Before Your Flight: CHECK THE AIRLINE’S TERMS & BAGGAGE RULES

Before your trip, check the airline’s website for their sports baggage policy.

For most international flights from Indonesia, your bike usually counts as part of your checked baggage allowance (normally between 23kg – 32kg, depending on the airline). Make sure the combined weight of your bike and bike box doesn’t exceed your baggage allowance. If it does, you’ll need to buy additional baggage.

Total weight incl. bike bag: 24 kg

PACKING DAY

There are so many different bike bags and bike boxes these days. Honestly, as long as it follows the airline’s regulations, just use whatever works best for you.

For this trip, I used the EVOC Road Bike Bag Pro.

Packing a bike isn’t actually difficult once you know which parts need extra protection. The most important areas are the forks, cockpit, pedal derailleur, frame, and wheels. Just make sure everything is well protected and securely packed.

How to pack

Pedals

Take both pedals off and keep them in a small bag or case.

Wheels

Remove both wheels and place them in their wheel compartments. Let some air out of your tires, and put a piece of cardboard or brake blocks between the brake pads in case the brake levers get pressed during trip.

Handlebars

Most bike bags require you to remove or rotate the handlebars and turn them to one side. 

*If you’re using the EVOC Road Bike Bag Pro like I am, you don’t need to remove the handlebars, which makes packing much quicker.

Protection

Wrap important parts like the forks, handlebars, frame, and derailleur with bubble wrap or any protective material to prevent scratches or damage. Tighten all the straps so it stays in place. Most bike bags also have frame protectors that help keep everything secure.

Personal details

Write your name and email address somewhere on the bike bag or box, just in case.

And don’t forget your toolkit! it’ll make rebuilding your bike at your destination much easier.

What about the helmet?

You can technically put your helmet inside the bike bag, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Helmets can crack if they’re squeezed between the bike and other luggage. It’s much safer to bring your helmet as carry on luggage. Most airlines are totally fine with that.

AT THE AIRPORT

In Indonesia, before checking in, you need to declare your bike. The declaration counter is located at Terminal 3, beside the international departure entrance.

I recommend arriving at least 3 hours before your flight, so you have enough time to declare your bike and check in.

*No fee to declare your bicycle.

After that, check in at the airline counter as usual, then bring your bike to the oversized baggage drop.

If you’ve already paid for extra baggage, keep the receipt handy because some airlines may ask to see it.

ARRIVAL

Once you land, the hardest part is over.

Your bike probably won’t come out on the regular baggage carousel. Follow the signs for Oversized Baggage or Special Luggage, where bikes and other large items are usually delivered.

That’s all from me. Good luck, keep away from stairs 🙂 and safe travels!