A summer cycling holiday abroad is a whole heap of fun — new landscapes, fresh roads, and a proper change of scenery. But the logistics of taking your bike with you put many people off. So here's a few tips from us before heading off abroad with - or maybe without - your two-wheeled friend.

Bring Your Own Bike or Hire When You Arrive?

This is the first big decision. Taking your own bike abroad means you’re riding something familiar — your setup, your comfort, your gears. It’s ideal if you're planning long rides, multi-day tours or events where performance and fit really matter.

But it also comes with hassle. Bikes are bulky, delicate, and expensive — not the best combo for checked luggage. You’ll need to pack it properly, pay airline bike fees, and wrestle it through airports and transfers. And there’s always that slight risk of damage or delay in transit.

Hiring a bike when you arrive removes a lot of that stress. No bike box, no airline worries, and you can travel lighter. Many cycling hotspots offer good-quality road and gravel bikes to rent, especially in places like Mallorca, Girona, or the Alps. It’s a great option if your trip is short, or you just want to ride for fun without the commitment of transporting your own gear.

That said, hire bikes can vary in fit and spec — and high demand in peak season can limit your choices. If you’re particular about what you ride, bringing your own might still win out.

How to Pack and Transport Your Bike

If you do decide to bring your bike, packing it properly is essential. A hard-shell bike box gives the best protection, but a well-padded soft bag can also work if packed carefully.

Remove pedals, wheels and handlebars, and secure loose parts with foam or towels. Some airlines ask you to deflate your tyres slightly — check ahead just in case. Label the case clearly and include your contact details inside.

Keep important tools, pedals, and spares in your hand luggage, just in case your main bag takes a detour. And remember: some airlines require you to book bike transport as sports equipment in advance, with additional fees — don’t leave this to the last minute.

Think beyond the airport, too. Will your transfer or hire car accommodate a full bike box? If you're using trains, check luggage restrictions. And when it comes to your accommodation, don’t assume bikes are welcome — some hotels don’t allow them in rooms, and not all provide secure storage. It’s worth checking in advance to avoid any awkward surprises.

Planning a Cycling Holiday Abroad

The best destinations for cycling holidays combine great roads, decent weather, and bike-friendly infrastructure. Look for areas with established cycling routes, reliable bike shops, and (ideally) cafés that won’t blink when you walk in covered in sweat and Lycra.

Do a bit of research into local road rules, too. Some countries require helmets by law. Others expect bikes to use dedicated lanes or keep lights on at all times. Even which side of the road you ride on can trip you up if you're tired or jet-lagged.

If you’re planning longer rides, consider the practical side of fuelling and hydration. Can you easily buy snacks and water on the road? Will shops be open when you’re riding? And don’t forget the little things — chargers for bike computers, enough tubes or sealant for your tyres, and any nutrition you rely on that might be hard to find abroad.

A bit of prep goes a long way, especially if you're riding in remote or unfamiliar areas.

What If Things Go Wrong?

While the aim is to ride without drama, it’s worth knowing what your insurance covers — and what it doesn’t.

Standard travel insurance might include some cover for personal items, but the limits are often low — and bikes are usually excluded or heavily restricted. If you’re relying on travel insurance alone, double-check the small print.

Dedicated bike insurance offers much more specific protection. Just check overseas protection is included — it’s often an add-on, not a given. With protectmybike, you can easily extend your policy with the overseas cover add-on for either 30 or 60 days through your PMB dashboard. 

So before you travel, check:

• Are you covered for damage, vandalism or theft abroad?
• Other things such as Personal Liability? 
• Are there conditions about how the bike must be packed or locked?
• And what is and isn’t covered so as you’re clear before you set off. 

Hopefully you won’t need to claim, but knowing you’re covered adds peace of mind — especially when your bike’s probably worth more than the flight!

Final Thoughts

Taking your bike abroad can turn a good holiday into an unforgettable one — but only if you plan ahead. From choosing whether to bring or hire, to packing, logistics and insurance, it’s all about reducing the unknowns.

Check the details, prep your gear, and know your options. Then you can focus on the good stuff: exploring new roads, hitting new climbs, and finding out just how fun it is to go off the grid — on two wheels.