best travel electric guitar 2023

10 Best Travel Electric Guitars in 2023

Typically many of us will opt to take a scaled down acoustic on our travels, but for some, the need to plug and play is just too much. Fortunately, many companies have cottoned on to what we want, so today we are reviewing the 10 best travel electric guitars in 2023.

Who hasn't been camping and craved their six-string companion? Who doesn't want to risk hauling their high-end guitar around for the weekend? A travel electric guitar is a sensible solution that won't set you back too much thanks to a saturated competitive market.

Table of Contents

At a glance: Our top 3 picks

1. stewart electric travel guitar, 2. traveler ultra-light travel guitar, 3. traveler guitar spd hrr v2 speedster, 4. shredneck travel guitar - cherry sunburst, 5. anygig age, 6. traveler guitar 6 string acoustic-electric guitar, 7. sing f ltd anygig guitar enhanced, 8. traveler guitar 6 string eg-1 blackout electric, 9. hofner hctshcgo cadillac green travel, 10. traveler guitar full-scale natural electric bundle, what is a travel electric guitar, can i take an electric travel guitar on a plane.

Electric travel guitars are a relatively new trend, though many manufacturers have been marketing ¾ scale or junior models for years. A smaller model, in general, is a quick fix solution but many guitarists can feel clumsy on a smaller sale fingerboard that doesn't allow for fine flourishes. Some companies are a little more on the current than others and are developing some rather genius ways to reduce the size of the guitar without reducing its neck or fret presence.

There are a host of different  travel guitars that provide the vital portability required for rocking out on a road-trip each boasting superiority over the next, or under-cutting one another for prime position on the best -sellers list.

With so many to choose from it can quickly become a tough market to navigate, and often its not clear exactly what each model offers over its competitor. To help make your shopping a little less taxing we are going to compare ten worthy candidates for best travel electric guitars and answer your recent inquiries in our buyers guide section.

• Incredibly compact size for transit.
• Forward thinking design concept.
• Regular guitar with an assemble yourself attitude.

View The Best Travel Electric Guitar Below

First up we have a full-scale electric guitar model which has a completely removable bolt-on neck. It is a little smaller than a Stratocaster, exceptionally well built but a little pricey.

It comes apart with ease and the strings stay attached to the tuning machinery. They neatly hang over the cutaway wings (or horns) of the Strat-like body contours. You then place the neck behind the body at a diagonal angle, so that the whole instrument has a footprint no larger in dimension than the body itself.

Obviously, this is going to mean some fumbling with assembly when you travel to and from places, but the designers have found a way around size issue without compromising on the scale of the instrument, which is neat.

Pros: + Incredibly compact size for transit. + Forward thinking design concept. + Regular guitar with an assemble yourself attitude.

Why We Liked It - It is a rather unusual solution, which undoubtedly impacts the footprint of the instrument, nearly halving it altogether.

For Beginners - Travel guitars can be amazing picks for beginner or advanced guitarists as these instruments make it easy to practice while on the go. These can also serve as introductory instruments if you're still ironing out the basics. Plus, many of these guitars come with a convenient gig bag as a standard.

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Now for a compact light-weight ¾ sized full-scale solid-body guitar. The body shape has been more than halved on this travel guitar, it is shaped sort of like an oar it has two cut outs either side of where the neck meets which house the in-body tuning hardware. This innovative placement eliminates the space required for a traditional headstock. It has a detachable lap rest which makes playing it a little easier.

It weighs 68% lighter than most full-size electric guitars and is 28% shorter. Its unique design and non-typical dimensions mean it needs a tailored carry-case which they have fortunately included in the price.

Pros: + Ultra-compact body. + No head stock. + Premium wood.

Why We Liked It - Its a stylish little travel companion and super lightweight, it holds great intonation and plays well.

Another model from traveler which also features their proprietary tune-o-Matic in-body tuning methods is their Speedster V2. It again features a tiny solid body, but this time incorporates a detachable upper armrest to support your strumming hand, it removes to further reduce the footprint of the instrument for traveling around.

It has a one-piece neck-through design crafted from Easter American hard maple. It offers sonic versatility and features a meaty humbucking pick-up with a coil-split for awesome distortion. It is a little heavier than the Ultra-Light model but still around 58% lighter than the average full-size electric guitar.

It also has an auxiliary output for headphone listening and silent practice, ideal for traveling from hotel to hotel without noise complaints.

Pros: + Compact. + In-body tuning, + Detachable rest.

Why We Liked It - Some of the more radically redesigned solid body travel options just feel too unfamiliar to play for some, the detachable rest brings back the added comfort a full size contoured body gives a guitarist.

Sound Quality - Note that with travel instruments you most likely will be sacrificing some level of sound quality. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing, this might not be your "one and only" guitar if you're a sucker for that classic electric sound. These guitars certainly have their purpose although for portability alone.

Next up we have another superb scaled down model its ¾ length is what makes it most suited to being a good traveling option. It has a typical ¾ sized body, so there is no loss in the natural acoustics of the instrument, it is a little streamlined to help with shedding little weight.

It is competitively priced and durably built. It features the familiar contours of a Les Paul and is decked out in a gorgeous cherry sunburst color design that is as appealing as its price-tag . It really is a miniature guitar in appearance but plays mightily enough.

It harbors 2 humbucking pickups and 3-way switching for tone sculpting your sound to your preference. It has a wide maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard with crown inlays. It comes, thoughtfully with a custom gig-bag suitable for its aberrant head-stock

Pros: + ¾ scale model. + Les Paul look. + Double humbucking pickup for heavier players.

Why We Liked It - It is a fab short scale guitar, which for a travel solution is an easy option. It features a familiar form which is comfortable and preferable for many musicians, especially if the unconventional compact models have bodies which don't appeal to you because you find them simply too bizarre.

This is one of two Anygig models we are having a nose at, The AGE model is a pretty awesome take on a travel guitar design. It is remarkably compact in the body department and once again has no headstock. The strings are instead tuned via a tune-o-Matic style system in 3 dedicated sets of 2 tuners located around the top, side, and bottom of the minute maple body.

The neck is u-shaped and also maple, it supports a rosewood fingerboard with a 400mm radius and a 42mm nut width.

They feature a full 24 frets but are around 75-80% lighter than a full-size electric guitar which is pretty astonishing. They come in a full range of bright colors.

It is bestowed with an own brand made in-house Anygig Glow Humbucker pickup which thickens the sound efficiently. The manufacturers have forgone any onboard pre-amp equalization or gain controls to maintain minimum size weight and fabrication costs. Instead, it features a square Les Paul-style output connection.

Pros: + Affordably priced model. + Distinctly compact body. + Tune-o-matic hardware. + Humbucking pick-up.

Why We Liked It - It is another very different take on a travel guitar, it is unbelievably small and the manufacturers have included a detachable rest for extra comfort as these atypical instruments take a little getting used to. It is genuinely mind-boggling how much you can cut out and still get a jam-tastic travel worthy instrument, this little guy weighs just 1.4kgs which is practically unbeatable.

Back to travelers' dynamic range of travel options, this time for a model that in essence matches all of the specs of the original Ultra-Light model, but has seen some refinements in circuitry as well as a trendy new face-lift. It comes in an array of tasty color options and features the same important factors as its progenitor.

It weighs just over 2lbs and sports the same oar-like design shape with a detachable metal leg-rest stand.

The tuning is once again in-body saving on the space a head-stock can hog, and reducing the length of the instrument to around 30% smaller than most ¾ sized full-scale guitars.

It is beautifully machined from solid maple and is a one-piece neck through model like the rest of the gang. It benefits from a black walnut fingerboard. It features an updated piezoelectric pickup for amplification and comes with a gig-bag made especially to fit its curious form.

Pros: + Eye-catching range. + In body tuning. + Updated pickup.

Why We Liked It - Traveler know a thing or two about product innovation and when it comes to a good travel guitar the clue is in the guitar brand name , every aspect of these guys has clearly been designed with traveling in mind from start to finish.

Over to an alternative super-compact model from Anygig guitars travel series. The Sing model is actually even smaller the Traveler Ultra-Light designs. It features on-board body-tuners which are located top and bottom of its tiny body. It is ergonomically designed with a handy comfortable detachable arm rest bone.

It is a 3-piece u shaped neck design all pieces are solid maple. It has great resonance and despite its smaller surface area, plays deceptively well. The company has opted for a sonokelin rosewood fingerboard, it harbors full-scale frets which are dotted for you and it comes with a fully-adjustable carry-bag.

The pickup is an open black Humbucker, directly mounted and it features a square output jack similar to a Les Paul. A noteworthy point is it features no pre-amp controls, opting to go without again reduces the size and weight and ultimately the price tag. It has great natural levels to send and you can shape your tone with most decent amps or maybe plug in via a pedal board if you are pickier.

Pros: + Ergonomic design. + Super-compact body. + No head-stock.

Why We Liked It - This tiny travel buddy weighs even less than the Ultra-Light Travelers we have heavily highlighter in this article coming in with a net weight of just 1.5 lbs which is incredible. We like its extrinsic body style, it actually resembles a large head stock and neck in reverse with no body at all.

The blackout electric is a traveler guitar model that stays true to a more traditional guitar, its body though smaller, by comparison, emulates that early telecaster look, with a hook cutaways for further fret access.

It harbors a proprietary in body tuning system for the same head-stock elimination the smaller lighter models boast. It is definitely on the heavier side but it is a well-built full-size ¾ scale electric guitar with a larger footprint than some of their more unconventional designs.

It produces some exceptionally heavy tones as it is decked out with an awesome high gain Humbucker (Seymour Duncan Devastator) in the bridge position.

The jack-plate sports auxiliary input connections you can connect mobiles and other devices to jam along to tracks with.

Pros: + ¾ size electric guitar without a head-stock. + Devastator high gain Humbucker. + Aux in.

Why We Liked It - We like this as it differs very little from a regular ¾ size guitar, making it an easy transition instrument, the in-body tuning shaves just enough off of its length to keep it within carry-on overhead storage dimensions

Okay, so we have sifted through a tonne of Traveler models, but it is fair to say that Hofner is hot on the heels of some of the best-selling travel models on the market. This model is based on the 1980's shorty model and is ideal for traveling players.

It is one of our lowest priced options, it just about undercuts all of its competitors and is not far off your typical full-size electric guitar. The body has seen a size reduction in comparison to most Hofner models but it features a full-size neck and headstock. This scaling down of its larger parts means nothing else is compromised in the quest for a guitar that can fit in the overhead of a plane.

They come in a range of striking colors this one is an eye-catching Cadillac green. It comes with a gig-bag to handle its humbler proportion.

Pros: + Low price. + Best seller. + Eye-catching.

Why We Liked It - It is an affordably priced classic guitar with pleasing aesthetics a good pick-up that is just small enough to become a travel option.

We are ending todays review section with another Traveler model, it is as lightweight as the other Ultra-Light models we have listed but instead of an Americana piezoelectric single pick-up it is equipped with a delectable dual-rail humbucking pick-up which certainly packs a bit more of a punch.

The rest of the specs don't deviate too heavily from the original conceptual design; it is once again a one-piece solid maple body that houses its tuning hardware within its cut-through bare bones body.

It is priced no higher than the other Ultra-Light series models but caters to those of us who like a grittier vibe.

Pros: + Super compact and lightweight. + Head-stock-less. + Impressive distortion.

Why We Liked It - It provides some authentic vintage rock tones and is one of the most lightweight and innovative models on the current market.

Compact Ampfliers - You'll want to factor in the cost of a compact amplifier into your budget in order to properly use your travel guitar. Luckily, small travel amplifiers are usually super affordable so you won't have to shell out an arm and a leg to complete your electric set up.

Travel Electric Guitar Buyers Guide:

A travel electric guitar is an electric guitar which has been designed with easy transportation in mind, their design concepts will incorporate features created to tackle the drawbacks traveling can have.

Many guitarists feel like their instrument is an innate part of their personality or even an extension of themselves. Sometimes when we are on holiday, relaxing or new people we often wish we had a guitar to pick up and play, but the logistics of carrying a cherished instrument into unknown territory presents us with a tonne of factors to consider.

The places we travel to and the manner in which we travel play a huge part in how much your instrument will need to be capable of enduring. Traveling with a guitar puts it at risk of damage, exposes it to the elements and you also have to face the fact that it could wind up lost altogether. That's if it doesn't cost an arm and a leg to cover the excess baggage weight charges.

So how do manufacturers cater to combat all of the above? Often their dimensions will be much smaller to make them more portable, so you may not have as many frets as you are familiar with.

They will also source lighter tonewoods to begin with. They not only shrink the body sizes down but in some cases, the shapes of the solid bodies are changed entirely. Occasionally to a point where they hardly resemble a guitar at all, squares, circles and triangles have all been seen sporting a traditional guitar neck. All in the effort to downsize the weight and footprint dramatically.

Other ways they might have made the product suitable for journeying with include increased durability and reduced production costs for a less expensive price-tag. Let's face it no one wants to invest too heavily in an instrument that is going to have to be able to handle a few hard knocks on its travels.

Some electric travel guitar options are actually semi-acoustic or electric-acoustic options which still have a hollow body, rather than the solid body we generally associate with electric guitars. You will probably find they are ¾ sized or shorter scaled and typically won't have as much of depth, so as to take up less space.

A smaller bodied guitar, unfortunately, resonates less than a roomier model, so travel models for some are close but no cigar, as far as sound superiority goes. Many manufacturers enhance designs to really make the most of the instrument, and constant developmental refinements mean we are actually seeing some awesome travel-worthy electric guitars.

If quality is key you may need to think about amping up your allocated budget we love the seductive Strobel Rambler travel models, which are conveniently designed to fit inside a suitcase. They are exceptionally well built and come in a variety of pretty jaw-dropping designs. These condensed bodies are almost flying V-shaped and their in-body integrated Tune-o-matic hardware is tidily arranged inside of its angular curves.

Unfortunately, we are not in the position to give a definitive answer, as what you can and cannot fly with is always down to individual operators and their policies and regulations will differ from provider to provider. Next, you have to consider the countries you are traveling from and to and their rules too.

There are some airlines which actually allow a guitar as hand luggage, so long as it isn't over the size or weight limitations of the company.

So long as the luggage restrictions don't specify "No Instruments" you should be completely fine, though you will want to ensure it is sufficiently protected to travel in the hold. A good flight case would be a wise investment.

In an effort to keep up with the fast pace of our modern lives, and are always on the go nature, there is an abundance of travel guitar options out there to cater to your needs.

When your shopping for a travel guitar, portability is essential and should come above all else. Unless you are a touring musician needing to tow a guitar about to perform with, then you don't really need to think about the sound as much as you do, its dimensions and durability. Travel guitars are at the end of the day built for weekend retreats, backpacking around Europe, open campfires and kicking back.

The market is changing and manufacturers constantly adapting updating and improving to the point where we are seeing some phenomenally innovative and not to mention interesting design concepts.

What to look for in the best travel guitar for you is really down to how you intend to get about. If you intend to lug it about for a long period of time you will obviously want the smallest and lightest you can find. If it is to be kept in a boot to have at hand you might not need to be so fussy. Consider your needs carefully, keep our buyers guide advice in mind, re-read today's reviews and you should find choosing a model a doddle.

If you do buy a travel electric guitar, you are going to need an amplifier which is easily portable to go with it we suggest looking at some of these little beauts in our 5 Best Small Tube Amps article .

Did you Know

Snap-Dragon make some awesome fold-able electric guitars with necks that simply snap into place to shred with and snap back to a smaller footprint to pack away again.

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Best travel guitars: Top acoustic and electric guitars for musicians on the go

Out top picks for practicing your guitar on the move, wherever the road takes you

Best for tone

Best for volume, best for value.

• Best Strat-alike
• Best electric
• Best full-scale
• #1 acoustic-electric

Best for portability

• Best solid wood
• Buying advice
• How we choose

1. The quick list 2. Best for tone 3. Best for volume 4. Best for value 5. Best for Strat players 6. Best electric travel guitar 7. Best full-scale travel guitar 8. Best acoustic-electric model 9. Best for portability 10. Best solid-wood travel guitar 11. Buying advice 12. How we choose products

As guitar players, our passion and joy shouldn’t have to stop the second we leave the house or the practice room. Sometimes, when you’re on the go; whether that be travelling for work or just for fun, you want to be able to take your music with you. That’s where the best travel guitars come in.

Travel guitars are smaller, more compact instruments that are easier to take on the road. If you’re heading out on a road trip, and space in the car is tight, a travel guitar will fit in a much smaller gap than a full-size guitar. Some of them even pack down into a rucksack so you can take them on a plane as hand luggage.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re more into playing acoustic or electric, we’ve picked out the best travel guitars currently on offer to make sure that the music doesn’t have to stop when you hit the road.

Chris Corfield is a journalist with over 12 years of experience writing for some of the music world's biggest brands including Orange Amplification, MusicRadar, Guitar World and Dawsons Music. Chris has spent years writing about and testing guitar gear for MusicRadar, in addition to nerding out about everything from synths to microphones, DJ gear and music production hardware.

Best travel guitars: Quick list

Want to cut to the chase and find out exactly which we think are the best travel guitars on the market right now? Below, you’ll find a round-up of our top choices. You can jump to a more detailed review of every pick, along with our price comparison tool to help you find the best deals.

This ¾-sized dreadnought comes with all the quality and projection you’d expect from one of the acoustic world’s biggest names, just in a size that can be hauled around anywhere without breaking your back. Or, indeed, your wallet. 

Read more below

The Martin Backpacker has a unique body shape, that’s for sure, but coming from a name like Martin you can rest assured this guitar will perform brilliantly. What surprised us was the volume and projection this little guitar pumps out, thanks in part to the solid mahogany used in the body.

The Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe definitely fits the travel guitar bill due to its distinctive size and shape. Despite the smaller body, the Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe features a scale length of 25.5”, making the actual playing area larger than that of a standard Les Paul.

You can instantly see those famous Stratocaster outlines of the pickguard, the three single coil pickups and the control knobs. Yet the eagle-eyed among you will have noticed anything on the body that isn’t underneath the pickguard has been shaved away, leaving a guitar which is 35% lighter and 14% shorter than a regular Strat.

This is a short-scale travel electric guitar featuring a single mini-humbucker, two-piece poplar body, bolt-on neck and fairly sturdy tuners. It doesn’t pack down any smaller than it is, though it’s very compact already and if you really needed to, you could always take the neck off, if you were packing it up in a suitcase for example.

The Shorty provides full scale-length familiarity which, when combined with the tiny body, makes for a comfortable playing experience. The single humbucker at the bridge is meaty enough to blast out your favourite riffs, while you’ll feel instantly at home with the classic maple/rosewood combination neck and fingerboard.

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The Traveler Escape Mark III comes equipped with plenty in the way of tools and toys, and it all comes in 26% shorter and 10% lighter than a standard dreadnought. The Escape Mark III features tuning pegs within the body itself, which means it has no need for a headstock and is instead strung in reverse.

This handy, foldable acoustic is great for players who want something quality but affordable. It’s got a solid spruce top and layered mahogany back and sides. You can get a great tone from it, whether you’re playing with a pick or with fingers. It’s dynamic, and while it might not be as loud as a full size guitar, can still throw out a good amount of volume.

This is one for serious acoustic players. It bears a hefty price tag, but you can get some serious tones from this guitar. Boasting a solid red cedar top and solid African mahogany back and sides, the Furch Little Jane yields a beautiful, rich and balanced tone with a good amount of projection. 

The best travel guitars right now

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Below you'll find full and detailed write-ups for each of the best travel guitars in our list.

1. Taylor Baby Taylor

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If the more outlandish styles of travel guitar aren’t for you, maybe the Baby Taylor will be. This ¾-sized dreadnought comes with all the quality and projection you’d expect from one of the acoustic world’s biggest names, just in a size that can be hauled around anywhere without breaking your back. Or, indeed, your wallet. 

The Baby Taylor would be the perfect option as a second (or third) guitar in anyone’s collection, designed to be stashed in the included gig bag and taken anywhere. Players with larger hands may feel a bit cramped navigating the 22.75” scale length, but for the majority of people the Baby Taylor is easy to recommend.

2. Martin Backpacker

We weren’t lying when we said travel guitars can jar a bit visually. The Martin Backpacker has a unique body shape, that’s for sure, but coming from a name like Martin you can rest assured this guitar will perform brilliantly. What surprised us was the volume and projection this little guitar pumps out, thanks in part to the solid mahogany used in the body.

Originally launched in 1992, the Martin Backpacker has carved itself a nice niche in the world of travel guitars, and its exceptional build quality means it will last for many more years to come.

3. Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe

While not officially marketed as a travel guitar, the Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe definitely fits the bill due to its distinctive size and shape. The classic Steinberger ‘headless’ design is correct and present, making the same bold visual statement of its more expensive stablemates, yet the decision to use wood over composite materials makes the whole thing more cost-effective and suited for travelling. 

Despite the smaller body, the Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe features a scale length of 25.5”, making the actual playing area larger than that of a standard Les Paul. It’s also pretty rare to find neck-thru bodies at this price point, which all adds up to a decent value instrument regardless of how you end up using it.

Best for Strat players

4. Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe

It’s called ‘cognitive dissonance’. That conflict you feel when something you know to be right is challenged. The Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe is a relative example; to look at it, you can instantly see those famous Stratocaster outlines of the pickguard, the three single coil pickups and the control knobs. Yet the eagle-eyed among you will have noticed anything on the body that isn’t underneath the pickguard has been shaved away, leaving a guitar which is 35% lighter and 14% shorter than a regular Strat. 

Weighing in at only 5 lbs, the Travelcaster Deluxe may take some getting over visually, but in use it provides that same Strat experience, the same 25.5” scale length and the same tonal versatility of those pickups. If you can get over the cognitive dissonance, it may just be the perfect travel guitar for you.

Read the full Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe review

Best electric options

5. Blackstar Carry-On Travel Guitar ST

This is a short-scale travel electric guitar featuring a single mini-humbucker, two-piece poplar body, bolt-on neck and fairly sturdy tuners. It doesn’t pack down any smaller than it is, though it’s very compact already and if you really needed to, you could always take the neck off, if you were packing it up in a suitcase for example. 

It plays great and the shorter 20.7” scale length doesn’t take long to readjust to - younger beginners might find that they can fret chords and make stretches between frets more easily too. The mini-humbucker covers a lot of ground, so will suit any musical style you can throw at it. Whether you’re playing clean or super distorted, this little thing can really pack a punch! 

There is a more expensive version that’s around double the price with some upgrades, but in terms of value for money, we feel that the Blackstar Carry-On ST is one of the best travel guitars around. 

Best full-scale experience

6. Hofner Shorty travel guitar

The Hofner Shorty has been around since the 1980s, and has long been a favourite for players looking for a portable electric they can travel with. It provides full scale-length familiarity which, when combined with the tiny body, makes for a comfortable playing experience. The single humbucker at the bridge is meaty enough to blast out your favourite riffs, while you’ll feel instantly at home with the classic maple/rosewood combination neck and fingerboard.

Sure, it’s not going to win any awards for tone, and you’re unlikely to see them used on album-of-the-year contenders, but as an inexpensive way to add a bit of portability to your line-up the Hofner Shorty is well worth consideration. 

Best of both worlds

7. Traveler Escape MKIII Mahogany

Choosing a travel guitar doesn’t necessarily mean compromising on your needs. The Traveler Escape Mark III comes equipped with plenty in the way of tools and toys, and it all comes in 26% shorter and 10% lighter than a standard dreadnought.

The Escape Mark III features tuning pegs within the body itself, which means it has no need for a headstock and is instead strung in reverse. The onboard electronics are both extensive and useful too, with an under-saddle Shadow NanoFlex piezo system, tuner, aux-in and studio headphone out making for quite a comprehensive setup for the traveling player.

8. Journey Instruments PJ410N

This handy, foldable acoustic makes for one of the best travel guitars for players who want something quality but affordable. It’s got a solid spruce top and layered mahogany back and sides. You can get a great tone from it, whether you’re playing with a pick or with fingers. It’s dynamic, and while it might not be as loud as a full size guitar, can still throw out a good amount of volume.

It fits perfectly inside the included padded rucksack, and can be assembled in 20 seconds. Simply put the neck into position, snap it in place and lock it from the back of the body. Then you’ve got a guitar with a 23” scale ready to play. It’s great for experienced players who want something that sounds good while they’re on their travels (the bag will fit under many airline seats), but also makes for a great beginner guitar for kids . 

Best all-solid option

9. Furch Little Jane LJ-10

This is definitely one of the best travel guitars for serious acoustic players. It bears a hefty price tag, but you can get some serious tones from this guitar. Boasting a solid red cedar top and solid African mahogany back and sides, the Furch Little Jane yields a beautiful, rich and balanced tone with a good amount of projection. 

The guitar can be folded down and fit into a rucksack (included). The headstock, neck and body are separate from one another to save space but can be assembled into one piece very quickly and easily. Once the neck is locked into position using Furch’s proprietary assembly system, it’s ready to play and will even go back in tune. 

The included rucksack is well padded and will ensure that it’s protected enough on your travels. Travel acoustic guitars seldom sound this good, and to be fair the price reflects that, but it really is one of the best out there. 

Best travel guitars: Buying advice

What is a travel guitar?

