The Ultimate Packing Guide When Travelling With A Bike
Travelling is an exciting adventure, but more often than not, packing proves to be a challenging feat. More so if you decide to pack light, or even pack your bike. Nevertheless, you don’t have to fret because here is the ultimate packing guide when you are travelling with a bike.
Road travel
If you are taking your bike for a long drive, you have the option of placing it in the trunk, especially if your bike is quite small when disassembled. In taking out your bike apart, make sure that you have the appropriate bike bag where you can secure all loose pieces together. After all, it is not really possible to fit an entire bike in the trunk of a sedan. Another option is to place your bike in the back seat of your car, which can be appropriate if you are travelling solo. In this case, it is still necessary to have the appropriate bike bag where you can store a disassembled bike. This is because in the same manner, it will definitely be a challenge to fit your entire bike in the back seat of your car without taking it apart. Nevertheless, there are instances wherein you need to free up the back seat of your car. This is where hitch bike racks come in. While there are several options, the best ones will perfectly fit your car, and your bike. Some racks even offer a tool-free installation and removal process, making it easy for you to pack away the rack when you no longer need it. With a bike rack, you are saved from the trouble of having to disassemble and assemble your bike.
Air travel
To check in your bike, you need to pack it in a cardboard bike box. The first thing you have to do is take off any of your bike gears such as your GPS, for you need to pack this in your carry-on bag or other luggage. The next step is to take off your seat and pedals, as well as the wheels and quick releases. You also need to loosen the handlebars. Line up the box with bubble wrap or foam and place the gears of your bike on the bottom, with the handlebars on their side. Keep all loose parts in a small bag, which you can tape on one side of the box. Use lots of padding as needed to make your package resilient from damage. You also have the option of sealing your box with a plastic wrap at the airport to make sure that it is waterproof.
Options for air travel
Nevertheless, you actually have other options other than hauling your bike with you. You can actually ship it, but while it can truly be more convenient, you also need to shell out a hefty sum. So if spending hundreds of bucks for shipping costs is not for you, it’s time to pack your bike.
Travelling is truly an exhilarating escapade for many, especially for those longing for a well-deserved adventure break. The challenges posed by packing light or even packing with a bike should not stop you from enjoying the perks of travelling. Thereby, try out the tips above and be stress-free in packing your stuff.