How do I pack a bike bag for air travel?
If you’re wondering how to pack a bike bag for air travel, watching some YouTube videos is best. The process depends on whether you’re using a mountain or road bike travel bag. The approach will also be different if you’ve opted for a soft or hard bike travel bag. However, regardless of choice, you can do some fundamental things.
Always remove your bike pedals (tape them together, so one doesn’t disappear like socks in a wash cycle), bike shoes and helmet. Take these in a separate carry-on bag. Why? So there is zero chance of them rattling around in the bicycle travel bag and causing damage (or themselves getting damaged). It’s also convenient if your luggage gets lost - you can always hire a bike and use your own essential gear whilst waiting for the airlines to find the Real Deal.
Remove the seat and saddle, or at least lower it as far as it will go. Ensure the clamp is lightly tightened or indeed placed in that carry-on bag. Some bike bags for travel will provide separate pocket areas to place these.
Remove the wheels, and deflate the bicycle tyres (not too much in case the rim gets hit - they will help protect it. Just enough, so they don’t explode during the flight!).
If your bike is relatively new and you have plastic fork/rear triangle spaces, use them.
The bicycle derailleur can be your travel Achilles Heal - if not properly packed, damage can be likely. As such, remove the rear derailleur and hanger and wrap them in protective layers like bubble wrap. Strap between the bike rear stays to help prevent bending and chain slapping. Tighten the hanger bolt, so it does not get lost.
Ideally, you want to turn your handlebars to the side and turn the bars downwards. This makes them less vulnerable sticking out to the sides.
Turn the bicycle cranks parallel to the ground and pad the bottom of the chainring. Get more of that bubble wrap or foam around the main tubes and anywhere that looks vulnerable to a scratch in transit.
We recommend using zip ties rather than a padlock on bike bags for travel. Then, if airport security wants to access the bag, they’ll bolt cut right through the metal.
Bike bag air travel takes a little effort at either end, but it’s worth it!
What to do with bike cases when travelling?
Apply the following tips when using bicycle bags for travel.
Make sure your bike bag for airline travel is adequately insured.
Ensure the airline will actually accept your cycling travel bag in the first place - not all do.
Remember, bike cases for air travel are typically classed as extra-size luggage. As such, you will likely have to check it in and collect it at a separate designated area to standard baggage.
Consider your weight limits. If you intend to carry a heavy load, a lightweight bike travel bag may be a better option than a hard case.
Always conduct a quality control check of your bike before you exit the airport air side. If, in the unfortunate event damage has occurred to your cycling travel case during transit, you will have a better chance of claiming insurance from the airline’s luggage agent (versus having to claim your agent).
Need more help with bike travel bags & cases?
If we can help you with anything else, don’t hesitate to contact us. If you’re looking for a gift for a special cyclist in your life, consider a BikeChain E-Gift Card. They’re a terrific way to ensure your lucky recipient gets what they want (and you don’t make much effort at all…!).
