The idea of travelling abroad with a bike can be daunting. That’s why our cycle and travel insurance partner, Bikmo has simplified the checks you may want to consider.
Book a cycle service before you travel
Getting a service before your trip is essential so that a bike issue won’t hamper your holiday. Book one at your trusted cycle shop in advance so you don’t miss out – checking tyres, brakes, and chains will give you peace of mind, and if you need any new gear or tweaks, you can get it sorted on the spot.
Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance
Whatever activity you are doing on your bike, it’s vital that you and your bike are properly covered. Home insurance often won't cover you or your bike abroad, and there’s often a high excess and risk of your premiums going up in the event of a claim.
That’s why we partnered with Bikmo to offer British Cycling members a 10%* saving on Bikmo’s cycle and travel insurance.
What’s different between a Bikmo Travel policy and a Bikmo Cycle policy?
Bikmo’s Cycle Insurance thoroughly covers your own bike and kit worldwide. If you took it on holiday, you would be covered in situations such as accidental damage on a tricky descent and emergency cycle hire, from only £3.73*/month. British Cycling members save 10%*when using the link above.
Bikmo’s Travel Insurance policies cover what you expect, such as cancellations, lost baggage, and medical treatment, but also cover when you’re cycling and mountain biking. 7 days European travel cover can cost as little as £16.85.
Bikmo also offers Competitive Travel policies that cover you for more extreme events, such as track competitions and competitive mountain biking.
Use the code BCMEMBER for a 10% discount on travel insurance.
How much does it cost to fly with a bike?
The main cost factor of travelling by plane with a bike depends on the airline you are travelling with. Research the airlines that service your destination before you book your ticket and see which ones offer the best value for cyclists. Some plane operators provide a free baggage service, as long as it’s part of checked luggage; others charge an extra fee.
Sometimes, buying a more expensive ticket is worth it as your bike might be included in your regular baggage allowance, while with cheaper tickets, there is a fixed fee for bikes.
Can you take an electric bike on a plane?
Unfortunately, you can’t take an electric bike on a plane. This is because most e-bikes have lithium batteries, which can catch fire if damaged, so the battery is the issue. Batteries over 160WH are prohibited on a plane.
One option is to take your e-bike (without the battery) and rent a battery when you arrive – you would need to pre-book this at a convenient cycle shop.
Buying the right bike bag for a plane
Purchasing a quality bike bag for the plane is essential.
If you’re unsure how to pack your bicycle for air travel, there are many helpful video tutorials online. Start with this Global Cycling Network video for tips on packing your bike box efficiently.
Don’t forget to pack the essentials
A multi-tool, mini-pump, appropriate sunglasses, a puncture repair kit, and spare inner tubes are all items that are easy to forget. These often fit nicely into your bike box or bag, so there’s no need for extra plane baggage.
Alternative options to taking your bike abroad
Another Another option is to organise a company to ship it for you. SendBike can ship your bike door to door and also sell cardboard bike boxes for ease. Alternatively, you could hire a bike at the destination but do your research to get the best bike rental for the route you’re taking – after that, you can focus on the ride.
Relax, we’ve got you covered
Bikmo’s comprehensive travel cover includes:
- Travel delays and cancellations
- Lost baggage, passport and money
- Medical treatment and hospital stays
Bikmo’s cycling policies start from only £3.73*/month and can cover:
- Theft and accidental damage to your bike, kit and clothing
- 365 worldwide cover and alternative cycle hire
- 25% off e-bike policies** and up to a 50%* saving when insuring multiple bikes
Get a cycle insurance quote in seconds through this link with your 10% discount automatically applied
Get a travel insurance quote in seconds through this link with the code BCMEMBER
*Minimum premium £3.73/mo and policy wording applies. **Compared to regular bike policies. This promotion is provided by Bikmo Limited, 1 Minerva Court, Minerva Avenue, Chester, CH1 4QT, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority ref. 745230. Bikmo travel insurance is arranged and administered by Rock Insurance Services Limited, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FCA number 300317
