I took my bike to a ride in CA from the UK at no major cost. I was able to rent a box from my LBS for the trip, which was cheaper than buying one myself. A hard shell case weighing 15kg. With the bike it ended up within the weight limit of a normal suitcase. I checked it in as one of my two allowed suitcases and did not end up paying anything extra going there. I did have to pay a 25 dollar fee for it being oversized on the way home again, but had no other problems. Only hassle was maneuvering through London Underground with the big box and a suitcase. Good luck with your race!