Bike Travel Bag for Airplanes?

Looking to do some MTB trips around the US this next year. I need some kind of case or bag that I can fit my Hightower LT in, if anyone has any recommendations?

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Also, it's probably easier to just rent a bike wherever I go.. but I imagine it will be more expensive? Unless the air fare for checking a bike is outrageously expensive? I've never tried so any suggestions are welcome!