A cycling holiday is an incredible way to explore new landscapes and challenge yourself on different terrains. Whether you’re planning a warm-weather training camp or tackling iconic climbs in the mountains, ensuring your bike arrives safely is paramount. If flying is part of your journey, a dedicated Bike Suitcase is essential for secure transportation. The best bike suitcases and bags are specifically designed to shield your valuable bicycle from the rigors of travel. Stories of damaged derailleurs or cracked carbon frames upon arrival highlight the critical importance of selecting a reliable bike suitcase or travel case.
For cyclists with steel or aluminum frames, soft bike bags might seem appealing due to their lower cost and ease of storage when not in use. However, for those transporting carbon fiber bikes or high-value models, a hard case bike suitcase offers superior protection. While hard cases are more expensive and bulkier to store, the enhanced security they provide is often worth the investment. Many cyclists opt to rent hard cases for occasional trips due to storage and cost considerations.
Regardless of whether you choose a soft bag or a hard case bike suitcase, ensure your bike fits without excessive dismantling. Road bikes generally pose no problem, but larger mountain bikes might require careful measurement to confirm compatibility.
To help you choose the right option, we’ve rigorously tested numerous bike bags and suitcases. Below are our top recommendations, followed by key factors to consider when selecting the best bike suitcase for your cycling needs.
If you’re driving to your cycling destination, explore our guides to the best bike racks for cars and the best caravan and motorhome bike racks for alternative transport solutions.
Quick Picks: Top Bike Suitcases
Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 bike bag
Best Overall: Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 – A well-rounded bike suitcase balancing protection and ease of use.
Evoc bike travel bike bag
Best for Ease of Use: Evoc Bike Travel Bike Bag – A user-friendly soft bike suitcase with excellent padding and accessibility.
LifeLine EVA Bike Pod against a white background
Best Value: LifeLine EVA Bike Pod – An affordable semi-rigid bike suitcase offering good protection for the price.
Orucase B2 bike travel case
Most Portable: Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case – A lightweight and compact bike suitcase ideal for multi-modal travel.
Thule Roundtrip bike bag
Best with Stand: Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Bag – A versatile bike suitcase with an integrated work stand for on-the-go maintenance.
VeloVault 2 bike box
Most Robust: VeloVault2 Bike Box – A heavy-duty hard case bike suitcase providing maximum protection for your bicycle.
Detailed Reviews: Best Bike Suitcases for Cycling Travel
When choosing a bike suitcase, understanding the nuances of each type is crucial. Let’s delve into detailed reviews of our top picks, examining their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Best Overall Bike Suitcase
Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Bike Bag with a bike packed away inside
1. Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 Road Bike Travel Bag
The Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 consistently earns top marks as the best overall bike suitcase. The Cycling Weekly tech team frequently uses this bike suitcase for international bike transportation due to its blend of security and user-friendliness. Packing a bike is remarkably quick, typically taking only 15 minutes, and reassembly is even faster.
This bike suitcase features a soft fabric exterior concealing an internal metal frame. You secure your bike frame to this structure using quick releases, ensuring immobility and enhanced security. Minimal disassembly is required – simply remove the wheels. Handlebars remain straight, eliminating the need for twisting, which, while creating a slightly bulkier front profile, maintains excellent protection. The bike suitcase includes designated pockets for wheels, helmets, and shoes, and importantly, elevates the rear derailleur off the ground, minimizing damage risk.
Read more: Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Road Bike Travel Bag full review
Specifications:
- Weight: 8.2kg
- Dimensions: 115 x 95 x 28cm
- Frame size: Up to 62cm
Reasons to Buy:
- Quick and easy packing process.
- Minimal bike disassembly.
- Frame is elevated and secured.
- Ample padding for protection.
- Separate compartments for wheels and accessories.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Rear derailleur protection could be improved.
- Bulky design may not fit easily in smaller cars.
Best Bike Suitcase for Ease of Use
Multi-coloured Evoc bike travel bag
2. Evoc Bike Travel Bike Bag
The Evoc Bike Travel Bike Bag stands out as the best bike suitcase for ease of use. While hard cases offer maximum protection, their bulkiness and weight can be drawbacks. Soft cases like the Evoc provide a practical alternative, offering sufficient protection without the storage and weight hassles. Cycling Weekly has successfully used this bike suitcase for numerous press bike transports without incident. External wheel compartments initially raised concerns, but after over 10 flights, no damage occurred.
The Evoc excels in user-friendliness. The wide side opening simplifies bike loading, and Velcro straps ensure parts are securely positioned. The updated model features a reinforced front zip for increased durability.
Read more: Evoc bike travel bike bag full review
Specifications:
- Weight: 8.6kg
- Dimensions: 130 x 80 x 27cm
Reasons to Buy:
- Extremely easy to use and pack.
- Included bike padding kit for added protection.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Soft case offers less impact protection than a hard case bike suitcase.
Best Value Bike Suitcase
LifeLine EVA Bike Pod
3. LifeLine EVA Bike Pod
For cyclists seeking an affordable bike suitcase, the LifeLine EVA Bike Pod is the best value option. This semi-rigid bike suitcase provides more protection than a basic soft bag at a budget-friendly price. Its compact design accommodates smaller bikes with minimal disassembly. It rolls on two rear wheels and stands on two front feet. Quick-release wheels (not thru-axles) can be attached externally.
While maneuverability is generally good, lifting the front end for longer distances can be tiring due to the handle design. The flexible sides necessitate careful internal padding to prevent crushing. Concerns exist regarding the durability of the feet and zipper with frequent use, but for occasional flyers, the LifeLine Bike Pod offers excellent value.
