Traveling With Sports Equipment

Airlines treat sports equipment in different ways. Some count it as part of your normal allowance, others charge a separate fee, and some require you to book it in advance because space in the hold is limited.

Book it in advance

Add sports equipment to your booking as soon as you can. On smaller aircraft, space for bikes or surfboards can be very limited. Turning up with a bike box and no booking risks it not being accepted.

Packing different items

• Golf: a hard case or padded travel cover, with a stiff arm to protect club heads.
• Skis and snowboards: a padded bag, often with boots allowed inside.
• Bicycles: usually in a box or bike bag, with pedals removed and handlebars turned.
• Surfboards: padded board bags, fins removed.

Oversize baggage

Large items usually go to a separate oversize drop point after check-in, and arrive at an oversize belt at the destination. Ask staff where to collect it.

Transport at the destination

Remember the onward journey. A bike box or ski bag may not fit in a standard taxi. Book a larger vehicle or check that public transport allows bulky items.