traveling with a folding bike, going on a plane

[FuckRx]

I have a Dahon folding bike and I'm wondering if I can take it onto the plane like a carry on. It is 26x13x32" folded and about 26lbs. I see strollers quite a bit bigger than that. If I end up having to check it in will it likely get tore up? I'm not gonna buy a bike bag or anything, I don't plan on traveling with it all too much.
Southwest's policy is that there is no extra fee if it is smaller than 60" so it would get charged whatever general luggage charges are.
Anyone have experience traveling with these? Google was kinda/sorta helpful but need a bit more info.

[fireferrets]

Guarantee if you put it in a bag you won't have any problems (provided it fits typical bag rules supplied by carrier). However, if they do have you check it in, it could be damaged as luggage tends to shift when the plane takes off/lands.

[mseintempe]

The bike has to fit into the sizing bin at the ticket counter as well as fit into the TSA's X-ray machine to be allowed into the aircraft cabin as carry on luggage. The only folding bike that I know of that can be taken on is a Brompton and it will also fit into the overhead compartment. We've used ours numerous times that way and have to prove that they can fit every time.

[FuckRx]

the Brompton I think folds into a matchbox from what I've heard, good call on getting a Brompton. I'll have to see what size bags southwest will allow up to the terminal. Because I'm not sure it will fit into the overhead.

[FuckRx]

yea, doesn't fly. their check in bag size limit is 24x16x10. Maybe checking it in would be the only option, in which case I really would worry about damaging it. Does my credit card insure against damaged luggage?

[kendallf]

I take a travel bike along everywhere; it's an S&S coupled full size road bike.  The typical checked baggage size and weight limits are 62" (height + width + depth) and 50 lbs (20kg some places internationally).  I have a dedicated carry case  that is 26"x26"x10" which meets that limit.  They regularly bash the hell out of it, including breaking one of the latches last trip, but the bike usually comes through OK, and I just have to pay any regular checked baggage cost.

Pretty much all of the airlines will allow the bike on, often even unboxed as long as the handlebars are turned sideways and the pedals removed.  This will be a trigger to get charged the bike fee, however, which can be as much as $300 one way internationally.