Whether you own a women’s beach cruiser bike or a men’s hybrid bike, traveling with your bike can be complicated, but worth it for some people. While traveling by car is easy enough with roof racks or other compatible mounts, flying is another story, and there are rules and regulations when it comes to the weight and storage of your bike on a plane. Therefore, what do you need to know before attempting to fly with your bike, and how can you find the rules to abide by?
Contact the Airline
The first thing you need to do, whether you own a traditional or electric bike, is to contact the airline you are scheduled to fly with. While most airlines follow the same basic rules, they may also have rules specific to disassembling and packing bikes. Trying to follow general rules without knowing specifics may lead to unintentional fees or problems when checking in at the airport.
Measure
On average, checked bags can weigh around 50 pounds and have a combined size of approximately 62 inches. To find the combined size, you add the length, width and height together. Thinking of your adult size bike, you likely realize that these parameters don’t suit your needs. Therefore, you will probably pay more for checking a bicycle. It is also necessary to note that bikes with a motor may not be permitted, or they may incur significant charges, but that depends on the airline. Therefore, what do you need to know before attempting to fly with your bike, and how can you find the rules to abide by?
Purchase a Bike Bag or Box
Once you have talked to the airline and figured out size requirements, you can look for a bike bag or box to suit your needs. Most likely, a bicycle shop can help you find the size best for your specific needs. Bags are more durable and can be used for multiple trips while boxes are made from cardboard, offering a more temporary and affordable option.
Disassemble and Pack Bike
Next, you will need to disassemble your bike to fit in the bag and to be compliant with airline regulations. Most likely, you will need to remove the handlebars and wheels. A bicycle shop rep can probably offer some assistance when taking your bike apart, so you don’t lose parts or risk damage during travel. some as little as four hours. Therefore, unpack your bike and reassemble it to make sure everything is OK. Are you still interested in traveling with your bike? If so, call the airline and contact your favorite bike shop to find a bag or box for travel.
Abide By Any Rules and Pay Any Fees
Even when you do everything you are supposed to do, it is not uncommon for a bicycle to require additional fees for storage and transportation. Sometimes the size or weight of the bike will be over the allotment provided by the airline, in which case you will need to pay an additional fee. To find the combined size, you add the length, width and height together. Thinking of your adult size bike, you likely realize that these parameters don’t suit your needs.
Check Your Bike Upon Arrival
Last, when you arrive at your destination, be sure to check your bike as soon as possible. Most airlines have a limited window for reporting damages to your items—some as little as four hours. Therefore, unpack your bike and reassemble it to make sure everything is OK.
Are you still interested in traveling with your bike? If so, call the airline and contact your favorite bike shop to find a bag or box for travel.
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