Essentially, a travel guitar is a guitar designed with portability and mobility as its key function. This will usually mean the guitar has a significantly smaller body or weight, and they often boast creative solutions to common issues like tuning or storage. From conception to construction, the travel guitar is designed to be thrown in a bag and transported anywhere, everywhere, and all those places in between. 

Standard-sized guitars can be, as we know, too large, too heavy or too delicate to carry around for long stretches, so travel guitars offer a specialist tool for those specific situations. Realistically, you’ll not find too many studio musicians reaching for the travel guitar to nail that perfect tone, but then that’s not what they’re for. Portability, size and weight are order of the day here, and it helps that there are travel guitars on the market today which also nail that other crucial element; tone. 

What makes travel guitars different?

At first glance, the sight of a dedicated travel guitar can jar a little. Often, they have quite striking aesthetic differences from regular guitars. Like looking at something you know, only quite different. Manufacturers employ all kinds of measures as they seek to reduce the overall size and weight of the guitar, and it’s not uncommon to see guitars without headstocks, or with radically different shaped bodies, or even no body at all. Yet a guitar still has to function, so there is still the need for tuning pegs, a bridge, and other essential components.

What are the key features of travel guitars?

There are two major schools of thought when it comes to travel guitars. One is to take a regular sized guitar and zap it with a shrink ray, keeping the same proportions relatively but in a smaller overall package. This approach ensures the instrument retains its familiarity, and also makes them attractive to younger learners.

The other approach is to redesign the instrument completely, perhaps taking the tuning pegs and installing them in the body. Of course, such radical design changes can create other problems, so you may see these compensated for with the inclusion of detachable arm and leg rests, for example. While these guitars may look unfamiliar, the playing experience should be largely the same as a regular guitar. Scale lengths, fret locations and pitch will be the same, even if the physical form of the guitar is quite different.

Are travel guitars playable?

If you’ve never had the chance to play a travel guitar, you may be looking at the best travel guitars in this list and wondering if it’s playable in the same way as a regular guitar. The good news is that yes, absolutely they are playable. In the same way that jumping from the thin neck of an Ibanez RG-style electric to a 50’s style Stratocaster neck may take a bit of readjustment in your technique, so too will the leap from a regular to certain travel-sized guitars. It’s not difficult to adjust though. You may also have to sit differently to accommodate the smaller body, but as these guitars are inherently lighter in weight, this shouldn’t cause too much of a headache. Or, more accurately, backache.

Electric or acoustic?

All of the best travel guitars will either be electric or acoustic. Electrics do tend to be thinner, as the body doesn’t need to resonate as much to get a good sound, although it’s worth remembering that you’ll need an amp to get the most out of it. The body of a travel acoustic will normally be deeper, but as a result of this you can get a fairly loud sound without any amplification.

What do I get when I spend more?

The quality of the best travel guitars does vary, and as you might imagine, it does go up as you spend more money. As the price increases, you’ll likely find better hardware, which can not only help keep the guitar in tune and playing nicely, but can also improve how it sounds too, increasing resonance and sustain.

On electrics, you’ll find better quality pickups - these will be more dynamic and have a wider frequency range so you’ll get more detail and clarity. With travel acoustic guitars, you’ll get better quality, and even solid woods which will give you a better, more responsive and richer sound.

Who might use a travel guitar?

The breadth of today’s range of travel guitars means there is a guitar to suit most playing styles and genres, so the quick answer is that yes, there is a travel guitar for everyone. In terms of scenarios, travel guitars are, as their name suggests, designed to be taken places ordinary guitars cannot reach. 

Small enough to fit on your back as you scale a mountain, or taken on a plane as part of your hand luggage, travel guitars give players the freedom and convenience of being able to play anywhere, at any time. For that, we applaud them. Let’s examine some of the best travel guitar options available today.

Can you buy travel guitars for children?

Travel guitars, as well as being the perfect accompaniment to a musician on the go, can also make for great instruments for children. If you’re looking for one of the best travel guitars to get a kid started on their guitar playing journey, then look for one that has a shorter scale length. This will mean that the notes are closer together and will be easier for small hands to fret. 

Scale length and string gauge

Speaking of short scales, the gauge of strings you use is also worth considering. The strings on a guitar with a shorter scale will feel slinkier - they will be easier to bend and to some players may even feel too loose. One way to combat this is to use thicker strings, so something like 12s on an electric might make them feel a little more like 10s on a full size guitar. Though, if you’re just starting out then the thinner, slinkier strings might be better so they don’t quite hurt your fingertips as much.

How we chose the best travel guitars for this guide

Here at MusicRadar, we are experts in our field, with many years of playing, creating and product testing between us. We live and breathe everything music gear related, and we draw on this knowledge and experience of using products in live, recording and rehearsal scenarios when selecting the products for our guides. 

When choosing what we believe to be the best travel guitars available right now, we combine our hands-on experience, user reviews and testimonies and engage in lengthy discussions with our editorial colleagues to reach a consensus about the top products in any given category.

First and foremost, we are musicians, and we want other players to find the right product for them. So we take into careful consideration everything from budget to feature set, ease of use and durability to come up with a list of what we can safely say are the best travel guitars on the market right now.

Find out more about  how we test music gear and services  at MusicRadar.

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Chris Corfield is a journalist with over 12 years of experience writing for some of the music world's biggest brands including Orange Amplification, MusicRadar, Guitar World, Total Guitar and Dawsons Music. Chris loves getting nerdy about everything from guitar and bass gear, to synths, microphones, DJ gear and music production hardware.

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Home » Guitars » 17 Best Travel Guitars in 2024 (All Price Ranges and Styles)

17 Best Travel Guitars in 2024 (All Price Ranges and Styles)

If you’re a musician that’s always on the move, you know how difficult it can be to carry a full-size guitar along all the time. Bumpy roads and crammed flights can damage precious instruments in a single unfortunate moment. Instead of risking your primary guitars, taking a more compact travel guitar is a great option that all musicians should consider.

Travel-friendly guitars not only sound and play like regular guitars, but are compact, lightweight, and are far easier to travel with on road trips than full-sized guitars. If you’ve been thinking of getting yourself a travel-sized guitar but are unsure which one to pick, then you’ve come to the right spot.

I’ll start this article by reviewing the best travel guitars at each price point, but if you want to learn more about them before reading reviews, I’ve included some information about travel guitars at the bottom of the page. In this article, I’ll cover all the different styles of travel guitars so you can find the one to best suit your needs!

Here Are the Best Travel Guitars

1. martin lx1 little martin acoustic guitar (best overall acoustic).

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My Review: When it’s a Martin, you can rest assured that it is going to be a top quality guitar. The iconic American brand is well known for crafting some of the greatest sounding acoustic guitars around. The Little Martin is a testament to the saying that good things come in small packages. Built with solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany high-pressure laminate back and sides, this small wonder produces the same resonant, loud projection akin to top-of-the-line Martins and comes with a padded gig bag.

Overall Build and Size: We are in awe of Little Martin’s smart design which has delivered a great guitar that belies its 23” scale and 15” length. This wonderful sounding model is extremely sturdy and very easy to play, making it a perfect travel companion as well as a great pick for beginners. Little Martin is a popular choice when it comes to a travel guitar as it packs comfortably into overhead compartments of most airlines. This natural golden-brown, small-bodied acoustic comes equipped with a black Micarta bridge with compensated white Tusq saddle and chrome small-knob tuners.

Overall Sound Quality: Little martin’s powerful projection and a well-balanced tone set it apart from other miniature parlor guitars. It delivers a pretty bright and resonant sound and scores high on versatility. Take it along with you on your next trip to the hills and let the magic unfold.

Body and Neck Wood: This Martin LX1 boasts of a solid Sitka spruce top with a warm satin finish which gives it classic look. The back and sides are made up of Mahogany high-pressure laminate. The guitar has a hand-rubbed rust birch laminate neck which has a modified low oval shape with standard taper making it extremely comfortable to play. The use of sustainable wood in some of its parts has made us fall in love with this beauty all the more.

Key Features:

• Solid Sitka spruce wood top
• Big on tone, quality, and versatility
• Perfectly travel-sized and easy to carry
• Eco-friendly construction using sustainable wood parts
• Affordable for a Martin guitar

2. Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar (Best Value Acoustic)

My Review: If you are looking for a pocket-friendly 3/4 acoustic travel guitar with a good tone and easy playability, the small and portable Yamaha JR1 FG might be worth looking at. The natural Spruce top and the rosewood fretboard offers great playability and a bright tone, while locally sourced tonewood adds a reliable durability to the overall body. Compact, light, and bearing the time-trusted Yamaha brand legacy, this travel guitar is lightweight without compromising on the sound quality. Overall, I would say this is the best travel acoustic guitar for the money.

Overall Build and Size: The JR1 FG is a well designed 33 1/4-inch medium-sized dreadnought that strikes a good balance between value and quality. Despite being originally positioned as a beginner guitar for children, we found it to be quite a good option for adults looking for a reliable travel guitar as well. What we like about this model is that it doesn’t let its compact size come in the way of offering a great tone.

The build is of good quality with a rosewood fretboard and a sturdy mahogany neck which offers a comfortable playability. This makes it a great fit for most guitarists – from young students just starting out to someone looking to play an impromptu gig by the bonfire.

Overall Sound Quality: Thanks to the Spruce wood top, players get a nice resonant tone that amplifies lower tones surprisingly well – normally you wouldn’t really expect a guitar this compact to have such an impressive low end. Because of this quality, this will work well when playing in intimate settings with a small audience. Its sound is great right out of the packaging, without any tweaks needed. You’ll also see that the brand offers quite a comfortable action on it already.

Body and Neck Wood: The Luna uses a Spruce wood for its top, locally sourced tonewood for the body and sides, and rosewood for the fretboard which makes it long-lasting and durable. The neck is sturdy, but not too wide, which gives it an easy feel when playing, especially for kids or someone with smaller hands. It is well-balanced, and, when played sitting down, fits quite comfortably as you play.

• Compact, well-designed body
• Spruce wood top
• Amplifies lower tones remarkably well for its size
• Affordably priced

3. Taylor Baby Taylor BT1 Walnut Acoustic Guitar (Editor’s Choice Acoustic)

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My Review: Thinking of getting yourself a travel guitar which is an all-rounder? Look no further than Baby Taylor BT1. Manufactured by Taylor, a brand renowned for carefully crafted, high quality, and great sounding acoustic guitars packed with playability enhancing features, Baby Taylor BT1 fits this definition to a T. The small-bodied guitar is made with a premium tonewood combination of Spruce/Walnut and comes with an X-braced top, die-cast chrome tuners and a Micarta Saddle. In addition to being a great choice for travelers, this little wonder will make for a perfect starter guitar for young players.

Overall Build and Size: Baby Taylor BT1 is a trimmed down, sleek ¾ dreadnought and great for traveling players who prefer smaller instruments. This dread may be small but offers the same features that make this iconic American brand so legendary. The guitar has a solid spruce top which works well in enhancing resonance as well as capturing nuances and dynamics. The layered walnut body offers resilience from temperature and humidity and gives it an aesthetically pleasing look. The acoustic sports an elegant, natural look with a varnish finish.

Overall Sound Quality: Don’t be fooled by its small size- Baby Taylor BT1 delivers a surprisingly bold and loud sound for a scaled-down dreadnought. Thanks to the bright sounding spruce wood top and walnut back and sides. The guitar’s tonewood pairing works well in creating a warm and resonant tone with great definition.

Body and Neck Wood: The BT1’s top wood is expertly crafted with solid Sitka Spruce wood and teamed with a layered walnut body and a glossy smooth ebony fretboard. The sleek Maple neck feels familiar and very comfortable when held. There is no doubt that you will have an absolute blast playing this great little guitar wherever you decide to take it.

• Perfect Travel Buddy for all guitar enthusiasts
• Scaled-down dreadnought with short maple neck, easy to play
• Solid high-quality tonewoods used- Spruce top, Walnut body
• Taylor hard bag included

4. Travelcaster Deluxe Electric Guitar (Best Overall Electric)

My Review: Fender has always been known to push the envelope for quality and player-friendly features, and they’ve done it again with the neat little travelcaster deluxe. This innovatively designed electric guitar retains a full scale length, but cuts down the body design in an innovative fashion. Weighing extremely light, you can enjoy the quintessential tele sound even when on the move, thanks to its high quality single coil pickups and a delicious vintage tremolo. If you’re looking for the best travel electric guitar and are willing to spend the money, this is one of my top recommendations.

Overall Build and Size: Weighing only 5 lbs, the travelcaster scores high when it comes to portability, especially for an electric guitar. We’re quite impressed with its innovative design that retains the essential contours of an electric guitar’s S-shaped body while cutting out the rest to make it travel-friendly. Its adjustable 2 point fulcrum bridge adds even more customizability, while chrome tuning machines let you tune your strings to perfect precision. This allows you to enjoy a full scale length with a guitar that can easily fit into a cramped car space or overhead compartment of a plane.

Overall Sound Quality: This is perhaps the best part about this little wonder – unlike some other travel guitars that may sacrifice certain elements of playability or tone, the travelcaster deluxe offers the same crisp, snappy, high quality tone and sound quality that Fender is famous for, even in this compact setup. This has been made possible because of the three high quality ceramic single coil picks, and a 5-way pickup selector that lets you mix and match to zero in on the perfect tone. Finally, the vintage style tremolo lets you squeeze out a fabulous variety of sounds and sustains, so there’s nothing that holds you back from expressing your creativity, even on a travel guitar.

Body and Neck Wood: The lightweight of the travelcaster deluxe has been made possible thanks to its poplar body, which keeps the overall setup extremely portable and nimble. The maple neck and fretboard allow for butter-smooth playability anytime, anywhere.

• High quality ceramic single coil pickups
• Vintage style tremolo for more creative possibility
• 5-way pickup selector for tone customizability
• Extremely lightweight at 5 lbs
• Full scale-length

5. Traveler Guitar 6 String EG-1 Custom (Best Full Scale)

My Review: If you are scouting for a full-scale electric guitar which is also light enough to travel along with, look no further- The Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom fits the bill. The single-cut guitar’s alder body makes it compact and lightweight while also giving it a strong, clear, and full-bodied sound. It features Traveler’s proprietary 4-channel in-built headphone amplifier, an in-body tuning system, and an aux-in jack, making it perfect to jam privately or rock out.

Overall Build and Size: The Traveler Guitar EG-1 retains the full scale 24.75” and 28.5” length of a standard-sized guitar while weighing less than 5 pounds and packs effortlessly in an airplane overhead bin. It has been cleverly designed without a headstock and built from a lightweight yet top-notch Alder, making it compact yet ideal for those unwilling to compromise on a scale as well as playing experience. It comes in a classic glossy black color.

Overall Sound Quality: The EG-1 Custom’s alder body and mahogany neck give it a rich and balanced tone with a great playing experience. It is equipped with Traveler’s custom onboard headphone amps which allow you to choose from clean, boost, overdrive, and distortion tones using the custom tone knob push-pot. With this travel guitar, you are not only getting a full-sized feel but also a world-class quality sound, thanks to the chromatic Shadow E-tuner built right into its Alnico Humbucker 9K pickup.

Body and Neck Wood: The snazzy travel guitar is crafted from premium tonewoods with an alder body, an African mahogany neck, and a walnut fingerboard. It features some fantastic aesthetically pleasing appointments such as a white-black-white binding on its glossy black Alder body, a gold humbucker with cream pickup ring, and black dish knobs with Gold caps.

• Full scale and ergonomically designed travel guitar
• Crafted from top-notch hardwood
• Built-in headphone amp with 4-channels
• Aux-in for riff learning and jamming to your favorite songs
• Chromatic E-tuner on pickup ring
• Comes with a compact, custom gig bag

6. Martin Steel-String Backpacker Travel Guitar

My Review: Martin Guitar Co.’s Backpacker has been innovatively designed to be the perfect travel mate for you. This well-built acoustic is a steal considering it has a solid Spruce wood top and is priced within an affordable range of $300. It’s incredibly fun to play and can act as a great backup guitar when your primary one is not around. This popular travel guitar was launched more than 25 years ago in the mid-nineties and we’ve only heard great things about it since. This is easily one of the best travel guitars for backpacking and trips where you just can’t bring a larger guitar.

Overall Build and Size: Martin’s Backpacker is an incredibly light and compact guitar making it easy to stow away and take along on treks or trips without a worry in the head. Although designed to be easy to carry, weighing less than 2-1/2 lbs., nowhere does it compromise in the sturdiness and durability department. Built with a solid Spruce wood top and Mahogany back and sides, it has a beautiful natural hue and a matte finish.

Overall Sound Quality: The Backpacker has a robust and impressive sound for a guitar its size. It may not give out the rich tone rendered by a typical dreadnought but don’t let that make you think that you’ll be sacrificing in the tonal quality with this little travel buddy. The guitar has been crafted from high-end hardwood which lends it an unamplified projection, making it perfect for travel.

Body and Neck Wood: This travel guitar has a solid Spruce top and Mahogany back, sides, and neck giving it the classic Martin acoustic sound. It has a narrow body with 15 frets and a flared lower bout making it extremely easy to carry. Just sling it over the shoulder and you are good to go!

• Ultra-compact and extremely light
• Made from high-end spruce and mahogany hardwood
• Narrow body, easy to carry
• Unamplified and consistent sound
• Comes with a padded gig bag and chrome tuners

7. Luna Safari Series 3/4 Size Travel Guitar

My Review: This 3/4 size dreadnought is a part of Luna’s pocket-friendly Safari series. The brand has a reputation for crafting great-looking guitars. This model features a solid mahogany top, back, and asides and has an eye-catching Celtic laser etching around the soundhole. This beautifully handcrafted guitar is lightweight but packs in a punch with its powerful tonal quality. Luna Muse Safari comes with a branded gig bag which makes it easy to carry it when you are on the go.

Overall Build and Size: This stunning acoustic has a scale length of 22.5” and weighs just shy of 4 lbs., making it an incredibly light and ultra-compact travel companion. All panels of this 3/4 sized dreadnought have been crafted with mahogany. It also comes with a 19-fret rosewood fingerboard and bridge and chrome-colored hardware. The tuning machine is sealed die-cast and the nut and saddle are Graph Tech BC6115. The charming reddish-brown shade of mahogany makes this guitar a real treat to the eyes.

Overall Sound Quality: The Mahogany body and dreadnought structure of Luna Safari Muse ensures that players enjoy a rich and articulate sound. It may not be too low-end heavy, but with its delightfully bright sound and a pocket-friendly price tag, it sure is a steal!

Body and Neck Wood: Luna Safari Muse has been entirely made out of Mahogany which is a popular tonewood known to produce and sustain a well-balanced tone. The C-shaped neck makes for a breezy playing experience. The warm natural satin finish and the mother of pearl moon phase inlay on the fingerboard give it a classy and mystical look.

• A travel-sized dreadnought with laser engraved Celtic rosette
• Fun and easy to play, ideal for younger players
• Rich and articulate sound
• Perfect for left as well as right-handed players
• Budget-friendly with most websites offering it under $200

8. Traveler Guitar Mark III MK3 MHG Acoustic-Electric Guitar

My Review: When an entire company is dedicated to building top-of-the-line travel-friendly guitars, you know you cannot go wrong when you opt for one of theirs. The Traveler Mark III MK3 Acoustic-Electric is a full scale, unique looking guitar with a Mahogany body. Like other Travelers, it too features an in-built Shadow headphone amp, an aux input for jamming, and a proprietary in-body tuning system. With a standard tuning system, this travel guitar does not need a special set of strings and works perfectly with any standard acoustic strings you prefer.

Overall Build and Size: Measuring around 30” in length while weighing less than 5 pounds, this Mahogany guitar has a minimalistic body which makes it portable and player-friendly. The in-body tuning system eliminates the need for a headstock, making it sleek and travel-sized while offering a full-scale playing experience. The Escape Mark III comes equipped with a Shadow NanoFlex piezo under-saddle pickup which produces the authentic acoustic sound while the standard ¼” output jack lets you effortlessly switch to the electric mode. The control plate allows you to adjust the volume and tone directly from the guitar.

Overall Sound Quality: The Electric-Acoustic has been cleverly built to produce exceptional electronics as well as the authentic acoustic style sound. The choice of hardwood used lends it a resonant, well-balanced tone which is carried through even when you plug in the guitar and use it as a semi-electric.

Body and Neck Wood: The Escape Mark III has a natural finish mahogany body with a cutaway for access to higher frets, and a bolt-on mahogany neck. To top it off, it has a Rosewood fretboard which is the most commonly used fretboard owing to its warm and rich tones and the ability to even out the high-end harshness.

• Full scale, versatile guitar
• Stows away comfortably in overhead bins
• Built-in headphone amp with clean, distortion, boost, and overdrive tones
• High quality, plush gig bag included
• Built-in chrome tuner

9. Cordoba Mini M Nylon String Guitar

My Review: Cordoba has a well-earned reputation for making traditional Spanish guitars with a modern twist. The brand is an innovator and leader in high-quality nylon-string guitar and the model we are about to review here is no exception.

Cordoba’s Mini M is a travel-sized traditional looker. With a mahogany body and a spruce top, it has an incredibly rich tone and a full, bright sound. The brilliant combination of its ultra-compact body and a full-sized 1.96” nut width makes it very easy to play and an ideal companion for your vacations or road trips.

Overall Build and Size: Mini M is an extremely lightweight,18-fret, nylon string parlor with a beautiful rose pattern etched out along its rosette. A short 20” scale length and full 1.96” nut width makes it an ideal travel sized guitar while retaining the string spacing and the overall feel of a full-sized guitar. The natural satin finish gives it a gorgeous sheen without betraying its woody feel. The guitar comes with a custom Aquila string set, tuned to A but can be tuned to standard E tuning with a thicker gauge. The Minis also come in three different wood combinations-spruce/mahogany, spruce/rosewood, and all ovangkol.

Overall Sound Quality: Despite its easy on the pocket price tag, Cordoba’s commitment to quality and sound with Mini M is truly admirable. It has a lightweight body with an impressively loud sound thanks to its smart design and the quality tonewoods used.

The solid spruce wood top offers a blend of clear, rich, and complex sound which is backed by a powerful tonal foundation owing to its mahogany back and sides.

Body and Neck Wood: With Mini M you get a solid Spruce wood top guitar without hurting your pocket. A solid wood top is an unbeatable vis a vis laminate or select wood, as it not only gives out a great tone but also lasts for longer. The mahogany body enhances the sturdiness property and clubbed with spruce wood top and rosewood fretboard contributes to the deep richness and resonance of this guitar. Mini M’s solid and heavy Mahogany U-shaped neck enhances the sustain and captures every nuance and detail, beautifully.

• Affordable, lightweight guitar with an impressive sound
• Solid top and body made from quality tonewoods
• Comfortable U-shaped Mahogany neck
• Includes a gig bag

10. Fender CT-140SE Travel Acoustic-Electric Guitar

My Review: Perfect for all guitar enthusiasts- whether professional or hobbyists, The CT-140SE acoustic-electric is undeniably one of the finest travel bodied guitars made by Fender. Compactly built with solid Rosewood and a spruce top, it features a sophisticated Fishman Presys pickup and preamp system, which ensures an authentic sound is reproduced even when plugged in. The solid high-end components and a hardshell case all priced under $400, make this Fender a great value and should definitely be explored when picking out a guitar for serious beginners or simply for your travel needs.

Overall Build and Size: Traveling with CT-140SE is a cakewalk thanks to its compact dimensions. An auditorium shaped travel body has been scaled down to 23.5” to ensure it fits well into cramped spaces and overhead airline compartments. With premium hardwood used through the body as well as Fishman pickups and preamp system, rolled fingerboard edges, players can expect an easy to play high-quality guitar that’s quite sturdy in its design. CT-140SE comes with two color options- Natural and Sunburst with a glossy finish and equipped with chrome-plated hardware.

Overall Sound Quality: CT-140SE offers high-quality Fender sound at a reasonable price. The spruce wood top renders a powerful sound and detailed dynamics while the rosewood body & fretboard delivers rich overtones. The scalloped, X bracing design also plays a vital role in enhancing this bolder, richer tone as well as its harmonic output.

Body and Neck Wood: The Acoustic-Electric has a solid spruce top is a popular choice of wood for acoustic tops as it offers unparalleled durability and a full, bright, and versatile sound. The rosewood body and neck mellow down the bright punch delivered by the spruce wood. All in all, you get a well-balanced tone that responds well to any style of playing, from hard strumming to fast or delicate picking.

• Top-notch fender quality with a great value
• Solid Spruce top & Rosewood body delivers a rich, balanced tone
• Scalloped, X bracing design
• Easy to play neck with rolled fretboard edges
• Sophisticated Fishman Presys pickup/preamp
•  Hardshell case included

11. Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe

My Review: This next guitar comes from the extensive heritage NY-based brand “Steinberger”. These guitars for their distinctive shape, and high-quality construction, having been used by likes of Geddy Lee (Rush), and Sting (The Police), back in the day to more modern day artists such as Arif Miradolbaghi (Protest the Hero). They feature a headless design, and a compact size playable even on an armed office chair. The GT-Pro brings the same quality and aesthetic to a more affordable line of travel guitars.

