I have a Surly Disc Truker and keep the rear rack on when it was packed into the box and would be flying with the box. Shipping bike ahead of time, to me, is a little unreliable - would rather be able to ride my bike up until a few days before heading over, and you never know how long it'll take to ship, cost, etc. I live in a pretty secluded area, no walmarts or REI or anything, and don't own a lightweight duffel - I think I have one, but I don't think it would fold up too nicely. I'll have to double check and take a look.

My Ireland trip...the LBS where my Aunt lived was probably the best customer service i've ever experience from a LBS. The guy gave me this little nipple-adapter thing that worked on gas-station air pumps. So I just pumped my tires up that way, left the floor pump at my Aunts and used it when I did rides out from her house (day trips). Going to be more remote in Wales, using campsites etc, so need a pump with me this time.

Not sure if tent and sleeping bag + pad will fit in the box with everything else, and not exactly something I want damaged enroute.