5 tips for flying from British Airports with your bike

Britons are famous for getting on their bikes and Blighty is a brilliant place for superbly scenic cycle routes – from the Bristol to Bath path to Cornwall’s Camel Trail and London’s Richmond Park to Norfolk’s Cromer Ridge.

But one thing that sometimes slightly spoils cycling staycations is the notoriously unpredictable UK weather, which is one reason cyclists sometimes choose to travel to sunnier climes to top up their tans while indulging in their favourite pastime – whether they prefer the bucolic beauty of European nations like France and Italy or more challenging terrains in Africa, The US or the Caribbean.

If you’re a first-time bike vacationer planning a terrific 2020 trip, don’t fear – these five tips for flying from British airports with your bike will help everything progress as smoothly as a Shimano gearshift.

1. Check Your Airline’s Bike Policy

When you’re considering the types of factors airlines consider when it comes to bikes, it’s worthwhile taking a look at these easyJet bike guidelines.

But when it comes to cost, dimensions and other criteria, every airlines varies slightly, so be sure to check the policy for yours, print it off and take it with you for reference.

2. Get Cycling Travel Insurance

Your cycling holiday will most probably proceed without incident, but for perfect peace of mind, you should ensure that your holiday insurance includes a cycling component.

Alternatively, opt for a specialist cycling insurer such as cycleplan.co.uk or pedalcover.co.uk.

3. Don’t stuff your bike box

Some airlines only allow your loaded bike box to weight 23kg, which is the same as a large hold suitcase – and given that a hard box usually weighs well over 10kg, there’s not a lot left for the bike itself.

So don’t put anything else other than your bike in the box – clothing and equipment can be carried separately in your regular luggage. Watch this YouTube bike box packing video for some great tips.

4. Grab A Great Flight Deal

Unless you’ve got the budget of a Tour de France team, you’ll probably want to save as much cash as possible for when you’re on the road at your destination.

Therefore, grab a cheap flight deal for you, your partner and your party at kayak.co.uk – plan ahead to get the best prices.

5. Book Your Airport Parking

Traveling to your departure point with normal luggage on public transport can be challenging enough, so don’t add to your pre-flight stress levels by trying to haul a bike box on a bus or train.

So find airport parking at Looking4.com for Heathrow and a host other UK hubs and cruise there in your own ride with your wheels safely stashed in your boot – then chill out completely before you board.

So ends our list, but can you add any top tips for flying with a bike? Share them in the comments section – we can’t wait to hear from you!