If you are hiring a car at your destination it’s important to make sure you select the right vehicle.

It might be too late by the time you arrive at your destination airport so plan ahead, before you leave the UK.

Is there more than one cyclist in your party? Is your hire car big enough to carry your bike boxes or bike bags and all your kit (and you)?

The lack of zip-ties saves time and hassle when unwrapping your bike, whereas electrical tape is easy to use and break off. Remember to take extra tape for the return journey. Rubber bands work well if they’re heavy duty enough and can easily hook over components where possible.

If you’re reasonably adept at bike maintenance then securing the rear mech back into place shouldn’t pose any problems; just don’t cross thread the gear hanger. It’s worth taking a spare gear hanger with you anyway, just in case of prangs.

Hopefully you and your bike have made it to your destination without any problems, so finally let’s quickly consider the various restrictions imposed by some airlines.