a dedicated bike bag or hard-shell case may be worth the money. They do a good job of protecting your bike and save you the hassle of having to beg for a cardboard box from every bike shop in town.

The downsides: cases and bags can be expensive, and you need a place to stash it while you ride. If staying at a hotel you can ask if they’ll hold it for you — in my experience they often will. This obviously doesn’t work if you’re riding point-to-point, unless you’re willing to pay to have the bag or case shipped from your start to finish location. In both these cases a foldable bag is smaller and easier to deal with than a hard shell case .

After years of using cardboard boxes for point-to-point rides, I finally sprung for a Dakine Bike Roller Bag to use for shorter trips and it’s actually quite nice.

Here are some popular cases and bags that work well for flying with a bike:

Evoc Bike Travel Bag

Dakine Bike Roller Bag

Thule Round Trip Transition Bike Case

Cardboard Bike Box

A cardboard bicycle box is the cheapest and most common way to fly with a bike, especially for touring cyclists riding point-to-point.

Where do you get a bike box? If you have a bike shop nearby, call and ask if they have any to spare. Often they’ll give you one for free since their new bikes come packaged in them. UPS and FedEx locations usually sell bike boxes.

Be sure to check the size carefully , especially if you’re on a large bike or 29er. Not all bike boxes will fit large bikes. I ride a 29er mountain bike and often need to use the larger boxes that eBikes ship in.

If you’re traveling, try asking at hostels and other places where bicycle travelers hang out. I’ve seen people find bike boxes at train stations! Occasionally airlines will offer them at the airport; call first to find out. If all else fails, you can make one yourself from cardboard scraps (see below for more details).

If you really can’t track down a bike box, you can order one from BikeFlights in certain countries, including the US. They also provide bike shipping services if you decide you’d rather not fly with your bike.

Making Your Own Bike Box

Say you need to fly with your bike out of a small town or a country without many bike shops, and you can’t find a bike box. Your next step is to find the biggest, thickest pieces of cardboard you can, and a few rolls of packing tape, and settle in for a project. You can often find large cardboard boxes discarded from furniture or appliance stores, or you can scavenge for scraps around town. Ask around and you’ll eventually find something — everyone loves to help a traveler on a bike.

Will the airline accept your DIY bike box? Admittedly it’s a gamble. I had zero issues flying out of Khartoum, Sudan with the “bike box” pictured below, or from Chile with a similar setup. In Portugal I was hassled for my box in the second picture despite the policy not requiring any box at all. Ultimately they accepted it, but only after I showed the supervisor their own policy.

If using a scrappy packing method like this, it helps to get it wrapped at the airport with one of those giant saran wrap machines.

Completely Unboxed?

I know cyclists who’ve toured all over the world with their bikes packed only in huge plastic bags, like the kind mattresses come wrapped in. They said they’ve never been turned away by an airline. Other bike travelers report simply wheeling their bike up to the luggage counter, removing the pedals and turning the handlebars, and deflating the tires a bit. The idea is that baggage handlers will treat a bicycle more carefully than a box since they can see what it is.

My guess is that this method is easier to get away with outside the US, especially in less developed areas where you’re less likely to find a bicycle box. I wouldn’t try it in the US unless I had no other options.

How to Pack a Bike for Air Travel

Once you’ve decided how you’ll transport your bike, the next step is to do some basic disassembly and protective packaging . The details will depend on the type of container you’re using and what kind of bike you have. A fancy carbon race bike will require a bit more care than a sturdy steel touring bike, for example, and smaller containers require more disassembly.

I’ll be honest: the first time I flew with my bicycle I was very intimidated by the disassembly and packing part. The only reason I made myself do it (instead of slinking down to the local bike shop and paying them to do it) was because I was even more terrified of putting it back together on the other end in Vietnam, and I wanted the practice. Turns out it’s not actually that hard.

You can find a number of good tutorials on how to box your bike. This video is pretty good, as is this article (it’s very thorough, so not all steps may be necessary for you). I won’t recreate these guides here, but I will give you the general principles behind the process to help you remember the steps.

When boxing a bicycle for flying, these are the goals:

Fit the bike in the box by removing or adjusting any parts that don’t fit and packing them in where they fit better. This usually includes front wheel, pedals, handlebars, racks, seat. Sometimes the rear wheel too if the box is too small. Use tape or zip ties to attach everything to the frame in a safe place so it can’t move around inside the box.

Protect the bike , especially anywhere a sudden blow could cause damage. The fork, rear derailleur, and disc brake rotors are especially vulnerable. I usually remove my front rotor from the wheel, detach the rear derailleur from the hanger and tape it (wrapped in bubble wrap) to the chain stay, and put a spacer into my QR fork to protect it from side impact (if using a thru axle, screw it back into the fork after removing the wheel). Carbon frames may need to be protected with foam or other padding along the tubes.

Protect the box from any sharp parts that could cut through it, such as chain rings (if removing the rear wheel), the pokey ends of the wheel axles or quick release skewers, or shift levers pointing at odd angles. A bit of foam or extra cardboard taped to the inside of the bike box in key areas will do the trick.

A few other essential tips for boxing your bike:

• Take all the small bits – pedals, quick release skewers, bottle cages, etc. – and put them together in some larger container that definitely can’t fall out of the box, even if a fairly big hole were to be ripped.
• When disassembling your bike, use only the tools you’ll have with you on your trip. Then be sure to PACK THOSE TOOLS.
• Be very, very careful to pack everything you took off your bike! Definitely don’t leave anything important sitting on the living room floor. Not that I have any experience with that.

Pro tip: pack extra tape in your carry-on. You never know when a luggage inspector will demand to open your box, or a weak spot will show up as you drag it through the airport.

Label The Box or Bag Clearly

Whichever packing method you choose, make sure the whole package is very clearly labeled with your name, contact info, and if possible the address of where you’re headed (could be the hotel you’re staying at when you arrive, or your home address if heading home). Take a sharpie pen and write this information in big letters on at least two sides of the box.

Personally I also like to doodle a few smiling stick figures and bicycles, draw a big arrow pointing upright, write “fragile,” and sometimes also “thank you” with a smiley face. So far my bike has never been damaged on a flight… Maybe this is why? :)

If the bike is inside a box or case, tape your contact information to the frame too just in case something goes horribly wrong.

What to Do With Other Gear

If you’re flying with a bicycle, you’re probably also flying with bike-related gear: at least a helmet and shoes and tools, and perhaps a full set of bike touring panniers or bikepacking bags. How do you transport all this other stuff?

Three options: include it in your bike box, check it separately, or carry it on (or a mix of all three, as needed).

Including other gear in your bike box: I don’t think twice about tucking my helmet, shoes, tools, and other bike basics into my cardboard bike box. When I’m bike touring I’ll sometimes add my sleeping bag (helpful as protective padding) and other light bulky items. There are, however, a few risks to this:

• If the airline has a weight limit (often 50 pounds, but check for yourself) you’ll need to keep the box below that. In my experience it’s surprisingly easy to hit this limit with a sturdy larger bike — just the box alone can weigh over ten pounds! And they often do check.
• Airline policies that waive overweight fees for bikes often state that ONLY the bike may be in the box. If you pack it full of other stuff and they catch you, you’ll need to pay the fee. I’ve never had anyone check, but if I’m flying with my bike under a fee waiver I limit extra stuff to only a few very bike-related items (helmet, etc).
• A heavier bike box is harder to maneuver and more likely to tear.
• If something goes wrong and the box busts open on the runway, your tent / helmet / underwear etc. may not make it (but this is highly unlikely).

Checking gear as additional baggage : The main downside here is the cost of a second checked bag, if not included in your ticket price. If riding point to point, pack your gear in a cardboard box that you can leave behind. Or, tape two panniers together inside a sturdy plastic garbage bag.

Carrying gear on: If just a few odds and ends remain, you might be able to carry them onto the plane. At various times I’ve carried on my helmet, a bikepacking seat bag, and even two small dry bags taped together into “one bag” to meet the airline’s carryon requirements (risky but it worked).

If flying with camping gear, be thoughtful about what you carry on and what you check. Items like stoves, tent stakes, bike tools, and even chain lube can run afoul of TSA rules. See How to Fly with Backpacking Gear for more info.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Flight

Your bike is finally packed and ready to go. Now what should you expect at the airport? Bringing a bike along can complicate your travel day somewhat, but it’s not too bad once you know what to expect.

Getting to the Airport

This can be more complicated with a bike box, for obvious reasons. Public transport is usually not an option, and you can’t just call a taxi and expect the box to fit. Here are a few ideas depending on where you are in the world.

