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Sports equipment on the plane
Golf clubs for a holiday in Cyprus, skis for a winter trip to Poland, a bicycle, a board or diving equipment – check how to report, secure and check in unusual luggage.
Updated: September 8, 2026Sports equipment is usually special luggage
Golf clubs, skis, snowboards, bicycles, or surfboards usually don't fit into standard suitcase dimensions. Airlines treat them as sports equipment or special baggage. Typically, you'll need to add the appropriate service to your booking and check in your equipment at the check-in desk, or sometimes at a separate oversized baggage desk.
Don't assume that regular checked baggage automatically includes sports equipment. Rules vary depending on the carrier, fare, route, and dimensions of the equipment. It's best to register your equipment when purchasing your ticket.
Golf clubs on a plane
Cyprus is a popular golf destination, so a club bag is one of the most practical examples of sports luggage on this route.
- pack your clubs in a closed golf bag, preferably with a rigid head cover,
- remove loose accessories and secure the interior from moving,
- weigh the entire set including the bag and shoes,
- add golf equipment to your reservation before arriving at the airport,
- keep photos of the equipment and packaging taken before shipping.
Skiing from Cyprus to Poland
In winter, Cypriots can fly to Poland for holidays or to the mountains. Skis and snowboards are transported as separate sports equipment, in accordance with the chosen airline's regulations.
- use a cover appropriate for the length of your skis or snowboard,
- tie your skis and secure the bindings and sharp edges,
- check if shoes and helmet can be included in the same set,
- do not exceed the weight limit specified by the carrier,
- Arrive at the airport early – equipment may be picked up separately.
Ryanair, Wizz Air and LOT – what to pay attention to?
| Line | How is equipment treated? | The most important things before traveling |
|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | Large golf clubs, skis, and snowboards must travel in the hold as paid sports equipment. The standard weight limit for such equipment is 20 kg; bicycles have a separate weight limit of 30 kg. | Please add the appropriate equipment category to your reservation. Overweight items will be charged extra per kilogram. |
| Wizz Air | Sports equipment requires a separate service and appropriate protection. Packaging rules vary depending on the type of equipment. | Check the current price in your reservation and register your equipment before your flight. Don't wait until you check in at the airport to purchase your service. |
| FLIGHT | The possibility of transport within the limit or for an additional fee depends on the tariff, route, number of pieces, weight and size of the equipment. | Check the ticket limit and confirm your journey in advance, especially if your journey involves a transfer or a section served by another airline. |
Prices may vary depending on the destination and date. The amount shown by the carrier when adding equipment to a specific booking is binding.
Other sports equipment
Bicycle
This typically requires a bike bag or box, deflation of the tires, rotation of the handlebars, and securing of the pedals. Electric bikes are problematic due to their lithium batteries; Ryanair does not accept them.
Diving equipment
The cylinder must be completely empty and the valve prepared for inspection in accordance with the line's requirements. Lamps and battery-powered devices are subject to separate safety regulations.
Surfboards and SUPs
Check the maximum dimensions and available space in the hatch. Remove the fins, deflate the inflatable board, and protect the most vulnerable edges.
Rackets, fishing rods and other equipment
Small, safe equipment can fit in your permitted baggage, but long fishing rods, sticks, clubs, and items that could be used as weapons must go in the hold.
How to prepare equipment for flight?
- Add equipment to your reservation and keep your service purchase confirmation.
- Check the weight limit, maximum dimensions and allowable contents per set.
- Use a strong cover or hard case designed for your equipment.
- Remove or secure protruding parts, straps, ties and sharp edges.
- Do not put random items into the case if the regulations only allow specific equipment.
- Take photos of your equipment and the closed bag before check-in.
- Place your contact details inside and mark the cover on the outside.
- Please arrive early as drop-off may take place at the oversized baggage desk.
Batteries, gas cartridges and flammable substances: Sports equipment containing a lithium battery, CO₂ cartridge, fuel, or other hazardous materials requires separate inspection. Do not pack it without confirming that the carrier specifically authorizes it.
Check the detailed rules of your line
Frequently asked questions
Can golf clubs be taken as regular luggage?
It depends on the airline and the fare. On low-cost airlines, a golf bag is most often a paid sports equipment item. On LOT, the possibility of including it within the limit depends on the terms of the specific ticket and the parameters of the set.
Can skis and boots be in one bag?
Ski kit rules vary between airlines. Before packing your boots or helmet into a bag, check with your carrier for the kit definition and its weight limit.
Does sports equipment need to be registered in advance?
Yes, this is the safest option. The number of large items you can take may depend on hold space, and purchasing the service at the airport may be more expensive or unavailable.
Where do I pick up my equipment upon arrival?
Sometimes it will appear on the regular conveyor belt, but large items are often checked out at the oversized baggage desk. Airport staff or signage in the baggage claim area will provide this information.
This information is intended as a practical guide. Please check the policies in your booking before traveling. Sources: Ryanair – sports equipment, official Wizz Air and LOT websites. See also: All About Luggage – CYPRNEWS.