Bike traveling
07-25-21, 03:57 PM
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Bike traveling
I'm looking for advice from those who have taken their bike on an airplane(commercial) before. I am going to Montana in two weeks for the Montana cycling project ride from Butte, in times past I have shipped the bike but am planning to just take it with me this time, SW airlines out of OKC connecting in Denver to Bozeman. If that goes well, next February my wife and I are going to Hawaii for two weeks, one week on Maui(Kapalua) and the second on Hawaii, staying at Four Seasons. I have multiple times ridden a rental bike on Maui and Hawaii, and while they are reasonable good and reasonably priced, it's not like having my own. That trip will be on American, out of Dallas, flying to OGG(Maui) and home from KOA(Kona) both first class Appreciate anyones thoughts and experiences.
07-25-21, 04:42 PM
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It's airline dependent, I'm sure, but one consideration is flying on small planes (i.e., regional jets such as Bombardier CRJ series). Usually, these have capacity for just a few bikes in the luggage hold. With Delta, it's first-come, first served. You should check about SW, AA, etc.
Also, I do not like flying with my bike when there are transfers. If possible, non-stops limit the potential for headaches.
Also, I do not like flying with my bike when there are transfers. If possible, non-stops limit the potential for headaches.
07-25-21, 06:10 PM
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You need to look at oversized luggage rates and fees.
If this is a frequent trip, it may be a benefit to purchase a folding bike or S&S coupled bike that can fit inside regulation luggage.
If this is a frequent trip, it may be a benefit to purchase a folding bike or S&S coupled bike that can fit inside regulation luggage.
07-25-21, 06:43 PM
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I travel regularly with my bike with no problems at all over probably 50+ flights. I mostly use a helium case but have used a cardboard box when touring. Its always nice to have your own bike. If you can swing the Four Seasons you can pay the surcharge for a bike if there is one it’s really not that big of a deal.
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07-26-21, 03:36 PM
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I also travel frequently with a bike, but my trips are all international. I live in Mexico. A couple years ago, American and, I believe Delta, nixed charging extra fore an oversize bike box, as long as it was 50# or under. Even before this was official policy, I never got charged. You should be fine.
