{"id":160831,"date":"2017-08-15T12:14:31","date_gmt":"2017-08-15T12:14:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.welovecycling.com\/wide\/?p=160831"},"modified":"2017-09-19T08:29:41","modified_gmt":"2017-09-19T08:29:41","slug":"get-bike-ready-air-travel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.welovecycling.com\/wide\/2017\/08\/15\/get-bike-ready-air-travel\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get Your Bike Ready For Air Travel"},"content":{"rendered":"

Are you thinking about taking your bike on vacation or an exotic training camp? Is your dream race too far away to drive to? Chances are, you\u2019ll have to take your bike on a plane. Is it better to pack your bike in a hard case or a padded bag? How to disassemble and protect your bike properly to ensure it arrives without a scratch?<\/strong>
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Prep your bike<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Almost all airlines require you to pack your bike in a bag or box to take it on board. Regardless of which option you choose, it\u2019s advisable to protect your bike by disassembling and wrapping it. You should strip it off pedals, wheels, and handlebars. You’ll need a set of allen keys and a pedal spanner for the job; don\u2019t forget to bring those with you on the trip so that you can reassemble the bike when you arrive. You should also deflate your tires a little bit. Some airlines require you to do that but even if they don\u2019t it is a good idea because the cabin pressure can cause tyres to over-inflate.<\/p>\n

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\n Road cycling<\/a>\n <\/div>\n
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BLOG: A Year of Globetrotting – Hera van Willick Talks Budget, Planning, and Risks<\/span><\/h3>\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/article>\n<\/div>\n

Depending on how much you invest in a box or a bag, you will need to add some extra padding. Bubble wrap is always a good option for this but consider using your clothes to save space in your carry-on. Just check with your airline if they allow clothes in your bike case, some demand that it only contains your bike. Lastly, if you can, make sure it\u2019s visible on the box or bag that there\u2019s a bike inside. The airport staff is human so there\u2019s a chance they\u2019ll treat it better. Unfortunately, that won\u2019t help with conveyor belts and other machinery. That\u2019s why choosing a good bag or box is essential.<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BXkzE1kgByl\/?taken-by=wlcmagazine<\/p>\n

Bike Box<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Bike boxes are the ultimate protection, they are a great option if you travel a lot and your bike is really expensive. Thy will cost you about 400 \u2013 900 EUR.<\/p>\n

Advantages<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\u2022 It\u2019s the best possible protection for your bicycle.
\n\u2022 They are very durable and will survive countless flights.<\/p>\n

Disadvantages<\/strong><\/h3>\n

\u2022 They can get quite pricey.
\n\u2022 They take up storage space at home.
\n\u2022 They add a lot of weight (about 16 kg or 36 pounds).<\/p>\n

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