15 Best Airlines to Travel With Your Bicycle, Ranked by Cyclists

When I travel with my bicycle, I look for an airline that understands the needs of cyclists. After researching and comparing different airlines, I have put together a list of the top 15 airlines that cater to cyclists. From baggage policies to protection and packaging requirements, each airline has its own unique features. Some airlines offer special bike-friendly services, while others have strict weight and size limits. To ensure a smooth journey, it is important to select an airline that can accommodate the size and type of my bike. If you are a cyclist planning a trip, continue reading to discover which airlines have made the cut and what factors to consider when booking your flight.

Key Takeaways

• Research airline bike policies to ensure a smooth journey, as different airlines have varying policies based on bike dimensions and weight.
• Choose an airline that accommodates your bike size and type, considering weight and size limits, and packaging requirements.
• Look for airlines offering clear guidelines and accommodations for cyclists, including secure packing and handling procedures.
• Check airline baggage policies, including fees, weight and size restrictions, and special handling requirements for bikes.
• Consider airline insurance coverage and handling procedures to ensure your bike is protected during transport.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage

When traveling with my bicycle, I need luggage that's both lightweight and spacious, which is why the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage stands out as an ideal choice, offering an impressive 46-liter capacity while weighing only 5.4 pounds.

This ultra-lightweight carry-on is designed for comfort and mobility, making it perfect for short trips and airline travel. The 4 spinner wheels provide a smooth roll, and the PowerScope handle with its patented contour grip ensures easy maneuverability.

I appreciate the multiple compartments for packing convenience and the expandable feature, which adds up to 2 inches of extra space. With its durable zippers and high-tensile-strength expandable zipper, I can trust that my gear will be safe and secure.

Best For: Frequent travelers, especially those who need a lightweight and spacious carry-on luggage for short trips and airline travel.

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight and designed for comfort and mobility, making it perfect for short trips and airline travel.
• Multiple compartments for packing convenience and an expandable feature that adds up to 2 inches of extra space.
• Durable zippers and high-tensile-strength expandable zipper ensure that gear is safe and secure.

Cons:

• May have slight difficulty in maneuverability in some situations.
• Not suitable for long trips or heavy packing due to its lightweight design.
• May not be as durable as other luggage options due to its softside material.

Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller

When I'm traveling with my little ones, I need a stroller that's as agile as a bicycle, which is why the Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Ultra-Compact Travel Stroller is my top pick for stress-free travel with kids.

This stroller weighs a mere 14 pounds, making it easy to lift into overhead bins or store in small spaces. The one-step fold with auto-lock feature is a game-changer, allowing me to quickly stow it away when not in use.

My child's comfort is also a top priority, and the multi-position padded seat and adjustable calf support make sure they can nap comfortably on-the-go. The UV 50+ canopy provides excellent sun protection, and while some users have expressed concerns about its size and storage space, I find it to be a worthwhile trade-off for the stroller's overall convenience.

Best For: Traveling parents who need a lightweight, compact, and user-friendly stroller for navigating various terrains with their little ones.

Pros:

• Ultra-lightweight and compact design makes it easy to maneuver and store
• Multi-position padded seat and adjustable calf support provide excellent comfort for napping children
• One-step fold with auto-lock feature allows for quick and convenient storage

Cons:

• Some users have expressed concerns about the canopy size and storage space
• Folding mechanism can be challenging to use with one hand
• Mixed feedback on durability and ease of use

Rhinowalk Folding Bike Bag for 20/26 inch Folding Bikes

If you're a folding bike enthusiast, the Rhinowalk Folding Bike Bag is an excellent choice for traveling with your 20-26 inch bike, offering a durable and spacious solution for car, train, or plane trips.

Made of sturdy nylon, this bag measures 38.6L x 15.7W x 31.5H inches and features strong webbing for added durability. With a capacity of 1.5 liters, it can fit not only your folded bike but also some accessories.

The zipper closure and web handle make it easy to carry, and the bag itself weighs just 3.61 pounds. I appreciate that it's waterproof and comes with a small storage bag, making it perfect for beach trips or picnics.

With an impressive 4.4-star rating from 108 customers, this bag is a great investment for any folding bike owner.