Overall Build and Size: The original Spirit was one of the most popular attempts at making a body-less travel guitar in the 80s, and the modern Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe has some unique features to match! Featuring a full 25-½ scale length, and a tight fretboard radius, the Spirit is quite easy to handle, play and travel with. Keeping it simple with one volume and one tone knob, and including a tremolo bridge and the locking tuners make for a stable and well-tuned guitar, even without a headstock.

Overall Sound Quality: The deluxe model features a humbucker pickup on the bridge and neck, with a single coil in the middle. The twin humbuckers designed by Steinberger and perfected by Epiphone, make the Spirit sound fat and round while reducing the tinny signals to a minimum. The 5-way pickup selector also makes the guitar versatile and comfortable across a large selection of amps and amp plugins. Perfect for both the Stage pro, and the couch pro !

Body and Neck Wood: The original Spirit guitars designed by Ned Steinberger, were made from a composite of carbon-fiber, however, the new Spirit GT-Pro eschews that for a completely maple body and neck. In such a small guitar, this resonant wood makes for a big jump in playability and sustain. The Spirit is able to hold its own against full bodied guitars while delivering the same resonance and exceptional output!

• Classic Steinberger design
• Hyper compact
• Gibson (Epiphone) construction, reliability, and warranty
• Bridge and Neck Humbuckers for a well-rounded rock/metal/blues sound

12. Hofner Shorty Electric Travel Guitar

My Review: Are you someone who doesn’t want to be away from their guitar even when traveling? Then the Hofner Shorty Electric Travel Guitar has to be one of your top choices. It offers a full-scale length while being ultra-compact which enables you to take it along with you wherever you go. Fitted with a single Hofner open humbucker pickup, and volume and tone knobs, the Shorty is designed with no flashy bits except for its curious design.

Overall Build and Size: The Hofner Shorty has a basswood top and back, a neck made from maple, and a fretboard made from rosewood. Basswood is a lightweight wood which produces a good sound and works especially well with Hofner’s open humbucker pickup. Considering the price range, the craftsmanship and the materials used to make this guitar are of a better-than-expected quality. The black finish gives it a slight rock and roll feel. The shape of the guitar can feel a bit strange in the beginning with its short body, long neck and the headstock, but you soon get used to it. Overall, the Shorty Electric is a sturdy little guitar that needs some time to adjust to its style and shape.

Overall Sound Quality: Without amplification, the guitar sounds quiet, and is suitable for a quiet day of practice. Once amplified, the sound produced is bright, trebly, and strong. The volume and tone controls work very well and you can get a range of tones from this little guitar from clear to dirty. The action on this guitar might need a touch of adjustment.

Body and Neck Wood: The basswood body and maple neck make for better playability when playing standing up. Its small, neck-heavy body makes it a little awkward to play, which is also compounded by there being no place to rest the playing arm.

• Compact size
• Considerably lightweight
• Strong sound when amplified
• Crisp, clean tone
• Durable gig bag included
• Good bang for the buck

13. Traveler Guitar Escape Mark III

My Review: Looking for a guitar which can hold its own during travel and on stage? Look no further! The Traveler Guitar Escape Mark III offers a full-scale 25.5” while being small enough to fit into the overhead compartment in an airplane. This acoustic-electric comes packed with a plethora of features – from an in-body tuning system, a headphone output to a Shadow under-saddle pickup – that helps you stay on top of your game. This is a great lightweight option for a performer or even for a student who wants to up his game. The Escape Mark III also comes with a deluxe gig bag that keeps it protected when not in use. Overall, I would say this is one of the best travel guitars out there.

Overall Build and Size: The Escape Mark III is just 30” despite boasting a full-scale at 25.5” and has a compact mahogany body, back, and top with a bolt-on mahogany neck. The natural satin finish gives it a refined feel. The single cutaway gives the player access to the higher frets while also giving it a tasteful look. The full-sized scale has a comfortable, familiar feel to it while playing. The relatively thin body needs some getting used to and it can be difficult to rest your arm while playing, but the overall balance of the guitar is excellent. Despite being quite lightweight at 4.5 lbs, it does compromise on the quality, durability, or sturdiness of the piece.

Overall Sound Quality: When not plugged in, the Escape Mark III sounds like any other unplugged electric guitar, but once plugged into an amplification system, produces a sound that emulates a steel-string acoustic guitar. This guitar has a clean, warm, mellow sound and is not disturbed in the slightest by string hum or any other problems. The premium quality mahogany used in the guitar allows for greater resonance and a better sustain. Altogether, the way the Escape Mark III is crafted makes for a truly exceptional auditory experience.

Body and Neck Wood: This guitar features a mahogany body and neck which adds sturdiness to the piece, and the black walnut fretboard gives it a smooth feel while playing. The headstock has been removed from its traditional place and added to the body itself which gives it a different, non-traditional appearance. The In-Body tuning system is sturdy and reliable, and the tuners are protected from outside interference.

• Mahogany wood body
• Full-scale fretboard despite the compact size
• Warm, mellow sound, great resonance
• Shadow under-saddle pickups and In-Body tuning system
• Cutaway to reach higher frets easily
• Lightweight, highly portable
• Great choice for multi-city gigs

14. Voyage Air VAOM-02G2

My Review: Traveling with a guitar, be it a regular sized guitar or that of a travel variety, is awkward due to their long, thin necks. But, with the Voyage Air VAOM-02G2, its manufacturers have found an ingenious solution to that age-old problem – a patented hinge which lets you literally fold the guitar in half! It comes with its very own deluxe Voyager case in which you can stow the guitar when not in use. For someone who doesn’t want to compromise on the dimensions or the size, this is a great fit!

Overall Build and Size: The Voyage Air is a full-sized acoustic dreadnought guitar. The body is made from mahogany as are the back and the sides and has a single-ply laminate spruce top with bracing. The fingerboard and the bridge are crafted from laurel – a soft-colored, brown wood that is almost identical to rosewood. It has a high-gloss protective finish which gives it a soft look. The foldable neck-hinge has been tested under pressure and is very dependable. The build of the guitar is quite sturdy, no matter how strange it might seem to fold and unfold the guitar each time. The only thing to keep in mind is that the strings need to be slackened off before folding!

Overall Sound Quality: Despite being a travel guitar, the Voyage Air is a full-sized acoustic guitar with a full, rich sound and a good deal of projection. The full-scale fretboard offers comfortable playability and adapts to any playing style, be it fingerpicking or strumming.

Body and Neck Wood: The body and the neck are both crafted from mahogany as are the sides and the back. The top is made from a single-ply laminate spruce which can be a letdown for some people. The fretboard is made from laurel as is the bridge on the guitar.

• Foldable design for better storage and transport
• Full-size guitar that can be easily carried around
• Mahogany and spruce laminate body
• Full, rich sound like a regular sized acoustic guitar

15. Cordoba Mini II M, Mahogany, Small Body, Nylon String

My Review: The Cordoba Mini II MH travel guitar is a handsome ½ size guitar. Whether it be an impromptu performance or a relaxed practice session while camping, you won’t hesitate to bust out this beauty. It has a delightfully warm, full, well-balanced tone that seems more like a guitar than a ukulele. The Cordoba Mini II Mahogany is a beauty that ticks all the right boxes in looks, sound quality, playability as well as price!

Overall Build and Size: The small body of the Cordoba makes this an ideal choice for a travel guitar. Being a ½ sized guitar, it is easier to carry along on trips than other bigger guitars. The satin polyurethane finish gives it a more sophisticated look than other guitars in this category. Despite a slightly cramped scale at 22.8”, the guitar tunes perfectly to a standard E and the fingerboard offers overall comfortable playability. Guitar players who have slightly smaller hands will certainly find this to be a more manageable instrument than a full-sized acoustic guitar. The build of this guitar speaks of quality and a solid body that can take the pain of travel.

Overall Sound Quality: The Cordoba Mini II promises to sound more like a full-sized guitar than a ukulele – and delivers! It has a nuanced, full-bodied tone that is mellow and full of warmth. Compared to some other travel guitars, this one has a deeper body that projects the sound well. Even though it isn’t particularly loud, it has enough volume for a lonesome practice session or small, intimate performances.

Body and Neck Wood: The layered mahogany body and neck, and the Morado fretboard (with 19 frets) are instant visual hooks that draw you to this little fellow. There is a single action truss rod inside the neck. Even though this guitar doesn’t feature a full-size scale, the fretboard offers good playability and is easy to adapt to.

• Layered mahogany body and satin finish
• ½ sized guitar easy to carry along
• Aesthetically pleasing
• Warm, full tonality
• Pocket-friendly price
• Ideal for kids and players with smaller hands

16. Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitar

My Review: The Traveler Ultra-Light Acoustic-Electric is marketed as the smallest, lightest full-scale travel guitar on the market, and it certainly delivers on all these counts. The compact design of the guitar without a headstock is unique, yet offers a full-scale playing experience that one gets on a full-sized acoustic. The piezo pickup delivers a bright acoustic sound when plugged into an amplifier. Despite being a higher-priced guitar, the Traveler Ultra-light Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitar is certainly worth a try.

Overall Build and Size: This Traveler Ultra-light guitar really lives up to its name. Weighing in at only 3 pounds, it is one of the lightest travel guitars on the market. At only 24 ¾”, it can even fit into some suitcases and is easy to carry around. Made from a single piece of maple wood with a regular-sized fingerboard made from ebony wood, it comes with an adjustable truss rod. Despite the guitar’s shape, the detachable lap-rest makes it comfortable to play sitting down, although the different designs might take some getting used to. The overall build is quite sturdy and can easily be taken along on your travels and even stowed in the overhead bin on a flight, thanks to its detachable lap-rest. The range of satin finishes it comes in allows you to choose the color you feel the most comfortable with.

Overall Sound Quality: This Traveler guitar comes with a ¼” jack socket and a built-in acoustic piezo pickup which can be used to amplify its sound. The piezo pickup gives it a bright, crisp tone once plugged into an amplifier. This one is a silent guitar and only finds its voice through an amplifier. Given this little fact, it can’t be used to strum a few chords around a campfire but can come in handy when looking to practice quietly. It is also well-suited to live performances where there is an amplification set up at hand.

Body and Neck Wood: The body and neck of the guitar are crafted from a single piece of Eastern American Hard Maple. The full-size fingerboard is made from ebony wood and has 22 frets which are easy to adapt to from a conventional acoustic guitar. The satin finish on top gives it a smooth, hand-friendly feel while playing.

• Extremely compact build
• In-body tuning system
• Bright, crisp, articulate sound
• Piezo pickup for amplification

17. Washburn RO10 Rover Steel String Travel Acoustic Guitar

My Review: Washburn guitars have been consistently delivering guitars crafted with extreme care and quality since the 1880s. The Washburn RO10 Rover features a mahogany wood body, back and sides, a solid spruce top, and a full-size neck which makes for good playability. This guitar produces a sound that emphasizes the treble without being too loud or resonant, which makes it suitable for different playing styles – whether flat-picking or playing finger-style

Overall Build and Size: The Washburn Rover is a visually appealing 33.5” long acoustic guitar, with a beautiful mahogany body and a solid spruce top which enhances its look and overall feel. It has a rosewood fingerboard and a full-size neck which feels like a regular-sized guitar and needs no time to get used to. The fingerboard also makes for good playability. The overall build of the guitar is sturdy and robust and makes for a good, albeit heavier travel guitar. The Washburn is available in a natural finish as well as a blue finish. The deluxe gig bag, included with the instrument, makes sure that no harm comes to the guitar when carrying it around with you.

Overall Sound Quality: The Washburn isn’t made to produce a loud sound, but taking into account its compact size, the sound is quite impressive, if a little more treble-y than usual. For a travel guitar with a full-size neck, the Washburn RO10 Rover lives up to its potential.

Body and Neck Wood: The Washburn is made from a mahogany body and the fretboard is crafted from rosewood. The solid spruce top gives the guitar a nice resonance, although the wood used and the full-sized fretboard makes the guitar a tad heavier than expected.

• Robust, well-built guitar
• Full-sized neck
• Solid spruce top
• Versatile, good playability for multiple playing styles
• Moderately priced

Choosing the Right Travel Guitar (Buying Guide)

Adding a travel guitar to your collection means you can take your 6-string pal along on road trips without a worry. And as you can see from our top 17 list, there are several great options to choose from. What matters is that you pick a type of guitar that you’d prefer – be it playability, size, or tone quality. If you ask us, then our pick for the travel guitar with the most impressive sound quality would be the Baby Taylor BT1 for acoustic and the Travelcaster Deluxe for electric. Be it an intimate impromptu gig or a long road trip, this beauty sounds like a dream and is so compact to travel with.

If you ask us for a great affordable option for a 3/4 travel guitar, then the Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic is worth exploring for those on a budget. Finally, for those looking to strike a balance between the top of the line quality as well as not spend a bomb then you should check out the Washburn RO10 Rover Steel String. At the end of the day, it’s all about having fun and having a portable companion that gives you the freedom to strum along wherever you are. We hope this list gave you all the information you need to take your pick. Bon voyage!

What Is a Travel Guitar?

Simply put, travel guitars or travel-sized guitars are a more compact, lighter version of a full-sized guitar. You’ll find both acoustic travel guitars and electric variants in the market, depending on your needs.

Most travel guitars have the same or almost the same scale length (distance between the nut and the guitar’s bridge) as regular guitars so that you get a more compact guitar without compromising the playability of the instrument. On the other hand, you also have travel guitar options that have 3/4, 1/2, or even 1/4 scale length as full-size guitars.

Travel guitars have smaller body and neck, which makes them lighter and easier to carry with you wherever you go – be it a month-long cross-country tour, a weekend road trip, or even a backpacking hike to the mountains!

Why Should You Buy a Travel Guitar

Whether you’re a hobby guitarist or an experienced player, there are so many good reasons to get yourself a travel guitar either way. Here are a few for you to go through:

• Light & Portable: Travel guitars are far easier and hassle-free to carry with you when traveling. This is thanks to their compact size and lightweight that lets them easily fit on flights or a vehicle.
• Great Backup Option: they work great as a backup guitar for musicians who don’t want to take their primary guitars on a trip where they’ll be roughing it out.
• Strum On the Road: Inspiration can strike a musician anytime, especially when you’re traveling! Having a travel guitar lets you flesh out your song ideas as and when you think them up – even when you’re out on the road or on vacation.
• Take Up Less Space: If you’re packing up your van for a long road trip, you’ll find that travel guitars take up far lesser space than traditional guitars do, freeing up more storage space for other things that you’d want to carry along.

What to Look For In A Travel Guitar

With several options for travel guitars available in the market, it’s crucial to know what to look for when sizing each option up. Here are the key features you should consider when comparing travel guitars and making your decision:

Full-sized scale-length vs. Reduced Scale Length

Many travel guitars come with a full-size or almost full-size scale length (around 25.5 inches). When making such travel guitars, the manufacturers choose to make them compact by reducing the size of the guitar’s body, instead of the fretboard size or length. These guitars feel like you’re almost playing a regular guitar, just more compact and more portable.

On the other hand, you also find one-half (1/2), three-quarters (3/4), or even as small as one-quarter (1/4) sized guitars. These have smaller fretboards than regular guitars. So consider the scale length you’ll be comfortable playing on when taking your pick.

Overall Size

Even amongst travel guitars, you will find options of all sizes to choose from. While some travel guitars are only slightly smaller than full-size guitars, others are extremely compact. Most full-size guitars are 38 inches in their overall size.

On the other hand, travel guitars So do consider how compact a guitar you’re looking for and look at the measurements when taking your pick.

Tone Quality

As you already might know, the wood used in the guitar’s construction affects its tone and sound quality. Woods like Maple, Spruce, Sitka Spruce, and Rosewood produce a bright, higher, slightly treble-heavy tone and sound.

On the other hand, woods like Mahogany and Koa have a richer, warmer tone that is mid to low-range in its character. So it’s all about deciding what type of sound works best for your playing and style, and going with it.

Quality of Wood Used

As is the case with full-size guitars, do consider the type of body, neck, and fretboard wood used on your potential travel guitar. The better the quality of wood used, the sweeter and richer the sound and the more durable the construction. You can choose from a wide variety of woods such as mahogany, maple, spruce, walnut, and more, depending on the look and sound you prefer.

Overall Shape and Design

Travel-friendly guitars come in a wide variety of shapes and designs. Some travel guitars are more compact versions of the classic shapes like a dreadnought, concert, or auditorium style guitars. However, you will also find extremely futuristic and innovatively-designed travel guitars as well, that are foldable, triangular-shaped, and even ones with barely any guitar body!

I know of buddies that would love a triangular-shaped travel guitar, but also know a few who wouldn’t dream of doing such a thing! So it’s all a matter of personal taste. This is why it’s important to see the shape and design that you will be comfortable playing with and carrying, and choosing accordingly.

Last but never least, it’s a good idea to have a budget in mind when browsing through options. Travel guitars are available in a wide price range – from affordable, budget-friendly options under $200, mid-range options between $200 to $400, and higher-end travel guitars that are in the $400 plus range.

Do make it a point to check the features and wood quality that you’re being offered at any price point. While very low-priced travel guitars may seem enticing at first, you may end up shelling out more in its repairs in case the instrument is not well-built. So it’s important to pick an option that is value for money, no matter its price.

My name is Chris and I’ve had a passion for music and guitars for as long as I can remember. I started this website with some of my friends who are musicians, music teachers, gear heads, and music enthusiasts so we could provide high-quality guitar and music-related content.

I’ve been playing guitar since I was 13 years old and am an avid collector. Amps, pedals, guitars, bass, drums, microphones, studio, and recording gear, I love it all.

I was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania. My background is in Electrical Engineering, earning a Bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University. With my engineering experience, I’ve developed as a designer of guitar amplifiers and effects. A true passion of mine, I’ve designed, built, and repaired a wide range of guitar amps and electronics. Here at the Guitar Lobby, our aim is to share our passion for Music and gear with the rest of the music community.

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The Best Travel Guitar 2023: An Expert Guide & Top Picks

Traveling and playing the guitar can go hand in hand for many musicians. Finding the best travel guitar can significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to make music anywhere you go without sacrificing sound quality or feeling encumbered.

Today, there are many options whether you're looking for a travel acoustic guitar or electric guitar. In fact, it can be overwhelming to identify the best fit for your needs. We'll walk you through the key elements you need to consider, from the types of travel guitars and notable brands to the features that make a guitar travel-friendly, as well as budget concerns and frequently asked questions. And we won't even bury the lede. The Taylor GS-Mini is our favorite travel guitar - but at least read on to find out why!

Key Takeaways

• Selecting the ideal travel guitar depends on various factors including portability, convenience, and sound quality.
• Travel guitars may make some compromises compared to full scale guitars but they still offer great sound
• Acoustic and electric travel guitars offer different benefits and features to suit a variety of preferences.
• Consider factors such as types, brands, budget, and travel-friendly features when looking for the perfect travel guitar.
• Oh, and the Taylor GS-Mini is the best travel acoustic guitar.

The Best Travel Guitars of 2023 - Our Top Picks

The best travel acoustic guitar.

Taylor GS Mini.

The Taylor GS Mini is our top pick for a travel acoustic guitar. It has a smaller size compared to a full-sized guitar but produces a rich and warm sound. What we love about the GS Mini is that it comes in a variety of options to hopefully fit within your budget.

The GS Mini comes is available in Sapele, Rosewood, Mahogony, and Koa constructions ranging from $499 - $999.  

Additionally, most The GS Mini-e is an acoustic electric guitar featuring Taylor's ES-B electronics for easy recording or amplification. Adding pickups to a GS Mini-e adds about $200 in additional cost as well.

• A range of options to fit most budgets ($499 - $1199)
• Great pickups on the GS Mini-e acoustic electric
• Slim neck feels great and makes for easy playability
• Gigbag included (Koa comes with a beautiful AeroCase)
• No cutaway option.

Martin Backpacker

No travel guitar list would be complete without the iconic and controversial Martin Backpacker. The Backpacker is an amazing instrument with its compact and innovative design for travelers. Its unique body shape makes it easy to carry and play on the go - in fact, it was the first guitar ever played in space! This travel guitar features a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a Richlite fingerboard. It produces a crisp and bright tone, perfect for fingerstyle playing.

• Affordable at $299, especially for a Martin guitar
• A true travel guitar
• Design isn't for everyone
• No pickup options
• Sound quality is limited - because physics

Taylor Baby Taylor

The Baby Taylor is a great option if the GS Mini starts to fall out of your range. They also come in a variety of tonewoods and are the same 3/4-sized guitar perfect for those who prefer a more compact option.

ORANGEWOOD Oliver Jr.

Orangewood is a modern guitar company making high quality guitars at affordable prices by adopting a DTC business model. The Oliver Jr. is a great example of the Orangewood philosphy as it is loaded with features for just $299. The top, back, sides, and neck of this guitar are all made of mahogany offering a  warm sound that can be plugged in for recording or performing with built-in Fishman pickups. The Orangewood's tone isn't as full and rich as the GS Mini in mahogany but at half the price this guitar is an amazing bargain.

The Best Travel Electric Guitar

Unlike travel acoustic guitars, travel electric guitars have really gone beyond miniaturizing the format and design of their larger counterparts by adopting truly differentiated designs and hardware to make an entirely new format.

Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light

It's not often that a company without a legacy in guitar making comes along and establishes a name for itself in a specific category but that's what Traveler Guitar has done with their Ultra-light series of electric guitars. Although it is called an acoustic-electric guitar I'd categorize this in the electric category given the choices above that make for much better travel acoustic guitars.

The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light has a unique body style that incorporates the tuning mechanism in the body of the guitar - allowing for a headless guitar but still incorporating a full-scale length neck for true versatility! The built-in pickups are good but not great and can create some distortion at the higher volumes. If you truly would like a travel electric guitar I think this is the one to go for.

• Full-length neck and good fret ends
• Pickups are very usable except at high volumes
• Small format is perfect for travel
• Lap attachment still feels awkward to play sitting

Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe is a headless electric guitar that's perfect for travel. Its compact design features a double-cutaway body made with a maple neck-through construction, offering great tonal qualities. The Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe comes equipped with Steinberger pickups and a unique TransTrem vibrato system, providing versatility and ease of playing across various genres.

Hofner Shorty is another electric travel guitar that offers a classic look and compact size. Its body is made of basswood, and it features a maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard. The Hofner Shorty comes with a single Humbucker pickup, allowing you to achieve a variety of tones from clean to overdriven sounds.

Portability and Convenience

Compact size.

Travel guitars are designed with portability in mind, featuring a smaller build than traditional guitars. One characteristic of a travel guitar is its compact size, often with a 24-inch scale length guitar neck. This shortened length contributes significantly to its portability, as it takes up less space when packed and transported. The compact size allows musicians to easily carry their guitar with them, making it an ideal companion for both frequent travelers and hobbyists alike.

Lightweight Design

In addition to their compact size, travel guitars are crafted to be lightweight. The portable guitar utilizes lighter materials in its construction, reducing the overall weight so as not to burden the player. This lightweight design not only promotes portability but also ensures a comfortable playing experience for the musician.

Features Advantages Compact Size Easier to pack and transport Lightweight Reduced burden on the player; added convenience

Travel guitars, with their portable , lightweight , and compact guitar features, are designed as an optimal solution for the musician on the go. By addressing both size and weight concerns, these versatile instruments enable streamlined transportation and ease of use without sacrificing sound quality.

Acoustic vs Electric Travel Guitars

Acoustic travel guitars.

Acoustic travel guitars are popular because of their portability and the natural sound they produce. They generally have a smaller body size, which makes them easy to carry around. Unlike full-size acoustic guitars, the small guitar size may impact the richness and volume of the tone compared to a regular guitar. However, many travel-sized acoustic guitars maintain a good balance between portability and decent sound quality. Some examples include the Baby Taylor and the Martin Backpacker .

• Portable and lightweight
• Natural acoustic sound
• No need for amplification
• Smaller body might impact tone
• Not suitable for all music genres

Electric Travel Guitars

Electric travel guitars provide a different playing experience compared to acoustic ones. They allow a wider range of sound options through the use of amps and effects pedals. Moreover, their small size doesn't significantly compromise the tone, since the sound is produced electronically. Some popular electric travel guitars are the Hofner Shorty and the Traveler Guitar EG-1 .

• Compact size without huge impact on tone
• Wider sound options with amps and effects
• Suitable for various music genres
• Requires amplification and external gear
• May not have the natural sound of an acoustic guitar

When choosing between an acoustic and an electric travel guitar, consider the type of music you want to play, the importance of portability, and your personal preferences. Keep in mind that the small size of travel guitars may affect the overall tone, especially in acoustic models. However, both options can provide a satisfying playing experience for those on the go.

Features to Consider

Playability.

When choosing the best travel guitar, playability is a crucial factor. A guitar with easy playability will make your playing experience more enjoyable and comfortable. Look for features like a full scale-length and a lightweight guitar design. Depending on your preference and skill level, consider if the guitar is suitable for beginners or more advanced players.

Tone and Projection

Tone and projection are essential aspects of a travel guitar. A guitar with a resonant tone and good projection will make your practice or performance sound better. Pay attention to the guitar's tonewood back and sides, which can impact its tonal quality and projection. Popular choices include mahogany, spruce top, and solid Sitka spruce top. Additionally, consider the guitar's body shape, such as a dreadnought, which can influence its projection and overall sound.

