Cycling through peaks and valleys around the globe can be an invigorating experience, but especially so when you’re on your own two wheels. Bringing your bicycle along for your trip — whether into a new city or on a cycling-specific road trip — is well worth it for those who live and breathe to bike or who want a budget- and eco-friendly way to get around a new city or country.
Bringing your bike along for the ride might seem like a frivolous or difficult endeavor, but it’s actually just as easy as checking another suitcase — if you have the right gear for the job, that is.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite bike cases, bike bags and bike boxes that will suit every budget and type of traveling cyclist.
A hard-shelled bike case will be your best bet if you’re looking for something ultra secure that can withstand bumps and bruises along the way. That said, you’ll want to look for something that is relatively lightweight and easy enough to carry from point A to point B, as hard-case bags can be heavy. Built-in wheels and straps should be near the top of your priority list.
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B&W International Bike Case
The B&W International Bike Case is a comprehensive option that’ll ensure your bike arrives without any bruises or bangs, thanks to the heavy-duty plastic shell, several layers of protective foam and built-in straps for additional support. The B&W case also earns points for its convenient rolling design and handles that help make weaving through the airport as easy and stress-free as possible.
CompetitiveCyclist
Aerotech Evolution X TSA Case
The Aerotech Evolution X TSA Case might be on the expensive end, but it’s worth the investment for anyone looking for a lightweight and sturdy option for keeping their bike as secure as possible. The case weighs in at just over 24 pounds, which means you’ll be able to easily pack your bike and additional accessories without worrying about having to pay for overweight baggage fees. It's also equipped with two TSA-compliant locks as well as shock-absorbing pads to keep your gear safe.
$799.95 $688.50 at Amazon
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Thule Round Trip Pro XT Bike Travel Case
This hybrid bike travel case is a great option for those looking for the benefits of a hard travel case without the added weight or bulk. The Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Travel Case features a rugged nylon shell and sturdy aluminum click rail to protect your bike from bumps or bangs. It also features an integrated bike holder stand that makes it easy to assemble and disassemble your bike on the go. It can fit most road, mountain and cyclocross bikes with a wheelbase of up to 46 inches.
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SUNLITE Road Warrior UL Bike Case
The Sunlite Road Warrior UL Bike Case is a great incognito solution to traveling with a bicycle. The squared-off design looks more like a regular suitcase than a bike travel case, but rest assured that the heavy-duty case doesn’t skimp on the protection of your gear or ease of use. The interior includes removable urethane roller wheels designed to make packing even more simple regardless of your bike's size.
Bike bags are a much more affordable solution than traditional bike cases, but soft-sided cases can be slightly less reliable than hard-shelled alternatives. Look for something with ample straps for easy transport, but make sure the bag has adequate padding to keep your bike secure while in transit.
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CamGo 26 Inch Folding Bike Transport Bag
Looking for a budget-friendly design that won’t skimp on protection? The CamGo 26-Inch Folding Bike Transport Bag is the most affordable option on this list, but we particularly like its lightweight design and built-in shoulder straps. It's made of a waterproof nylon fabric that can be used for any kind of travel with your bike — from air travel to train, in the car and beyond. It weighs in at just about 4 pounds and has room for an extra pair of clothes, a helmet or other small accessories.
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Aophire Folding Bike Bag
Crafted from heavy-duty 600D oxford fabric, the Aophire Folding Bike Bag is ultra durable and long-lasting. The bag can withstand multiple layovers and baggage claims without tearing or becoming worn, while the structured siding will ensure your bike arrives without a scratch. It can fit a regular 26-inch bike or up to 27.5-inch bikes when the wheels and handlebar come off. Plus, it's got convenient straps that make the bag easy to carry on your journey to the airport.
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Rhinowalk Folding Bike Carry Bag
The Rhinowalk Folding Bike Carry Bag is a great option for those working with limited space. The folding design can easily pack down into the size of a handbag, making it super easy to store in a suitcase or carry-on bag when not in use. The multipurpose bike travel bag is also wear-resistant and waterproof, so it's durable enough for any number of adventures, including air travel. Plus, a shoulder strap makes the bag easy to carry during your journey.
CompetitiveCyclist
Scicon Travel Basic Bike Bag
This subtle and lightweight bike bag is going to be the easiest to sling over your shoulder and go. That being said, it might not be the best option if you’re looking for something suitable to check and fly with. The lightly padded bag offers just enough protection for light travel by bus or train, but the roomy interior means that you don’t have to fully disassemble your bike in order to fit it in. It can fit one standard road bike without removing its handlebars.
Bike boxes come in a variety of materials and price points. The lack of handles or straps can make this option difficult to transport through the airport, but they can be a great option for shipping.
CompetitiveCyclist
Tri All 3 Sports Velo Safe Custom Road Bike Case
The Tri All 3 Sports Velo Safe Custom Road Bike Case is not going to be the most convenient option for lugging through the airport, but it’s leagues ahead in terms of durability and protection. The hard-shell travel box is crafted from “nearly indestructible” polyethylene, and industrial-strength latches can be locked to ensure the utmost protection for your bike. It does have wheels for easy transport as well as hand straps, but if you're lugging it far, you may want something more convenient.
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B&W International Bike Folding Box
This folding bike box by B&W International is an excellent option for those looking for a hard-shelled option that is easy and convenient to pack down when not in use. The folding bike travel box is crafted from a heavy-duty polypropylene shell that ensures maximum protection, while the folding design can pack down to fit in a suitcase when not in use.
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