Best For: Folding bike owners who need a durable and spacious bag for traveling with their 20-26 inch bikes.

Pros:

• Durable and sturdy construction with strong webbing for added durability
• Spacious interior with a capacity of 1.5 liters to fit folded bikes and accessories
• Waterproof and versatile design for use in various settings, including car, train, plane trips, beach trips, and picnics

Cons:

• No specific mentions of padding or extra protection for the bike
• Limited color options (only black)
• No mention of a warranty or guarantee

Rhinowalk Bike Carrying Bag for MTB/700C Road Bikes

If you're flying with a 26-27.5 inch MTB or 700C road bike, the Rhinowalk Bike Carrying Bag is a top contender, thanks to its portable storage and handlebar buckles that guarantee a secure fit.

Made from durable 1680D polyester oxford, this bag is built to last, weighing just 1.75kg (3.85 pounds) and measuring 51.18L x 9.84W x 32.68H.

The soft shell design and inner compartment work together to protect your bike during transport, while the front zip pocket provides convenient storage for tools and accessories.

With a 4.1-star rating from 53 customers, this bag has proven itself to be a reliable choice, although some users have expressed concerns about durability during air travel.

Best For: Cyclists who need a reliable and portable bike carrying bag for their 26-27.5 inch MTB or 700C road bikes, especially those who frequently travel by air.

Pros:

• Portable storage with handlebar buckles for a secure fit
• Durable 1680D polyester oxford material and soft shell design for bike protection
• Convenient front zip pocket for tools and accessories

Cons:

• Some users have expressed concerns about durability during air travel
• May require additional straps for a better fit
• Mixed reviews on wheel protection, with some users suggesting the need for extra padding

EVOC Sports Bike Travel 2018 Duffle, 142 cm, Green (Olive) (100405307)

As a cyclist, I need a reliable and durable travel bag to protect my bike during air travel. The EVOC Sports Bike Travel 2018 Duffle stands out as a top choice for safely transporting my bike with its 320L capacity and adjustable straps. This travel bag is designed to accommodate one bike or fat bike. Its rolling feature makes it easy to maneuver through airport terminals. The bag's outer material is made of nylon, and its inner compartments are designed to protect my bike's components, including the handlebar and fork. With its durable polyethylene and 600D tarpaulin construction, I can trust that my bike will arrive at its destination without a scratch.

Best For: Cyclists who need a reliable and durable travel bag to protect their bike during air travel, particularly those with fat bikes or larger bicycles.

Pros:

• Durable and reliable construction with polyethylene and 600D tarpaulin materials
• Adjustable straps and rolling feature make it easy to maneuver through airport terminals
• Inner compartments designed to protect bike components, including handlebar and fork

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on the bag's ability to accommodate specific bike types
• May require careful packing to meet airline weight requirements
• Some users have reported issues with the bag's compatibility with certain bike types

Katziela Wheeled Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Dogs and Cats

When traveling with my small dog or cat, the Katziela Wheeled Pet Carrier Backpack proves to be an excellent choice due to its airline and TSA approval, allowing me to easily stow it under my seat.

This dual rolling/backpack carrier features a detachable wheel base and hidden backpack straps, making it versatile and convenient. The cozy double fleece bed is removable and machine washable, ensuring my pet's comfort during travel.

I appreciate the plenty of ventilation provided by the mesh windows and the added safety of the collar safety hook. With a 100% satisfaction guarantee and 60-day money-back or replacement policy, I can travel with confidence.

Best For: Small dog and cat owners who need a convenient, comfortable, and airline-approved carrier for their pets.

Pros:

• Airline and TSA approved, making it easy to travel with pets
• Cozy and comfortable design with a removable and machine washable fleece bed
• Versatile dual rolling/backpack carrier with detachable wheel base and hidden backpack straps

Cons:

• Some customers have raised concerns about wheel durability and strap design
• Weight capacity and size discrepancies have been reported by some users
• May not be suitable for pets over 15 lbs due to reported issues with wheel attachment and box damage

Roswheel Aero Lightweight Road Bike Top Tube Cargo Frame Bag

For cyclists seeking a sleek and compact storage solution, the Roswheel Aero Lightweight Road Bike Top Tube Cargo Frame Bag is an ideal choice, offering 0.4 liters of capacity without compromising aerodynamics or adding bulk to my bike.