Materials and Construction

The materials and construction of a travel guitar play a significant role in its durability and tone. A solid wood construction, like mahogany body or solid spruce top, typically offers better sound quality and durability. However, the choice of materials will often depend on your budget and preferences. For example, a durable and affordable option would be a guitar with a laminate top and solid wood back and sides. Ensure that the guitar you choose comes with a gig bag for protection during your travels.

Volume and Electronics

Finally, consider the volume and electronics of the travel guitar. An electro-acoustic guitar with built-in electronics, such as single coil pickups, offers tonal versatility and makes it easy to play in different settings. These guitars also have the option to be played acoustically or amplified, depending on your needs. However, if you prefer a purely acoustic sound, ensure that the guitar has adequate volume and projection without the need for electronics.

Remember to keep these factors in mind when choosing the best travel guitar for your needs, and you'll find the perfect companion for your musical journey.

Notable Travel Guitars Brands

Taylor guitars.

Taylor Guitars is a leading manufacturer of travel guitars, known for their excellent craftsmanship and quality materials. The company is renowned for producing guitars with superb playability, rich tones, and incredible durability. One of the standout Taylor travel guitars is their GS Mini series, which features a scaled-down body size perfect for travelers.

These guitars are built with a solid koa top, sapele neck, and high-pressure laminate back and sides. The combination of these materials creates a beautiful sound that captures the essence of a full-sized Taylor guitar. The GS Mini series is an excellent choice for travelers who want a high-quality guitar that is easy to carry and transport.

Martin and Co.

Martin and Co. is another respected brand in the world of travel guitars. With over 180 years of guitar-making experience, they have developed a line of travel guitars that are reliable and produce excellent sound. One of the most popular models is the Martin LX1E Little Martin .

The Martin LX1E Little Martin features a solid Sitka spruce top, high-pressure laminate back and sides, and a comfortable Modified Low Oval neck shape. This combination of materials provides a warm, balanced tone that is perfect for various music styles. It also consists of an onboard Fishman Isys T pickup system, which makes it an excellent choice for guitarists who perform live or record their music while traveling.

Key features of Martin LX1E Little Martin:

• Solid Sitka spruce top
• High-pressure laminate back and sides
• Modified Low Oval neck shape
• Fishman Isys T pickup system

In summary, both Taylor Guitars and Martin and Co. are notable travel guitar brands that offer high-quality instruments suitable for musicians on the go. The combination of excellent materials, craftsmanship, and innovative design ensures these guitars will last through many adventures and provide a pleasing musical experience.

Budget and Value

Affordable travel guitars.

When it comes to affordable travel guitars, there are plenty of options that offer great value without compromising on sound quality. These guitars can be the perfect travel companion for musicians who frequently perform at gigs or want a portable instrument to practice on.

• The Luna Safari is a top choice for an inexpensive travel guitar. This compact, 3/4-size guitar is designed for easy portability, making it an excellent option for those on-the-go. Despite its smaller size, the Luna Safari delivers impressive sound and playability.
• Full-scale electric guitars can also be budget-friendly, offering versatility in both sound and style. There are many affordable models available that cater to various skill levels and preferences.

Travel Guitar Model Price Range Luna Safari $100 - $200 Full-scale Electric $100 - $300

Ideal Travel Guitars for Beginners

For those just starting out, finding a high-quality, versatile, and affordable travel guitar is essential. The following guitars are ideal for beginners, providing excellent value while maintaining ease of play and sound quality.

• The Yamaha CSF3M is one such option. This travel-sized guitar offers a compact design without sacrificing the full-scale length. This makes it perfect for beginners who are still mastering finger placement and technique. With a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the Yamaha CSF3M delivers a rich, full sound despite its smaller size.

To sum up, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned musician, there are plenty of affordable and versatile travel guitars available. Finding the right travel companion for your musical journey ultimately depends on your preferences, budget, and skill level.

Travel-Friendly Features and Accessories

When selecting the best travel guitar, it is essential to consider its travel-friendly features and accessories. A gig bag is a must-have for any musician on the go. They provide protection and portability, ensuring the safety of your instrument. Opt for a padded gig bag to offer extra cushioning and support, reducing the risk of damage during transport.

Some travel guitars come with built-in travel-friendly features. For instance, collapsible necks or compact body shapes make them even more portable and easy to carry. Look for guitars with lightweight construction materials to reduce the burden on your back and shoulders during travel.

Additional features to consider are:

• Detachable straps: For easy storage and carrying
• Waterproof material: Protects against water damage or spills
• Multiple pockets: Store essential accessories like capos, picks, and tuners

Accessories play a significant role in ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience with your guitar. Here are some useful accessories to consider:

• Foldable guitar stands: Save space and provide stability when storing your guitar during travels
• Travel guitar humidifiers: Maintain appropriate humidity levels, especially in dry environments, to prevent your instrument from getting damaged
• Compact guitar tuners: Essential for staying in tune while on the road

By paying attention to these travel-friendly features and accessories, you can find the best travel guitar to suit your needs and ensure a smooth musical journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size guitar is ideal for traveling.

When it comes to travel guitars, the ideal size is smaller than a standard guitar but still comfortable to play. A 3/4 size guitar or a mini guitar like the Taylor GS Mini or the Martin Backpacker can be great options. These guitars are usually smaller, lighter, and have a shorter scale length, making them ideal for bringing along on trips.

Do traveler guitars have good sound quality?

Traveler guitars tend to have a decent sound quality but might not be as rich and deep as full-sized guitars due to their smaller body size and other design compromises to make them portable. However, travel guitars are more than capable of delivering satisfactory performance for casual playing, songwriting, or practicing on the go.

Are travel guitars easy to play?

Most travel guitars are designed to be easy and comfortable to play, keeping in mind the requirements of a traveling musician. While they may have smaller bodies and shorter necks, they should still feel comfortable in your hands and should not compromise on playability.

Is a 3/4 size guitar suitable for travel?

A 3/4 size guitar can be an excellent choice for travel as it offers a compact design without significantly sacrificing playability and sound quality. Guitars such as the Yamaha APXT2 and the Baby Taylor are popular 3/4 size options that are ideal for travelers.

What features are essential in a great travel guitar?

A great travel guitar should be lightweight, portable, durable, and easy to maintain. Key features to consider include a smaller body size, shorter scale length, ergonomic design, and the use of quality materials that can withstand changes in temperature and humidity while traveling. Additionally, some travel guitars come with built-in electronics, allowing you to plug into an amplifier or audio interface for recording.

Can I perform gigs with a travel guitar?

Yes, you can perform gigs with a travel guitar. Although these guitars may not have the same volume and depth of sound as full-sized guitars, many travel guitars come equipped with built-in electronics that allow you to amplify the sound and make them suitable for live performances. Travel guitars such as the Taylor GS Mini-e or the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light are equipped with electronics that make them stage-ready when needed.

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Top Picks for the Best Travel Guitar in 2023

As an experienced musician and traveler, I understand the unique needs of those seeking the perfect travel guitar.

In this guide, I’ve curated a list of the best travel guitars of 2023, drawing from my personal experience and expertise. From compact, ultra-light models to beautifully designed options and budget-friendly choices, each guitar has been handpicked to ensure you find one that resonates with your musical journey and lifestyle.

Best Overall: Traveler Escape Mark III

• Compact size, perfect for travel
• Full-scale length offers a familiar playing experience
• High-quality mahogany construction
• Versatile with built-in preamp and tuner
• Higher price point compared to some other travel guitars
• Limited onboard controls for sound shaping

As a seasoned musician, I’m always on the lookout for a guitar that can accompany me on my travels without compromising on quality. The Traveler Guitar Acoustic Guitar Escape Mark III stands out as the best overall travel guitar in 2023. This remarkable instrument combines portability with a full-scale playing experience, making it an ideal choice for musicians on the go.

Having tested the Escape Mark III, I was impressed with its playability and sound quality. The full-scale length is a rare find in travel guitars, offering a playing experience akin to a standard acoustic guitar.

Its mahogany construction not only gives it a sleek look but also contributes to a warm, resonant tone. The built-in preamp and tuner add convenience, especially when practicing or performing in diverse settings. Whether in a hotel room or a campfire gathering, this guitar’s versatility and ease of use stood out.

Technical Details

• Body and Neck Material: Mahogany
• Top Material: Mahogany
• Fretboard: Black Walnut
• Pickup: Shadow Nano Flex
• Scale Length: 25.5 inches
• Number of Strings: 6
• Weight: 4.38 pounds
• Dimensions: 29.5 x 10.75 x 2.13 inches

Best Overall: Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light

• Extremely lightweight and portable
• Full-scale length ensures no compromise on playing experience
• Easy to transport, fitting into airline overhead bins
• Ideal for practice sessions or casual play during travels
• The absence of a headstock might require an adjustment period for some players
• Acoustic sound projection is limited compared to traditional guitars

As an experienced musician, I was intrigued by the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Acoustic-Electric Guitar for its unique design and promise of ultra-portability.

On testing the Ultra-Light, its featherweight design immediately stood out. It’s impressively compact, making it a breeze to carry around, yet it offers a full-scale playing experience. The piezo pickup delivers a clear sound when plugged in, though the acoustic volume is understandably softer given its size.

The absence of a headstock is a unique feature, and while it does change the balance of the instrument, it’s something I quickly adapted to. This guitar is a fantastic option for musicians looking for a travel-friendly instrument without sacrificing the feel of a full-size guitar.

• Body, Back, and Neck Material: Maple
• Fretboard: Walnut Wood
• Pickup: Piezo
• Scale Length: 24.75 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 14 oz.
• Dimensions: 28 x 5.25 x 2 inches

Lightest: Donner HUSH-I

• Innovative headless design reduces overall size and weight
• Quiet performance makes it perfect for practicing in any environment
• Detachable frames provide ergonomic support during play
• Preamp system allows for versatile sound options
• The headless design might be unconventional for some traditional players
• Limited acoustic projection due to its compact size

The Donner HUSH-I Guitar For Travel caught my eye for its innovative design and functionality, making it a standout choice for the best design in travel guitars.

Testing the Donner HUSH-I was a unique experience. Its headless design and ultra-light body made it incredibly easy to transport and play in various settings. The quiet performance feature is particularly impressive, allowing for discreet practice sessions without disturbing others.

The built-in preamp system provided a natural acoustic tone, and the detachable frames made it comfortable to play for extended periods. This guitar is an excellent option for travelers who value both style and functionality.

• Fretboard: Rosewood
• Pickup: Built-in preamp system

Cheapest Option: Enya Nova Go Carbon Fiber

• Very affordable without compromising on build quality
• Resistant to temperature and humidity variations
• Lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for travelers
• Comes with practical accessories for beginners and travelers
• Limited acoustic sound projection due to its size
• The unique material may offer a different tone compared to traditional wooden guitars

The Enya Nova Go Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitar offers an excellent blend of affordability and quality, making it a top pick for the cheapest option in travel guitars.

Upon trying the Enya Nova Go, I was impressed with its sturdiness and resilience, particularly considering its price point. The carbon fiber build gives it a distinct, clear tone and the small size makes it incredibly convenient for travel. The guitar’s accessories, like the gig bag and extra strings, add great value for beginners or those looking for a reliable, budget-friendly travel guitar.

• Body and Back Material: Carbon Fiber & Polycarbonate
• Weight: 7.48 pounds
• Dimensions: 36.22 x 12.2 x 3.15 inches

How to choose the Best Travel Guitar

When choosing the best travel guitar, consider these key factors:

• Size and Portability : Look for compact and lightweight models that are easy to carry. Consider if the guitar fits in overhead compartments for air travel.
• Material and Durability : Choose materials that withstand varying climates and rough handling, like carbon fiber or quality woods.
• Playability : Ensure the guitar maintains a standard scale length for comfortable playability. Check for a comfortable neck and fretboard.
• Sound Quality : Even with a smaller size, a good travel guitar should still offer pleasing acoustic or amplified sound.
• Additional Features : Look for built-in tuners, preamps, and durable carrying cases for added convenience.
• Budget : Determine your price range. There are options for every budget, from affordable to high-end models.

What makes a guitar ideal for travel?

A travel guitar is ideal when it’s compact, lightweight, and durable, making it easy to transport and resilient to different environments.

Can travel guitars match the sound quality of regular guitars?

While smaller in size, many travel guitars are designed to offer a sound quality comparable to regular guitars, especially those with quality construction and materials.

Are travel guitars suitable for beginners?

Yes, travel guitars are suitable for beginners due to their portable size and often simpler design, making them easy to learn on.

What additional features should I look for in a travel guitar?

Look for features like built-in tuners, preamps, and high-quality gig bags for added convenience and versatility.

The Best Travel Guitars: Top 5 Picks

By: Author Jodie Chiffey

Posted on Last updated: January 31, 2023

Today we’ll be talking through some of our favorite travel electric guitars.

We’ll take a closer look at five of the best models out there, outline the pros and cons of each before giving you an idea of who we think each model best suits. Some of the most common FAQs will also be tackled so read on and you’ll be well equipped to choose your next travel-sized guitar.

For the most dedicated of players, having a trusty guitar with you at all times means you can play to your heart’s content whenever inspiration strikes. Maybe you’re sitting on a beach somewhere or watching the sunset from the top of a mountain when the perfect riff or set of chords pop into your head.

Well, fear not, getting yourself a travel guitar could be the perfect solution!

The travel guitar market is filled with plenty of options to suit all needs and styles of play. From miniature electric guitars right through to shrunken acoustic options and everything in between, there’s sure to be the right option for you.

These bespoke instruments are designed purely with portability in mind, with some incredibly clever designs that allow them to be ultra-compact and lightweight whilst also sounding as good as their larger counterparts.

Before we dive in and take an in-depth look into our five favorite travel guitars, let’s take a look at an overview of what you can expect from each one.

5 of the Best Travel Guitars

What exactly is a travel guitar.

A travel guitar is exactly that, a guitar that is designed to travel easily with. They achieve the desired levels of portability and mobility through a few clever design tricks. Firstly, the overall body is built to a much lighter spec. This usually involves reducing the overall size and using much lighter materials during construction.

Secondly, travel guitars often include a number of clever space-saving solutions, such as inventive tuning methods and well-thought-out storage options. Lastly, travel guitars are designed to be sturdy.

The overall build is much less delicate than your standard instrument as they are designed to be carried around a lot, thrown into the back of vehicles, and manhandled to a much greater extent.

Whilst portability, mobility, and reliability are the name of the game, there are other elements that cannot be overlooked. Who would buy any guitar if it didn’t sound good? That’s right, the key to the success of any travel guitar is to not only nail the travel elements but to nail the tone and overall sound too.

What Makes Travel Guitars so Different?

Due to the manufacturer’s quest for portability, travel guitars can often appear dramatically different from their more traditional counterparts. It is not uncommon to see electric guitars with little or nobody at all and some models even skip the headstock altogether.

Despite the often considerable difference in appearances, there are certain elements that all guitars, whether travel-sized or not, simply must-have. Tuning pegs and a bridge, for example, must be present in all models.

This means that the overall playing experience can differ from what you are familiar with and may take some getting used to. It is imperative that you select a model that will suit your style!

What are the Key Features of a Travel Guitar?

When it comes to the design of these specialist guitars, there are often two ways that the manufacturers go about it. The first is to essentially take a full-sized traditional guitar and shrink it down until it is deemed portable enough.

This approach works well as it allows the guitars to retain an element of familiarity and is often a popular choice for younger players or those who are slightly less experienced musicians.

The second is totally redesign the instrument from the ground up. Doing this often leads to elements of the guitar being totally repositioned and can alter the playing experience significantly.

Don’t be put off though, the company making these types of travel guitars have put millions of dollars into their research and development and often come up with innovative designs that are both portable and, crucially, playable.

Who Uses Travel Guitars?

At their core travel guitars are designed for musicians who want to take their instrument with them wherever they are in the world. They may just be heading off on vacation or planning a 6 month round the world trip but wherever they go, their guitar needs to go with them.

Alternatively, travel guitars have proved to be a popular choice with children who are not yet big enough to play a full-sized instrument. In fact, one of the guitars on our list actually started out as a design specifically aimed at kids!

In terms of style and genres, there is a travel guitar to suit all. The modern range available of electric, acoustic , and acoustic-electric options means no genre and no playing style is left uncatered for.

5 of The Best Travel Guitars Currently Available

Taylor baby taylor acoustic guitar – a classic acoustic design that produces outstanding tones.

The Taylor Baby Taylor actually started life as a guitar designed for children to play. Its compact size but the familiar layout was intended to allow younger musicians to get used to the feel of an acoustic guitar before graduating to a full-sized model.

It turned out that the design and build were so good that even players well suited to using regular-sized guitars found the sound of the Baby Taylor was perfectly good enough for them, far exceeding the expectations of a ‘learner’ model. The logical result was that the Baby Taylor became a very successful and generally well-respected traveler’s instrument.

Its classic dreadnought looks are ¾ of the size of a normal Taylor and the included gig bag makes it ultra-portable whilst being easy on the wallet. If the more outlandish designs aren’t for you then the Baby Taylor could well be a perfect choice.

Specifications

• ¾ sized dreadnought
• Solid Sitka Spruce top wood
• Layered Walnut on the back and sides
• Taylor Standard Baby X-bracing pattern
• Satin varnish finish
• Standard Taylor Baby profile
• 1 11/16-inch (42.8 mm) nut width
• Genuine African ebony fingerboard
• Sapele neck wood
• 22-¾-inch scale length
• Copafera headstock overlay
• Chrome Baby tuners & buttons
• Genuine African ebony bridge
• Micarta saddle & Nubone nut
• Taylor Deluxe Baby gig bag included
• Produces some of the best tones on our list
• Excellent build quality
• Players with larger hands may struggle

Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar – A Unique Aesthetic That Won’t Appeal to Everyone

With the Martin Steel-String Backpacker , we have the first example of a guitar that has been radically changed and redesigned to fit the portability brief. Although the looks of this travel guitar won’t appeal to everyone, you can be sure that Martin has managed to deliver crisp and clear tones despite the redesign.

The solid Mahogany used in the construction of the body really helps this little guitar kick out a more than the respectable level of volume. With a name like Martin behind this one, you can rest assured you are purchasing a quality product.

This model in particular has been designed with the traveler in mind. By that, we mean that not only has it been shrunk in size, but the construction has also made this model tougher than a lot of the other options on our list.

This means that the Martin Steel-String Backpacker is the ideal choice for those planning on taking their travel guitar away on camping or hiking trips. 

• Mahogany back, neck & sides
• Chrome tuners that are enclosed
• Small, ultra-lightweight size
• Padded gig bag included for portability and protection on the road
• Creates a good level of volume
• Super easy to travel with
• Great tones
• Visually, this guitar won’t appeal to everyone

Travelcaster Deluxe Electric Travel Guitar – A Lightweight Take on a Heavyweight Electric Guitar World

The Stratocaster is an instantly recognizable electric guitar that has been around for decades. But what happens when you want to take yours away on holiday with you? Well, unless you want to be lugging around your full-sized model then you should seriously consider getting yourself a Travelcaster Deluxe Guitar !

Coming in at only 5bls, the Travelcaster is 35% lighter and 14% shorter than its older brother. Despite this difference in size, we found it to provide a pretty good version of the classic Stratocaster experience. If you can get over it visually and need your travel guitar to be electric, this is a pretty awesome one to go for.

For guitarists on the go, there aren’t too many better options. It features three single-coil pickups , one volume control, two tone controls, and a five-way pickup selection.

• Poplar body
• 1.75 inches thick
• 9 inches wide
• Bolt-on construction
• 9.5-inch neck radius
• 1.65-inch width at the nut
• Maple fingerboard
• 22 medium/jumbo frets
• Passive electronics including tone. volume, & 5-way switch
• 3-inch overall depth
• 33.75-inch overall length
• 3 ceramic single-coil pickups
• Gigbag included
• A great option if you need an electric model
• Classic Strat feel and playing experience
• Portable & lightweight
• It may not appeal to everyone. Some may say the original Strat design shouldn’t have changed or tampered with in any way.

Hofner Shorty Electric Travel Guitar – An Electric Travel Guitar That Has Withstood the Test of Time

Originally designed and brought out by Hofner in the 1980s the Shorty Electric Guitar has proved to be a popular choice for the guitarist on the go ever since.

One of the reasons for this is that it provides that full-scale feel and familiarity a lot of players automatically look for. This full-length scale combined with its shrunken body results in one of the comfiest and best playing experiences you can get from a travel guitar.

There’s a classic Maplewood and Rosewood combination on the fretboard and neck whilst the humbucker situated on the bridge is beefy enough to blast even the most demanding of riffs.

The playability of this travel guitar is really why it made our list, along with the price. At such a low price point you really can’t go wrong. There are other models on our list that perhaps sound a little better but the Hofner Shorty is a brilliant choice if you’re not looking to break the bank.

• Basswood top & back
• Rosewood fingerboard
• 24.7-inch (62.8cm) length scale
• 42mm nut width
• Hofner Open Humbucker
• Hofner gig bag included
• Ultra-lightweight & portable
• Good quality for the price
• The overall sound isn’t as good as other options on our list

Traveler Guitar Escape Mark III Acoustic-Electric Guitar – A Full-Scale Option for the Distinguished Guitarist On-The-Go

This is a really cool piece of kit. If you’re looking to take a no-compromise approach to your playing then this could well be the model for you. Featuring internal tuning pegs and extensive onboard electrics, the Escape Mark III allows you to put on a show no matter where you are.

The internal tuning pegs mean there is effectively no headstock at all. Visually this is quite something to get over but it allows for portability whilst sacrificing little to no loss of sound quality.

At 26% shorter and 10% lighter than a standard electric-acoustic guitar, you’ll have no trouble carrying this thing around whilst the integrated electrics include things like a headphone port, an under-saddle Shadow NanoFlex piezo system, tuner, and aux-in. The overall package is perfect for just about any player.

The only downside with the Mark III is the price. It comes in as the most expensive model on our list in quite some way. Depending on how you intend to use your travel guitar and where you actually intend on traveling with it, it may be worth considering some of the cheaper options.

Of course, if the optimum sound is your thing and budget isn’t an issue then we say go for it! If, however, you’re concerned your portable companion may be exposed to a few more bumps and scrapes than your dreadnought at home then maybe consider a slightly cheaper model.

• Travel body
• Single cutaway
• Mahogany or alder wood back & sides
• Modified traditional bracing pattern
• Natural satin body finish
• 1.75-inch (44.45 mm) nut width
• Black walnut fingerboard
• Mahogany or maple neck wood
• 25.5-inch scale length
• Satin Finish
• Shadow pickup
• The best sounding guitar on our list
• Excellent electronic components
• Rich sounds when amplified
• High-quality materials used
• It’s the most expensive guitar on our list

Question: Do Travel Guitars Sound Different from Regular Guitars?

Answer: Generally speaking, yes. Due to the change in size, you will find that there may be significant changes in sound. This is particularly prevalent in acoustic models as they rely on their large bodies to convey their sounds. However, you can still expect to notice a difference in electric guitars too due to the modifications made to the electrical elements. This is not to say the overall sounds will be any worse, just that they may differ from what you are used to.

Question: Can You Use Regular Guitar Strings in a Travel Guitar?

Answer: Yes, you can. In the vast majority of cases, you are free to put your favorite strings in your travel guitar or replace them as they break. However, it is always advisable to check with the individual manufacturers before you do so just in case.

Question: Are Travel Guitars Good for Beginners?

Answer: Yes, they are perfect for beginners ! Travel guitars make ideal starting instruments as their smaller size makes them generally easier to navigate when starting out. They are often much less complicated than their full-sized counterparts and are therefore easier to play. The problem is when learning you may outgrow a travel guitar pretty quickly. Also worth noting is that due to their size and weight, travel guitars can often be the ideal models for children when starting out.

Question: How Can I Take Care of My Guitar Whilst Traveling?

Answer: There are many things to remember when taking care of your guitar . When we travel with our favorite instruments there are extra things we have to worry about to ensure no harm comes to them.

For example, it is imperative that you invest in a good quality bag that will offer a level of protection as well as portability. Many models will come with a perfectly good bag but it is always worth checking that it will give you enough protection.

Another thing to remember is to loosen your strings whilst in transit. This guards against any nasty surprises when you get to the other side, the pressure and temperature changes often experienced during a flight are well known to regularly damage guitar strings.

The Final Word: Which is The Best Travel Guitar

Choosing your perfect travel companion will come down largely to your budget and where you’re traveling to. If you’re not looking to break the bank and just want to have a little fun whilst you’re away then you can’t beat the Hofner Shorty Electric for the price.

If, however, you’re uncompromising and want nothing but the best whilst on your travels, then the Traveler Escape Mark III could well be your perfect choice.

For us though, when looking through the huge range of choices available to the traveling guitarist we kept coming back to the Taylor Baby Taylor . A classic design and beautiful tonal range married with a price tag that doesn’t instantly put you off did it for us.

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The 8 Best Travel Electric Guitars: The Cream of the Crop

• August 16, 2023

Are you a wanderer at heart, searching for the best travel electric guitar to accompany you on your adventures?

Look no further because we’ve scoured the market to bring you the top electric guitars for traveling. These babies will ignite your musical journey like never before.

So strap on your backpack and get ready to rock because we’re about to unveil the ultimate musical companions for your globetrotting escapades!