• UberXL, in areas where Uber is available. Usually they can fold down the seats and make room. I always tip at the end (through the app) so that drivers remain open to the extra work of transporting bike boxes.
• Ask your hotel. Usually they can arrange transport in a bigger vehicle, but be prepared to pay more.
• Flag down a minivan or SUV taxi and see if they can fold the seats down.
• If you’re in a touristy area with airport shuttles, some may be able to fit bike boxes, but make sure you ask in advance so you’re not dealing with an unpleasant last-minute surprise.
• Bike to the airport with your packing supplies! Never done it, but I’ve heard from people who have.

No matter how you plan to get to the airport, leave plenty of extra time . You may need to switch to plan B for transportation, and you may need extra time to navigate the airport check-in process with your bike box.

Checking In at the Airport

Next task: Getting that massive box to the airline check-in counter. Look for rolling luggage carts or, if you can’t find any, carry or drag the box by the handles. You may find an employee willing to help you in exchange for a tip.

At the airline check-in counter, smile and be nice . It’s up to the person behind the desk to enforce the airline’s luggage policy. Depending on their mood, the size and weight limits may be enforced strictly or not at all. Don’t put them in a tough place by asking for favors, but don’t give them any reason to be tough on you either.

Know the airline’s bike policy and be able to reference it on their website or hand over a printed copy. If you believe an airline employee is misinterpreting the policy, politely ask for clarification and get a supervisor involved if necessary. I’ve found that employees sometimes don’t know their airline has an oversize/weight exception for bicycles, but they’re happy to waive the charges once they know it’s ok to do so.

Drop off the box where they tell you. Usually this is right there at the counter, but you might have to wheel or drag it nearby to a special place for oversize luggage.

Keep your luggage claim tag. I sometimes don’t pay much attention to this when checking regular luggage, but when flying with a bike box it’s especially important because they don’t always end up with the other luggage. If you need help finding your box when you arrive, having the claim tag will help.

Once your box is checked, congratulations, the hardest part is done! Take a deep breath, find your gate, enjoy your flight, and get ready to greet your bike on the other side.

Inspections : Don’t be surprised if your box is opened, inspected, and re-taped while it’s out of your possession. This is standard practice for TSA in the United States, and I’ve experienced it in Canada too. They are looking for contraband or items prohibited from checked luggage. In my experience they re-tape the box well enough, but this is another reason to have everything well packed and protected.

Clearing Customs During an International Layover

If you have connecting flights, usually your bike will be checked to your final destination and you can “enjoy” your layover in peace.

In rare cases you’ll need to pick up checked luggage, go through customs with it, then recheck it during your layover. This is common when you have a layover in a new country followed by a domestic flight to somewhere else in that country.

Sometimes this is easy: you pick up the luggage, load it onto a cart, walk a few yards and then drop it off again. Other times there’s no cart, you’re required to recheck at a different terminal, it’s a mile away and you need to clear immigration first (yikes!). Try to figure this out (ask Google) before booking your itinerary, or that two hour layover you thought was sufficient may actually be a mad scramble.

If you need to recheck your luggage at the airline counter, be prepared to go through the steps in “Check in your bike at the airport” all over again, including potentially paying another bike fee.

Picking Up Your Bike at Baggage Claim

I know the feeling well: you’re waiting in suspense to be reunited with your beloved bike, anxious to see whether your packing job held up. The luggage starts arriving at baggage claim and your bike’s not there … Where is it?!

Don’t panic yet. Bike boxes are often taken to a separate Oversize Baggage area, so be sure to check there. I’ve also had mine show up on the regular luggage carousel too, so don’t panic until you’ve checked both.

Hopefully there are luggage carts available, but if not, try the drag method: grab the handle on the skinny end and drag it behind you out to the curb.

In the rare case where your bike isn’t waiting for you at baggage claim, report it to the airline immediately before leaving the airport. And don’t panic. It’s hard to lose a giant cardboard box! It’s probably just delayed or misplaced and you’ll be reunited shortly.

Transportation from the Airport

Hopefully you gave some thought to this beforehand, because taking the subway or hopping on a motorbike taxi are not good options with a bike box!

One option, if you’re an experienced bike traveler, is to assemble the bike at the airport, leave the box in the trash/recycling, and ride away. The simplicity is appealing, but I’ll admit I rarely do this. It takes for-freakin-ever to fly to most other countries from the US and I am always dead tired after 24 sleepless hours of travel.

For those who prefer to assemble their bike in the peace and quiet of a hotel room, look for a van or larger taxi with seats that fold down. You’d be surprised what bike boxes will fit in — I’ve seen two large ones crammed into the back of a small minivan with no trouble.

For peace of mind I suggest booking an airport transfer with your hotel in advance, if that’s an option. Be sure to tell them the dimensions of your bike box(es) and any other luggage so they can make sure it will fit.

Assembling the Bike

Congratulations! You and your bike made it to an exciting new place and you’re ready to start your adventure. Here’s what to do next:

• Right away, open up the box and check for damage or missing items. Do this asap because some airlines require you to file a damage claim within just a few hours of picking up your luggage.
• Eat a good meal
• Take a shower if your flight was long
• Take a nap if you’re jetlagged
• Open a beer or brew a cup of tea

Then, and only then, put your bike together . Hopefully you took it apart yourself so you know how this works, but if you’re struggling, YouTube has all the answers. Doing a practice run at home first can really lower stress levels if this is your first time. It’s not actually rocket science though, so have some faith in yourself and give it a go.

Quick FAQs About Flying With a Bike

That depends on the airline’s policy, so search online for “(airline name) bicycle fees” and check their website. Fees generally range from $0 to around $300 depending on airline, length of flight, and how big your bike container is. Some airlines charge a specific fee for bicycles, some charge their standard overweight and oversize fees, and a few charge only the standard checked baggage fee and waive overages.

Yes, almost all airlines accept bikes as checked luggage. Before booking your ticket, check the airline website for their fees and policies. In some cases you may need to make a reservation for the bike in advance.

Some airlines do provide bicycle boxes for a fee, but many don’t. Call the airport in advance to find out.

In the United States, some airlines that only charge a standard checked bag fee for oversize bikes are: Alaska, American, United, Delta. Check each airline’s policy for details.

Many airlines don’t require any special booking for bicycles, but a few require you to reserve a spot along with your ticket or notify the airline in advance. Search online for your specific airline’s bicycle policy to find the details.

Airline bike policies typically require that bike tires be deflated, supposedly to prevent pressure changes from causing them to explode. This is actually a myth – the pressure difference isn’t big enough. To satisfy the airline’s policy you should deflate your tires partially, enough to reduce any (perceived) risk of problems but not enough to risk unseating a tubeless tire or causing damage to your tubes.

Flying with your bike, checked as luggage in a cardboard box, is often the cheapest and fastest way to travel with a bike. Some trains like Amtrak will transport unboxed bicycles, which is slower but quite convenient. For a low-hassle trip ship your bike via Bike Flights or Ship Bikes .

In Conclusion

I know this might seem like a lot, but I promise, flying with a bike really isn’t that hard. Just use common sense, leave yourself a little extra time, and have faith that you can navigate any unexpected issues that come up. Now that I think about it, these are basically the core tenets of bicycle travel anyway. It’s all part of the fun, right? :)

More Bike Travel Resources

If you’re looking to fly with your bicycle, you might also be interested in the Bicycle Travel Resources page , or these popular guides:

• Fixing Bicycle Saddle Pain for Women
• What To Pack in Your Bicycle Touring Repair Kit
• 6 US Rail Trails Perfect for Bike Camping
• Cycling Chile’s Rugged Carretera Austral
• Bicycle Touring in Southeast Asia: Is it for you?

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve traveled over 20,000 miles by bike and still can’t stop planning my next ride (and helping you plan yours). Pavement and panniers or singletrack and seat bag, I love it all. On my bike I feel free. Learn more about me here .

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9 thoughts on “Flying With Your Bike as Checked Luggage: Tips For a Trouble-Free Trip”

For those using a cardboard box here are some cool products.

http://www.bikeboxrollers.com

What a very inspiring site. Thank you so much,

At last minute you let your package in the hands of the airline company, when it is tagged, weighted.”. It is always a good idea to take a picture of it. It will help if it get lost or damaged.

I have 2 bikes’ one in a case and one in a bike bag ….alaska or bike friendly airlines take 2 for checked baggage ? Thx bill from boulder,colorado

Hi Bill, I think it will depend on the airline, best to check their individual policies. You may get lucky but my guess is that most will only waive fees for one item per passenger. Good luck!

Thanks for this great article! I drove here to South Florida from Indiana with my bike, and it’s been so fun riding it around. Unfortunately, when I return at Labor Day to close up my mom’s apartment that’s being renovated, I have to fly as time is short, yet I know I’ll miss my bike so I’m thinking about flying with it. I appreciate all your tips and info! Happy riding!