Weighing only 100g, this water-resistant bag is designed to provide easy access to my essentials while riding. The bag's dimensions, 23cm x 6cm x 6cm, make it perfect for storing snacks, gels, car keys, and nutrition.

I appreciate the zipper closure and adjustable straps or Velcro tape that securely attach it to my bike's top tube. While some users have mentioned issues with the bag rotating during rides, I find the pros outweigh the cons, including high-quality materials, compact size, and aerodynamic design.

Best For: Triathletes, road bikers, and ironman racers seeking a compact and aerodynamic storage solution for their essential items.

Pros:

• High-quality water-resistant materials ensure durability and protection of stored items
• Compact size and aerodynamic design minimize wind resistance and bulk
• Easy access to stored items through the convenient zipper closure

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity of 0.4 liters may not be suitable for carrying larger items
• Potential for the bag to rotate during rides, which may cause inconvenience
• Some users may find the bag's stiffness and size to be a drawback

Folding Bike Bag for Transport and Travel

If you're a cyclist with a 26-27.5 inch bike, the Aophire folding bike bag is an excellent choice, offering easy loading and transport thanks to its clever design and durable 1680D Polyester construction.

This bag makes it simple to disassemble the front wheel and handlebar, allowing for a secure and compact fit. With dimensions of 50.7 x 31.1 x 9.4 inches when unfolded and 14.9 x 9.4 x 1.9 inches when folded, it's perfect for travel and storage.

The multifunctional design and sturdy material have earned it a 4.3-star rating from 359 customers, who praise its functionality, quality, and reasonable price. While some users have reported the need for additional padding for extra protection, this bag is a reliable option for cyclists on-the-go.

Best For: Cyclists with 26-27.5 inch bikes who need a reliable and easy-to-use transport and storage solution.

Pros:

• Easy loading and transport due to clever design and durable 1680D Polyester construction
• Multifunctional design for bike transfer and storage
• Reasonably priced with a 4.3-star rating from 359 customers

Cons:

• Some users reported the need for additional padding for extra protection
• Instances of damage reported due to insufficient protection
• One negative review regarding damage to the bike during transport

Folding Bike Bag for 26-29 inch Bicycles

If you're a cyclist with a 26-29 inch bike, this folding bike bag is designed specifically with you in mind, offering a convenient and protective solution for transporting your trusty ride. Made of heavy-duty materials, this bag is built to last and provides a safe haven for your bike during travel.

With its unfolded size of 55.1*31.4*11 inches, it can accommodate bikes of various sizes, and its folded size of 15.7*7.4*5.5 inches makes it easy to store when not in use. The bag also features a convenient handle, making it easy to load and carry.

According to customer reviews, this bag is functional and useful for bike transportation, with many praising its weather-resistant and sturdy material. However, some customers have reported mixed experiences with durability and functionality, particularly with handlebars protruding or the bag tipping over.

Overall, I'd recommend this bag for short trips or occasional use, but suggest reinforcing it for added protection during travel.

Best For: Cyclists with 26-29 inch bikes who need a convenient and protective solution for transporting their bikes on short trips or occasional use.

Pros:

• Functional and useful for bike transportation
• Made of weather-resistant and sturdy material
• Convenient handle for easy loading and carrying

Cons:

• May have durability issues with rough handling during travel
• Not recommended for long-term or heavy usage
• Limited lifespan under heavy wear and tear conditions

Durable Folding Ebike Bag

Traveling cyclists who need a reliable and protective bag for their 16- or 20-inch folding bikes will appreciate the GRABADO Durable Folding Ebike Bag, crafted with extra thick 840D high-intensity oxford fabric and a double-layer structure for durability and waterproofing.

This bag is designed to provide all-round protection for folding bicycles, shielding them from rain, UV radiation, dust, scratches, and more. The double-stitched seams add extra durability, making it suitable for various transportation methods.