Key Takeaways

• Electric travel guitars are compact and lightweight, making them easy to transport.
• They have high-quality pickups and electronics, ensuring professional sound.
• Durability is an essential factor to consider when buying one.
• Electric travel guitars offer versatility and convenience, allowing musicians to play music while traveling.

Table of Contents

What is an electric travel guitar.

An electric travel guitar is a compact and portable instrument that allows you to play music while on the go easily.

The traveler guitar is one popular choice among musicians who frequently travel or perform on the road. It is designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for those who want to take their music with them wherever they go.

The key advantage is its size and weight. Unlike traditional electric guitars, which can be heavy and bulky, a travel guitar is designed to be smaller and more portable. This makes it easier to transport, whether traveling by car, plane, or train.

Another option to consider is an acoustic travel guitar. These guitars are specifically designed for portability and often come with a collapsible or detachable neck for easy storage in a backpack or suitcase.

When considering your options, it’s essential to think about what features are most important to you. Do you prioritize portability? Or perhaps sound quality? By identifying your needs and preferences, you’ll be able to find the perfect guitar that suits your playing style and musical tastes.

Considerations When Buying an Electric Travel Guitar

When shopping for a compact guitar to take on your trips, it’s essential to consider a few factors before purchasing.

Here are four considerations to keep in mind when buying:

• Size of the Guitar: Look for a smaller-sized body that is comfortable to carry and doesn’t compromise sound quality. Compact guitars are designed specifically for traveling and are easier to transport.
• Pickup: Make sure the travel electric guitar has a good pickup system . This will allow you to plug into an amplifier or recording device, ensuring that your music sounds great even on the go.
• Quality of Construction: Check the build quality of the guitar. Look for solid construction and durable materials that can withstand frequent travel without any damage.
• Travel Case: A sturdy and protective case is essential for keeping your guitar safe during transportation. Ensure the case fits properly and protects against bumps and knocks.

What Are the Key Features of an Electric Travel Guitar?

One important feature to consider when choosing a compact guitar for travel is the size of the body. A smaller and lighter guitar will be much easier to carry around, making it ideal for musicians on the go. However, it’s essential not to sacrifice sound quality and playability in favor of portability.

There are many great options available on the market today that cater specifically to traveling musicians. From small travel guitars with full-scale necks to lightweight electric travel guitars designed with professionals in mind, there is something to suit every musician’s needs. Considering these key features, you can find the perfect instrument that allows you to make music wherever your travels take you.

Who Uses Electric Travel Guitars?

Musicians who frequently travel often opt for travel guitars due to their compact size and portability. These small guitars are explicitly designed for musicians on the go, making them an excellent choice for those who want to continue playing while traveling.

Here are some reasons why many musicians choose travel guitars:

• Portability: They are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for musicians who need to pack light.
• Versatility: These guitars offer acoustic and electric capabilities, allowing you to switch between sounds depending on your preference or performance requirements.
• Space-saving: Their smaller size takes up less space than regular-sized instruments, making them easier to fit in cramped spaces like tour buses or airplanes.
• Affordable options: While expensive models are available, budget-friendly options provide excellent quality without breaking the bank.

The Best Travel Electric Guitars

Check out the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light, Stewart Electric Travel Guitar – Stow-Away, Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric, Donner HUSH, and Hofner 6 String Shorty.

These compact and portable instruments are perfect for musicians on the go. Whether traveling for gigs or simply wanting a guitar that’s easy to take with you wherever you roam, these options offer excellent sound quality and convenience.

Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light

The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light is the perfect solution if you’re a traveling musician. This compact electric guitar is substantially shorter and lighter than full-size electrics, making it easy to fit in an airline overhead compartment.

With its one-piece Eastern American hard Maple neck-through-body design and dual-rail humbucker pickup, this guitar offers excellent sound quality and playability. The proprietary In-Body tuning system ensures that your guitar stays in tune, even during travel.

• BUILT FOR TRAVEL: The Ultra-Light is a portable and travel-friendly version of your favorite at-home…
• PERFORMANCE WITHOUT COMPROMISE: Our proprietary In-Body Tuning System eliminates the need for a…
• COMPACT TRANSIT: Forget lugging around your full-sized electric guitar and worrying about it getting…

Product Specs:

• Weight: 3.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 32 x 12 x 5 inches
• Scale Length: 24.75
• Fretboard Material: Walnut Wood
• Compact size guitar allows for easy travel and portability
• High-quality build and materials ensure durability
• Dual-rail humbucker pickup provides excellent sound quality
• Limited color options are available
• Some users may prefer a different pickup configuration
• Not suitable for players who require a longer scale length

Stewart Electric Travel Guitar – Stow-Away

The Stewart Electric Travel Guitar – Stow-Away is a convenient option for frequently traveling musicians. With its full-scale collapsible design and backpack travel case, this guitar provides performance quality that feels and plays like your favorite instrument. The patented Clip-JointTM removable neck connection system allows easy assembly and disassembly, making it ideal for packing in tight spaces or carrying on flights.

• Full-Scale Guitar (Collapsible)
• Backpack Travel Case Included
• Patented Clip-JointTM Removable Neck Connection System
• Meets Airline Industry Carry-on Size Restrictions
• Convenient and portable for frequent travelers
• Performance quality comparable to regular guitars
• Easy assembly and disassembly with the removable neck connection system
• Some minor issues with the fret dress at the edge of the neck

Overall, the Stewart – Stow-Away offers convenience, portability, and performance quality for musicians on the go.

Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric

Another great option is the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric. This compact guitar offers a full 24 3/4 scale and weighs only 3 lbs. 2 oz., making it incredibly portable and perfect for travelers unwilling to compromise on scale length.

The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric features a one-piece Eastern American hard Maple neck-through-body design and a dual-rail humbucker pickup, delivering high-output sound quality in a small package.

This guitar comes with a gig bag for easy transportation. It is a popular choice for buskers that travel with limited funds .

• Full 24 3/4 Scale electric travel guitar
• Fits in airline overhead bins, weighing only 3 lbs. 2 oz.
• One-piece Eastern American hard Maple neck-through-body design
• Dual-rail humbucker pickup
• Includes gig bag
• Compact and lightweight design
• High-quality sound output
• Convenient for traveling with its gig bag
• May not have the same feel as a full-size electric guitar
• Some users may prefer additional customization options

Overall, the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric is an excellent choice for musicians who want to take their music on the go without sacrificing quality or playability.

Donner HUSH

The Donner HUSH is a compact, portable guitar with a built-in preamp system for ultra-quiet performance. It’s the perfect choice for musicians on the go who value convenience without compromising sound quality.

With its lightweight design and removable frames, this guitar is easy to transport in the included gig bag. The 9v battery ensures a long usage time, while the anti-phase bottom reduces noise interference.

You can customize your tones with the 2-stage EQ and volume knobs, and the asymmetrical neck design reduces wrist fatigue for enhanced performance. The hidden tuning keys add convenience to your playing experience.

• [Best Partner for Travel] – Donner HUSH portable guitar is as lightweight as a laptop with a…
• [Practice Anytime, Anywhere] – Ultra-quiet -30-45dB LEVEL pizzicato playing, equipped with a preamp…
• [Superior Sound Quality] – The ideal practice guitar is equipped with an anti-phase botton for noise…
• Weight: 7.08 pounds
• Dimensions: 33.5 x 6.7 x 2.2 inches
• Lightweight and portable
• Ultra-quiet performance with preamp system
• Customizable tones with EQ and volume knobs
• May require a professional setup
• Weight distribution and palm placement may be uncomfortable

Hofner 6 String Shorty

Now that you’ve learned about the Donner HUSH let’s move on to another great option for a travel electric guitar: the Hofner 6-String Shorty. This compact guitar is designed with portability in mind, making it perfect for musicians on the go.

The Hofner Shorty features a full-scale neck and a hot humbucking pickup, allowing you to achieve your desired sound while practicing or performing. With a 24.7 scale length and a gig bag included, this guitar is ready to hit the road with you.

Users have praised the Hofner Shorty for its clean and unblemished arrival and its good setup without any buzzing frets or sharp edges. While some users have experienced frustration with balancing the guitar due to its neck dive issue, many still find it enjoyable to play.

• Travel Guitar
• Full Scale Neck
• Hot Humbucking Pickup
• Neck: Full Scale
• Pickup: Hot Humbucking
• Scale Length: 24.7
• Portable and travel-friendly design
• Clean and unblemished arrival
• Good setup without buzzing frets or sharp edges
• Frustration with balancing due to neck dive issue

Overall, if you’re looking for a compact electric guitar that can accompany you on your travels, the Hofner 6 String Shorty is worth considering.

The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light is a lightweight and compact option for guitarists who are constantly on the move. With its full 24.75 scale and acoustic/electric capabilities, this guitar offers convenience without compromising performance. Weighing only 2 lbs. 14 oz., it fits in airline overhead bins, making it perfect for travel and beach trips.

Despite its small size, the Ultra-Light delivers impressive sound quality when plugged into the Traveler Amp. The output from the low E string is slightly lower than other strings, but overall the guitar holds its tune well.

In terms of design and durability, this guitar is sturdy and less prone to accidental damage than hollow acoustic guitars. The neck plays like a low-actioned acoustic with easy-to-press strings, making it suitable for learning or playing in hotel rooms without disturbing neighbors.

While there are minor drawbacks, like tuning knob issues and a handle position that could be improved for better weight distribution, the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light offers great value for money and convenience on your travels.

• COMPACT TRANSIT: Forget lugging around your full-sized acoustic electric guitar and worrying about…
• Full 24.75 scale
• Only 2 lbs. 14 oz.
• Piezo pickup with standard 1/4 output
• Fits in airline overhead bins
• Includes gig bag and detachable lap rest
• Lightweight and compact
• Sturdy design
• Easy-to-play neck
• Ideal for travel
• Not as loud acoustically
• Output from low E string is slightly lower
• Tuning knob issues

Traveler Guitar 6 String Pro-Series

The Traveler Guitar 6 String Pro-Series offers a versatile and high-quality option for guitarists who need a portable and compact professional-grade instrument. With its one-piece maple neck-through-body construction and natural satin finish, this guitar looks great and delivers exceptional tone.

The hybrid acoustic and electric setup, featuring piezo and electric pickups, allows you to experiment with different sounds and styles. The included listening Stethophone provides battery-free private listening, while the standard 1/4-inch output ensures compatibility with amplifiers or recording equipment.

Despite its compact size, this guitar maintains a full 24 3/4 scale steel-string acoustic/electric design. It even fits in airline overhead bins for hassle-free travel. Whether practicing at home or performing on stage, the Traveler Guitar 6 String Pro-Series is your ideal companion.

• BUILT FOR TRAVEL: The Pro-Series is a portable and travel-friendly version of your favorite at-home…
• PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT: This mini guitar includes a carry-on friendly gig bag with a storage pocket…
• One-piece maple neck through body of the guitar
• Natural satin finish
• Hybrid Acoustic and Electric with piezo and electric pickups
• Includes listening Stethophone for private listening
• Standard 1/4-inch output
• Small, portable, and light
• Sturdy build quality
• Great sounding acoustic pickup
• Unique and visually appealing design
• Good value for the price
• Initial high action (adjustable with truss rod tool)
• Mediocre quality of the stethophone

BLACKSTAR Electric

Last on our list of the best travel electric guitars is the Blackstar Electric guitar; it’s a fantastic option for players looking for a versatile, high-quality instrument. This guitar is truly a gem, with its quality feel to the neck and knobs. The intonation is just about perfect, making it a pleasure to play.

Not only does it look beautiful, but it also delivers on performance. The Blackstar Electric is loved by many customers who appreciate its comfortable playing experience. With super fast delivery and excellent service from the vendor, you can’t go wrong with this choice.

• CARRY ON GTR WHT
• Versatile and high-quality instrument
• Quality feel to the neck and knobs
• Perfect intonation
• Beautifully finished

Matt Francis

Hi, I'm Matt Francis. A digital nomad, blogger, web developer and all-around good egg! I am the brains (and brawn) behind Everyday Ape. My website features a wide range of topics, with a focus on travelling and working online.

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2024 Best Travel Guitar - Acoustic & Electric Guitar On The Road

• March 18, 2024

In this era of mobility, keeping your chops up and working on musical ideas can be challenging if you carry a regular-sized guitar. Here, we’ll help you find the best travel guitar you can conveniently carry and play anywhere.

Martin Backpacker

Gives you a taste of Martin's build quality and tone in a backpack-friendly and affordable profile.

• Read Review

Cordoba Mini II MH

Enjoy the sweet tone of nylon strings anywhere you go with this portable nylong string travel guitar.

Washburn Rover Travel Guitar

This super affordable travel guitar sports a compact body, reminiscent of old parlor guitars.

Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe

A fully functional travel guitar, with HSH pickups, floating tremolo, and a headless design.

Traveler Guitar Speedster Electric Guitar

A full-scale travel electric guitar with a removable lap rest and a built-in headphone amp.

We’re reader-supported. When you click product links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

What is a Travel Guitar

The most common perception is that a travel guitar should be compact and portable.

But more important than that, travel guitars should feel just as good as regular-sized guitars.

Carrying a portable instrument that’s hard to play can be uninspiring.

Thankfully, different manufacturers have provided quality travel guitars in various styles and configurations.

There are now plenty of good options in the guitar world. This includes full-scale and short-scale instruments that will inspire you to play regardless of where you are.

Travel guitars can be categorized by their type.  The first one are acoustic travel guitars.

These journey instruments maintain their true acoustic guitar qualities. You can play them anywhere unplugged.

These travel guitars tend to be bulkier than their electric counterparts because they need a hollow body to create acoustic sounds.

On the other hand, Electric Travel Guitars are precisely what their name implies, travel guitars that you can connect to an amplifier or a guitar headphone amp.

The smaller size required for traveling necessitates these guitars to have distinct shapes.

Most of these have all the essential features of standard electric guitars, with some even featuring a built-in amplifier.

• Table of Contents
• Best Travel Guitars - Acoustic

Martin Backpacker Travel Acoustic Guitar

• Best Electric Travel Guitars

Hofner Shorty Travel Guitar

What to look for in a travel guitar, best acoustic travel guitars.

Best Travel Acoustic Guitar

Guitarsite Expert Opinion

For a Martin-branded instrument with top-quality features, the Backpacker is surprisingly affordable. It sports a braced solid spruce top, along with a solid mahogany neck, back, and sides, and more importantly, it carries the company’s high-quality standards. For something so small and affordable, this compact guitar will easily exceed your expectations both in of sound and reliability.

Manufacturer: Martin

There are now plenty of alternative materials to wood. But wood is still the most commonly used material for guitars, including traveling guitars.

There’s something about resonating wood that tickles guitarists’ ears.

Although reliability may not be on par with modern carbon fiber builds, there’s no replacing wood, according to many players.

As expected, Martin Guitars understand this and have designed a 24″ scale length travel guitar with solid-wood construction.

For a Martin-branded instrument with top-quality features, the Backpacker is surprisingly affordable. It sports a braced solid spruce top, along with sapele, back, and sides, and more importantly, it carries the company’s high-quality standards. For something so small and affordable, this compact guitar will easily exceed your expectations both in of sound and reliability.

Although this Martin guitar won’t match the sound of regular-sized dreadnoughts, this backpacking guitar does capture the sound of parlor-sized acoustics of the past. And as demonstrated in the video, it sounds great for what it is.

There is now more competition from rival brands, like the Baby Taylor. Some of them offer comparable specs; competitors from rival brands, the solid mahogany top with rosewood fingerboard is the Taylor GS mini.

It is widely considered to be one of the best travel acoustic guitars.

• Martin branded travel acoustic with solid Sitka spruce top, nice parlor style tone
• Non-traditional shape, awkward when played without a strap

Best Nylon String Travel Guitar

The Cordoba Mini II MH takes the traditional nylon string guitar design, and makes it more compact and portable. This mahogany body acoustic gives you the warm tone and soft feel of nylon strings in a guitar that won’t take up too much space and is very affordable.

Manufacturer: Cordoba

Nylon strings are known for being comfortable and easy to play. They are ideal for players looking for a relaxing instrument to play while on the move.

Having established its reputation as a classical guitar builder, Cordoba is well-positioned to design and produce quality nylon-string acoustic travel guitars.

The Cordoba Mini II took a spot in this list with its lovely looks, impressive specs, and value for money. While the label says mini, this compact, lighter weight guitar has a surprisingly powerful voice.

This is made possible by its mahogany top with mahogany back and sides. And it’s not just loud because the tone is articulate and warm.

Adding to the many pluses of this instrument is its exotic appeal, thanks to the natural satin finish that better showcases the elegant grains of its mahogany top.

Don’t expect it to sound as full as a regular-size classical guitar. But its trebly yet warm tone has its own distinct appeal.

Other features include a U-shaped neck, a 1 7/8″ nut width, and a 22 7/8″scale length. Check out this one if you’re looking for a nylon string travel guitar.

• Traditional parlor design, easy to play nylon string
• Not as full sounding as a regular size classical guitar

Best Value Travel Acoustic Guitar

Don’t let its diminutive size fool you; the Rover is a full-fledged travel acoustic guitar with a slightly shorter 23.75″ scale length. It gives you quite the feature for the price, with a solid spruce top, paired with mahogany for the back and sides. If you’re looking for good value, it’ll be hard to top this one.

Manufacturer: Washburn

The Washburn brand is mainly known for its high-octane instruments, which are wielded by virtuosos such as Nuno Bettencourt, Ola Englund, Jennifer Batten, and others.

However, a closer look at their lineup reveals an extensive line of acoustic instruments, which includes the Rover travel guitar acoustic.

The Washburn Rover is an easy favorite because of its distinctly small body, which makes it easier to store and carry around.

Interestingly, even with its small size, the Rover is a full-fledged acoustic guitar with a scale length of 23.75″. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a mahogany neck.

This combination results in impressive volume and projection for its size. Since the scale length is shorter, the instrument is easier on your hands and requires less stretching.

Returning to your regular guitar, you may have to adjust your technique.

As expected from Washburn, this guitar does not compromise on looks; it comes packed with visual appointments like the elegantly done binding and inlay.

The guitar is bundled with a great-looking carrying padded gig bag designed to fit the typical airline overhead storage.

It has a good projection for a traveling guitar, even with its diminutive size. Although it does lack in the low-end department, as expected.

This is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly and practical acoustic travel guitar.

• Distinct design with inlays and bindings, compact body shape, good value for money
• Shape can be a bit awkward when playing in a sitting position, a bit thin sounding

Electric Travel Guitars

Best Full Scale  Travel Electric Guitar

The Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe shows how a stripped-down electric guitar can still provide the same playing experience and tone as a regular electric guitar. This efficiency allows the Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe to be lighter and easier to carry, while offering advanced features like an HSH pickup configuration and a locking trem.

Manufacturer:   Steinberger

Steinberger is known for going against conventional ideas. They focus on more efficient designs and materials in building their instruments.

The company removed non-essential guitar parts to achieve the exotic headless and small body design that has become synonymous with the brand. They distilled all essential elements into a compact design that does not compromise playability and sound quality.

The Spirit GT-Pro embodies Steinberger’s distinct design well at an affordable price point; it is a true professional electric guitar with the traits of a great travel guitar.

Instead of using composite materials like their more expensive models, the Spirit GT-Pro utilizes a traditional solid wood build, sporting a maple neck with neck-through construction.

Aside from the use of solid woods, essential modern features are retained, including the famous Double-Ball tuning system and locking R-Trem. This hardware ensures reliable tuning, incredible sustain, and performance.

Finally, the guitar has a practical folding leg rest for comfortable playing.

• Compact yet full-featured, with HSH pickup configuration and locking tremolo
• Not your traditional guitar, some parts are not where they're usually located

Best Compact Travel Electric Guitar

The Traveler Speedster caught our attention with its full-sized guitar playability, compact profile, and built-in headphone amplifier. And to stay true to its name, this guitar is meant for fast high-gain playing with its dual-rail humbucker with coil split functionality.

Manufacturer: Traveler Guitar

Traveler Guitars offers a wide range of excellent-quality mobile-friendly instruments. The Speedster in particular, caught our attention with its full-sized guitar playability, a compact profile, and a built-in headphone amplifier.

It is also one of their best in terms of looks, sporting a modern design with hints of retro.

It doesn’t slump on the performance end either, with its high-output dual-rail humbuckers with coil split functionality. As the name implies, this guitar is built for speed, complete with a shred-friendly neck profile and comfortable string setup.  It would’ve been nice if it had three single coil pickups for more tone versatility, but it’s a bit too much to ask for given the size limitation.

It also provides impressive sustain, thanks to its unique design, where the strings wrap around the body to connect to the tuners at the center of the body.

The Speedster comes with a reliable and resonant neck through body design, and for comfort, it comes with a removable “Teardrop” upper arm support.

New to Speedster v2, the built-in headphone amp adds to its already impressive feature, allowing for silent practice anywhere without the need for a third-party headphone amplifier.

This is easily the best bang-per-buck electric travel guitar, ideal for rock and shreds players who can’t stay in one place.

• Comfortable to play with its removable lap rest. Compact and travel-friendly design with a dual-rail humbucker.
• Limited bridge function, and no pickup switching.

Aside from its miniaturized body size, this travel-sized guitar doesn’t stray too far from a conventional single humbucker guitar. This makes it the ideal plug-and-play portable guitar for those who are into the fat open humbucker sound, which works really well with overdrive and distortion.

Manufacturer: Hofner Guitars

Mostly known for the bass that Paul McCartney identifies with, Höfner has expanded into electric guitar territory and even has an excellent travel guitar in their lineup, aptly called Shorty.

First introduced in the 80s, it continues to be among the most sought-after small guitar in the market, thanks to its affordable price, efficient design, great playability, and impressive tone.

While it may not have the sonic versatility and added features others offer, its straightforward tone has proven to work well, especially when paired with overdriven amps. Instead of going for extra features, the Hofner Shorty retains a straightforward design.

It does away with the fluff, leaving only the essentials, resulting in a plug-and-play rock machine that costs much less than the competition without compromising sound, feel, and portability.

The scale length is 24.7″, around the same as that of regular-sized humbucker-equipped guitars. It has a unique 18th fret joint, making upper fret access extremely convenient.

Another notable feature is the Hofner branded open humbucker which produces tones you usually expect from bigger and more expensive guitars. This is your best bet if you’re looking for an affordable and practical electric guitar companion for your travels.

• No fluff single humbucker guitar, provides overdrive and distortion friendly humbucker tones
• One trick pony, controls are a bit cramped

Playability

For serious practice and performance, go for a travel guitar with neck specs similar to your main guitar.

Get one with the same scale length, nut width, and neck shape.

Having the same feel as your acoustic and electric guitars will minimize the need for altering playing technique. This makes for useful practice that translates well when performing.

If you’re main is a popular guitar, it’ll be easier to find travel guitars with similar neck specs. But you’ll have to compromise on specific specs for more exotic necks.

Full-Scale Length

Many travel guitars have full or almost full-scale length necks. This means the neck is as long as a regular-sized guitar, making them less portable.

Manufacturers trim off a big chunk of the body and headstock to improve portability. Some even go for a headless design.

If you want a playable full size guitar for traveling, your options are limited to travel-sized guitars with unusual shapes and headstocks.

Still, it’s best to find one with the same scale length as your main electric or electro acoustic scale length.

With their skeletal body frames,  silent guitars can also be considered an alternative to full-scale travel guitars because they offer the same portability and playability. 

Short Scale Length

If you’re looking for a musical companion with a more relaxed playing feel, you can go for a small travel guitar with shorter scales.

The shorter scale length means less string tension, reducing the effort needed to fret and pick strings. This makes the instrument easier to play overall. You’ll be surprised at how easier it is to adapt a new playing style when playing with low string tension guitars.

Short-scale parlor guitars are an excellent example of this. They are easier on the hands and more portable than regular acoustic.

Portability vs Comfort

A good travel guitar has to be both portable and playable. But more often than not, you can’t have both.

Some travel guitars may have oddly shaped bodies that can feel awkward to play. In contrast, those with a familiar body shape are often bulkier and have a different playing feel.

You will have to consider what your priorities are when choosing. 

If you travel often and portability is critical, you want the smallest possible travel-sized guitar. If playability is your main concern, then size becomes secondary.

Beginner guitarists will appreciate a small body travel guitar.

Other Considerations

Another important consideration is reliability. It must be able to handle the rigors of travel and humidity changes.

The case or gig bag you will use will also play a significant role; it has to provide reasonable protection without being too bulky and heavy.

Last but not least, you have to consider your budget. Thankfully, there are plenty of good travel guitar deals at popular retailers.

If you have any questions or feel there’s an excellent travel guitar we’ve missed, please let us know in the comments below.

Alexander Briones

Lead Author

Best Cheap Electric Guitars for 2024 – Guitarsite Results

Fender modern player coronado, fender cd-60ce all-mahogany acoustic, fender ron emory loyalty parlor acoustic guitar, cordoba c9 dolce, electric guitar package roundup, 7 thoughts on “2023 best travel guitar – acoustic & electric guitar on the road”.

See the following link

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Stewart Stow-Away Demo

I have played the guitar for many years ! I also am a frequent traveler. Taking your instrument is very difficult and at the same time it needs to be full scale and play like your other instruments. The Stow-Away is the answer.