Alissa, this is the best I could find on this topic and many more. Calmed me nerves. Thank you

It is crucial to remove all accessories such as water bottles, speedometers, and mudguards when packing a bike for shipping. You have to put them in a separate plastic container or in a hard case because they have the tendency to be misplaced due to their miniature sizes. Make sure that you label the container “accessories” to avoid accidentally throwing them out.

Thanks for the great article. We took our bikes in boxes to Germany last summer (July 2024) and flew with Lufthansa. We took our bikes as our checked baggage and were not charged for them.

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Flying With A Bike: How To Take Your Bicycle on a Plane

Flying with a bike can be a daunting idea. I’ll be honest: I was quite nervous the first time, convinced that the airline was going to deny my bike, even though I paid for it and called them to double-check it was okay.

I was also worried they wouldn’t be happy with the way I packed my bike, but everything went smoothly and my trusty steed arrived at London Stansted unscathed!

As I quickly learned, taking a bike on a plane is perfectly feasible and not as stressful or expensive as one might assume .

Most airlines will accept bicycles on their planes, and many are happy to include them in their checked baggage allowance. This means that you can check in your bicycle as luggage, instead of a suitcase or a backpack. However, the rules and regulations of flying with a bike do vary massively across carriers, so it’s crucial to follow their guidelines.

Generally speaking, though, most airlines will  require you to bag or box your bike. This means you’ll need to dismantle your metal companion in some way, by deflating the tyres, removing the pedals, handlebars and front wheels, and lowering the seat post.

You’re probably now thinking: Which are the best airlines for cyclists? How do I pack my bike into a box? And how do I get this massive bike box to the airport?

In this article, I’ll answer these very questions and walk you through exactly how to fly with a bike, so you can focus on the fun part: cycling!

Airline bike policies

The very first thing you’ll want to do is check the airline’s website. All airlines have different rules, and they change the rules quite frequently, so it’s best to recheck each time you fly.

On their website, they should have a ‘sporting equipment’ or ‘special baggage’ page where you can find their policy on bicycles.

Some airlines will charge a fee, some will waive oversized baggage charges for sporting equipment, some won’t accept anything other than a “recognised bike bag” and some require it to be packed in a very specific way. You should double-check their requirements precisely.

If bicycles don’t appear to be mentioned in their policy, be prepared to pay overweight baggage fees.

I’d recommend printing out the airline’s policy and having it ready to politely show at check-in if necessary.

Some airlines will require that you contact them in advance to confirm/reserve your bicycle spot on the flight. If this is what their policy says, then make sure you do this and receive proof of their confirmation. I like to confirm that my bike is coming with me regardless, just for peace of mind.

How much does it cost to take your bike on a plane?

​The cost of flying with a bike varies a lot.

Most budget airlines (I’m looking at you, Ryanair) will charge a fee for taking a bike on their flights. Others will allow you to check in your bike as part of your usual baggage allowance , so there is no additional cost (thank you British Airways )!

If the airline does charge a fee, this can range from £30 to over £200!

This means that a cheaper flight may actually work out to be less value once you’ve added your bike.

Be certain to check the airline’s size and weight restrictions. Many will have laid out restrictions specifically for sporting equipment and/or bicycles, which may differ from the usual checked baggage restrictions.

If your bike is oversized, you are likely to be hit with a fee. However, weight restrictions are usually 23kg or more, which is double the weight of the average touring bike, so you’re unlikely to have a bike that’s too heavy. You can also dismantle your bike to an appropriate size, which I’ll walk you through how to do later on in this article.

Best airlines for flying with a bike

I would argue that British Airways and American Airlines are two of the best airlines for cyclists. They don’t charge extra fees for taking bikes on their planes and their customer service is good. You must call British Airways to confirm your bike reservation in advance, so you’ll receive peace of mind that they’ll be accepting it on board.

Here’s a table showing some major airlines’ policies on bikes, to help you find the best option for your next trip.

The below table is accurate as of May 2023. Always check the airline’s website for up-to-date information.

Flying with a bike: packing options

There are basically three options for transporting your bike on a plane: cardboard bike boxes, CTC plastic bags and dedicated bike bags.

Cardboard bike box

You can pick up cardboard bike boxes for free from many cycle shops (just ask for one). I’d recommend calling in advance to make sure they definitely do have one available, though. You don’t want to show up on rubbish collection day to find they’ve all been taken away!

Be sure that the cardboard box is long enough to fit your bike — touring bikes are longer than road bikes, for example.

Once you’ve got a box, you’ll need to remove the pedals, front wheel, seat post and handlebars to fit your bike inside. The front wheel can be placed beside the bike in the box, and the handlebars taped against the frame. I’d recommend taping the pedals and seat post to the frame, too, so they won’t fall out in case a hole rips into the box during transit.

A cardboard box is, in many ways, the most convenient way to fly your bike. As they can be acquired for free in destinations all over the world, you can simply recycle the box once you arrive at your destination and get a new one before you return home.

CTC bike bag

A CTC bike bag is a heavy-duty polyethene bag designed for bicycles.

These bags are good because you may not need to dismantle your bike very much . You’ll need to deflate the tyres, remove the pedals and turn the handlebars inwards, but you likely won’t need to remove the wheels etc.

Another advantage of this option is that the bag is see-through. Handlers should treat it with respect as they can clearly see that it’s a bike, as opposed to piling luggage on top of an anonymous cardboard box.

That being said, the CTC bag offers little to no protection against damage , so I would recommend pipe lagging the frame tubes and taping the rear derailleur to the inside of the chainstays to keep it protected.

Be aware that not all airlines will accept these bags , either because the bike is oversized or not protected well enough.

You can order the CTC bike bags for about £12 online from Chain Reaction Cycles .

Dedicated bike bag

There are two options here: a hard case or a soft bag. The former will provide more protection against damage, while the latter is generally cheaper, lighter and easier to store.

Dedicated bike bags are specifically designed to transport your bike and have padding in all the right places. Some airlines will only accept a bike if it is packed in a dedicated bike bag.

The main issue with dedicated bags is: what will you do with them if you’re going to be cycle touring once you arrive at your destination? It can’t be folded compactly and you can’t exactly strap a huge case onto the back of your bike.

If you’ll be staying at a hotel near the airport, ask them whether they can store your bicycle case for you. Many hotels will be happy to do this if you do business with them, although some will charge a fee for this extra service.

If a hotel isn’t an option, try contacting bike shops, storage companies and tourism bureaus in the area; they may be happy to hold onto your bike bag for a fee.

Obviously, this is only a viable option if you will be flying into and out of the same airport. If you’ll be flying out of a different airport, ship your bag to the end of your route. Many hotels will receive a package on your behalf, but you’ll have to book a room there and call in advance to make sure this is okay.

Chain Reaction Cycles offers a good soft bike bag , which has wheels so you can pull it easily through the airport, whereas ProBikeKit offers a sturdy hard case to provide full protection to your bike while in transit.

Each of the options has its pros and cons, which I’ve detailed in a table below for your convenience:

Dismantling and packing your bike

Once you’ve decided what you’ll be using to transport your bike, you’ll need to dismantle it accordingly.

I usually choose to fly my bike in a cardboard box. I lower the saddle (you may need to remove the seat post entirely depending on the height of your bike), remove the pedals, deflate the tyres, turn the handlebars in and remove the front wheel. I then place the pedals and front wheel in the box next to my bike.

You might not need to dismantle your bike that much if using a cardboard bike box or CTC bag, but you’ll likely need to dismantle it quite a bit in order to pack it into a dedicated bike bag.

If it’s your first time, dismantling your bike can be a long process. Give yourself plenty of time — it’s not as hard as it seems, I promise!

• Prepare for packing: You’ll need Allen keys, a pedal spanner, foam tubing and packing tape.
• Remove the pedals: Use a pedal spanner to unwind your pedals. The right pedal is loosened by rotating counter-clockwise, while the left pedal is loosened by rotating clockwise.
• Remove the wheels: You may only need to remove one wheel.
• Deflate the tyres: Airlines will require that you have deflated your tyres (I assume due to the pressure).
• Lower the saddle/remove the seat post: Mark the position of your saddle so you can find the right height easily when reassembling your bike. You may need to entirely remove the seat post, or you may get away with simply lowering the saddle as far as it will go.
• Remove the handlebars: You may need to remove the handlebars entirely, or you may get away with just turning them inwards.
• Remove the derailleur: I recommend removing the derailleur and securing it somewhere safer than against the side of the bag/box, such as taping it to the chainstays. It can easily become damaged in transit.
• Protect with foam tubing: Wrap your frame, fork and handlebars with foam tubing to protect them from damage. (Not really necessary if using a hard bike case).

