2) Use a case which doesn’t advertise its purpose: it’s pretty hard to hide the contents of a case which has “BIKE PRO” or some such emblazoned all over it. In the same vein, disguise your sporty nature as much as possible. Wear something businesslike if you plan to use the “conference materials” line. Definitely leave your track pants and “Wildflower Triathlon” sweatshirt in your carry-on bag and choose something more buttoned-down for the airport. Ponytail is out! Think Ann Taylor as opposed to Adidas.
3) If you’re comfortable with how well your bike is protected, try using a soft-sided case instead of the hard plastic kind; they are less conspicuous. For the best bet at avoiding a charge, get a big suitcase or make a custom one just barely big enough for your frame with fork and cranks removed. Unless you’ve got a huge frame, you should be able to fit your partially disassembled bike plus wheels in a case not much over sixty-seven inches length plus girth (the airline limit is sixty-two inches, but if you’re close no one will think to measure). Removing and re-installing the fork and cranks is easy once you’ve learned, and requires only basic tools.
4) Wrap the tubes of your bike in plumber’s foam tubing or bubble wrap. Not only does it protect your frame from surface scratches and chips, but it also makes it a little less obvious what you’ve got in there should the airline employee open it at the check-in counter (unlikely but possible). Also, get some “Fragile” stickers beforehand and put them on your case. If you have to ask for the stickers at the check-in counter, this may prompt more questions.
5) Pack as lightly as possible. In case the ticketing agent is reasonable, you can always try to squeeze out of a charge by pointing out that you only have one checked bag and one small carry-on. “Look! I’ve only got one forty pound bag to check… can you give me a little break?”
6) Regardless of what kind of case you have, remember to rehearse your lines in advance. Pick a strategy based on your comfort level with half-truths and/or omissions, and get familiar with your answers so you don’t hesitate under pressure! Decide in advance how desperately you want to avoid the charge, and let this desperation guide you if the questioning turns aggressive. Most of all, remember that your bike weighs less than the suitcase full of shoes that the fashionista behind you in line is toting. Don’t give up, and don’t give in!
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