If your bike exceeds the weight or size limits for an airline, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t fly with it. You can usually pay an extra fee for larger or overweight items. In this case, opt for an airline that has a more affordable extra baggage fee. Some airlines also have specific policies regarding bikes. For instance, they may charge an extra bike fee of $30-$100. Make sure you read carefully to find out about any such fees before booking a flight.
Removing the handlebars is another optional step. It’s a good idea if your handlebars are on the bigger side, but if they’re pretty small you can just turn them to the side when you pack your bike. If your bike has disc brakes, remove these to pack them separately as well.
You can either buy a dropout spacer kit online or from a bike shop or you can ask your local shop if they have any spare plastic spacers that come with the bikes they sell that they’re willing to give you.
You can buy foam pipe lagging at most DIY and home improvement stores. Ask an employee where the pipe insulation is to find it.
Bubble wrap and packing tape are available at home improvement centers and packing supply stores.
Small bike bags may fit alongside your bike when you pack it. Or, they can go inside of another larger checked bag or suitcase.
You can buy these boxes online or at a bike shop. However, they can be quite expensive, sometimes costing hundreds of dollars. Make sure you get a bike box that fits your frame and wheel size.
You can buy bike bags online or from bike shops. They are more affordable than bike boxes, costing as little as $30.
Ask around in local bike shops for spare cardboard boxes that the bikes they sell come in. Another way to separate pieces and add protection is to wrap them in smaller pieces of cardboard inside the box.
Zip-tie or strap accessories to the frame of your bike to secure them in place or use any of the attached straps that are free if you’re using a bike bag or bike box.