Here’s a useful video that walks you through dismantling your bike and packing it into a dedicated bike bag:

Getting your packed bike to the airport

Getting your packed-up bike to the airport can be difficult. Public transport and regular taxis are usually not an option with such a large box/bag! Here are a few ideas on what to do:

• UberXL: If Uber is available in your area, an UberXL is a good shout. They can usually fold down the seats and make room for large items.
• Minivan: Arrange transport in a minivan or SUV taxi, where they can fold the seats down.
• Airport shuttle: Some airport shuttles may be able to fit bike boxes, but make sure you ask in advance. You don’t want to be picked up only to discover that they don’t have room for your bike!
• Cycle: Bike to the airport with your packing supplies! My dad has done this many times when he flies to go touring. He dismantles it at the airport, checks it in and then reassembles it on the other side.

Can you take an electric bike on a plane?

The short answer is no , you cannot fly with an electric bike. The reason for this is the battery. Any rechargeable lithium battery with a capacity exceeding 100Wh cannot be transported on passenger aircraft. Electric bike batteries tend to be a minimum of 300Wh.

You could remove the battery and fly what is now essentially just a regular bike. However, you would need to source a battery on arrival at your destination, so be sure you can find a lender who has batteries that are compatible with your electric bike. This probably won’t be an easy task.

In conclusion

I know this might be a lot of information to take in, but I promise that flying with a bike really isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Just be sure to have the airline’s bike policy printed out and precisely followed, and leave yourself extra time at the airport. Navigating tough situations is all part of the fun of bicycle travel 😉 

About The Author

Lauren Pears is a freelance travel writer and blogger based in London. She writes about active adventure travel, aiming to encourage and inspire travellers to make the most of the great outdoors.

Thank you for reading! If you found this post useful, I’d be grateful if you would consider using the affiliate links below when planning your travels. I’ll make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This will help me to keep this blog running. Thanks for your support – Lauren. Hotels –  Booking.com Hostels –  Hostelworld Cheap flights –  Skyscanner Travel insurance –  World Nomads Outdoor gear –  Decathlon  /  GO Outdoors Cycling gear –  Chain Reaction Cycles Alternatively, you could buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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11 comments.

Hey Lauren,

thanks a lot for your advice!

I‘m preparing my first flight with my bike, and I will now definitly try to get a cardboard bike box from my bike shop.

You, I guess, have experience with changing planes and airlines, too: how much time do you think might be necessary for such a change-over?

Best regards from Germany!

Hi Ruben, I generally allow 3 hours for a layover. This is usually a massive overkill, but if there are delays, you’ll be glad of it 😊

If you are flying to a development-deprived country, keep the box for your return flight.

Really helpful. Thank you so much.

Good job mate!!!

This article is really impressive and interesting , You explained this topic very well .The information is really good and interesting .I am great thankful of you for this information.

Before packing the bike. How do you measure a bike for shipping?

Most bike boxes are roughly 25lbs and the airline limits are about 50lbs. That leaves 25lbs worth of bike to ship. This fine for lightweight racing bikes but not so much for heavier touring rigs. Also most of these bike are very tight and dont leave room for fenders and racks. That almost leaves the touring crowd with no option other than a cardboard box from a bike shop. Do you have a hardshell recommendation that would work for fully rigged touring bikes?

This is great Lauren, thank you for writing. Plus if you are taking a disc brake bike and need to remove a wheel, put a piece of cardboard between the brake pads to stop them sticking together.

Thanks Joy, and thanks for the tip about disc brakes!

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Flying with a bicycle: Airline fees for bikes 2024

Post last updated:

Flying with a bicycle for the first time can be a daunting experience, and it definitely was for me! But with the right information and preparation, it’s not much different to flying with regular luggage. It’s important that before you book you carefully research the airline’s policy on transporting bicycles. Each airline sets its own rules for bringing a bicycle as checked luggage including allowable weight, allowable dimensions, additional fees (if any), and booking requirements. Airlines require you to pack your bicycle in an appropriate bag, box or case for protection.

I first experienced flying with my own bicycle in 2013 and have undertaken numerous flights since both internationally and domestically. I have used EVOC bicycle travel bags for some flights and a cardboard bicycle box for others depending on what we are doing at the end of our trip. The information contained in this article is based on what I have learned over the past 10 years of taking our bicycles on a plane.

This article is aimed primarily at how much it costs to when flying with a bicycle and the airline fees for bikes. To help you work out which is the best airline for you to fly with your bicycle I have researched 120 different airlines and provided the results in an easy-to-read table below. You will find out which airlines charge a fee and which do not, how big your bicycle box is allowed to be, what luggage weight allowance you are permitted, and whether or not you need to advise the airlines that you are bringing a bicycle. The table links to the relevant page of each airline so you can get more detail if you need to.

If you have previous experience flying with a bicycle then you might like to simply jump down to the Airline fees for bikes table and see which airline provides the best option for you. If it is your first time flying with a bicycle then I recommend reading through the common questions so you don’t have any nasty surprises.

Common questions about flying with a bike

Here is a list of 15 questions about flying with a bicycle that I have been asked over the years. This list of questions covers the majority of things that you need to know and be aware of when flying with a bicycle. I also have a more in depth article about flying with a bicycle based on my own experience of doing it.

1. Can I bring a bicycle on a plane?

The first question many people have when thinking about flying with a bike is can you check a bike on a plane? The simple answer is yes, the majority of airlines will allow you to carry a bike on both domestic and international flights as checked baggage. Each airline has its own rules about checking a bike as baggage so be sure to know what they are before you book. 

The exception to this rule is electric bikes. Due to the size of the battery electric bikes are banned on commercial airlines. Some airlines do allow you to check the bike without the battery, but the majority simply ban them completely.

2. How much does it cost to fly a bike on a plane?

Airline fees for bikes vary greatly depending on the airline you fly with and their baggage policy. Many airlines charge nothing for a bike and allow it as part of your free checked allowance while others charge an additional fee for your bike. The fees for bikes on airlines that do charge range from US$40 to US$350 per leg of travel. If your bike is outside the weight and dimension limits set by the airline then excess charges will apply. An airline’s bike fee can be impacted by the class of ticket, loyalty program, or credit card membership.

My tip: If you are planning on traveling on an airline that charges a bike fee, make sure you pay the fee when you book your tickets to save some money. If you wait until you check in the bike fee will increase, sometimes significantly. 

3. Can I put other luggage in my bike case?

Many airlines stipulate in their baggage policy that only the bike can be packed in the bike case. However, in my experience, my bike cases have never been checked and I have included other gear in with the bikes. When packing I also make sure that the total weight is a couple of kilograms below the checked baggage allowance so that it does not present any issues at check-in and I am not hit with an additional fee. 

When I flew with Emirates Airlines I was able to check in multiple bags as long as the total weight was within the limit. This made it nice and easy to pack the bike bags with the bikes and include my other gear in a separate bag. This is not always the case though and some airlines will stipulate that you are only allowed one bag.

4. How do I book a flight with a bike?

The first step in booking a flight with a bike is to make sure you read the airline baggage policy in relation to bikes as the booking process varies between airlines. Some airlines will require you to notify them that you are bringing a bike when you book while others do not have any special requirements and the process is the same whether you bring a bike or not. If a fee is payable it is usually cheaper at the time of booking versus when you check in at the airport.

I have experienced both booking processing over the years. I flew with both Emirates Airlines and Qatar Airlines and simply made my booking as normal and turned up at the airport with my bike. When I flew EasyJet I booked and paid for my bike when I made the booking. I recently flew with Air France and had to gain permission from the airline that my bike could be carried. This process took 24hrs and once the bikes were approved my tickets were confirmed and I was all good to go.

5. Will my bike get damaged when flying?

A quick search online about damage to bikes when checked as baggage on planes will reveal a myriad of horror stories and may turn people away from the idea of flying with a bike. My experience has always been positive, and the bikes have arrived in perfect condition every time. I always take the time to pack the bikes well with lots of padding and protection to mitigate the chances of damage. 

When flying with a bicycle I would also recommend good travel insurance to cover you in the event of damage to your baggage. So to answer the question, there is never no chance of damage but I suspect the number of bikes that are damaged by airlines is a small percentage of the overall number of bikes that fly around the globe on a daily basis.

6. Bike bag, bike box, or cardboard box? How do I pack a bicycle for flying?

Your bike will need to be packed in some sort of covering or box per the airline’s instructions before it is checked. There are broadly 3 options here, a plastic wrap, a soft-sided bike bag, or a hard-sided bike travel case. Airlines generally state that pedals should be removed, handlebars turned sideways and tires deflated before packing into the bag or case. If you plan to use plastic wrap, be mindful that some airlines will not accept a bike unless it is in a bike case or bag. Other airlines will allow a bike in plastic wrap but you will need to sign a waiver against damage to the bike. 