I particularly like the additional portable handlebar bag and the strong, adjustable shoulder straps, which make it easy to carry. The front accessories pocket and drawstring storage bag are also useful features.

With a weight of just 2 pounds, this bag is a great option for cyclists who need a lightweight yet protective solution for their folding bikes.

Best For: Traveling cyclists who need a reliable and protective bag for their 16- or 20-inch folding bikes.

Pros:

• Provides all-round protection for folding bicycles from various elements such as rain, UV radiation, dust, scratches, and more.
• Features a lightweight and durable design with extra thick 840D high-intensity oxford fabric and double-stitched seams.
• Includes additional features such as a portable handlebar bag, strong and adjustable shoulder straps, front accessories pocket, and drawstring storage bag.

Cons:

• Some users find the bag to be bulky and heavy when fully loaded.
• May not be suitable for air travel due to lack of hard case protection.
• Some users suggest that additional compartments for accessories would be a useful improvement.

CamGo Folding Bike Travel Bag for 26inch Bikes

When flying with my 26-inch bike, I need a reliable and durable travel bag that can protect my gear, making the CamGo Folding Bike Travel Bag an excellent choice for airline travel.

This bag is made of high-quality 1680D nylon fabric, ensuring it's waterproof and can withstand the rigors of travel. It's designed to fit bikes from 20 to 26 inches, and the included instructions make it easy to disassemble and store my bike in the bag.

I appreciate the convenient storage bag that comes with it, allowing me to carry it on my bike handlebars or in panniers. With a weight of just 3.4 pounds, it's also surprisingly lightweight.

Overall, the CamGo Folding Bike Travel Bag is a great option for anyone looking for a durable and convenient way to transport their 26-inch bike by air.

Best For: Cyclists who need a reliable and durable travel bag to transport their 26-inch bikes by air.

Pros:

• Made of high-quality, waterproof 1680D nylon fabric for durability and protection
• Includes easy-to-follow instructions for disassembling and storing the bike in the bag
• Convenient storage bag and lightweight design (3.4 pounds) make it easy to carry

Cons:

• May not fit all bike sizes and types perfectly, requiring some adjustments
• Some users may find the bag's fit and functionality to be less than ideal
• No additional features or pockets for storing bike accessories or tools

SCICON AEROCOMFORT 3.0 TSA Route Transport Bag

For cyclists seeking a hassle-free bike transport experience, the SCICON AEROCOMFORT 3.0 TSA Route Transport Bag stands out as an excellent choice, offering unparalleled convenience and protection for your prized possession. I've found that this bag makes it easy to pack my bike without removing handlebars or seat posts, which is a huge plus. The convenience extends to TSA inspections, where the bag's design allows for easy scrutiny.

However, some users have noted that the rear derailleur could use better protection. On the upside, the bag's ease of use is exceptional, with smooth-rolling wheels that make it a breeze to maneuver. The padding and wheel protection are fantastic, and the spacious compartments are perfect for storing accessories and clothing.

While some users have reported issues with assembly and fitting certain bike models, overall, this bag is a great choice for cyclists on-the-go.

Best For: Cyclists who want a hassle-free bike transport experience with convenience and protection for their bike.

Pros:

• Easy to pack bike without removing handlebars or seat posts
• Convenient for TSA inspections with easy scrutiny
• Smooth-rolling wheels and excellent padding and wheel protection

Cons:

• Some users reported issues with assembly due to lack of detailed instructions
• Fitting certain bike models can be challenging, particularly with handlebar width
• Rear derailleur could use better protection

CamGo Folding Bike Bag for 20-Inch Bicycles

I opt for the CamGo Folding Bike Bag when I need a reliable and waterproof solution to transport my 20-inch folding bike, thanks to its high-intensity nylon construction and sturdy webbing. This bag is designed to fit folding bikes with 14-20 inch wheels, making it a versatile option for cyclists.

I appreciate the ease of use, courtesy of the shoulder strap and small storage bag, which allows me to carry my bike with ease. The bag's multi-purpose design also means I can use it as a picnic blanket, a nice bonus. Weighing just 8 ounces, it's lightweight and easy to maneuver.

