Bicycle
Bicycles aren't accepted as carry-on and must be checked, usually boxed, with size and fee policies that vary a lot by airline.
Carry-on
Not allowed
Checked
Check with your airline
Carry-on details
Not allowed. A bicycle is far too large for carry-on — it can't meet any airline's carry-on size limits and must travel as checked baggage.
Checked-bag details
Check with your airline. Nearly every airline accepts bicycles as checked baggage, but the packaging requirements (bike box vs. padded bike bag), size/weight limits, and fees vary a lot by carrier — some charge a flat sports-equipment fee, others treat it as an oversized bag with a much higher charge.
Special instructions
Pack the bike in a hard bike box or padded bike bag, turn the handlebars, and deflate tires slightly to handle pressure changes. If it's an e-bike, the lithium battery must be removed and carried in the cabin — spare lithium batteries aren't allowed in checked baggage.
FAQ
- Can I bring my e-bike's battery in checked luggage?
- No — remove the lithium battery from an e-bike and carry it in the cabin. Spare lithium batteries are prohibited in checked baggage due to fire risk.
- Do I need a bike box to check my bicycle?
- Most airlines require some form of protective packaging, either a rigid bike box or a padded bike bag. Requirements vary by carrier, so check before you fly.
Related items
Sources: TSA — What Can I Bring?, FAA — PackSafe (Hazardous Materials) · Last verified: 2026-07-30
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.