Originally Posted by
Machka
Are you planning to check in 5 pieces of luggage? Bicycle box and 4 separate panniers? Have you looked at how much that is going to cost you? I don't know of an airline who won't charge you an extra $150+ for each additional bag after 2. Who are you flying with?
Put the panniers into the bicycle box.
Put the contents of the panniers into a single bag ... something foldable. Perhaps even something with backpack features.
I was going to say the same thing but I was going to suggest a cheap duffel.
Even if you discard the duffel after one trip, it would be cheaper than the cost of extra luggage charges.
Hang your helmet from your carryon bag (or wear it onto the plane) and store it in the overhead bin. You do not want your helmet to be crushed in your duffel.