Hi Carol,
Over the years, I have had quite a bit of experience with transporting a bike. I have traveled both overseas and domestically but not for the last few years. Always a hassle whatever method you choose. My current bike has SNS couplings where the bike separates and packs into an airline legal size shipping container. Everything packs into a single hard case box. Before this, I have used a cardboard bike box and a lot duct tape. I never had a problem with this but a certain amount of worry and stress. This is the cheapest way to go but a lot of work with disassembly here, assembly at your destination and them finding a box to use with disassembly for the trip home. Bike shops, at least here in the US, generally will give you a box for free that you can use but you may actually need 2 boxes depending on the size of your bike. I have had good luck with this, but it is a bit of work and worry that your bike arrives and in one piece. Some airlines at least used to provide or sell you a bike box at the airport. I don’t know if any airlines still do this. Having a bike shop on both ends to do the packing and receiving is a good option so that at least you can track the shipment and if there is damage the bike will already be at a bike shop. For you, this is probably the best option at least domestically. Another option to consider is to rent a bike. This is the most convenient but most costly. The downside is that this will not be your bike and from my experience rentals bikes are not the best bikes. I have had mechanical issues out on the road. I have rented a bike on tours in New Zealand and Australia (Tasmania) where I have had mechanical issues both times. I don’t know if you are going on an organized commercial tour but very often they can help you with the logistics like recommended bike shops or rentals. Between your bike and all the gear you need to haul, bike touring can be a challenge but has provided some of my best memories and experiences. Here is a link to an article from Adventure Cycling Association that you should find helpful.
https://www.adventurecycling.org/blog/guide-to-shipping-and-flying-with-your-bike/
If you have any questions or need any help let me know. Perhaps others in the club have additional advice. I look forward to hearing about you tour.
Paul Shanahan
shanahanp@comcast.net