Riding your own bike on a big day like the Sellaronda or the Stelvio is a different experience from hiring one, but getting it there is half the battle. I've flown with my bike plenty of times. Here's what I've learned about airlines, bike boxes, packing, and getting the box to the airport.
Airlines: a real mixed bag
easyJet is the easiest. You book the bike onto the flight as sports equipment, and it's cheaper online than at the airport. Expect roughly £45–£60 per bike, per flight.
British Airways doesn't have a separate bike fee. The bike box counts as one of your normal checked bags, and BA allows larger sizes for sports equipment. Check your fare's weight limit (23 kg or 32 kg) and the size rules before you fly.
SkyAlps flies into Bolzano, much closer to the Dolomites than Verona. Bikes go as sports baggage in a bike box, spaces per flight are limited so book early, and e-bikes aren't allowed.
Whoever you fly with, check the airline's sports equipment page when you book. Rules and prices change.
The box
I use a Bike Box Alan Easyfit Deluxe, a hard case on wheels. On paper it's bigger than some airlines' size limits, but I've never had a problem. A hard case is far more protective than a soft bag. I've heard horror stories and seen bikes being thrown around at airports, and when it's your pride and joy, that peace of mind is worth it. I've never had any damage.
Packing
Airlines and box makers say bike only, with tyres deflated. Personally, I've never had a problem leaving the tyres up, and I pack soft things around the bike, like cycling kit and clothes. My helmet always goes in the box. Check your airline's rules, though: some are strict about bike only.
No compressed gas. Never pack CO2 canisters.
Lock the box. A small lock is worth it. Security sometimes asks you to open the box or remove the lock, but generally it's fine.
Getting to the airport
This is the bit nobody warns you about. Hard bike boxes are big. Mine doesn't fit in my car, and taking one on London public transport is a real challenge.
Taxis can be hit and miss. An Uber XL driver may refuse or make a fuss about putting the seats down. My tip: book an XXL, the big Mercedes vans. The box slides in sideways, and I've fitted two bikes in boxes in one. It's not cheap, but for an early flight it makes the whole journey so much easier.
Rebuilding at the other end
Many of the hotels in the Dolomites have dedicated bike rooms with tools and pumps, so rebuilding is easy. My Arbor has a bike room with cleaning facilities, a bit like a ski boot room.
Planning a trip around a big ride? See our Dolomites guide, or let us plan it for you →