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Before you arrive at the airport, it is critical to know and follow the fundamental rules for traveling with a bicycle on Southwest Airlines. These rules are in place to ensure your bike is transported safely and that you don't encounter unexpected fees.
Bicycle as a Checked Bag: A bicycle, including a Bike Friday or Co-Pilot brand folding bike, is accepted as a checked bag. It is subject to a $75 one-way charge, in addition to any applicable overweight baggage fees. It's a key distinction that unlike some other sports equipment, a bicycle is not a free substitute for a standard checked bag.
Size and Weight Limits: A bicycle must be properly packed in a hard-sided bicycle box or case. The total dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 80 inches. Overweight fees still apply; the bag must be under 50 pounds to avoid a fee. If your bicycle bag exceeds the 50-pound limit, you will be charged an overweight fee. Southwest Airlines will not accept bicycles that weigh over 100 pounds or exceed 80 inches in total linear dimensions.
Proper Packing is Mandatory: Your bicycle must be properly packed to be accepted. Pedals and handlebars must be removed and packaged in protective materials so as not to be damaged or cause damage to other baggage. Bicycles packaged in a cardboard box or a soft-sided case will be transported only with a "limited release of liability." This means the airline is not responsible for any damage that occurs during handling. A hard-sided case is always recommended for protecting your valuable bike.
Other Items in a Bicycle Bag: You can pack your helmet, shoes, and other cycling-related gear in the bicycle case. However, it's essential that the bag remains under the 50-pound weight limit. Packing other personal items may cause the bag to be classified differently and could result in additional fees. You may be asked to open the bag for inspection.
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To check in for a flight with your bicycle, you must go to the ticket counter. Follow these steps for a compliant and easy process:
Prepare in Advance: The most important step is to prepare your bike at home. Remove the pedals and handlebars and pack them securely. It is also a good idea to deflate the tires to a low pressure. Pack the bike in a hard-sided case for maximum protection. Double-check the total weight of your bag to ensure it is under 50 pounds.
Arrive Early at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This gives you ample time to check in your equipment, which will require you to go to a separate oversized baggage line, and proceed through security without feeling rushed.
Go to the Ticket Counter: Head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Verbally and clearly declare that you are checking a bicycle. The agent will then guide you through the process.
Present Your Equipment: Present your bicycle case for inspection and weighing. The agent will confirm that it meets the length and weight limits and is properly packed. You will also be asked to pay the $75 bicycle fee at this time.
Tag Your Item: The agent will place a luggage tag on your bicycle case. They may also apply a "limited release of liability" tag if your case is not hard-sided.
Proceed to the Oversized Baggage Drop: Because of its size, a bicycle case will not be accepted on the standard baggage carousel. The agent will direct you to a special oversized baggage drop-off area where you will place your bag.
Hold Onto Fragile Items: It is a good idea to pack any fragile or valuable items, such as your cycling computer or tools, in your carry-on luggage to ensure their safety.
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Q1: Do I have to pay to check my bicycle?
A1: Yes, a bicycle is subject to a $75 one-way fee, in addition to any applicable overweight fees.
Q2: Is there an oversized baggage fee for my bicycle?
A2: A bicycle is subject to a flat fee of $75, which covers the oversized nature of the item. An overweight fee will be applied separately if the bag exceeds 50 pounds.
Q3: What if my bicycle case is over the 80-inch linear limit?
A3: Southwest Airlines will not accept bicycles that exceed 80 inches in total linear dimensions. You may need to consider a different airline or shipping your bike via a separate carrier.
Q4: Can I check my bicycle at the self-service kiosk?
A4: No, you must check your bicycle at the ticket counter with an agent.
Q5: Can I pack other items in my bicycle case?
A5: You can pack cycling-related items like your helmet, shoes, and clothing. However, the bag must remain under the 50-pound weight limit, and packing personal items may subject the bag to additional fees.
Q6: What happens if my bag is overweight?
A6: An overweight baggage fee will be charged if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. This fee is separate from the $75 bicycle fee.
Q7: What is the check-in deadline for a bicycle?
A7: The standard check-in deadlines apply, but due to the special procedures, it is highly recommended that you arrive at least two hours early.
Q8: Do I have to declare my bicycle at check-in?
A8: Yes, you must verbally declare that you are checking a bicycle so that the agent can ensure all regulations are met.
Q9: What about the tires? Do I need to deflate them?
A9: It is recommended to deflate your tires to a low pressure to prevent them from bursting due to pressure changes at high altitudes.
Q10: Can I use a cardboard box to pack my bike?
A10: Yes, you can, but a cardboard box will be transported with a "limited release of liability." For better protection, a hard-sided case is always recommended.
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