How you pack your bike will also depend on the type of case you use. For example, some travel cases, like mine, require that the handlebars be removed completely to fit in the case. Other cases require handlebars to be turned sideways and others require no removal or moving of the handlebars. As long as your bike is well packed and the bag will do no damage to other luggage you should have no problems. Airlines know that commercial cases are designed to protect both the bike and other passengers’ luggage. 

I have used both an EVOC bike bag and a cardboard bike box when flying with our own bikes as baggage. The cardboard box is great when you are cycle touring as you simply discard it at the end of your trip and grab a new one for the way back. It always takes longer than you think to pack the case or box for the first time, so allow some time to practice before you travel. If you are not comfortable with removing or turning handlebars have a chat with your local bike store and they will be able to assist. 

7. Do airlines provide cardboard bike boxes?

Some, but not all, airlines will provide cardboard bike boxes for purchase at the airport. My recommendation is to check directly with the airline as they may offer this service at some airports but not others. You can also check directly at the airport you are flying from as the airport services may have cardboard bike boxes available for purchase.

I flew from Geneva airport and was able to purchase cardboard bike boxes from Swissport, the terminal services operator. Before leaving I researched the airport website and determined that this was possible. The box cost us €20 and was big enough for each of our bikes. You will need to remember that you will need to supply packing tape and anything you will use to protect your bike.

Another option for obtaining a cardboard bike box is to check with local bike shops in the city you are flying from. Often a bike shop will be able to provide you with a bike box free of charge. I recommend checking with bike stores before you leave home as many shops simply throw out their bike boxes as soon as they unpack the bike. If you get really desperate, you can make a bike case out of any cardboard box with some packing tape and a bit of ingenuity.

8. What are bike box dimensions for airlines?

Bike box dimension allowances change depending on the airline you choose to fly with. Some airlines quote a maximum length, while other airlines quote a linear length (W + H + L). Bike box dimension allowances based on linear range from 158cm to 320cm while those based on length only range from 180cm to 277cm. For those airlines that do not specify dimensions, I recommend contacting them directly before you book to clarify.

My EVOC bike travel case is a tapered design in that their dimensions are wider at the back of the bag than they are at the front. To make sure I don’t have any issues with the dimensions I always measure the widest point of the bag. In all my flights I have never had the dimensions of the bags and cases checked by the airlines.

9. How heavy can a bike box be when flying with a bike?

The weight allowance when checking your bike as luggage is set individually by each airline but will fall somewhere between 23kg and 32kg (50 lbs and 70 lbs). Class of ticket, airline policy, loyalty program membership, and flight route will all impact the weight allowance of your bike. Any bike box over 32kg (70 lbs) will be treated by most airlines as cargo and will not be permitted as checked luggage. This applies even if your luggage allowance exceeds this weight.

A cardboard box or plastic wrapping offers the lightest options if you are taking your bike as baggage. Remember to count the weight of your bicycles and bike bags when determining your total weight.

Once I have finished packing my bike, I always weigh it at home so I know it is under the allowable weight. My goal is always to be at least 2kg under my allowance. I figure this allows for any error in my weighing and ensures there are no questions at check in. So far it has worked well. I usually just use bathroom scales do weigh it.

10. Is it hard to fly with a bike?

Based on my own experience I would say it’s not hard to fly with a bike but it’s not as easy as flying without a bike. Getting around the airport with oversize baggage can be tricky, especially when getting on buses or trains between airport terminals. While these are usually designed with space for baggage, they are not always designed with oversize baggage in mind. Travelling with two people always makes it that little bit easier especially if you have to navigate stairs or bollards.

Another consideration when flying with a bike is getting to and from the airport, especially if you need to rely on public transport or a taxi. Busy public transport can be more difficult when you have a large bike bag with you and the average bike box will not fit in the boot of a standard car. None of these things are deal breakers but are worth considering.

I flew into Barcelona airport with my bike bag for a three-day visit. I didn’t want to ride the bike in Barcelona so I left the bikes at a luggage service at the airport. The fee for the service was the same amount as the fee for a taxi to and from the airport which meant it was easy to jump on the train into the city with a small backpack only.

My standard answer, when asked about flying with a bike, is that it’s definitely worth it if you will use your bike the whole time you are away. If your holiday is all about riding your bike, the extra hassle is worth it. If, however, you only plan to ride your bike for a small portion of your overall holiday, I suggest hiring a bike and leaving your bike at home.

11. How do I check in when flying with a bike?

I have always checked into our flight as normal when flying with a bike bag. The only difference I have ever experienced is that once the check-in process has been completed, I had to take my bike to an oversize luggage drop.

While it has not happened to me, I have heard of people who have been charged a fee for their bike when they arrived at the check in counter when they were not expecting one. My tip here is to make sure you read all the fine print about the bike fees and when they will or will not be charged. It could also be a good idea to either print off the page about bike fees from the airline’s website or have it bookmarked on your phone. 

12. Where do I collect my bike bag at the end of the flight?

Bike boxes and cases will always arrive at an oversize luggage pickup point rather than the standard luggage carousel. The location of these varies from airport to airport but they are well-marked, and I have always found them easily.

13. Flying with a bike vs shipping a bike

A question that often comes up is whether it is better to travel with your bike on the plane with you or ship it to your destination instead. I have looked into this option before but for me, shipping a bike proved to be much more expensive than flying with a bike. Given so many airlines offer to take a bike as part of your normal baggage allowance and charge no fee, it is hard to justify paying a shipping company to take your bike. Even if the airline does charge a fee it is often much cheaper than the cost of shipping a bike. 

However, there are a few instances where it may be better to ship your bike and not travel with it on the plane with you. Firstly, if you have a significant amount of luggage you might find yourself being charged an excess baggage fee. In this instance shipping your bike could be cheaper than the excess baggage fee. Secondly, it might simply be more convenient to ship your bike and have it ready and waiting at your destination for you. You don’t have to worry about hauling a large oversized bike bag or bicycle box around an airport and it makes transport planning that bit easier. Finally, if you compare the cost of shipping your bike to renting a bike at your destination you may find it works out cheaper to ship your bike.

14. Can I take bike lube with me on a plane?

As long as your bike lube is not flammable, there are no issues with it being packed in your checked luggage. Have a look at the bottle to ensure there is no flammable liquid symbol and as long as there is not, you are good to go.

15. Can I take co2 canisters with me on a plane?

CO2 canisters are a little different in that some airlines allow them and some don’t. The regulators for air travel allow up to 4 X 28g CO2 canisters on passenger aircraft but not all airlines accept them. For this one, it is important that you check the policy of the airline and see if they are allowed or not.

How to read the information in the table.

Before you dive into the table read the definitions of what each of the columns means.

Airline name – click on the link to be taken to the airline website page that includes the airline policy on flying with a bicycle.

Bike allowed free if with luggage allowances – this column identifies whether an airline charges a separate fee for bikes. Remember that for the bike (or any luggage) to be considered free it must be within the allowed weight and dimensions. If it is outside of these then normal excess baggage fees will apply.

Fee (per leg) – this is the fee that will be charged for flying with a bicycle. You need to consider that this fee is charged “per leg” so the fee will be doubled for a return flight.

Maximum dimension allowed for bike bag – this is designated as either linear or length. In the case of linear, you need to add together the length, height, and width of the bag/box and ensure it is less than the amount set. Where the limit is based on the length you need to make sure the longest side of the bag/box does not exceed the limit.

Maximum weight allowed for the bike – airlines set a maximum weight allowance for bikes which is set out in this column. The maximum weight for any single piece of luggage is 32kg and anything over this weight will not be accepted even if your total luggage allowance is above this. Some airlines set a maximum limit for bikes at 23kg even though an economy fare will allow you 30kg which is something to keep in mind.

Pre-booking required – there are quite a number of airlines that require you to advise them if you are planning on flying with a bicycle. Some require this at the time of booking while others stipulate it must be completed within a certain period of time prior to travel. If you do not do this your bike may not be allowed on board.

By clicking on the + button next to the airline name you can see the luggage allowances based on the fare type. Where an airline charges a fee for all luggage the columns are blank.

Check airlines and airfares

To help you with your choice of airline when flying with a bicycle you can head over to Skyscanner to see which airline gives you the best price for your proposed trip. I find it a great resource to quickly check prices on a proposed route as well as check to see which airlines actually fly on the route you choose. The search results show you the cheapest option, the fastest option, and the best option, which is a combination of the first 2. Once you click on a fare that suits you the site lists the different booking sites you can choose from to actually make the booking. In many instances, you still make the booking directly with the airline.

I have used Skyscanner extensively over many years and it is usually one of the first things I check when planning a flight, with or without our bicycles. It saves you lots of time by comparing hundreds of fares and airlines so you don’t need to head to multiple websites and do the research yourself. Note, if you do make a booking after clicking on the link, we earn a small commission from Skyscanner. This helps fund our website to continue to provide lots of free information about traveling with a bicycle.

