I and friends plan on flying our bikes this spring-and have a stupid question-Will the plane company charge me for checking my bike in addition to luggage? Just wondering how to go about this. Thanks for your help.
~ $80
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check these out:
http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/features/packing.shtml
http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/features/packing-steps.shtml
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There ae several threads on this and methods to possibly get around paying. Note that most of these methods involve tipping the curbside check in person or counter person. Some rely on pure luck, others on e-ticket check in. Most airlines are about 80 each way, Southwest is $50each way. It may be worth it to check on shipping UPS or fed ex. Search the threads for more ways to possibly skirt the fee.
Delta nailed me for $100 each way when I went to the Xterra Mountain Champs. Brutal.
Alaska charges “only” $50
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Fed Ex charged me over $200 one way to overnight my bike.
It’s a crap shoot. I’ve been able to charm/flirt my way to no charge, and I’ve had United (jerks) charge me a bike fee of $60 PLUS an overweight fee of another $60!!! Unless you’re a frequent flyer, the curbside check-in is the best way to go. Also, if you have a small airport to fly out of (eg. Palomar for San Diegans) you’re much more likely to squeek by uncharged. Nowadays, I ship it FedEx or UPS.
Depends on the airline. Some will charge you for it being oversize, then some will also charge you if it’s over 50lbs too. Some airline personnel might let it slip by. I’ve been charged anywhwere from $0 t0 $100. A couple of times after I’ve been charged some amount different from what I was charged before I’ve written the airline and they’ve refunded my money.
check these out:
http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/features/packing.shtml
http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/.../packing-steps.shtml
Wow…once again your site (you) prove an invaluable resource. I’ve flown with road bikes before, but have been stressing about it lately while planning to venture out of state in 2007.