Read more: LifeLine EVA Bike Pod full review
Specifications:
- Weight: 6.5kg
- Dimensions: 1200mm x 907mm x 280mm
Reasons to Buy:
- Very inexpensive bike suitcase option.
- Accommodates a bike with minimal disassembly.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Flexible sides offer less crush protection.
- Feet may be prone to damage.
Most Portable Bike Suitcase
Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case
4. Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case
The Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case is the top choice for portability. This lightweight bike suitcase includes backpack straps and a rolling chassis, making it exceptionally convenient for navigating airports and various modes of transport. Its compact size is ideal for space-constrained travel.
The B2 requires more bike disassembly than some other options, demanding confidence in bike reassembly. It can feel slightly unbalanced when rolling, and while not cheap, its portability and potential for avoiding oversized baggage fees make it a worthwhile investment.
Read more: Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case full review
Specifications:
- Weight: 6.8kg / 15lbs
- Dimensions: 74 x 86 x 23cm / 29 x 34 x 9″
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptionally portable and easy to maneuver.
- Great for trips involving multiple transport types.
- One of the lightest bike suitcases available.
- Compact and easy to store.
- Unique backpack strap feature.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Requires significant bike disassembly for packing.
- Can be slightly unstable when rolling.
- Frame protection kit is recommended extra purchase.
Best Bike Suitcase with Integrated Stand
Thule Round Trip Pro XT bike bag
5. Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Bag
The Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Bag offers unique versatility with its built-in work stand. This reinforced softshell bike suitcase provides good protection, though it’s pricier than comparable options and has some potential weak points.
Despite minor drawbacks, it’s a solid choice, especially for cyclists who appreciate the convenience of an integrated work stand. The base of the bike suitcase transforms into a functional work stand by attaching three legs, a valuable feature for on-the-go bike maintenance during your cycling holiday.
Read more: Thule RoundTrip Pro XT review
Specifications:
- Weight: 8.6kg
- Dimensions: 126 x 89 x 30cm
Reasons to Buy:
- Doubles as a bike work stand.
- Integrated wheels for easy transport.
Reasons to Avoid:
- More expensive than other tested bike suitcases.
- Some potentially weak areas in construction.
Most Robust Bike Suitcase
Blue Velovault2 bike box
6. VeloVault2 Bike Box
For ultimate protection, the VeloVault2 Bike Box is the most robust bike suitcase. This heavy-duty hard case provides maximum peace of mind when flying with your bike. Its sturdy construction ensures lightweight carbon frames remain safe from damage.
While heavier at 12.5kg, it generally stays within airline weight limits. High-quality clasps, ease of closure, and smooth-rolling wheels highlight the attention to detail. The VeloVault2 includes a new carrying handle, longer wheelbase, improved strut design, and roof box compatibility.
Read more: VeloVault2 full review
Specifications:
- Weight: 12.5kg
- Dimensions: 122 x 90 x 30cm
Reasons to Buy:
- Spacious interior.
- High-quality and durable fixings.
- Extremely sturdy construction.
- Made in the UK.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Heavyweight at over 12kg.
Expert Advice for Using Your Bike Suitcase
Choosing the right bike suitcase is only half the battle. Proper packing is crucial to ensure your bike arrives at your destination unscathed.
How to Pack Your Bike in a Bike Suitcase
Packing your bike for travel requires careful steps, which may vary slightly depending on your specific bike suitcase model. However, the general process includes:
- Remove Pedals: Detach pedals from crank arms.
- Deflate Tires & Remove Wheels: Partially deflate tires and remove both wheels.
- Remove Seatpost & Saddle: Take out the seatpost and saddle assembly.
- Handlebar Removal: Either detach handlebars from the stem or remove the handlebar and stem together from the steerer tube.
- Rear Derailleur: Undo the rear derailleur from the frame (leave it attached to the chain).
- Secure Frame & Components: Use manufacturer-recommended methods to secure the frame and components inside the bike suitcase.
- Pack Tools: Don’t forget to pack essential tools for bike reassembly!
For advanced users, further disassembly like removing the chainset might offer added protection, but it requires more mechanical skill for reassembly and additional tools.
Bike Bags vs. Bike Boxes: Which Bike Suitcase Type is Best?
The choice between bike bags and bike boxes—both types of bike suitcases—depends on balancing protection and practicality. Hard case bike suitcases (boxes) offer superior protection against impacts, while soft bags are generally lighter and easier to carry.
Lighter bike suitcases reduce baggage weight, improving portability and minimizing potential baggage surcharges. Soft bags are typically more affordable, but hard cases provide greater peace of mind, especially for valuable bikes.
Hybrid bike suitcases bridge the gap, incorporating structural elements into soft bag designs for enhanced protection while maintaining a lighter weight. Some advanced bike suitcases feature integrated frame stands for secure bike mounting inside.
Do You Need Extra Padding for Your Bike Suitcase?
Regardless of your bike suitcase type, additional padding is highly recommended for vulnerable areas. Bubble wrap and foam tubing are excellent choices. Check with your local bike shop; they often have excess packing materials from bike deliveries. Focus padding on the frame, especially where components or other items might rub during transit.
A road cyclist riding with a mountain in the background
How We Test Bike Suitcases
The ideal bike suitcase balances robust protection with lightweight design, ease of transport, and simple packing. Our testing process involves using these bike suitcases to transport various bikes on numerous flights. Each bike suitcase is packed and unpacked multiple times. While all tested models provided adequate protection against transit damage and were reasonably easy to use, each has unique advantages and disadvantages to consider when making your choice. We rigorously evaluate these factors to provide you with the best recommendations for your cycling travel needs.
