Bike Boxes and Bags · Cycling ·

Flying With a Bike: Airline Rules for 8 Major Airlines (UK Guide)

Planning on flying with a bike? Every airline has its own rules on bike transport, and getting caught out at check-in can mean extra fees, a refused booking, or your bike left behind altogether.

Some airlines want months of notice before you fly. Others need just 24 hours. Weight limits, battery restrictions, and packaging rules also vary widely from carrier to carrier.

To help you plan ahead, we've pulled together the current rules for 8 popular airlines. Always double check with your airline directly before booking, as these policies can change.

Do All Airlines Accept Bikes?

Most major airlines will transport bikes in the hold, but almost none of them treat it the same way as standard luggage. You'll typically need to:

  • Contact the airline in advance (anywhere from 24 hours to 2 months, depending on the carrier)

  • Confirm the size and weight of your bike box or bike bag

  • Pay an additional fee, which varies by route and airline

  • Check whether electric bikes are permitted, as many airlines restrict or ban lithium battery transport

Because the rules differ so much, it's worth checking well before you book your flight, especially if you're travelling with an electric bike or a bike over 23kg.

Hire your bike box from Adventure Kit Hire.

Airline Bike Transport Rules

  • Bikes and folding bikes can only be transported in the hold with prior approval from the customer service department

  • Requests must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure

  • Electric bikes are accepted only if the battery has been removed (batteries over 160 Wh are strictly forbidden onboard)

  • An additional fee applies at the airport, which varies based on geographical zone

  • Extra fees may apply if the bag or box exceeds 23kg

  • Call at least 72 hours before you fly to confirm the size, and where possible, the weight, of your bike container

  • Non-motorised pedal bicycles only

  • Size limit of up to 190 x 95 x 65cm (75 x 37.5 x 25.5in)

  • Handlebars must be flush with the frame

  • Pedals must be removed or flush against the frame

  • Bicycles with hydraulic suspension or brake systems are accepted

  • Electric bicycles are not permitted

  • A non-refundable fee applies

  • A bicycle can be added at the time of booking or after your flight has been booked

  • If taking a bicycle as checked luggage, contact Emirates at least 24 hours in advance

  • Special packaging rules may apply

  • You can bring your bicycle for a fee, calculated based on your travel route

  • Reserve as early as possible, and no later than 48 hours before departure. The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing space on the aircraft

  • Maximum weight of 30kg

  • Electric bicycles cannot be transported

  • A bicycle can be added at the time of booking or after your flight has been booked

  • If you're taking sports equipment, call TUI at least 2 months before you travel on 0203 451 2695 to pre-book it

  • If you don't pre-book, TUI may refuse to carry your equipment at the airport

  • Bicycles are included in your baggage allowance, provided they don't exceed 23kg

  • If your bike is checked-in baggage weighing between 23kg and 32kg, an overweight baggage charge applies

  • Non-motorised bikes only

If you're flying with a bike for a triathlon, sportive, or cycling holiday, a well-fitted bike box or bag can be the difference between arriving stress-free and arriving with a damaged bike. Our range of hire bike boxes and bags is built to meet the size and protection standards most airlines expect, so you can travel with confidence without the cost of buying one outright.

Ready to Fly With Your Bike?

Hiring a bike box or bag takes the guesswork out of packing for air travel, and saves you storing bulky equipment at home for the rest of the year. Browse our range and get your bike travel-ready today.

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