Travel packing checklist (flying with a bike)

Pre-flight documentation, packing that survives baggage handlers, and the paperwork that wins airline claims.

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One week before

  • Confirm your policy's territorial limits cover the destination — in writing
  • Check the airline's bike fee and box-size rules for your exact fare class
  • Verify claim windows in the airline's contract of carriage
  • Service check: shifting, brakes, tire condition — shops at your destination are unknowns

Packing the bike

  • Photograph the bike assembled, then at each packing stage, timestamps on
  • Pad the frame: derailleur off (not just shifted), rotors removed or protected
  • Deflate tires partially (not fully — they protect the rims)
  • No CO2 cartridges in the bike box (they get confiscated, box gets opened)
  • Serial number + contact card inside the box
  • Weigh the packed box at home; overweight surprises cost more than fees

At arrival

  • Photograph the box at the carousel BEFORE opening — all sides
  • Open and inspect at the airport if any damage is visible
  • Damage? File a written PIR at the baggage desk before leaving the terminal
  • Submit the airline claim online the same day, photos attached

From the insuremy.bike Learning Center — free to share. insuremy.bike/resources/