Airline fees for bikes table

The table below shows all the measurements and weights in metric. If you would prefer to read the table with imperial measurements just click on the button below and you will see exactly the same information but in inches and pounds.

This table was last updated in January 2024 and is reviewed every few months. Please ensure you check with the airline directly before you book your travel to confirm that the rules have not changed in between updates .

Taking a bike on a plane - fees for bikes

10 thoughts on “resources – airline luggage requirements metric”.

Can you check an E Bike? Trek’s Domane+LT has a removable Fazula battery & motor. Their newer Domane+SLR has a TQ battery & motor not designed to be easily removed.

E bikes are not allowed with the battery installed as the battery is too big and prohibited on passenger airlines. Some airlines do allow the bike without the battery, while others ban them completely

Thanks for the details….the table is very useful.

Thank you for the great information. Im planning to bring my bike to finland from Philippines using a standard bike box which i kept when i purchased the bike. My question is when you total the dimension of the box it is out of the normal standard dimension given on the airlines. I saw on your photo you have two bikes using bike box. Did you pay extra baggage for this boxes? Or the airlines accept it as a normal baggage? Thank you and hope to hear you comment.

most airlines allow a larger dimension for the bike box which is listed in the table on the page. Some airlines don’t specify the size for a bike box but do state in the small print that they waive excess size fees for sporting equipment including bikes. We never paid anything extra for the bike boxes on any of our flights.

Which airline are you planning on flying with and I can take a look for you.

Hi there I’m hoping to bring my bike back from the Philippines in November.After checking the astromonical costs some shipping companies wanted.(The best part of £700+) So it works out a bit cheaper for me to fly over and go and get it.I was also just wondering would i be hit with any customs charges for bringing the bike back to the U.K. ? It would be in a proper bike bag that i’m taking over with me.Or do i just walk striaght on out and not worry about declaring that i brought the bike in PH ?

not sure about that one. I have never purchased a bike internationally. You would need to check what the rules are for bringing something into the UK that has been purchased overseas.

United may have just quietly changed their bike bag policy 🙁 https://twitter.com/JohnLMatthews/status/1679779292429922305

Interesting. I notice there has not been an answer on the Twitter post, I will see what I can find

A little investigation and yes United Airlines have changed their policy regarding bikes, specifically there is now a 62 inch (158cm) linear (L + W + H) size restriction in place. Most bike cases are in excess of this which means a US$200 oversize fee will apply to each leg. This would add US$400 to a return trip.

This applies to all sporting equipment, not just bikes.

Comments are closed.

How To Fly With Your Bike: The Ultimate Guide

Exploring new terrain on your bike is one of the true joys of cycling. But if you’re unprepared when flying to your destination, your trip can be ruined by expensive fees, damaged equipment, and logistical challenges. Luckily, flying with a bike can be fairly easy and affordable if you plan ahead. What do you need to know before embarking on your next cycling adventure?

Table of Contents

• Flying With a Bike: An Overview
• Baggage/ Case Options
• Packing Your bike
• Typical Costs/ Airline Policies

Flying With a Mountain Bike

Flying with a bike: an overview .

There are three major variables to consider any time you fly with your bike. First, the safety of your equipment—you want to be confident your bike will arrive intact and undamaged at your destination. The second factor is the cost of getting your bike there, which can vary dramatically depending on the airline and on how you pack it. Finally, the third factor is simplicity— it can be difficult and time-consuming to rebuild a fully-deconstructed bike, especially if you’re in a hotel room or unfamiliar environment with limited tools.

Every method of traveling with a bike balances a mix of these three factors. No option is perfect, but understanding the pros, cons, and logistics of each in advance can help you determine which is best for you and your equipment.

Basic Advice 

However you choose to get your bike to your destination,  you’ll need some basic technical knowledge and tools  to do so. All travel cases and bags require some amount of deconstruction— usually at least the removal of pedals, wheels, and handlebars. It’s notable that for some modern road bikes with fully integrated cockpits, this can be a very laborious and time-consuming job, and these bikes may require special cases that allow handlebars to remain attached.

Many airlines are becoming more bike-friendly, but  fees can vary dramatically . In some cases, you may save money overall by choosing a more expensive airline with lower baggage fees. And note that no matter how welcoming an airline is to cyclists, baggage handlers may be very rough with your bike, and airlines are often not responsible for damage that occurs during transit.  Consider purchasing luggage insurance  for your trip, especially if traveling with an expensive carbon bike. Some homeowners’ and renters’ policies, as well as certain credit cards, may cover your baggage already, so check your specific policies for details.

Don’t save anything for the last minute . Practice packing your bike well in advance, and consider all aspects of your trip’s logistics and how they relate to your bike. Will your box or case fit in your transport upon arrival? Will you be able to comfortably rebuild and later repack your bike in your lodging? How will you get your bike to the airport when it’s time to head home? 

Finally, it’s worth considering whether it’s actually necessary to bring your bike on the plane with you in the first place. Bike shipping services can send it in advance, and this option may be economical depending on your destination and itinerary. Alternatively, if having your own bike with you isn’t necessary, consider renting one from a local shop for the duration of your stay.

Note: A few bikes have frames specifically designed to come apart for easy packing. These bikes can be worthy investments for frequent flyers, but this post is primarily intended for athletes traveling with their existing standard bikes.

Flying With a Bike: Packing Options

Three main options exist for packing your bike for flight— cardboard bike boxes, soft-sided bike bags, and hardshell cases. It’s also worth mentioning that a few bikes are made with special frames designed to come apart for easy packing, and these bikes can be excellent options if you are a frequent traveler. But the packing discussion in this post

Cardboard Bike Boxes

A cardboard bike box is the simplest container for your bike during travel. Cardboard boxes do have a few things working in their favor— for one, they’re easy to get (often for free) from almost any bike shop. Most are large enough to fit your bike nearly intact, so they are fairly easy to pack.

But that’s about it when it comes to positives. Cardboard boxes are prone to damage, especially in wet conditions. Cardboard boxes are easily punctured, and their handles often tear out and rip off. Bikes packed in cardboard boxes need significant additional padding and must be very carefully packed to arrive safely. Additionally, cardboard bike boxes are large and ungainly. They might not fit into small vehicles bringing you to and from the airport, and they’ll definitely incur oversize baggage fees. To add insult to injury, most airlines won’t insure or cover any damage to bikes packed in cardboard boxes. Use at your own risk.

Cardboard Box Pros: Cheap, easy to pack. Cons: Large, fragile, difficult to transport, airlines won’t insure, always incur oversize fees.

Bike Bags/ Soft Cases

Soft-sided bike bags vary widely in their design and features. Most have straps and wheels that make them easy to move around, and they’re generally small enough to fit in a rental car without a problem. On the downside, many airlines require a liability release for bikes packed in soft-sided bags. Also, they aren’t cheap— costs typically range from about $400–$600 USD. Some companies allow you to rent one for your trip instead of purchasing the bag outright. 

Larger bags allow you to leave your fork on your bike and may include an internal mount for your frame which can make them easy to pack. They usually include some amount of internal padding and protection, but you may want to add additional padding to your frame and components. These bags are usually lighter than hard-sided cases, but they are still quite large, and invariably incur oversize luggage fees. 

Smaller bike bags are designed specifically to avoid airline oversize fees and are about the size of a large suitcase. These bags are somewhat challenging to pack and require significant bike deconstruction— fork, handlebars, pedals, both wheels, and rear derailleur usually need to be removed. But if packed with some extra padding on crucial components, they’re quite sturdy and safe, and are by far the easiest option for transport to and from the airport. This blog post’s author has used one of these bags for several years, with no damage or additional fees.

Soft Case Pros: Easy to transport, can avoid airline fees. Cons: Difficult to pack, expensive, often require extra padding.

Hard-Sided Cases

Most protective of your bike but also the most expensive option, hard cases range in size and design. Some are quite compact and challenging to pack. Others are extremely large and heavy, but allow you to travel with your bike almost fully assembled. All offer the promise of robust protection against impact, though some travelers believe baggage handlers are more likely to be rough with hard cases than soft-sided bags. On the plus side, if you use a hard-sided case, airlines are usually willing to insure your bike and compensate you if damage occurs during a flight.

Hard cases are generally less convenient to transport and get around than soft bags, but some have multiple handles and wheels to make things easier. Unfortunately, most hard cases are big enough to incur an oversize luggage fee. It’s also quite obvious what’s in one of these cases, so if your airline charges a bike-specific fee there’s no avoiding it when using one. 

Hard Case Pros: Highly protective. Moderate packing difficulty. Cons: Heavy, awkward, expensive, usually incur extra fees.

