Flying with Your Bike

Flying with Your Bike: A Complete Guide to Safe Transport🔗

So, you’ve decided to take your own bike with you on your travels instead of hiring one. Great choice! Taking your bike ensures comfort and familiarity on your rides, but flying with it requires some planning.

Below, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about getting your bike safely onto a plane and to your destination. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Book Your Bike on the Plane🔗

1. Consider the airline🔗

Airlines have varying fees and policies when it comes to transporting bikes. Once you factor in the bike’s transport cost, you might reconsider your choice of airline. For instance, British Airways allows bikes as part of your luggage allowance (as long as they don’t exceed weight limits), while EasyJet charges separately for bike transportation each way.

2. Review Airline Policies🔗

Airlines have specific rules for bikes. British Airways allows bikes up to 23 kg, but if your bike exceeds that weight, there may be extra charges. EasyJet, on the other hand, gives you a more generous 32 kg bike allowance. Always double-check the airline’s policies before flying.

3. Know the Risks🔗

Airlines are not required to put your luggage, including your bike, on the same flight as you. If you're traveling to a major cycling event, such as a sportive, where many bikes will be transported, this could be an issue. Consider booking a less popular flight or checking in early to avoid delays.

Step 2: Get a Bike Box🔗

If you fly frequently with your bike or have space at home, buying a bike box might be a good investment. But if this is a rare occasion, renting a bike box can save you storage and upfront costs. Expect to pay between £35-60 for a week’s hire.

Some cyclists use cardboard boxes or even plastic bags for bike transport, but we wouldn’t recommend this due to the higher risk of damage.

If you already have a bike box, skip to Step 3.

Bike Box Rental🔗

Bike boxes are cumbersome - they house an object that has to be a certain size - and there is not much you can do about it. Therefore, consider renting your bike box rather than buying one to start with.

You may even get to try out a few bike boxes and decide which you prefer by the time it comes justifiable to buy your own.

Benefits of Renting:

• Cost-effective
• No need to store it at home
• Environmentally friendly
• Flexible rental periods (from 7 days)
• Discounted purchase options if you fall in love with the box!

The Rental Process:

1. Order online - sites like eBay, Facebook often have listings
2. Receive delivery (UK-wide courier or pick-up near Gatwick Airport)
3. Enjoy your cycling holiday!
4. Return the box, purchase it, or extend your rental

Step 3: Pack Your Bike Properly🔗

Don’t wait until the last minute to pack your bike! While some cyclists boast about packing their bikes in under 30 minutes, it’s best to allow extra time—especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process.

1. Clean Your Bike🔗

A clean bike makes disassembly easier and less messy. You’ll avoid getting covered in grime during the packing process, and you'll find any issues. Do this with enough time to spare.

2. Gather Tools🔗

You’ll likely need a set of allen or hex keys, and some pedals may also require a pedal spanner. Tape and bubble wrap can offer extra protection if you’re worried about your frame.

Additionally, using insulation pipe for pipe can be a great way to pad your bike out - particularly if carbon.

3. Disassemble and Pack🔗

The packing process varies depending on the type of bike and box you use. Generally, you’ll remove the pedals, seat post, handlebars, and wheels. Some boxes may require additional disassembly.

Pro Tips for Packing:

• Check out online tutorials or the bike box manufacturer’s website for guidance. This GCN video is a helpful resource (note: some airlines may ask you to deflate your tires slightly, but not fully, as air in the tires helps prevent damage).
• Avoid overloading your bike box to prevent overweight baggage charges and reduce the chance of damage during handling.
• Secure any rigid items like pumps to avoid them moving and damaging your frame.
• Pack clothing in sturdy plastic bags to protect them from bike grease.
• If your box has a lock, use it. Also, consider adding a distinctive strap or sticker to avoid mix-ups at baggage claim.
• Consider putting the saddle down. Some airports - such as Stansted - have an older, smaller customs machine. This could make you later than you want to be. Just make sure you mark your saddle height!

Step 4: Transporting Your Bike to the Airport🔗

Bike boxes are bulky, so plan ahead when it comes to transportation. Whether using your car or an airport taxi, make sure the vehicle has enough space to accommodate your bike, passengers, and luggage.

Step 5: Check-In Process🔗

1. Arrive Early🔗

Arriving early increases your chances of securing space for your bike. You’ll also have a more relaxed check-in process.

2. Be Friendly to the Check-In Staff🔗

The check-in staff plays a vital role in ensuring your bike gets on the plane. Their decision-making can influence whether your bike gets weighed or how strictly they apply airline policies.

3. Drop Off Your Bike at Oversize Luggage🔗

Once you’ve checked in, you’ll be directed to the oversize luggage drop-off area. Before you hand over your bike, remove any detachable pulleys or straps. Once that’s done, you can relax and enjoy a coffee while waiting for your flight.

That's it! Enjoy your trip!