Travelling to Mallorca with your own bike is far easier than it looks, as long as you've got the logistics sorted before you set off for the airport. At Hotels VIVA, we know your kit needs to arrive in perfect condition so you can make the most of the island's roads. To help you plan, we've summed up the flight rules and packing tips in a simple, practical guide, with no technical headaches.

1. Airline rules: booking and weight

Book your space in advance: Space for large luggage on planes is very limited. You must add and pay for your bike's transport at the same time as you buy your ticket. It usually costs between €45 and €60 each way. If you turn up at the airport without letting the airline know, there's a good chance your bike won't be able to fly because there's no room.

Check the weight limit: To protect the health of airport staff, airlines don't accept excessively heavy bags. The maximum weight for the whole package (your bike plus the bag or box) mustn't exceed 30 or 32 kg, depending on the airline.

2. Common questions about packing and security

To get through airport checks without your box being opened or any kit being held back, keep these three key points in mind:

Cardboard box or hard case? Both are allowed. A hard case will always give your bike better protection from the usual knocks on the baggage belts. If you go for a cardboard box, make sure you reinforce the corners well and wrap the delicate parts in bubble wrap.

Do I need to let my tyres down completely? This is a very common myth, and the answer is no. If you let all the air out, your rims could bang against the bottom of the box and break. Simply release a little pressure (leaving your tyres at around 2 or 3 bar) so they can cope with the pressure changes during the flight.

Can I bring CO2 cartridges (compressed air)? No. The small cartridges used to inflate tyres quickly are banned on planes for safety reasons. If you pack them, the scanner will spot them and your bag will be held back. The best option is to buy them from any bike shop as soon as you arrive in Mallorca.

3. Basic bike preparation

Before your bike goes into its box, there are a few very simple mechanical steps that will help it take up less space and stay free from damage:

• Remove the pedals and pack them well wrapped (or carry them in your hand luggage).
• Loosen the handlebars, turn them sideways and tie them to the frame so they can't move.
• Remove the front wheel. If your bike has disc brakes, it's very important to place a small piece of plastic or thick cardboard between the brake pads so they don't stick together if the lever is squeezed by accident.

4. Facilities at your hotel: forget about building your bike in your room

Once you land on the island, part two begins: putting your bike back together. At Hotels VIVA, we want this to be easy and mess-free. That's why, at our hotels specially designed for cyclists, such as VIVA Blue & Spa (Playa de Muro) and VIVA Golf Adults Only 18+ (Bay of Alcúdia), you won't have to carry that huge box up to your room or worry about getting grease on anything.

 
When you arrive, you'll head straight to our Cycling Stations. These are spacious areas with CCTV, where you'll find stands to hang your bike, quality tools and pumps. You can reassemble your bike at your own pace and leave it parked with a secure lock. We'll take care of storing your empty box or case until the day you head home.