If you love to roam around on two pedal-powered wheels, it can be hard to resign yourself to leaving your favorite bike at home when you travel. But lugging a bicycle around the country–or the world–is a daunting proposition.
For the uninitiated, flying with your bike can seem overly costly, complicated, and technically challenging. But according to Marley Blonsky, pro cyclist and co-founder of the non-profit All Bodies on Bikes, “It’s a lot easier than it first appears,” so don’t let the logistics intimidate you. Instead, grab the right gear, your tools, and get to it.
Why not just rent a bike?
Why go through all the hassle of transporting your own carbon fiber or aluminum steed if you can just rent one once you arrive? For one, if you need a bike on the smaller or larger end of the spectrum, rental shops may not stock your size, leaving you struggling through an uncomfortable experience.
Rental fees also quickly add up, especially if you plan to ride multiple times during your trip or prefer higher-end mountain bikes, which tend to come with costly daily rates.
Finally, if you’re participating in a race or major bike-related event, you, like Blonsky, will probably be more comfortable aboard the same bike on which you train.
[ Related: “How to fly with film” ]
Things you need to know before flying with a bike
Start by familiarizing yourself with the airline’s bike policies. Fortunately, most major airlines treat bikes like any other type of luggage. As in, the cost to check one is typically the same as for a traditional suitcase. But peruse their website before buying a flight ticket to find out if there are any special requirements or extra charges. Airlines tend to classify bikes as “sporting equipment,” so start your search there.
Depending on the size and shape of your case, you may have to take it to a dedicated oversized drop-off area when you arrive at the airport. And you’ll almost…
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