Check it out !!!

If you are looking for one of the best travel guitars on the market, you need to look at a Strobel Rambler Professional Electric Travel Guitar. A full scale, great playing, awesome sounding guitar that easily disassembles to fit in a briefcase or computer bag for traveling. Want to jam when you get there? Practice in the hotel? Or jump on stage? Take a Rambler!!

Hi, Thanks for reading my comments. we are the black wood producer and this new raw material could do piano black key. Do you think you can contact us to know more information? We are trying to use this novelty keys to save the natural ebony wood, so we could save the extinct woods. Contact me let us save the world together.

this invention will cause mutation in the art world.it helps the player to dance during playing. the guitar weight is not loaded on the player shoulder like the traditional belt and this relaxes the instrumentalist watch:

Having traveled with a washburn rover, I can say that it is very handy for stowing in an aircraft overhead stowage bin. That said, the sound is thin compared to some of the others, and the action isn’t dialed. I was forced to play on this guitar for 4 months straight living abroad, and it is not acceptable for that. For a couple weeks it’s fine, as it will keep you in the game, but for longer trips I wouldn’t recommend.

There is a new electric travel guitar called Lap axe that you should definitely check out. Small enough to carry on and actually play in your seat. Mike Stern has reviewed it and speaks highly of it. They come in a variety of finishes and also in exotic wood tops and fretboards. The web site is cool and there are some good videos of the Lap axe in action.

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The best travel guitars - electric & acoustic (2023).

Sigma 10Mini

Gretsch g9500 jim dandy, taylor baby mahogany bt2, martin steel string backpacker, yamaha slg200s silent guitar.

• Journey Instruments OF660M

Eart GW2 Headless

Traveler ultra-light electric, size & weight, playability (scale length & nut width), playing comfort, built-in electronics.

• Methodology - How We Chose Which Guitars To Recommend
• About the Author & Contributors

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. • • • • •

Travel guitars are compact instruments that prioritize portability, making them convenient to carry around as you move from place to place.

To shed some of the bulk and weight, most manufacturers utilize smaller and lighter components, while others go for novel streamlined designs that include having parts that collapse or fold.

Here we feature the best travel guitars, divided into mini-acoustic, collapsible, and headless electric guitar models, based on the most recent reviews and ratings data. Each of the featured travel guitars come with detailed descriptions along with important travel-friendly specifications. More importantly, we provide the pros and cons of each one, based on our analysis of actual market responses.

The Best Travel Guitars

*Notes: Gearank = Rating score out of 100. SRC = Sources, number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed to produce a product's Gearank Rating. Further details: How Gearank Works .

Author & Contributors

I have been writing about and researching music gear for many years, all while serving as a music director at my local church. I engage in guitar playing and singer-songwriter stints, in addition to mentoring young musicians and teaching guitar and bass.

The Best Acoustic Travel Guitars

91 out of 100. Incorporating 950+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

Manufacturer: .

The JR1 is Yamaha's response to the hype around "mini" acoustic guitars, this one being the compact version of their popular FG (Folk Guitar) design.

Being a smaller FG means that it retains the familiar dreadnought shape and feel, with less of the bulk and weight. As such it is touted as a good travel guitar and a good starter instrument for young musicians. It also appeals to those who want a smaller acoustic that's easier to play.

The back and sides are crafted from laminate meranti, a low cost timber that is known for its structural strength, while the top uses laminate spruce, which is quite common in the entry level price range.

Other features include having a nato neck with rosewood fingerboard, opened chrome tuner, and it has a shorter scale length of 21.25".

Specifications:

• Body Profile: FG JR1
• Top: Spruce
• Back & Sides: Meranti
• Fretboard: Rosewood
• Scale Length: 21.25"
• Nut Width: 1.6875"
• Electronics: None
• Body Length: 15.3125"
• Weight: Not Specified

Most users agree that the Yamaha JR1 is a guitar that is easy to play. Most declare it as a great fit for young students of the instrument, while others even recommend it for older players who just want a compact and comfortable beater guitar. Thanks to its combination of good quality and playability, users are generally pleased with what they got for the money.

Some comment that it sounds thinner than a regular sized dreadnought, but this is to be expected given its miniature size. There are also a few who aren't too happy with the included gig bag.

With Yamaha's reputation for student friendly guitars, the Yamaha JR1 is a great travel guitar option that can double as a reliable student guitar.

87 out of 100. Incorporating 100+ ratings and reviews.

The Sigma 10Mini is a compact and affordable acoustic guitar with solid spruce top, a feature that you won't normally see in its price range.

The guitar's solid top is supported by laminate sapele back and sides, forming a shape that's similar to vintage concert style acoustic guitars, albeit smaller.

The neck is crafted from nato, and topped by a 23.5" scale rosewood fingerboard.

Completing its vintage appeal is its sunburst gloss finish and square headstock shape.

• Body Profile: Mini Concert
• Top: Solid Spruce
• Back & Sides: Sapele
• Fretboard: 12.6" Radius Rosewood
• Scale Length: 23.5"
• Nut Width: 1.685"
• Body Length: 17.5"

Given that it comes with a solid spruce top, many comment that this guitar is a great buy. For something affordable, it is able to surpass build quality expectations, with users reporting being stunned at the feel and action of the neck. Most users are also pleased at its tone, which is described as balanced with a nice ring.

Some experienced musicians noticed minor imperfections in some parts of the guitar. Some less experienced reviewers report that it lacks low end, but this is due to its smaller body size.

It's hard to top the value that you can get from this compact vintage style travel acoustic guitar.

91 out of 100. Incorporating 1450+ ratings and reviews.

Product Links: 

With its compact parlor style profile, the G9500 is lighter and takes up less space, which in turn makes it easier to carry around.

But it's not just about being travel friendly, because the G9500 is well received for its distinct midrange-focused tone, which works nicely with many musical styles, especially old school blues.

This acoustic is a modern reproduction of '30s era Gretsch Rex guitars, having the same look, vibe and tone - without the extra cost and fragility often associated with older instruments - thanks to modern manufacturing technology and the use of renewable materials.

• Body Profile: Parlor
• Top: Agathis
• Back & Sides: Agathis
• Fretboard: 12" Radius Rosewood
• Scale Length: 24"
• Body Length: 18"
• Weight: 2.2 lbs

Feedback on the Gretsch G9500's portability is generally positive, but more importantly, users are impressed by how good it sounds given its small size. Its distinct gritty tone and old school appearance get a lot of praise, while others note that the G9500's build quality exceeded their expectations. Being easy to play is another reason why many rate this instrument highly.

Speaking of build quality, there are a few reports of cosmetic flaws. Those who are looking for fuller sounding acoustic tones may not find its mid-emphasized voicing to their liking.

The Grestch G9500 is a compact acoustic guitar that harkens back to the parlor guitar style, highly recommended for both its portability and its distinct tone.

93 out of 100. Incorporating 400+ ratings and reviews.

Known for their premium regular size acoustic guitars, Taylor is now doing just as well in the travel and entry level market, thanks to the likes of BT2.

This guitar is essentially a smaller version of the popular dreadnought shape, albeit with Taylor's brand of build and sound quality.

While it was initially designed to be a starter guitar for kids, it made its way into the hands of professionals who appreciate its balance of portability and quality.

This guitar features a solid mahogany top, and layered sapele for the back and sides, a potent combination that complements the midrange'y tone expected of small body acoustics.

• Body Profile: Dreadnought Baby
• Top: Solid Mahogany
• Back & Sides: Layered Sapele
• Neck: Sapele
• Fretboard: African Ebony
• Scale Length: 22.75"
• Nut Width: 1 11/16"
• Bundled with Gigbag: Yes
• Body Length: 15.75"
• Weight: 8.1 lbs

Sound quality and playability are the top two reasons cited by reviewers for why they love the Taylor BT2. A lot of users appreciate its warm tone, which works well with various musical styles, from folk fingerstyle to strumming. Others are equally pleased with its overall build quality. For the price, many also consider the inclusion of a solid mahogany top in conjunction with the Taylor brand to be a great deal.

There are a few who gave the Taylor BT2 lower scores because of the included gig bag, which some describe as sub-par. Some users also caution that those who are looking for a full sounding acoustic guitar will probably not like the distinctly warm tone of the Taylor BT2.

All in all, the Taylor BT2 is a travel guitar that you won't be ashamed of carrying around.

Popular Option

89 out of 100. Incorporating 1250+ ratings and reviews.

With its odd compact body shape, the Backpacker easily stands out from among the many traditional style acoustic guitars of C.F. Martin & Co.

The odd shaped body is stripped of much of its depth and width, having a long triangular shape - resulting in a lighter and smaller acoustic.

And while it looks different from the usual Martin guitar, it does retain Martin's penchant for build quality and even sports a solid spruce top.

More importantly the Backpacker is quite affordable for a Martin branded instrument.

• Body Profile: Backpacker
• Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
• Sides: Tonewood
• Neck: Tonewood
• Fretboard: Not Specified
• Total Length: 33"
• Weight: 2.125 lbs

Many are happy with the Backpacker because it allows them to own a good quality Martin guitar without having to shell out the usual dough. Being portable is another important factor why it continues to be popular. Reviews indicate that it does live up to its brand in terms of build quality and aesthetics, some even turn it into a display peace when not in use.

Understandably, the odd shaped body may not click with fans of Martin's vintage style designs, but it is much appreciated by travelers. Some caution that the body design makes it awkward to play without a strap. Sound projection is limited, as expected from its compact body design.

It's hard to go wrong with a Martin acoustic, well worth checking out if you're not too keen on traditional body shapes.

Collapsible Acoustic Travel Guitars

Here is a couple of acoustic travel guitars that fold up nice and conveniently.

91 out of 100. Incorporating 175+ ratings and reviews.

The Silent Guitar from Yamaha is a steel-string acoustic guitar with a detachable body frame.

It doesn't have an actual body to project acoustic sound from, but it has frames in the shape of an acoustic body for supporting your arms. This way it can be as portable as possible while still providing familiar acoustic playability.

Note that its acoustic volume is very low, so it works best when plugged into an amplifier, via its built-in SRT pickup and preamp system. Speaking of preamp, it lets you blend in the sound of "miked" acoustic to the basic piezo sound.

It also comes with reverb and chorus effects built into the unit.

Wrapping up its features include a headphone jack for silent practice, an aux input for jamming along with your favorite tracks, and it has a built-in tuner.

• Body Profile: Silent Guitar
• Body: Mahogany (1-Piece Body & Neck)
• Collapsible Frame: Maple & Rosewood
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fretboard: 15.75" Radius Rosewood
• Scale Length: 25"
• Electronics: SRT Pickup & Preamp
• Body Length: Not Specified
• Weight: 4.375 lbs

The SLG200S is described as a fun all-in-one travel guitar that's good enough to be both your practice and stage instrument. Having been made by Yamaha, build quality is reported to be exemplary, which results in it being easy to play. Owners are pleased at how easy it is to assemble and disassemble, and many are impressed at how beautifully done the wooden frames are.

Since it doesn't have an actual body, it is not meant to be played unplugged. To make the most out of this guitar, many recommend using it with headphones .

The Yamaha SLG200S is a feature rich travel guitar that takes the acoustic guitar concept beyond what you'd normally expect.

Journey OF660M Carbon Fiber

91 out of 100. Incorporating 30+ ratings and reviews.

As the label implies, the Journey OF660M Carbon Fiber does away with traditional wood to turn it into a super reliable travel guitar.

As special as that may be, the carbon fiber body of this guitar takes a second seat to what really makes this guitar special: which is its removable neck system. While removable necks are nothing new, the Journey OF660M has pulled it off in a way that detaching and attaching the neck is convenient and very easy - without straying too far from the familiar acoustic guitar shape.

It even comes with a matching gig-bag so you can safely store the neck and body separately, while keeping the strings in a position where it doesn't break or scratch the guitar.

• Body Profile: 00 Travel
• Top: Unidirectional Carbon Fiber
• Sides: Fiberglass Reinforced Carbon Fiber
• Neck: Carbon Fiber
• Fretboard: Carbon Fiber
• Scale Length: 24.5"
• Nut Width: 1.75"
• Electronics: Passive Piezo Pickup
• Battery: None
• Total Length: 35.5"
• Weight: 4.1 lbs

More and more guitarists are becoming fans of the OF660M, and it's not surprising because of its incredible reliability and portability. It has been reportedly put to work in places that would mess up wooden guitars, including beaches, boats, mountain trails and many more. It also impresses guitarists for its sound, which many describe as surprisingly full sounding.

Those who prefer wood over carbon fiber will not find this guitar appealing. There are also some comments about the guitar's lack of acoustic projection, but this is to be expected, given its use of special materials.

If you're willing to make the investment and go beyond conventional acoustic guitar builds, then the Journey OF660M will make a great traveling companion.

The Best Electric Travel Guitars

91 out of 100. Incorporating 300+ ratings and reviews.

To get rid of the extra bulk and width of electric guitars, some manufacturers have opted for more streamlined headless designs. Case in point is the Eart GW2, which allows for standard 25.5" scale length playability, while having a travel-friendly small profile.

The guitar's body is crafted from roasted Padauk, a reddish brown wood that's similar to rosewood in terms of durability and looks.

To cater to modern guitarists, the headless neck follows a compound radius profile. And to better handle heavy gauge strings and lower tunings, the neck is reinforced by utilizing 5-pc maple/padauk material.

Giving this guitar its voice are two covered humbuckers, designed to cater to modern cleans and high-gain style playing.

Other features include having a rosewood fingerboard with zero fret, and a fixed hardtail bridge.

Finally, the Eart GW2 Headless comes with a relatively affordable price tag given its unique design.

• Body Profile: Headless
• Body: Roasted Padauk
• Neck: 5-Piece Roasted Maple/Padauk
• Fretboard: Compound Radius Indian Rosewood
• Scale Length: 25.5"
• Nut Width: 1.6417"
• Electronics: Dual Humbuckers

For an affordable guitar, the Eart GW2 headless is able to meet the playability expectations of modern guitarists. This is reflected in reviews that commend its neck for its fast and comfortable feel. Being friendly to high-gain tones is another big reason why most users rate this highly. And while it plays much like a standard size guitar, users love that it is smaller and easier to carry around.

There are some who feel that the guitar shape and weight/balance takes a bit of getting used to. There are also a few reports of bad parts, along with setup related or quality control issues.

The Eart GW2 is an affordable travel guitar meant for those who are into modern guitar styles. It is also a good entry way into the world headless guitar designs.

90 out of 100. Incorporating 200+ ratings and reviews.

Weighing in at just 3.125 lbs and with a total length of just 28", the Traveler Ultra-Light Electric is a light and compact electric guitar that retains full-scale length playability.

It features a 24.75" scale length, similar to many Les Paul style guitars, and a standard nut width of 1.75".

It utilizes the company's distinct tuning system where in the tuners are located in middle of the body, removing the need for a headstock.

It also features a detachable frame that allows you to sit the guitar comfortably on your legs.

Finally, it features a dual rail humbucker that can handle both clean and overdriven tones much like a regular electric guitar.

• Body Profile: Traveler Ultra-Light
• Body Tonewood: Maple
• Neck: Maple Thru-Neck
• Fretboard: Rosewood 22-Frets 12" Radius
• Scale Length: 24.75"
• Pickups: 1 x Dual-Rail Humbucker
• Bridge: Adjustable Tune-o-Matic
• Total Length: 28"
• Weight: 3.125 lbs

The Traveler Ultra-Light Electric guitar appeals to guitarists who are looking for a portable practice axe with similar playing feel as their Les Paul style instrument. Most reviewers commend it for its incredibly light and portable design.

Ironically, there are some who are on the opposite side of the fence, complaining about the body being too light, which makes playing a bit awkward, especially when digging the strings hard in rock, metal and similar music styles. The lack of volume and tone controls also raised a few eyebrows.

Still, if portability is your top concern, the Traveler Ultra-Light Electric should be high up on your list.

Things to Consider When Buying a Travel Guitar

Best travel guitar selection methodology.

The first edition was published in 2017.

We first made a short list of the most popular and top rated travel guitars, focusing on those that can be readily bought from major US retailers. For this edition, we ended up with a shortlist of 33 guitars, which entailed the gathering of over 8000 relevant reviews, ratings and discussions, including those written recently. All these data were then fed into the Gearank Algorithm, which resulted in rating scores our of 100 that we used to finalize each list above. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works .

About the Author and Contributors

Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.

Lead Author & Researcher

Drawing from his experience in performing and recording, he teaches guitar and bass and mentors young artists to be better musicians. And when he is not busy playing or tinkering with musical gear, he puts on his entrepreneurial hat, which helps fund his passion for collecting guitars, mecha figures and Gunpla kits.

Contributors

Jason Horton : Editing and Illustrating.

Main/Top Image : Created by Gearank.com using a public domain photograph.

The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.

More Guitar Guides

Publication of our November

Submitted by Jason Horton on Nov. 12, 2021.

Publication of our November 2021 Edition resulted in the following guitars coming off the recommended list above:

• Cordoba Mini M
• Martin LX1E
• Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe

Snapdragon guitars are made

Submitted by J Robertson (not verified) on Sep. 7, 2021.

Snapdragon guitars are made in the UK, which makes them worth a mention in itself. And they fold. And they're not the most expensive.

Would think you should add

Submitted by James Reed (not verified) on Oct. 8, 2018.

Would think you should add the Stewart Travel Guitar Line.

See the Stow-Away

See the following:

Submitted by James C Reed Jr (not verified) on Mar. 1, 2021.

Recent Stewart Review

[Review removed - it was a positive review copied from another website but we don't have the rights to publish it on gearank.com - Editor: Jason Horton ]

Snapdragon guitars are

Submitted by Connon (not verified) on Oct. 5, 2018.

Snapdragon guitars are amazing and very good value too. Converted some of my mates too.

for those interested in the

Submitted by Rob (not verified) on Sep. 17, 2018.

For those interested in the OF660, but not fans of carbon, Journey has collapsible wood models in steelstring and nylon for around $600 with case and pickup.

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For a great many people, playing an instrument is the purest form of ‘happy place’.

Committing time and energy to the development of a craft, the generation of a new creative thought, or the performance of a lifetime is a profound pleasure - whether you’re doing so alone in your bedroom, out on the street, or up in front of thousands.

If you’re a guitarist – newcomer or old hand – who has experienced some form of the above, then you’ll know all too well the pains of attempting to bring that ‘happy place’ on the road with you.

Guitars are cumbersome things, and difficult to transport without facing some form of existential difficulty. Weighty and unwieldy guitars practically invite injury on the move, from dings and scratches accrued on the bus to fatal breakages at the mercy of airline baggage handlers.

The travel guitar, then, is the potential answer to numerous issues brought on by travelling with an instrument. Travel guitars are smaller, lighter and otherwise less awkward than their dreadnought-sized or pointy counterparts. There is no formal definition for the ‘travel guitar’, but guitar manufacturers have divined a number of different forms for such a thing; half-sized mini guitars rub shoulders with nifty narrow-bodied designs and unique mechanical marvels.

But what should you be looking out for?

Anatomy of a travel guitar

There are no strict rules behind what constitutes a travel guitar. Quite simply, if it is easier to travel with, it’s a travel instrument! That said, there are some specific things that the savvy consumer might be on the look-out for, with regard to their own wants and needs.

Bringing a guitar down to travel size might involve reducing its scale length. This is the distance between the nut (at the top of the guitar’s neck) and the bridge (where the strings are anchored to the body). Short scale lengths are not unusual even in full-sized guitars, but guitars that sneak below 22-inch scale lengths can get a bit flabby to play in standard tunings.

Travel acoustic guitars, whether smaller in scale or sacrificing body in some other way, also run the risk of losing volume and clarity. There are many fun ways to circumvent this, as some of today’s reviewed brands reflect.

Electric guitars have less to worry about in terms of raw sound, but new challenges are presented in weight balance and string hardware. With such a wide playing field for travel instruments, there are a wide variety of options for consumers on the hunt for a travel guitar.

Best travel guitars at a glance

• Best overall: Vintage Mahogany Series ‘Travel’ - £139, PMT Online
• Best for songwriters on the move: Martin LX1 ‘Little Martin’ - £529, Gear4Music
• Best for backpacking travellers: Martin Backpacker GBPC Travel Acoustic - £320, PMT Online
• Best for comfortable noodling: Vintage Paul Brett Series ‘Viator’ Nylon - £149, Gear4Music
• Best for younger learners: Fender California Redondo Mini - £165, Fender
• Best for quiet writing and practicing: Traveler Pro Series Antique Brown - £409, Amazon
• Best for old-school folksters: Vintage Paul Brett Series ‘Viaten’ Tenor - £249, Gear4Music
• Best for overhead luggage: Journey Instruments PJ 410N Puddle Jumper -  £498, Thomann
• Best for the learner that has everything: Yamaha SLG200S Steel String Silent Guitar - £725, Gear4Music
• Best for widdly-wah virtuosos on tour: Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe - £345, Thomann

From stage-ready axes to capable busking guitars, here are ten of the best travel guitars on the market today.

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Vintage Mahogany Series ‘Travel’ Electro Acoustic

Best: overall

The Vintage brand is one of the best regarded when it comes to low- and mid-budget instruments. The range of acoustic and electric instruments has fostered many a beginner’s early practice, while being dependable enough for gigging musicians and session professionals. Their acoustic guitars, designed in the UK, are impeccable examples of value for money – and the Mahogany Series ‘Travel’ is no different.

The Mahogany Series is as it sounds – a series of acoustic instruments with beautifully-finished mahogany construction. Mahogany is a fantastic tonewood, bringing real depth in the lower end of the frequency spectrum and a bell-like resonance to the high-end. This is extremely welcome in the Mahogany Series’ ‘Travel’ entry, diminutively sized as it is with a 22.6” scale length. Vintage guitars always find a way to surprise this reviewer, and the Travel does just that – with a pleasing in-the-room sound, a comfortable C-shaped neck and ergonomic playability despite its size.

It also boasts the same on-board pre-amp and tuner that its larger siblings do, making it extremely versatile – and levelling the playing field where live performance through an amplifier or PA system is concerned. Indeed, the shorter scale length does the ‘Travel’ a huge favour here, with looser strings granting a much deeper warmth to plugged-in play.

This guitar is already a fantastic all-rounder, but to do it at below £150 is astonishing.

Martin LX1 ‘Little Martin’

Best for: songwriters on the move

Martin has fostered a strong reputation as a prestige maker of acoustic guitars over its near-200-year history; Martin guitars are the sole choice for many of the world’s most successful singer-songwriters, and most hard-working session musicians. This reputation commands a high price – at least usually. But Martin’s X Series bucks the trend, bringing their signature sound and quality to an affordable price-point.

The LX1, or ‘Little Martin’, is Martin’s pint-sized offering from this range, and one of the more surprising acoustic guitars this reviewer has played. Despite its ¾ size, the Little Martin is an exceedingly powerful thing. Where other short-scale instruments give way to indistinct low-end muddiness, the LX1 retains clarity – even in drop or open tunings. It is a perfect guitar for writing music with.

There is an electro-acoustic model on the market too, in the form of the LX1E, which offers a little more flexibility for the gigging performer – but for the beginner, the traveller or the performing musician on the hunt for great tone, the LX1 fits the bill just fine.

Martin Backpacker GBPC Travel Acoustic

Best for: backpacking travellers

As well as offering a 3/4 guitar in the form of the LX1, Martin also has a unique acoustic guitar design expressly built for travel purposes: the Backpacker.

This travel acoustic dispenses with the wide, deep bodies of conventional acoustics – designed for both projection and articulation of sound - in favour of a narrow, scalloped wedge shape that reduces its profile significantly.

The Backpacker retains a scale length of 24”, despite its slightness in other areas. Trade-offs are made, though, to retain the structural integrity of the body; the Backpacker’s fretboard only extends to 14 frets, somewhat limiting the player’s options even if higher frets are rarely used. Still, the thing is responsive and rewarding in most player situations. It can sound a tad boxy when strummed, and a little brittle when fingerpicked, but is otherwise a sturdy play.

In all, the Backpacker is a perfectly serviceable instrument. It gets the job done sonically, feels comfortable in-hand, and slots nicely alongside clothes and camping gear. A travel guitar, but also very much a traveller’s guitar.

Vintage Paul Brett Series ‘Viator’ Nylon

Best for: comfortable noodling

The brand Vintage collaborates with other artists and designers to bring a wide range of quality instruments to the fore. One such musician is Paul Brett, who has enjoyed multiplicitous success as a lead guitarist, 12-string composer, music writer and now, guitar designer.

One of the most popular, and indeed most accessible, of the Paul Brett series is the ‘Viator’ Nylon: a travel acoustic with nylon strings and a few sonic tricks up its sleeve. The ‘Viator’ Nylon is a slight instrument that sits extremely comfortably in the hands and on the lap. It resembles 19 th -century guitarras more than it does modern-day parlours, both in shape and size. It’s a welcome departure, and a rewarding one to boot.

The Viator Nylon is a delight to fingerpick with, offering tight articulation and a well-rounded sound. As we’ve come to expect from these smaller-scale instruments, the Viator Nylon isn’t the most boisterous when it comes to projection. However, what it might lack in volume, it makes up for in spades in other areas. It’s exceedingly comfortable to sit down with, and plays nimbly up and down the neck. Its nylon strings complement the warm sound of its body, and attain a beautiful sonorous quality via the 21.5” scale length. The Viator Nylon is a joy to pick up and play, and all the easier to pick up for its size and weight. It lacks little, regardless of its stature, and invites you to wrap yourself around it.

