Bringing in a bike from Aus

[dawn.harris.africa@gmail.com]

Hi all, 

I am looking to assist my sister in-law in bringing in a bicycle from Aus (which may well not go back to Aus).  I COULD fly with it myself, or perhaps an unaccompanied luggage.  Any recommendations / ideas / things to be aware of? 

Thank you!! 

[Dusty]

Dawn, we have flown a few times internationally with bikes so can comment on that route, but not on the unaccompanied option.

You will have to check the regulations of the airline that you are flying. They will have weight and size restrictions. Some charge for sporting equipment and others give a sporting equipment allowance in terms of size and weight.  I choose my airlines around their allowances. Having to pay for extra weight in Dollars adds up very quickly! Do your homework and book your bike on in advance. Don't just arrive at the airport with a bike.

A normal cardboard bikebox generally falls within the size restrictions. These can be obtained from bikeshops who are more willing to give them away especially if you use them to package your bike too. They normally charge a nominal fee for this.

I always insure my bike for the specific journey as I have heard horror stories of crushed bikes etc. Thus far I have not had to claim fortunately.

Flying with bikeboxes has been pretty painless for us. The airports are used to it and most airlines too.

Edited March 3, 2022 by Dusty