Flying with your bike from the UK can add a significant amount to your travel costs — but the fees vary enormously between airlines. Here’s a breakdown of what the main airlines charge for bikes in 2026, and some tips for keeping costs down.
Important note: Airline fees change regularly. Always check the airline’s website directly before booking — the figures below are approximate guides based on current standard pricing.
easyJet
easyJet charges for bikes as part of their hold luggage allowance. Prices vary depending on your route and how far in advance you book — typically in the range of £45–£70 each way from UK airports. You must pre-book your bike online before arriving at the airport. Maximum bike bag dimensions apply, so check your bike box measurements against their current requirements before travel.
Ryanair
Ryanair treats bikes as oversized sports equipment. Again, pre-booking is essential — bikes cannot be added at the airport. Pricing is similar to easyJet, typically £45–£65 each way depending on route and booking timing.
British Airways
British Airways includes bikes within your standard hold luggage allowance on many fares — making it potentially the cheapest option if you’re already paying for checked baggage. On some routes and fare types the bike is included at no extra charge. Worth checking when comparing overall ticket prices, as a slightly more expensive BA ticket can work out cheaper overall once bike fees are factored in.
Vueling
A popular choice for flights to Spain (including Barcelona, Girona and Mallorca), Vueling charges around £45–£60 each way for bikes. Pre-booking required.
Jet2
Jet2 is popular for holiday destinations including Lanzarote, Tenerife and Mallorca. Bike fees are typically in the £40–£60 range each way.
Tips for keeping costs down
- Book early — most airlines offer lower bike fees when booked well in advance. Fees often increase significantly within 30 days of travel
- Compare total costs — a cheaper base fare with higher bike fees can cost more than a more expensive ticket that includes the bike
- Check weight limits — most airlines have a maximum weight for bikes (usually 30kg). BikeBoxAlan cases weigh around 12–13kg, leaving plenty of allowance for your bike
- Hire rather than buy — if you travel once or twice a year, hiring a bike box is far cheaper than buying one. London Bike Box Hire offers premium BikeBoxAlan cases from just £6/day with 24/7 collection from Wimbledon Chase. Check availability here.