Fender California Redondo Mini with bag

Best for: younger learners

Fender is perhaps the most famous guitar brand on the planet, having presided over some of the most iconic designs ever – from Stratocasters and Telecasters to Jaguars , Mustangs and Kurt Cobain’s Jag-Stang . Fender is less well-renowned for its acoustic offerings, but they are nonetheless representative of Fender’s stature and quality in the guitar world.

The California Series is Fender’s gainful attempt at revitalising traditional acoustic guitar design, with striking body shapes and colour palettes on instruments that still deliver quintessential tone. The Redondo Mini is the smallest in this range, and also the cheapest, coming in under £150.

It’s a ½-size instrument with a 22 ¾” scale length, a size and scale length typically marketed to younger learners. But the size makes it a perfect travel instrument, and it is eminently playable for guitarists of all sizes. The Redondo Mini reflects the idiosyncratic tonal characteristics of Fender’s mainstay acoustics, boasting well-developed mids and a tight high end – if at the expense of any gripping low-end response. The mids do a lot of the heavy lifting, but the player is not left wanting too much. Its pleasing sound and classic looks pitch it perfectly to the younger musician, either as a learner instrument or a new instrument to sling in the boot before heading off to uni.

Traveler Pro Series Antique Brown

Best for: quiet writing and practicing

Traveler Guitars have been pioneering travel-friendly instruments for 30 years, and in so doing have built an impressive array of genuinely practicable products for musicians both serious and casual.

Traveler have made music industry headlines with fun travel-conscious iterations of popular instruments, such as its Stratocaster ‘copy’ that reduces its body to the size and shape of the pickguard. The Pro Series, though, is Traveler’s flagship series, where its innovation began – and it’s an intriguing specimen.

For want of a better word, the Traveler Pro Series is something of a... stick. Body and neck are a single piece of wood, with the body only wider than the neck to account for the width of the bridge. There is no extraneous material here. The Pro Series is able to retain a full 24 ¾“ scale length by eliminating the headstock altogether, niftily placing the tuning pegs in the body and either side of the strings.

The Pro Series is a box of tricks, beyond its unique minimal approach. It is an electric guitar, with single-coil pickup and accompanying tone and volume control; as well, it features a piezo pick-up for a more natural resonant sound. But for the private practicers who don’t have the facilities to plug in, there is a novel feature in the ‘stethophone’: stethoscope earpieces attached to the body, that conduct the resonance of the body without the need for amplification.

The Pro Series plays well, and is ergonomic too on account of a well-sized foot attachment for the body. The sounds it produces are not world-shattering, but it is a highly useful utility for the recording or writing guitarist on the move – and could even sit in on a session or two in a pinch.

Vintage Paul Brett Series ‘Viaten’ - Tenor

Best for: bards and old-school folksters

We return to Vintage, and its Paul Brett signature series, for an alternative take on an instrument we’ve already met. The ‘Viaten’ Tenor is a four-string tenor guitar variant of the Viator, with a similar shape and slightly longer scale length of 22”.

Tenor guitars are folk instruments through and through, and often the next step in the learning journey for folk-inclined ukulele players. Of course, the tenor is a viable mode of expression in its own right, and stands apart as a tonally beautiful way to approach playing.

There are no surprises here with the Viaten; it displays the same warmth and responsiveness of the ‘Viator’ Nylon, but the steel strings add some chime and bit to proceedings. The sonokeling fingerboard has a practical and pretty flourish to it, with half of it extending down over the fingerboard to enable higher runs.

The Viaten is a well-built, warm-sounding and enjoyable alternative to travelling with a six-string, and naturally lends itself to bard-like travels through the green.

Journey Instruments PJ 410N Puddle Jumper

Best for: overhead luggage

Journey Instruments have built their brand around creating unique and practical designs for travel instruments and instrument travel, fostering a wide range of guitars and purpose-built cases to make life easier for the player on the move. The mechanism behind their range is the ‘Overhead’ system, a feat of engineering that enables detachment and reattachment of the instrument’s neck without removing strings or hardware.

The PJ 410N Puddle Jumper is one of Journey’s newer instruments, being a 00-bodied travel acoustic that can be disassembled to fit in an aeroplane’s overhead luggage rack with no drama at all. This detachable-neck functionality might seem gimmicky, but is a genuinely practical gimmick that promises to greatly mitigate risk of breakage for regular flyers. It is also surprisingly easy to do, and sturdy to boot.

The Puddle Jumper’s body is a little deeper to compensate for its shorter scale length, as a result retaining some of the sonority that larger dreadnought acoustics possess. The Sitka spruce soundboard provides a balanced output for that sonority, creating a good all-round acoustic sound.

It sounds great for a travel instrument, but by no means sets any records; its value comes from its unparalleled portability, making it the best for international travel.

Yamaha SLG200S Steel String Silent Guitar

Best for: the learner that has everything

Yamaha’s contributions to music are well-documented at this point, with the Japanese brand having pioneered in the field of music for over 50 years. From portable keyboards to portable electric drums, Yamaha hasn’t missed a step, and its portable guitar offerings are not to be sniffed at, either.

The SLG200S is a full-scale, steel-stringed pseudo-acoustic guitar. Its form is unusual, with a central ‘staff’ adorned with a removable bout – or outline of one, at least. The SLG200S is geared towards private, personal and quiet practice, with a headphone out and a line-in function to enable play along with a music source like a smartphone. The onboard system includes an SRT Powered pre-amp, which utilises DSP to imbue your playing with the sound of a real, recorded acoustic guitar, whether in your ears or through a PA system. Other effects like reverb and chorus can also be dialled in right on the body. Even with the effects and clever pickups, though, it is a little lacking in low-to-mid performance.

There are features galore here, which can make playing and learning while out and about much easier. None of these features are particularly necessary in a travel guitar, but different users will find different aspects of this tech highly convenient. This is a travel guitar for the musician who has everything else.

Steinberger GT-Pro Deluxe

Best for: widdly-wah virtuosos on tour

Steinberger is something of an obscure name in the guitar world, but Steinberger’s impact has been nonetheless indelible. Steinberger is responsible for a famous – or infamous, by some estimations – electric guitar body that combines practical utility with unique minimalist style. The Steinberger has since fostered a reputation as a real player’s instrument, dispensing with aesthetic fripperies in favour of sheer performance.

The Steinberger GT-Pro Deluxe is a revitalisation of this signature style, brought on by guitar behemoth Gibson’s buy-out of the Steinberger brand. As a result, this idiosyncratic electric guitar is, thankfully, back on the market. The GT-Pro is a trapezoidal thing, with a miniscule body that houses almost all of the guitar’s hardware. The GT-Pro is another ‘headless’ guitar, and one of the first to innovate here; tuning is done at the bottom of the instrument, with a locking nut at the top of the headstock holding the strings in place.

This guitar stands apart from the rest on account of being fully, unapologetically electric. This is not designed to stand in for an acoustic instrument, and is instead a fundamental distillation of the electric guitar’s function. Not only this, but it lends itself to more extreme forms of musical expression, with three versatile pickups capable of breaking up the most obstinate of Marshall stacks, and a locking tremolo for those irresistible Eddie Van Halen divebombs. A handy ‘kick-stand’ folds out from the body to enable play while sitting, but really this is a guitar to stand with. Session musicians and touring rockers on a budget need look no further for the ideal musical travel companion.

We’ve seen smart and downright magical innovations across the world of travel guitars, and narrowing down to one best-in-class option is difficult as a result. These instruments differ widely in form and purpose, making any evaluations here purely subjective.

With this in mind, the Vintage Paul Brett ‘Viator’ Nylon is a strong contender, on account of its nimble feel and rich sound. However, the Vintage Mahogany Series ‘Travel’ Electro Acoustic wins out on a technicality; it is more versatile, and unbelievably inexpensive for both its features and its sound.

Best electric guitars 2024: our top picks for every playing style, ability and budget

Useful buying advice and our expert pick of the best electric guitars for newcomers to pro players

Best overall

Best for beginners, best under $1,000, best under $500, best for metal, best for blues, best for shred, best for small hands, best 7-string, also tested.

• Buying advice
• How we test

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best for beginners 4. Best under $1,000 5. Best under $500 6. Best for metal 7. Best for blues 8. Best for shred 9. Best for small hands 10. Best 7-string 11. Buying advice 12. How we test

Finding the best electric guitar is difficult but at the same time, thoroughly exciting. The term 'best' means different things to different people, and it's the subjective nature of this that makes the task so much harder – as well as the task of putting together this guide. For some players, the best electric guitar is something simple and utilitarian, and for others, it's a guitar that is dressed to the nines in a fancy paint job and has every conceivable gadget onboard.

In this round-up, we'll be showing you what we think are the best electric guitars you can currently get your hands on. This product list covers a vast price range, not just premium models - if you are looking for that, you may want to check our guide to the best high-end electric guitars .

You'll find options here from most of the main guitar manufacturers, so you can be sure they also come with a sterling brand reputation and a proven seal of quality. We've compiled some helpful advice for this guide, too. Just click the 'buying advice' button in the Quick Menu above to head straight there, or keep scrolling to get straight to our top choices.

Best electric guitars: Quick list

Want to dive into our top picks for the best electric guitars on the market right now? Below you’ll find a round-up of our six top choices. You can jump to a more detailed review of every pick and better yet, our price comparison tool will help you find the best deal on your new electric guitar.

Underneath the standard alder body, you get access to some pretty unique pickup options. A special four-way switch offers both single coil pickups in series, while the S-1 switch on the volume knob inverts the phase giving you plenty of usable tones to choose from.

Read more below

The Squier Bullet Mustang is our top choice for beginners. Featuring a slightly smaller scale length which, basswood body, and double humbuckers this affordable guitar feels great to play and sounds mega!  

It's no secret that we love the PRS SE Custom 24 here at Guitar World. The Wide Thin neck profile strikes a neat balance between comfort and speed, while the coil-tap pickups ensure you have every tone possible at your disposal. 

Here at Guitar World, we absolutely adore the sound of a P-90 pickup. There's something about the gritty growl and shimmering highs that sets our hearts racing. So, it's only natural that we'd include a P-90-loaded guitar in our guide to the best electric guitars.

When it comes to the best guitars for metal , our top pick is the ESP LTD EC-1000. This stunning metal axe offers players incredible value for money, with sought-after features and unbeatable playability. Loaded with a set of Fishman’s Modern Fluence humbuckers, there isn't a style of metal this LTD can't perform.

The Gibson ES-335 marries up a range of exceptional tones, with the highest levels of build quality and silky-smooth playability. Gibson has been producing variants of the ES-335 for over 70 years, and that heritage is evident in every note. 

In our glowing 5-star review, we praised this shred-tastic guitar's superb build quality and outstanding playability, saying, "When playing the American Series Soloist, 40 years of guitar-making experience and refinement is evident compared to the original model".

The entry-level guitar market is in a much healthier place than it was even 10 years ago. Now, manufacturers and brands are employing far higher levels of quality control than they did. This means even 'cheaper' guitars deliver tones, construction and playability previously reserved for mid and higher level models.

From its drop-dead gorgeous looks to its impressive Seymour Duncan Alpha and Omega humbuckers and fiercely playable neck, this guitar is simply a joy to play - even if you're not normally a 7-string fan.  

Recent updates

21/02/24: This guide was given a full update with an all-new list of guitars and a few navigational tweaks to make it easier to find the best electric guitar for you. 01/11/23:  As well as auditing the products to make sure the list is up to date with the very best electric guitars around, we've also given this page a fresh new look, improving the navigation to make it easier than ever to find the right model for you. Want to get to the good stuff without reading walls of text? Use the "quick list" section to get to know our top choices without any fuss. There are also links to read a more detailed review of each model if you'd like to learn more.  

1. Fender Vintera '60s Telecaster Modified

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ Buy if you want a more tonally interesting Tele: This guitar offers a plethora of tones, with the ability to have the pickup in series and phase control. ❌ Avoid if you want a guitar for heavier tones: While this guitar is tonally versatile, it can't quite handle heavier tones. 

Vibe is a somewhat nebulous concept. Essentially, it's a guitar which evokes a certain mood or level of cool. While any number of axes could fit the bill, we've gone for the excellent Fender Vintera '60s Telecaster Modified, as frankly, we love it. 

The Vintera combines a simple Tele layout with some clever tweaks under the hood and oodles of aforementioned vibe.

2. Squier Bullet Mustang

✅ Buy if you are a beginner on a budget: The Squier Bullet Mustang offers superb build quality and playability and is easily one of the best guitars at this price point. ❌ Avoid if you aren't a beginner: While this is a great guitar, it may be a basic for intermediate and advanced players. 

When choosing an electric guitar for a child, there are a number of things to consider. The guitar itself has to be reasonably light to ensure smaller shoulders can cope. It needs to be easy enough to play for small hands, with an appropriately sized neck. And it needs to look cool. Because, let's face it, at that age the look of the guitar arguably trumps its ability to traverse multiple tonal areas. 

There are a few dedicated mini versions of regular guitars, but we've gone for one that is full-sized, fully equipped and affordable. The Squier Bullet Mustang features a slightly smaller scale length which, combined with the basswood body, makes it easy to get to grips with. But, importantly, its double humbuckers ensure it can keep up with most grown-up guitars. It is one of the most badass Squier guitars we've played in a long while and easily one of the best beginner electric guitars on the market. 

Read the full Squier Bullet Mustang review

3. PRS SE Custom 24

✅ Buy if you need a versatile guitar: The PRS Custom 24 is easily the most versatile guitar on this list. From fierce hard rock tones to delicate cleans, there isn't a sound it can't do. ❌ Avoid if you aren't a fan of wider necks: While many find the Wide Thin neck profile comfortable, it certainly isn't for everyone. 

To many, the Custom 24 presents the pinnacle of PRS design, and the thing about great guitar design is that it translates well at different price points. The SE Custom 24 is stunning in anyone’s book - and is our pick for the best electric guitar under $1,000 .

The Wide Thin neck profile strikes a neat balance between comfort and speed. The flame maple veneer strikes a neat balance between opulence and ostentatious. Everything about this guitar’s design seems to exist in perfect equilibrium.

Other options in the SE Custom 24 line include the eye-popping Burled Ash and big-ticket 35th Anniversary models. Whichever you choose, you’ll be rewarded with a super-stable vibrato, bridge pickup that can handle everything from southern rock snarl to metal chunk, with neck humbucker tones that are inherently suited to blues, rock and showing off your comping skills. The coil-taps open up a whole range of possibilities – country, funk, you name it. 

Better yet, you can grab this do-it-all axe for a lot less, with these PRS SE Custom 24 deals . 

Read the full PRS SE Custom 24 & 24-08 review

4. Epiphone Les Paul Special TV Yellow

✅ Buy if you want a guitar for punk: Thanks to its simple design and cutting pickups, the Les Paul Special has long been associated with punk rock. ❌ Avoid if you want a noise-free option: Yes we love P-90 pickups, but they can be pretty noisy. Some players may prefer to go with a humbucker option. 

Here at Guitar World , we absolutely adore the sound of a P-90 pickup. There's something about the gritty growl and shimmering highs that sets our hearts racing. So, it's only natural that we'd include a P-90-loaded guitar in our guide to the best electric guitars. 

We've chosen to include the stunning Epiphone Les Paul Special, which features the best electric guitar under $500 , in the Les Paul category. 

Dressed up in the classic Gibson TV Yellow finish and featuring the fat '50s neck profile, this guitar perfectly harkens back to the instruments of yesteryear, delivering exceptional playability, style, and tone, all at a very reasonable price. 

5. ESP LTD EC-1000

✅ Buy if you want a great value metal guitar: There's a reason you see so many players use the EC1000. The value on offer here is staggering. ❌ Avoid if you want a traditional single cut: This is not a conventional LP-style guitar. So if you are looking for vintage tones, you're best sticking with Epiphone or Gibson. 

When it comes to the best guitars for metal , our top pick is the ESP LTD EC-1000. This stunning metal axe offers players incredible value for money with sought-after features and unbeatable playability. 

Loaded with a set of Fishman’s Modern Fluence humbuckers, there isn't a style of metal this LTD can't perform. From thrash to doom, death metal to '80s power metal, this affordable offering from ESP can do it all. 

We found the thin-U neck to be exceptionally playable, while the extra-jumbo frets and 13.8” radius provided the perfect playing surface for large bends and fast legato licks.  

Read the full ESP LTD EC-1000 review

6. Gibson ES-335 Satin

✅ Buy if you want an iconic guitar: The ES-335 is a classic guitar for a reason. From its bellowing sound and excellent playability, it's one of the best electric guitars ever made. ❌ Avoid if you don't like big guitars: The ES-335 is a large guitar and can feel cumbersome to hold for smaller players. 

And now for something completely different. When you think about jazz guitars, you think large bodies, semi-hollow construction and warm humbuckers. Combine these things together and you get an instrument capable of producing those silky smooth, rounded tones which form the cornerstone of jazz guitar.

The Gibson ES-335 is a heavyweight in this field. It marries up a range of exceptional tones, with the highest levels of build quality and silky-smooth playability. Gibson has been producing variants of the ES-335 for over 70 years, and that heritage is evident in every note, trill and legato. 

It's not cheap, but that tells its own story. Jazz guitars don't get much better than this.

7. Jackson American Series Soloist SL3

✅ Buy if you want ultra-fast playability: With its ultra-rigid neck and flat fingerboard profile, the Soloist SL3 is perfect for shred licks. ❌ Avoid if you're on a budget: As this is a USA-made guitar, it isn't the cheapest option. It is worth noting that there are more affordable versions in the Jackson catalog, but you will lose some features. 

Not only does the Jackson American Series Soloist SL3 take our top slot for the great shred guitar available today, but it's also one of the best Jackson guitars in the current lineup. 

In our glowing 5-star review, we praised this shred-tastic guitar's superb build quality and outstanding playability, saying, "when playing the American Series Soloist, 40 years of guitar-making experience and refinement is evident compared to the original model". 

So, if you're in the market for a premium guitar that is specifically designed to shred, then we implore you to seek out this remarkable Jackson model. 

Read the full Jackson American Series Soloist SL3 review  

8. Squier Classic Vibe '60s Stratocaster

✅ Buy if you want classic tone on a budget: The Classic Vibe series has long been the place to go for vintage tone on a budget. ❌ Avoid if you want modern sounds: As the name suggests, the Classic Vibe Strat excels at vintage sounds, but in our opinion, it isn't the best for modern tones. 

The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Stratocaster is the perfect example of this. Previously, an entry-level guitar would tend to last a couple of years, have string action like playing razor wire, and tones like a horde of bees in a tin can. Not so any more. 

This Classic Vibe looks, feels and sounds incredible, and even gives some of the cheaper Fender models a run for their money. Style and playability at a price that won't make your eyes water. Progress is a wonderful thing.

9. PRS SE Mark Holcomb 7-string guitar

✅ Buy if you want a superb value 7-string: For us, this PRS model offers the most bang for your buck in the 7-string category. ❌ Avoid if you want don't play metal: This guitar is unapologetically a metal machine. So, if you aren't seeking a high-gain tone, this is not the guitar for you. 

There are now more 7-string guitars on the market than ever before, and it can get a little confusing to find the right now for you. Our pick for the best 7-string guitar has to be the striking PRS SE Mark Holcomb model. 

So, if you're looking for a relatively affordable way to bring the doom, then we'd look no further than this collaboration between the Periphery axe-man and Paul Reed Smith. 

As you can imagine, we review a lot of electric guitars at Guitar World , so it's not possible to include them all in this guide. Below you'll find a few notable models that we recently reviewed, and while we loved them, they didn't quite make the cut.  

Reverend Billy Corgan Z-One Body: Alder | Neck: Roasted maple | Pickups: Railhammer humbuckers Smashing Pumpkins frontman, Billy Corgan, has been a keen endorsee of Reverend guitars for over six years, and this latest iteration of his signature axe is his third to date – and we think it might be the best. 

This stunningly beautiful offset is designed with the Alt rocker's heavier songs in mind, employing a set of newly designed Railhammer Z-One pickups to achieve a mid-focused sound that seriously packs a punch. 

Guitar World's Score: 5/5

Read the full Reverend Billy Corgan Z-One review

Fender American Performer Stratocaster Body: Alder | Neck: Maple | Pickups: Yosemite single-coils/humbucker For many players, there comes a time when they want to branch out. To try new styles of playing, sounds or genres. And, while it would be nice to have specific guitars for each of these styles, sometimes that isn't possible. 

So we look for a jack of all trades. The Fender American Performer Stratocaster is one such guitar.

Offering the dual benefits of classic single-coil Fender attack, with the extra heft of a bridge humbucker, we get a guitar that can handle most styles of music with ease.

Guitar World's Score: 4/5

Read our full Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS review

Fender American Ultra Telecaster Body: Alder | Neck: Maple | Pickups: Ultra Noiseless Vintage Tele Launched in November 2019, Fender’s American Ultra Series visited sweeping changes across its Californian-built premium production line: noiseless pickups as standard, “Modern D” neck profiles, sculpted neck heels. Fingerboards now had a compound 10”-14” fingerboard radius, rolled edges and medium-jumbo frets for a contemporary feel.

Tone-wise, the bridge pickup is classic Telecaster, weapons-grade treble, bright, articulate, and takes on a really musical Nashville crunch with more gain. The neck rounds out the attack, while you might well find the bouncy sweet spot with both pickups in parallel. 

Guitar World's Score: 4.5/5

Read the full Fender American Ultra Telecaster review

Epiphone Les Paul Standard Body: Mahogany| Neck: Mahogany | Pickups: Alnico classic humbuckers

When we're talking value, one guitar instantly springs to mind. The Epiphone Les Paul Standard has been the go-to guitar for thousands of players over the years, and for good reason. Put simply, this guitar ticks a lot of boxes. We found it to be exceptionally well-made, sounds great and, importantly, it won't break the bank.

For many players, this guitar hits the perfect sweet spot between quality, price and performance. It's why you see so many people graduate to it as their first 'serious' axe, and why you see so many on the weekend warrior circuit. If a bona fide Gibson is out of reach financially, you can't go far wrong with one of these.

Read the full Epiphone Les Paul Standard '50s review

Charvel Pro-Mod DK22 SSS 2PT CM Body: Alder| Neck: Maple | Pickups: Seymour Duncan Custom Hot Rails/ Flat Strat

The original Superstrat returns and we think it's never looked better. This is one where we are best ignoring the name on the headstock and getting our heads around a guitar that offers lightning-quick playability, heavy-duty humbucker tones, the snap and twang of a Strat, and a boutique feel, all for around a grand.

The stacked bridge ‘bucker is a modern classic that’ll eat up high-gain and squeal when needed, but is also rich in detail. The Strat pickups in the middle and neck positions allow you to sell the illusion that it really does say Fender on that Stratocaster headstock.

Read the full Charvel Pro-Mod DK22 SSS 2PT CM review

Best electric guitars: Buying advice

Buying a guitar is a personal and subjective thing - what might be the best electric guitar for you might not be right for someone else. However, there are quite a few things to take into consideration when buying one that can make choosing a little easier. 

Since their inception in 1931 with the Rickenbacker ‘Frying Pan’ lapsteel, electric guitars have come a long way, though early models are still popular today. The Fender Esquire was introduced in 1950 and evolved into the Telecaster which is still played by beginners and pros alike. After that, the Gibson Les Paul was released in 1952, and the Fender Strat in 1954. Whilst there are many different brands and models out there, these classics are still incredibly popular.

Think about what you want out of your new electric guitar; do you want something to learn on? Are you upgrading after having played for a few years? Are you adding to a collection of guitars? Are you playing mainly one style of music, or a few? Answering these before you part with your cash can really help find the best electric guitar for you.

Electric guitar body shape 

You can trust Guitar World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing guitar products so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

The body shape of your guitar plays quite a large part in how comfortable it will be to play. If you’re sat down, the contours of the body determine how it sits on you, likewise if you’re stood up - most of the weight is in the body, so you need to take that into consideration.  

Is electric guitar tone affected by the wood used?

As well as the shape and size of the guitar, weight is largely determined by the wood used. Though often contested, the general consensus is that denser woods tend to yield more sustain. Mahogany, used a lot by Gibson, usually lends a slightly mellower, warmer sound, with beautiful low and mid frequencies. 

Fender often use alder as it provides an even frequency response, without it being too light or too heavy, as well as ash, which is usually a little brighter sounding. Something like basswood is quite light and, because it’s easily sourced, is usually cheap and gets used on many budget guitars. Don’t let that put you off though - tone-wise, it’s fairly transparent and evenly balanced.

Pickup types 

Pickups play the biggest role in shaping your electric guitar’s sound (alongside you of course!). Pickups are basically magnets housed in a bobbin, wound with wire, that convert the vibrations caused by your moving strings into an electrical signal which is then sent to your amp.

There are many different pickup types out there, but the most popular types are single coils and humbuckers. Single coil pickups are found in a lot of Fender guitars, like the Strat and the Tele and deliver a bright, clear sound, often with a slight scoop in the mids. Strat pickups often sound ‘glassy’ and ‘chimey’, and ‘twang’ is synonymous with the Tele. 