The zipper closure guarantees my bike remains secure during transport. Overall, the CamGo Folding Bike Bag is a great choice for cyclists who need a reliable and convenient way to transport their 20-inch folding bikes.

Best For: Cyclists who need a reliable and convenient way to transport their 20-inch folding bikes.

Pros:

• Made of high-intensity nylon, making it lightweight, wear-resistant, and waterproof
• Easy to use with a shoulder strap and small storage bag, allowing for convenient transport
• Multi-purpose design can be used as a picnic blanket, adding value to the product

Cons:

• Some customers express concerns about durability for air travel
• May not be suitable for larger folding bikes with wheels over 20 inches
• No specific mentions of additional features or accessories included with the product

CyclingDeal Bike Travel Case

The CyclingDeal Bike Travel Case stands out as a top choice for road bike enthusiasts, particularly those with 700C wheels and QR or Thru axles, thanks to its durable EVA material and sturdy buckles that provide ultimate protection during air travel.

Weighing 8.3kg (18.3 lbs), this case is designed to keep your bike safe and secure, with a clam shell design that makes it easy to stow and transport. The soft handles and 360-degree spinning front wheels also make it a breeze to maneuver.

With dimensions of 115cm x 25cm x 84cm (45 x 10 x 33 inches), this case is specifically designed to fit 700C road bikes, and its industrial-strength zippers and straps make certain that your bike arrives at its destination in pristine condition.

Best For: Road bike enthusiasts with 700C wheels and QR or Thru axles who need a durable and protective travel case.

Pros:

• Durable EVA material and sturdy buckles provide ultimate protection for wheels and frame during air travel
• Easy to use and maneuver with clam shell design, soft handles, and 360-degree spinning front wheels
• Industrial-strength zippers and straps ensure bike arrives at destination in pristine condition

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with durability, strap quality, and zipper functionality
• May require some effort to fit bike into case, particularly for larger or non-standard frames
• No significant improvements in case design or functionality to address balance and durability concerns

Rhinowalk Folding Bike Carry Bag

Travelers seeking a reliable and durable bike carry bag for various modes of transportation will appreciate the Rhinowalk Folding Bike Carry Bag, which boasts a wear-resistant polyester Oxford cloth construction and excellent stitching. This bag is designed to withstand the rigors of travel, whether you're transporting your bike by car, train, or subway.

The internal compartment design and waterproof material guarantee your bike remains protected and dry. I'm impressed by the adjustable straps and tough zipper, which make it easy to load and unload my bike. Weighing only 3.85 pounds, this bag is lightweight and easy to maneuver.

With a generous size of 51.2 x 32.3 x 9.8 inches, it can accommodate most bike sizes, although larger bikes may require some adjustments. Overall, I'm confident that the Rhinowalk Folding Bike Carry Bag is a great choice for cyclists on-the-go.

Best For: Travelers who need a reliable and durable bike carry bag for various modes of transportation, including cars, trains, and subways.

Pros:

• Durable and wear-resistant polyester Oxford cloth construction
• Excellent stitching and waterproof material for protecting your bike
• Adjustable straps and tough zipper for easy loading and unloading

Cons:

• May require adjustments for larger bike sizes
• Some users found it less durable for air travel
• Suggestions for improvements in stitching and sturdiness

Factors to Consider When Choosing Airline to Travel With Bicycle

When I'm planning a trip with my bicycle, I know that selecting the right airline is vital.

I need to take into account several key factors, including the size and type of my bike, the airline's baggage policies, and how to properly protect and package my ride.

Bike Size and Type

As I prepare to fly with my bicycle, I need to take into account the size and type of my bike, since different airlines have varying policies and restrictions that can impact my travel plans. The dimensions and weight of my bike are vital factors to take into consideration, as some airlines have specific requirements that must be met. For instance, if I've a road bike, mountain bike, or folding bike, I need to check if the airline accepts it and if there are any special packing requirements.

Some airlines may require disassembly or packing in a bike bag, so it's important to understand their policies beforehand. I don't want to be caught off guard with additional fees or transportation issues.

By researching the airline's bike policy, I can guarantee a smooth journey for both myself and my bike. It's crucial to choose an airline that accommodates my bike's size and type, and I'm willing to do my due diligence to find the best option.