Packing Your Bike

When it comes time to pack your bike for travel, there are two main tasks— protecting your equipment and preparing it for potential opening and inspection. The more systematic and organized your packing job, the more likely it will be safely repacked after inspection by transportation safety agents.

Packing Your Bike Step-By-Step

• Remove any components needed to fit the bike in your chosen container. This almost always means removing the handlebars, pedals, and front wheel. Depending on your luggage it may also require removing your rear wheel, fork, and seat post. Put shipping spacers or thru axles into your dropouts, and put spacers into your disc brake calipers.
• Wrap your bike and components in padding. Some cases include this, but many riders use bubble wrap, pipe insulation, or pool noodles sliced in half and cut to size. Securely tape or zip-tie the padding in place.
• Attach handlebars/ fork/ seat post to your frame and zip-tie in place. Where you put them depends on your case and your bike, but by attaching everything together it will be easier for TSA agents to put your bike back into your case after inspection, and less likely anything will get lost. 
• Remove rear derailleur and any other protruding component (computer mount, derailleur hanger, eTap batteries, etc) that could potentially be impacted if your bag or case is mistreated. Wrap these parts in padding/ attach to your frame. Wrap your chain in padding and attach it to your chainstay. Remove disc rotors from your wheels and wrap in bubble wrap or clothing.
• Photograph your gear before you put it into your bag. It will come in handy if you need to file a claim with the airline, and will help you repack your bag on the way home.
• Write your name and contact information on a sheet of paper and tape it to your bike. Insert the bike into your bag or case. Insert wheels into the case, slightly deflating tires if needed to fit.
• Fill extra space in your bag or case with kit and shoes. Wrap your pump in padding and insert it. Wrap other components you removed in padding (such as pedals, rotors, and saddlebag) and place them together in a small bag, which can also go into the extra space or pockets in your travel bag/ case. Put every tool you used to deconstruct the bike into a small bag, wrap in padding, and place them in the luggage, too. 
• Close the bag/case and carefully feel around the outside. If any part of your bike (such as your chainring) can be felt protruding, reopen and reposition/ attach extra padding to this area. 
• Verify all old barcodes/ destination stickers are removed from the exterior of your luggage. Mark the exterior prominently with your name and contact information.

Other Important Packing Tips

• Bikes are often damaged by contact with objects inside the case. Add padding anywhere two parts touch each other in the luggage. Wrap every loose component in padding and secure inside.
• Bent disc rotors are the most common damage during travel. Even if your case doesn’t require it, remove your rotors, wrap them in padding, and secure them somewhere safe.
• Zip-tie everything together inside the case, so if a security agent removes your bike during an inspection they won’t lose anything or have trouble putting it back in. Make it foolproof!
• Don’t forget your tools. Many bike tools are prohibited from carry-on luggage, so wrap all the tools you’ll need together and secure them in your case. Don’t forget an air pump, and always bring a torque wrench!
• Your tires won’t explode on an airplane. Some airlines require you to deflate your tires, but always leave enough air in tubeless setups to keep the tires seated. 
• Most airlines prohibit CO2 containers in carry-on  and  checked luggage. Remove them from your flat kit and grab new ones at your destination’s local bike shop.
• Electronic groupsets bring some additional considerations. Remove batteries from SRAM derailleurs, so they don’t get lost if your case is opened. Shift levers can be inadvertently pushed inside of bags and cases, so remove the coin cell battery from SRAM shifters and unplug shifter cables under Shimano hoods.
• If your power meter has a removable battery, remove it during packing to prevent battery drain.
• Remember to bring chargers for any electronic components, including head units, lights, and derailleurs.

The Typical Cost of Flying With Your Bike

So you’ve got your bike packed and ready to fly. How much will it cost? 

The answer depends on the airline and your specific equipment. Some airlines charge no special fees, while some charge an all-inclusive fee for bikes, and some layer multiple fees for bike, luggage weight, and luggage size. Check your airline’s policies, but you can usually use this formula to find your expenses:

Cost to Bring Bike = Bike Fee + Standard Checked Bag Fee + Oversize Fee (if Applicable) + Overweight Fee (if applicable)

For most airlines, oversize fees kick in if the combined length, width, and depth measurement of your luggage add up to more than 62”. While many popular bags and cases do exceed this limit, these fees are inconsistently enforced by gate agents. Overweight penalties usually start at 50 lbs, and for even larger and heavier bags most airlines have more severe fees. 

All told, costs can vary dramatically. If you have a lightweight road bike in a small, soft bag and you’re flying on an airline with no bike fee, you’ll only be charged for a standard piece of checked luggage. On the other hand, with a large mountain bike, in a hard case, on an airline with a bike fee, you may need to pay $300 or more each direction in bike, weight, and oversize charges. Discount carriers usually charge more in additional fees, so do your homework and research potential costs before you buy your ticket. In the end, it’s often worth paying a little more upfront for a premium carrier without bike penalties.

Best Airlines for Flying With a Bike

Here is a comparison of major airlines’ policies on bikes, to help you find the best option for your next trip. Note: If an airline layers multiple fees, all are listed. Some fees marked N/A may still be incurred if your case is very large/ heavy. Policies are accurate as of 10/5/21. Prices USD unless noted.

Adaptive Training

Get the right workout, every time with training that adapts to you.

In most ways, bringing a mountain bike on an airline is the same as bringing a road or gravel bike. However, mountain bikes are generally bulkier, with thicker tubes and wider axles. This means mountain bikes may not fit in all travel cases, and you may need a case or bag specifically designed for large bikes. Pay close attention to weight, as adding extra kit and equipment to a bag containing a mountain bike may incur an expensive overweight penalty.

When preparing your mountain bike for travel, it’s often easier to remove the handlebars from the stem, than it is to remove the stem from the steerer tube. If possible, flip your fork backward to shorten your wheelbase and make your bike more compact for packing. As with road bikes, always remove your brake rotors, and only deflate your tires enough to fit your luggage. Don’t allow your tires to come off the bead, and bring a small container of sealant in your checked bag just in case you need it upon arrival.

If your bike still won’t fit, let some air out of your suspension to reduce height (but make sure you bring your shock pump with you). Resist the temptation to fly with your dropper post down— a long flight with the cartridge under pressure can stress the hydraulics, so remove the post from your frame instead. And on that note, service any hydraulic components in need of maintenance  before  you travel. Extended periods in your bag in an unusual position can push worn seals beyond their limits, and you don’t want to arrive at your destination to find a crucial part no longer works.

Finally, bring a large rag or towel along with you for your trip. You might not have the ability to wash your bike at your destination before repacking it for your return, but at least you’ll be prepared to give your equipment a good wipe-down.

Sean Hurley is a bike racer, baker of sourdough bread, and former art professor. He is a connoisseur of cycling socks and a certified USAC level 3 coach. Rumor has it he also runs a famous cycling instagram account, but don't tell anyone about that.

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Packing A Bike For Air Travel: What You Need To Know

• June 7, 2024
• Lauren Stuttaford

Whether you’re heading to a race, exploring new trails, or simply wanting the comfort of your own ride on vacation, bringing your bike on your travels can be an exciting experience.

But it’s important to know how to do it.

After all, you don’t want to arrive at your destination to find your bike is damaged – or worse – missing because of airline restrictions or improper packing.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to pack a bike for air travel. From what you should know before you go, to making sure it’s on the plane, to putting it back together again, we’ll tell you everything you need to know.

Let’s begin!

Pre-Flight Prep

Before you can even book your flight, there are a few things you’ll need to do.

We’ll take a look at flight regulations, picking airlines, and booking your flight.

Let’s start with flight regulations.

1. Checking Flight Regulations

If you want to pack a bike for air travel, it’s important to know a few things.

Here’s what to look out for:

• Bike Policies: Not all airlines treat bikes the same way. Some have special allowances for sporting equipment, while others might have strict limitations. Check the airline’s website for their bike policy or contact customer service for detailed information.
• Additional Fees/Restrictions: Many airlines charge extra fees for transporting bikes. These fees can vary significantly, so factor this into your travel budget. You should also be aware of size and weight restrictions. Airlines often have maximum dimensions and weight limits for checked luggage, including bikes.

2. Picking Airlines

It’s definitely possible to find an airline that will allow you to pack your bike.

But you could go a step further and look for the following:

• Bike-friendly Airlines: Some airlines offer special packages or reduced fees for sporting equipment. Research airlines known for accommodating cyclists.
• Customer Reviews: Read reviews from other cyclists to see which airlines they recommend. Biking forums, travel blogs, and social media groups can be great resources.

3. Booking Your Flight

Once you’ve found an airline, it’s time to book your flight. Here’s what you need to know:

• Notify The Airline: Inform the airline in advance that you will be traveling with a bike. Some airlines require advance notice, and it’s always better to be on the safe side.
• Reserve Bike Space: Confirm the reservation for your bike during the booking process. This ensures the airline is aware and can prepare to handle your bike properly. Make sure to get a confirmation email or receipt that notes your bike reservation.