Humbuckers tend to sound bigger, beefier and warmer. They fill out slightly more space in a mix and usually give out more output than single coils, making them break up sooner. If you already play a guitar with single-coils, then maybe look for something with humbuckers, or vice versa, so you can cover more ground.

There are guitars out there that feature a mixture of single coils and humbucker pickups, like the HSS Strat, giving you the best of both worlds. There are also coil-tapped or coil-split humbuckers that, when engaged, effectively act as single coils.

Electric guitar hardware 

An electric guitar’s hardware can help improve tuning stability, tone and longevity. As you start to spend more, you’ll get things like better quality tuners (sometimes locking tuners), sturdier hardware that fits together better and improves sustain, as well as better and more reliable electronics that keep your signal clearer.

Neck profile 

Neck profiles can vary too, and should be considered when looking for the best electric guitar for you. It’s all very much down to personal preference, but neck profiles can range from super thin, like on the Ibanez RG550, to thicker, more vintage-style profiles like on the ES-335. Generally speaking, faster, shreddier players prefer thin necks, and old-school blues and rock players go for either a thick neck or something in the middle.

There is definitely space for a bit of 'gut feeling' when you're shopping. We've all had situations where we've played a guitar we'd never normally have looked twice at and had it pleasantly surprise us. Keeping an open mind is no bad thing. Sometimes when you pick up a guitar you just know. There's no rationale.

But, instinct aside, you can at least put yourself in the right ballpark by using guides like this one to hone in on what works for you. With so many variables, it can be hard to know where to start. Maybe you'll find your dream guitar with a quick scroll, or maybe it will take some further research, but we hope to help you start that journey right here.

How do you look after an electric guitar?

As with any guitar, regular maintenance will help you get the most out of it and mean you won’t be replacing parts - or your entire guitar - prematurely. Restringing every 2-3 months can keep it sounding fresh and lively, plus that gives you a chance to give it a proper clean, to stop dirt building up. Wiping down the strings after use will help too, and given that necks can break easily if dropped or knocked over, investing in a quality guitar stand is a wise purchase. 

How we test electric guitars

Guitars are very subjective things. What some players may think of as the most incredible guitar ever made, others may completely despise it. That said, no matter our personal preference, there are a few key criteria that a guitar must meet for us to consider recommending it to our readers. 

The first is build quality. When testing out a new six-string, we thoroughly check over every aspect of the instrument, making sure everything feels sturdy and solid. If it's a bolt-on construction – like a Strat or Tele – we'll have a close look at the neck join to ensure it's tight, with no gaps. We'll make sure the machine heads are responsive, the volume and tone pots are smooth, and there are no issues with the pickups. We will then look over the general finishing of the guitar. Are there any finishing anomalies to speak of, and is the guitar finished to a reasonable standard for its price point? 

Next up is playability. For this, we are looking at how well the guitar plays straight out of the box. We are obviously looking to see how comfortable the neck is to hold, but we are also looking to see if there are any sharp frets, tall frets, or intonation issues, as well as looking to see if the guitar needs an extensive set-up. 

Lastly, we need to think about the sound of the instrument. Again, this is very subjective, but we are looking to see if the guitar lives up to the manufacturer's claims and is fit for purpose. For example, if a guitar is designed with heavy metal in mind, does it deliver the bone-crushing tone we'd expect, or does it fall flat? That said, we will test guitars in a variety of different genres just to see what they can do - as you never know, that EMG-loaded Flying V may have a killer blues tone hidden inside. 

Read more about how we find the best guitars for our buyer’s guides and exactly how we test each instrument. 

Related buyer's guides 

• Go unplugged with the best acoustic guitars for all budgets
• Play harder with the best rock guitars  
• Go down low with the best baritone guitars   
• Got the blues? Check out the best blues guitars
• These are the best electric guitars under $1,000
• Get more low-end with our guide to the best 7-string guitars
• Get shredding with the best Jackson guitars

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As a Senior Deals Writer at Guitar World, I help create and maintain the site's 200+ buyer's guides, scour the internet for the best possible deals on a range of guitar products, and spend a lot of time getting hands-on with the latest guitars, amps, pedals, and more. My gear reviews have also been featured in many prominent publications, including Total Guitar and Future Music magazines and  MusicRadar.com .

During my career, I have been lucky enough to talk to many of my musical heroes, having interviewed members of Sum 41, Foo Fighters, Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & the Conspirators, Creeper, Thrice and more.

In a past life, I worked in music retail. For a little under a decade, I advised everyone from absolute beginners to seasoned pros on the right gear for their needs. 

I also have a passion for live sound. I'm a fully qualified sound engineer who holds a first-class Bachelor's degree in Creative Sound Production from the University of Abertay and I have plenty of experience working in various venues around Scotland. 

• Chris Corfield
• James Farmer

“The whole audience’s heads snap and look at the stage, and I go, ‘Oh my God, I can't forget this riff’”: Randy Bachman on how a broken string inspired his iconic American Woman guitar riff

“If you walk through a Guitar Center, you see an awful lot of $300 guitars. If I’m a serious musician, it doesn’t feel like the right place for me anymore”: Guitar Center’s new CEO explains why the firm’s future must prioritize premium guitars

“Sometimes I make the bassline too complex and too noodly, but Thom is good at putting the brakes on that”: How Colin Greenwood came up with his deceptive stop-start bassline on Radiohead’s Airbag

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GUITAR GUIDES 

Top 11 Best Travel Guitars 

Table of Contents

The Best Acoustic, Electric, and Bass Travel Guitars (Click to Expand)

Martin steel string backpacker, washburn rover, cordoba mini m, luna safari muse.

• Traveler Electric Guitar

Epiphone Les Paul Express

• Traveler SPD HRR V2 Speedster

Shredneck Travel Guitar

Vox apache ii.

• Traveler TB 4P Electric Bass

Shredneck Z-Series

If you're looking for a great acoustic guitar to take outdoors with you and one that's easy to lug around and carry, our top pick is the Cordoba Mini M (Amazon) .

For a great travel-sized electric guitar with absurd value (and one that you can take out into rough conditions without worrying much), look no further than the Shredneck (Amazon) . 

And finally: our bass guitar pick is most definitely the Vox Apache (Amazon) . It has the best blend of performance, price, and features out of all the travel bass guitars we looked at.

For more details and a great overview about how we came up with our top picks, read on below!

Musicians have roadies for a reason.

Guitars are heavy, sensitive works of art that need to be taken care of if you want to avoid  broken strings or a banged-up fretboard. Unfortunately, chances are you’re not Slash or Eddie Van Halen , and don’t quite have the funds to pay some guys to lug your gear around each time you leave the house for a weekend.

If you find yourself cooped up in a hotel room with nothing to keep your fingers occupied, then a travel guitar might just be the right call for you.

These guitars are shorter, lighter, and come with a wide range of features. They're available in a number of budgets that'll fit almost everybody.

This means that instead of tucking your Stratocaster safely in the backseat of your car for that camping trip and hoping for the best, you can pick up a great sounding compact option that you can toss in the overhead compartment of the plane, train, van, or any method of transportation -- all without thinking twice.

In the three tables below, we summarized our best picks for travel guitars from three categories: Acoustics , Electrics , and Bass Guitars. These are great choices even if you're a beginner guitarist .

If you scroll down even further though, you'll be able to see some details about each guitar and exactly what factors were used to come up with these ratings.

Best Acoustic Guitars for Travel

Best electric guitars for travel, best bass guitars for travel.

Looking for a "Travel-Sized" Version?

I can send you a "travel-sized" version of 50 easy beginner songs you can start playing ASAP.  

Grab the PDF by entering your email below. 

Choosing the Best Travel Guitar for You

If you’re still with me, chances are you’re already sold on the idea but don’t quite know where to begin.

While the process for buying a travel guitar isn’t drastically different from buying a full-sized model, there are a few unique considerations that you’ll need to make.

• Do you need something that plugs into an amp?
• What about onboard tone and volume controls?
• Just how light do you need it to be before it becomes too tiring to lug around? 

Travel guitars are great for carrying around with you, but they also compromise on certain features in order to make them smaller and more lightweight. I want to make sure you get all the features you want, so when you get down to the next section, be sure to read carefully . 

You'll learn about our top travel picks, and most importantly, why we chose these guitars over others.  

Acoustic Travel Guitars

The Martin Backpacker is a great option if you find yourself looking for something unorthodox and eye-catching that you can still play by the fire.

At 36 inches long with a 24-inch scale length, the Martin punches above its weight class by feeling more substantial than its bite-sized competitors.

It features gentle, soft strings that make it ideal for fingerpickers and produces a very clean sound. That should go without saying, but many cheap guitars have some pretty bad distortion that makes them unappealing to play. One thing that most players discover is that the Backpacker restricts natural anchor points for your fingers while playing.

Go ahead and pick up your preferred axe, and notice how the pinky of your strumming hand tends to rest on the body of the guitar. The tapered shape of the Martin towards the fretboard doesn’t let you have that same resting spot, and while that can be a tough sell if you’re set in your ways, it can also encourage you to learn a new style that can help you play faster.

If you don’t mind trying something new, then this is a great option that you can regularly find cheaper than MSRP to boot. 

​ Check out the Martin Backpacker on Amazon.

Built to surprisingly high standards given its low price point , the body of the Rover is fully decked out in spruce and mahogany that gives it some heft, and should help it resist the wear and tear of travel.

More importantly though, it beats out the Martin we just looked at by boasting 19 frets as opposed to 15, making it feel much more versatile, and closer to a full sized acoustic when you’re playing it.

Note though, that it can be quite punchy and loud. That’s great if you’re someone who plays with your buddies in isolated settings, but not quite as good if you’re planning on keeping yourself busy at the conference hotel. One great feature of this Washburn  is that it’s good for newer players as well, since the guitar also comes with an instructional disk. Maybe you don’t need it, but it’s a handy feature if you’re planning on giving it as a gift , or just want to brush up on some fundamentals. Unfortunately, when you look at the build quality, features, and price, they had to have compromised somewhere, and that comes at the expense of the strings. They’re functional, but are  prone to snapping when placed under too much pressure. If you don’t want to find yourself stranded away from home with a busted-up guitar, you might want to factor the price of high-quality aftermarket strings into the equation before you buy.

​ Check out the Washburn Rover on Amazon.

The Mini M is a good all-around option for people of all sizes and skill levels.

The neck is smaller at 20 inches , which isn’t great for veterans looking for a full-fledged guitar experience, but it does make it a great choice for women, children, or even guys with smaller hands who are still trying to get used to moving around the fretboard.

This smaller size also helps it comes in at a ridiculously light 2 and a half pounds , and that means stowing it away in the passenger seat of your car or in the overhead compartment of a plane is a breeze.

Despite this size though, it can get quite loud , so be sure that you’re ready for others to hear you play each time you pick it up. While you probably won’t play any gigs with this as your primary guitar, the bag it comes with is nicely padded and will keep it protected, which helps add some value to the dollars you’re spending. Overall, probably the most important thing to keep in mind if you’re interested in the Cordoba is its nut width. At 1.96” it can be a bit of a shock coming from narrower electrics, but if you find yourself with a lot of classical guitar experience, then this is a fantastic travel tool. It’ll be a much more seamless transition which will have you needing to readjust your hands less, and play more.

​ Check out the Cordoba Mini M on Amazon.

Some players like to have their gear come ready to play right out of the box, but if you’re a tinkerer who doesn’t mind spending some time to get to know your guitar, then the Luna Safari Muse is for you.

Don’t get me wrong, the tone that comes out of this guitar when you first pick it up is quite decent , but the sensitive tuners lose it quickly. You’ll also definitely want to replace the factory strings. The stock steel ones are serviceable, but they’re heavy and don’t produce the sound quality of some high-end alternatives. Put up with some of those minor grievances though, and you’ll wind up with a great sounding, well balanced guitar, and that’s a key consideration. Models that are too top or bottom-heavy can cause strain on the shoulders when playing with a strap, and the long-term discomfort might not be worth the experience.

The Safari lets you can play for hours without feeling any pain or soreness , and that’s some great peace of mind when you’re away from the comforts of home. 

​ Check out the Luna Safari Muse on Amazon.

Electric Travel Guitars

Traveler electric guitar  with gig bag.

The name says it all. Traveler guitars are often a popular choice when it comes to mini/portable guitars. They're packed with   useful features and include smart design decisions that other companies haven’t quite implemented. Mini guitars are also great for kids . 

The in-body tuning system removes the need for a heavy headstock, which keeps the guitar compact and extremely light and portable.  It also has  strong pickups that deliver a crisp, clean sound . This'll serve most practicing or amateur musicians quite nicely. If you’re someone who prefers to play heavy distortion genres like rock or metal, you’ll likely need an amplifier to be pleased with the performance since this model lacks tone or volume controls, but thankfully the standard ¼ inch jack means you won’t run into any compatibility issues with the one already lying around your house.

It does mean you’ll have another thing to consider when choosing to bring this one on the road or on a flight, but at least you have the option. 

​ Check out this Traveler Guitar on Amazon.

With its recognizable brand name and great looks, it’s hard for most players to pass up the travel-sized Les Paul.

The finish is higher-quality than what you’d expect for its price range , and while it’s not perfect it is backed by a limited lifetime warranty that should keep your mind at ease when you run into the occasional scuff or scratch.

Being a known brand name though, you do pay a bit of a premium. No, it’s not going to break your wallet, but some of the other entries on the list boast some better build quality than what you’re getting here. You’ll need to swap the tuners and strings because they’re quite frankly, not up to snuff, but given the affordable price of the guitar itself, it’s a cheap, worthwhile upgrade. What you do get when you pick up the Epiphone though are some very impressive pickups. Many travel guitars have trouble matching the sound of their full-sized cousins, but you’re not going to have that problem, or run into any unwanted interference here.

With the minor upgrades we suggested, you’ll have a classic looking, great-sounding guitar that will do nicely as both a presentation, and performance piece. 

​ Check out the Epiphone Les Paul Express on Amazon.

Traveler Guitar SPD HRR V2 Speedster

The most expensive electric model on this list might have you hesitant to drop the cash, and I don’t blame you, but if you have the coin and want something a step above the competition, the V2 Speedster has you covered.

It features the same headstock-less, in-body tuning system as its other Traveler brother , but goes a step further by including tone controls with four pre-set positions to give you some variety while playing. Its maple body looks and feels premium, and will definitely turn some heads when you take it out of its case. Toss in the built-in amplifier and headphone jacks, and you have the best compromise on this list between travel and full-sized guitars.

Its higher price tag means you don’t exactly want to be beating it around in transit, but if you’re someone who spends more time traveling for work than you do at home, this is a fantastic option to reasonably, if not perfectly, replace the ones lying around that you never get to play anyway. 

​ Check out the Traveler SPD HRR V2 Speedster on Amazon.

You might not recognize the name, but what you give up in brand recognition you make up for in features and performance .

Despite its smaller ¾ scale length, the guitar lends itself extremely well to rock and metal music thanks to its powerful output and variety of tone and volume controls. Its two humbuckers also make sure that any unwanted signal noise playing havoc with your pickups is going to be suppressed, leaving you with the rich, clean sounds you expect when you play.

Finally, its 22 frets and a three-way toggle switch to engage the different pickups gives you a ton of versatility when you’re playing , which can be a sanity-saver on a long trip. Thanks to the fact that it’s almost fully kitted out, you won’t need to worry about bringing an amplifier with you when you bring the Shredneck along, and it’s a good thing too, because at almost 6 pounds it’s one of the heaviest options available to buy.

While most prefer to travel light, it’s hard to beat the features on offer, especially when its cheap price means you won’t mind too much if it gets roughed up while out in the field. 

​ Check out this Shredneck on Amazon.

Bass Travel Guitars

Bass players don’t quite have the same amount of options as their electric or acoustic cousins, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have good options.

The Vox Apache II might have a divisive look, but it really brings it where it counts. It features all the onboard controls you would expect from a full-sized model, but also packs in an incredibly unique 2 channel amplifier right into the body of the guitar. This means that with a few batteries you have everything you need to play in any situation.

While the sound it outputs at default setting won’t blow you away, toggling the overdrive switch fixes that problem by massively increasing the performance by curing the guitar of its minor fret buzz. On top of all that though, having the built-in speakers allows the Vox to pack in extra features like pre-recorded rhythm sections that help you practice even if you’re playing solo, although that does reduce the battery life down to a mere 24 to 26 hours of play time.

Thankfully you can still plug it into an external amp if that happens, so you have the flexibility to play your way even if they happen to die at the worst possible moment. Note though, that all these features come at a price , and that price is the added bulk it carries to cram all these features in. It’s still much lighter than a traditional bass , but it might not be something that you want to lug around the city.

If you’re just picking it up for the ride to and from your destination and don’t plan on moving too much in the meantime though, you’ll be more than happy with your purchase. 

​ Check out this Vox Apache II on Amazon.

Traveler Travel Bass

If you’re looking for something a little more traditional and less flashy, Traveler makes our list for the third time with a top-tier travel bass that’s expensive, but worth the price if it ticks the boxes off your list.

Coming in quite a bit lighter than the Vox by shedding the body amp, this model still gives you the option of plugging in directly to the headphone amplifier that, while not as powerful as the Vox, keeps all your notes clean and distortion free.

It even has an aux port to let you play along to your preferred tracks , so if you tend to travel with thousands of songs loaded onto your phone, then it can be a great feature to breathe new life into those same old playlists. While the features and performance you get here are high quality, you are paying quite a bit for a product that doesn’t really have the finish you’d expect for the price. 

Your mileage may vary, but it’s not uncommon for these guitars to require a minor tune-up out of the box to adjust the action and make fretting slightly easier. It’s all work you can do yourself if you have the tools and experience, but isn’t a hassle that everyone wants to go through.

Bottom line though is that this is still a great purchase if you value high quality sound and features, and can live with minor faults in the workmanship.

​ Check out this Traveler Bass on Amazon.

Offering another great budget focused option, the Z-series travel bass comes in at a slightly smaller 28” scale than the Traveler’s 32, but keeps the same number of frets to maintain the feel of a traditional bass.

It might mean that you’ll need to adapt your hand to the narrower frets , but it’s a worthwhile trade-off when you factor in just how nicely the guitar plays.

Out of the box it’s tuned nicely and holds it well, and offers some very decent strings that give it the deep, warm sound you’re probably looking for. It isn’t as feature rich as some of its competitors by lacking headphone amp jacks or advanced controls, but still sports tone and volume knobs to give you some added value and sound options . It also has a smaller body that might require you to adjust your strumming style, but it’s nothing that can’t be learned in just a few hours.

It might lack the versatility to compete for “daily-driver” status, but the sound the Shredneck produces makes it an ideal practice tool, while still performing above expectations on the road.

​ Check out this Shredneck Z-Series on Amazon.

Best Bang for Your Buck

While there’s no such thing as a perfect guitar, the right guitar does exist.

If you’re looking for the best travel-sized acoustic for your next camp visit, it’s hard to beat the Cordoba Mini M (check price on Amazon) . It’s not as feature complete as some of its competitors, but comes in at an attractive price without forcing you to worry about buying aftermarket strings or tuners.

Likewise, the absurd value of the Shredneck (check price on Amazon)   makes it hard to find an economical electric competitor. You can double the price for a Traveler, but the Shredneck is an equally attractive, well-performing model that you won’t be afraid to take out into rough conditions.

Finally, the Vox Apache (check price on Amazon) offers the best blend of performance, price, and features among all the travel bass guitars we looked at. It does everything you could possibly ask of it at a decent price, and will make you more than happy each time you pick it up, provided you don’t mind the added weight.

Final Remarks

Travel guitars offer a fantastic mix of performance and value, and while the model you personally decide to go with will be the one that’s best-suited to your individual needs, it’s really hard to go wrong with any of the options I’ve detailed.

What I’ve done here is outlined the pros and cons of some of the most popular travel guitars out there to give you the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision, and keep you playing guitar no matter where you find yourself.

This website is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

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Sights of Elektrostal, Moscow region

Table of contents:, history of the city, park of culture and leisure, historical and art museum, october cultural center, kristall ice palace, memorial complex, museum and exhibition complex.

2024 Author : Harold Hamphrey | [email protected] . Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

In the Moscow region there is a small cozy town Elektrostal. Its sights for the most part have no historical value due to the fact that the city has a relatively small history. But for a visiting tourist or city dweller, they will be of interest. There is something to see, where to go to have an exciting leisure time.

Today the population of the city is 158 thousand people. Until the beginning of the 20th century there were several small workers' settlements here. After the opening of the electrometallurgical and equipment factories, the place began to be called the natural boundary of Calm. The construction of the railway made this settlement accessible, and workers and families flocked here to earn money. In 1925, the station was named Elektrostal, and the rapid increase in population allowed the village to receive the status of a city.

The founder of the city is a prominent Russian industrialist Nikolai Vtorov. It was he who opened the plant here, creating, in fact, a city-forming enterprise that is still operating. In Soviet times, it was a closed facility, and it was not easy to get to work here.

Today Elektrostal is a promising industrial city with a great future and a heroic past. It bears the proud name "City of Military and Labor Glory".

You can learn about the sights of Elektrostal with descriptions and photos here. There are places for walking, outdoor activities and cultural development.

Those who come to the city by train are met by a monument to the metallurgist. It was installed in November 2017 for the 100th anniversary of the Elektrostal plant. The attraction is made in the style of constructivism. The monument quickly won the love of the townspeople, because this city is supported by ordinary workers.

Elektrost altsy and the founding father of the plant, Nikolai Vtorov, are honored. In 2002, a monument was opened in honor of him, which became a landmark of the city of Elektrostal. The bronze sculpture is installed on the site where once stood a monument to the leader of the world proletariat, V. I. Lenin. Times change, characters change. Today, the plant, founded a century ago, is the largest in Russia. Vtorov himself, whose fortune was estimated at 60 million rubles in gold, according to Forbes magazine, was the owner of the largest capital at the beginning of the century. He was a banker, an industrialist, an entrepreneur, a man of action.

The monument was erected byinitiative of the townspeople who wished to perpetuate the monument to the great man.

One of the popular places for spending weekends and evenings among citizens and guests of the city is the Park of Culture and Leisure. Here you can ride attractions for children and adults, play slot machines, rollerblade or bike. The park is divided into two zones. Fans of unhurried walks in the fresh air make a promenade on the Quiet Alley, and those who prefer outdoor activities flock to the Entertainment Alley. The park has a summer stage, where concerts and cafes are regularly held.

Until 1999, there was no central museum among the attractions of Elektrostal in the Moscow Region. The expositions were exhibited in schools, the house of culture, in factory museums. The city was closed, so there was no large influx of tourists and visitors. The appearance of the historical and art museum made it possible for residents and guests of the city to learn a lot of useful information about their native land, the formation of the production process, and the difficult years of the war. The exposition consists of paintings by local artists, historical artifacts, household items, documents, books and much more. The collection is updated regularly. It also hosts outdoor exhibitions, which are always popular with the townspeople.

One of the main attractions of Elektrostal, the photo of which is available to almost every resident or visitor, is the Main Alley. On herpassers-by like to stroll along shady paths, townspeople rest by the fountain after a hard shift at the plant. Flower beds are the decoration of the alley. In 2006, a flower festival was held here for the first time, which has become traditional. Each enterprise of the city and private individuals give residents a real composition of fresh flowers, which pleases with bright colors all summer long. A riot of colors, aromas and a flight of fantasy reigns here. Walking through the park, you can see Snow White with a basket, a bright well, a multi-tiered cake made from fresh flowers, hearts of lovers or a fabulous house. It is almost impossible not to take a photo against the background of these compositions.

There is a cultural center in the city. It hosts performances by local creative teams and visiting stars, performances and circus performances.

In 1971, the ice palace "Crystal" was opened in the city. Almost immediately, a children's and youth hockey team was organized, which gained sports fame. This is the home sports arena for the Elektrostal hockey team. Matches of different levels are held on the ice.

There are sections for children who go in for hockey or figure skating. Citizens come here with their families to cheer for their favorite team or go ice skating.

Elektrostal is a city with a heroic past. During the war years, more than 12 thousand citizens came to the recruiting station and went to the front to defend their homeland. Almost 4 thousand of them did not return from the battle. To these heroesdedicated to the memorial complex with the inextinguishable Eternal Flame, opened in 1968

But the electricians took part in the war in Afghanistan and Chechnya. By decision of the city authorities, their memory is also immortalized in the memorial complex.

It has become a good tradition for newlyweds to lay flowers at this monument.

In 1999, a museum and exhibition complex was opened in the city, where, in addition to the exhibition hall, there are numerous circles for children, classes for young people, and a creative workshop. Various festivals, exhibitions, city holidays and other events are held within the walls and on the territory of the complex, which attract many spectators.

Listing the sights of Elektrostal, it is impossible not to mention the temples. There are several of them in the city: the church of St. John of Kronstadt, St. Andrew's Church, the hospital church of St. Panteleimon. Another new church is being built. In appearance, the temples look ancient, monumental, in the Novgorod style. But they were all built at the end of the 20th century.

Let there be no ancient artifacts among the sights of Elektrostal. But on the other hand, all of them are connected with the history of the city, with everyday work and military exploits of ordinary residents.

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

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