How is best to pack my Brompton bike?

Have a question? Ask our expert Simon Calder

Airlines aren’t keen on passengers taking folding cycles as hand luggage

Q I have a Brompton folding bike, and I understand that you have one too. I’m looking to fly with easyJet from Bristol to France with the bike. I wondered if this should be booked in as normal luggage, or as sports equipment which is more expensive. I spoke to the agents at easyJet who told me to book it in as sports equipment. But if I put it in a suitcase then surely they wouldn’t know? What is your advice?

Sonny B

A A folding bicycle is an ideal travelling companion, and in my experience the Brompton is the best. It weighs about 12kg and collapses down to the size of a large piece of cabin baggage (though I can confirm airlines don’t like them being brought as hand luggage). When you touch down at your destination, you can explore cities or countryside at the ideal pace.