Getting the Right Equipment

Proper packing equipment is essential to ensure your bike arrives safely at your destination.

Here’s how to choose the best options:

1. Bag Bikes/Cases

Selecting the right type of bike bag or case is crucial for protecting your bike during air travel.

Here’s a quick look at the different options:

Soft bike cases are typically made from durable, lightweight fabrics like nylon or polyester. They offer some level of protection for your bike but are generally less robust than hard cases.

• Lightweight: Soft cases are usually lighter than hard cases, making them easier to transport.
• Compact: They can often be folded or collapsed for convenient storage when not in use.
• Cost-Effective: Soft cases are often more affordable than other cases.
• Limited Protection: Soft cases provide less protection against impacts and rough handling compared to hard cases.
• Vulnerability to Damage: They can be susceptible to tears or punctures from sharp objects or rough handling.
• Extra Padding Needed: Additional padding may be required to protect the bike adequately during transit.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, shorter trips with less risk of rough handling, and those with limited storage space.

Hard bike cases are constructed from rigid materials such as plastic or aluminum. They offer maximum protection for your bike but tend to be heavier and bulkier than soft cases.

• Superior Protection: Hard cases provide excellent protection against impacts, crushing, and rough handling.
• Durable: Built to withstand heavy use and rough conditions, offering long-term protection for your bike.
• Integrated Padding: Many hard cases come with built-in padding and secure straps to hold the bike in place.
• Heavy and Bulky : Hard cases are typically heavier and bulkier than soft cases, which can make them more challenging to transport and store.
• Expensive : Hard cases tend to be more expensive than soft cases due to their durable construction and added protection.
• Storage Space : Takes up more storage space when not in use compared to soft cases.

Best for: High-value bikes, frequent air travelers, and longer trips where the risk of rough handling is higher.

Hybrid Cases

Hybrid bike cases combine features of both soft and hard cases, offering a balance between protection and portability.

• Balanced Protection : Provides better protection than soft cases but is lighter and more portable than hard cases.
• Lighter than Hard Cases : Generally lighter and easier to handle than hard cases, making them suitable for air travel.
• Ease of Use : Often designed with wheels and handles for easy transport.
• Moderate Protection : While offering better protection than soft cases, they do not provide the same level of impact resistance as hard cases.
• Cost : Can be more expensive than soft cases but are typically cheaper than hard cases.
• Limited Customization and Features : While they strike a balance between protection and portability, they might lack certain features such as specialized compartments for accessories.

Best for: Travelers seeking a balance between protection and portability, and those who travel moderately frequently.

Cardboard Cases

Cardboard bike boxes are exactly what they sound like: cardboard boxes specifically designed to fit a disassembled bike for transportation.

• Affordable : Often available for free from bike shops or can be purchased at a low cost.
• Disposable : Can be discarded or recycled at your destination, eliminating the need for storage.
• Lightweight : Lightweight and easy to handle, making them suitable for one-time use.
• Limited Protection : Provides minimal protection against impacts and rough handling, requiring extra padding.
• Not Durable : Cardboard boxes can be easily damaged or crushed, especially in transit.
• Time-Consuming to Pack : Requires careful packing and securing of all bike components to prevent damage during transit.

Best for: Short-term or one-time use, budget-conscious travelers, and situations where obtaining a new box at the destination is feasible.

2. Accessories/Tools

When packing a bike for air travel, having the right accessories and tools is essential for ensuring a smooth journey and hassle-free assembly at your destination. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Extra Padding : You should wrap delicate parts of your bike, such as the frame, handlebars, and fork, with bubble wrap or foam padding to protect them from scratches and impacts. You can also use blankets or towels to provide additional cushioning inside the bike case and prevent parts from shifting during transit.
• Packing Materials : You can secure loose parts and padding in place with zip ties and strong tape to prevent them from moving around during handling. On top of that, you can also use labeled plastic bags to organize small components like bolts, nuts, and washers, making them easy to find when reassembling your bike.
• Multi-Tool Kit : Pack a multi-tool kit containing wrenches, screwdrivers, Allen keys, and other tools necessary for disassembling and reassembling your bike. Choose a lightweight, compact tool kit that won’t add too much bulk to your luggage but contains all the essential tools you’ll need.
• Tire Levers & Pumps : Tire levers are essential for removing and reinstalling your bike’s tires during packing and assembly. Opt for durable, lightweight tire levers that won’t break or bend easily. You should also Bring along a portable bike pump to inflate your tires once you’ve reassembled your bike at your destination. Look for a compact pump that fits easily in your luggage or bike bag.
• Spare Tubes: Pack a few spare inner tubes in case of punctures during transit or while riding at your destination.
• Patch Kit: Bring along a patch kit for quick repairs in case of minor punctures or tears in your bike’s tires.
• Chain Lubricant: Apply chain lubricant before packing your bike to prevent rust and corrosion during transit, and bring along a small bottle for reapplication if needed.

Packing Your Bike

Packing your bike properly is crucial to ensure it arrives at your destination undamaged and ready to ride. Here’s a step-by-step guide to packing your bike for air travel:

Prepping Your Bike

• Thoroughly clean your bike to remove dirt, mud, and grease. A clean bike is easier to pack and helps prevent damage to other items in your luggage.
• Remove accessories such as water bottle cages, bike computers, and saddlebags.
• Use zip ties or Velcro straps to secure loose cables and prevent them from tangling.

Disassembling Your Bike

• Remove the pedals using a pedal wrench, remembering that the left pedal has a reverse thread.
• Release the quick-release skewers or loosen the axle nuts to remove the front and rear wheels.
• Place the wheel skewers or axle nuts in a small plastic bag and secure them to the frame or wheel.
• Loosen the stem bolts and carefully remove the handlebars from the stem.
• If necessary, remove the stem from the fork steerer tube and wrap the handlebars in bubble wrap or foam padding.
• Loosen the seat clamp bolt and lower the seat post into the frame or remove it entirely, depending on the size of your bike case.
• Place the bike frame in the bike case or bag first, with the drivetrain facing towards the bottom of the case.
• Use foam padding, bubble wrap, or old towels to protect delicate areas of the frame, such as the dropouts, derailleur, and rear triangle.
• Secure the wheels on either side of the frame, with the axles facing outwards. Use foam padding or cardboard discs to protect the disc brake rotors and hub axles.
• Secure the handlebars, pedals, and seat post alongside the frame, ensuring they don’t shift during transit.
• Fill any empty spaces inside the bike case with additional padding or clothing to prevent the bike from shifting during handling.
• Ensure all components are securely fastened and there is no excess movement within the case.

Closing & Securing Your Case

• If you’re using a bike case, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for closing and securing the case.
• Ensure all latches, straps, and buckles are securely fastened. Attach a label with your contact information to the outside of the case.
• Clearly mark the case as fragile to alert baggage handlers to handle it with care.

Documenting Your Bike

• Before closing the case, take photos of your bike from multiple angles. This will serve as documentation in case of any damage during transit and will also help with reassembly at your destination.

In addition to the essential steps for packing your bike, here are some bonus tips to further enhance your packing experience and ensure a smooth journey:

Pack Essentials In Your Carry-On: While most of your bike components will be packed in your checked luggage, consider packing essential items like your helmet, cycling shoes, and cycling clothes in your carry-on bag. This ensures you’ll have the necessary gear in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost.

Plan for Reassembly: Before your trip, familiarize yourself with the process of reassembling your bike. Watch online tutorials or practice reassembly at home so you’ll feel confident and prepared when it comes time to put your bike back together at your destination.

Practice Pack: Do a trial run of packing your bike at home before your trip. This will help you familiarize yourself with the process and identify any potential challenges or issues beforehand.

Final Tip – Download The Air Doctor App !

Now there’s just one thing left to do…

Make sure you don’t get sick abroad!

With the  Air Doctor app  in your pocket, you can access medical advice, get prescriptions, and receive expert medical guidance wherever you are in the world!

Air Doctor’s easy-to-use app gives you:

• A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
• Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
• Active in 78 countries
• Cross border prescription services
• Video consultation services in up to 21 languages and 84 countries
• 24/7 multi-lingual support
• Transparent pricing, and reviews
• Most common medical specialties

Safe travels!

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Jenny Cohen Derfler

Air dr ceo & co-founder.

Jenny is the CEO and one of the Co-Founders at Air Doctor. She spent more than 20 years at Intel, most recently as general manager of its manufacturing facility in Israel and before that in various engineering and manufacturing roles in Silicon Valley. Air Doctor is her second startup having previously founded electric vehicle company ElectRoad.