How to pack your helmet when flying to a bike tour

It’s safe to say that wearing a helmet every time you get on a bike is an excellent idea. Helmets greatly reduce the risk of nasty head injuries by nearly 70 percent.  But we occasionally hear grumbles about our policy that requires guests bring their own helmets, especially when they are flying to an international tour.

Why you should wear your own helmet on a bike tour

As a refresher, WomanTours wants you to bring your own helmet for a couple reasons:

·      It will fit you better than most rental helmets.

·      You know your helmet better than anyone else, and can vouch for how well it’s been cared for. Helmets lose their protective qualities after a bad collision, even if they don’t look broken. And over time, exposure to sweat, heat and sunlight will deteriorate the protective inner foam and outer plastic shell, which is why most bicycle safety organizations recommend replacing a well-used helmet after five years. It’s not always possible to know the age or damage history of rental helmets. (For more information about when to replace a helmet, check out this Consumer Reports article.)

How to pack your own helmet on a bike tour

Here’s the good news. Bringing your helmet along on a flight is easier than you think. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows helmets with both checked and carry-on bags. Weight-wise, you’re not adding much. The typical touring bike helmet weights 8 to 12 ounces, about as much as a Starbucks drink. Here are some ways to minimize the inconvenience of flying with a helmet:

·      WomanTours President Jackie Marchand, who probably has accrued more airline miles than the rest of the staff combined, uses the helmet cavity to sack away small items like cycling gloves and socks inside her carry-on bag. Read about her packing tips here.  

·      If you don’t have room in your luggage, fasten your helmet to the outside of your carry-on luggage or backpack using the chin strap and/ or a carabiner. Be sure to fasten it tightly so it doesn’t flop or bounce around. Most airlines are fine with this approach, and you should still be able to put a standard-sized luggage in the overhead compartment. (I’ve been using this packing strategy for the past seven years and have never had a problem.) We don’t recommend attaching your helmet to the outside of checked bags as you don’t know how much the bags will be thrown around and dropped.

·      Consider a folding or collapsible helmet. While the volume of the helmet doesn’t change, the more compact headpiece may make it easier to work around inside your bag.

Your helmet is one of the most important items to bring with you on a bike tour. Pack it with gratitude, as its job is to help you stay safe while riding.