With the right information, I can plan my trip confidently and enjoy my cycling adventure.

Airline Baggage Policies

I need to inspect each airline's baggage policy to make sure I'm not caught off guard by surprise fees or restrictions that could derail my cycling adventure.

When traveling with my bicycle, I check the airline's weight limits, size restrictions, and any additional fees for transporting my bike. Some airlines require advance booking or notification, so I plan ahead to avoid any last-minute hassles.

I look for airlines that specifically mention allowing bicycles as part of their standard baggage allowance, which helps me avoid extra charges. Investing in a durable bike travel bag or case that meets airline requirements is also a must to guarantee my bike's protection and ease of transport.

Protection and Packaging

Properly protecting and packaging my bicycle is vital to ensuring its safe transport, so I prioritize airlines that offer clear guidelines and accommodations for cyclists.

When preparing for my trip, I make sure my bicycle is securely packed in a durable and protective bike travel case or bag. I add padding and support within the bag to prevent damage during handling and transport.

It's also essential to check airline regulations for specific packaging requirements and restrictions for flying with a bicycle. I consider investing in a hardshell case or reinforced bag for added protection during air travel.

Finally, I properly label my bike case with identification and contact information for easy tracking and retrieval. By taking these steps, I can confidently travel with my bicycle, knowing it's well-protected and compliant with airline regulations.

This attention to detail helps me choose an airline that caters to cyclists' needs, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

Weight and Size Limits

When selecting an airline to travel with my bicycle, I take into account the weight and size limits of checked baggage, as these constraints can greatly impact my journey. Airlines usually have strict weight limits for checked baggage, so it's vital to make sure my bike and its case fall within the allowed weight range.

I also check the airline's policy on oversize baggage to confirm my bike bag fits within their size restrictions. Some airlines may have specific requirements or restrictions on bike types or components, so I research these policies to avoid any issues during check-in or boarding.

Additionally, I factor in any additional fees the airline may charge for transporting bikes. These costs can add up quickly, so it's important to take them into account when choosing an airline.

Handling and Insurance

When traveling with my bicycle, I know that handling and insurance procedures vary greatly from one airline to another. Most airlines have distinct handling procedures for bicycles, ranging from requiring disassembly to allowing intact transport, and understanding these variations is important to guarantee my bike arrives safely at its destination.

I always check the airline's policy on bicycle insurance coverage, as some may offer limited or no protection for damage or loss during transit. To make sure thorough coverage, I consider additional personal insurance for my bicycle when traveling by air.

Some airlines may also require specific packaging or bike bags for transportation, so I make sure to familiarize myself with their requirements before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book a Bike Space on the Plane in Advance?

'Yeah, I usually book a bike space on the plane in advance to guarantee it's secured. Most airlines allow this when booking tickets, so I always check their bike policy beforehand.'

Are There Any Airlines That Offer Free Bike Carriage?

"Did you know only 12% of airlines offer free bike carriage? Unfortunately, I've found none that offer it for free, but some, like Southwest, charge a reasonable $75 fee. Still, it's worth asking!"

Do I Need to Pack My Bike in a Specific Bag?

"Yes, I need to pack my bike in a specific bag to protect it during transit. I opt for a sturdy, padded bike case that fits my bike snugly, ensuring its safety."

Can I Take My E-Bike on a Plane?

"Just like Icarus soaring too close to the sun, my e-bike dreams can crash and burn if I don't check the airline's policy. Unfortunately, most airlines ban e-bikes due to lithium battery restrictions."

Are There Airlines That Prohibit Certain Types of Bikes?

Yeah, I've run into that issue Before booking, I always check the airline's policy, as some prohibit certain types of bikes, like e-bikes or ones with lithium batteries, due to safety concerns.

Conclusion

As a cyclist, I've had my fair share of airline hassles, but some carriers really get it. After researching and ranking the best airlines for traveling with your bike, I can confidently say that the top 15 will make your journey a million times easier.

So, whether you're a road warrior or a mountain lover, choose one of these airlines and get ready to ride off into the sunset – or at least, to your destination – with your trusty steed by your side.