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Can You Bring a Guitar on a Plane? 18 Tips for Flying with Guitars

Guitars are fragile creatures, and airlines are notoriously rough on luggage. There have been plenty of horror stories from guitarists trying to fly with their beloved guitars, only to find they’ve been cracked or damaged in transit. Musician Dave Carroll even wrote a song called “ United Breaks Guitars ” after his $3,500 Taylor was destroyed during a flight. Even if you carry your guitar on the plane, there’s no guarantee you won’t get hassled by the flight staff.

Before you head out on your next big trip, it’s important to learn the applicable laws, and maybe a few tips, to make flying with your guitar a bit easier and safe.

Can You Bring a Guitar on a Plane?

Yes, you can take your guitar on a plane. It’s the law! The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, section 403 states U.S. air carriers are required to accept musical instruments on their passenger flights either as carry-on baggage or checked baggage, provided that certain conditions are met.

To be clear, this does not mean the airline is required to allow you to have the guitar in the cabin with you. There may be some instances in which it is not possible to bring the guitar in the cabin and you will need to gate check your instrument. Most airlines will try to accommodate you but if the plane you are flying on is particularly small, most passengers will need to check their overhead carry-on bag, including your guitar, if there is nowhere to store it within the cabin. Most large commercial flights will have coat closets on board that is typically used by the crew. Be sure to politely ask a flight attendant if there is closet space available within the cabin.

Tips When Flying With Guitars

While it might be legal for you to bring your guitar on a plane, that doesn’t mean it’s as easy as bringing a backpack or other luggage. They’re still much bigger and more fragile than standard baggage, which means you need to take a few extra precautions. You’ve probably seen how airport employees handle luggage… They might have to put your guitar on the plane, but there’s no law that says they have to do it nicely.

To keep your beloved instrument safe on your travels, here are a few tips to help you fly with your guitar.

1. Choose Your Case Wisely

Flying isn’t easy on guitars. Whether you carry on or check your guitar, there’s a good chance it’s going to endure a few beats and bangs along the way. That’s why choosing the right case is essential for flying with your guitar.

If you plan on checking your guitar, you should absolutely have a hard-shell case. They’re the best protection against a less-than-careful airline employee throwing your guitar under the plane and burying it with the rest of the luggage. Checking your guitar in a gig bag is a recipe for disaster.

While you might think it’s always a good idea to pack your guitar in a hard-shell case, that’s not always true. If you want to carry on your guitar—which tends to be the safest bet—a gig bag makes it easier to fit into the overhead compartments or, if the compartments are full, in front of you in the very limited leg space.

Gig bags are also good for avoiding the attention of flight crews. Flight attendants are always looking for oversized luggage to send down below. If you carry on with a hard-shell case, you’re more likely to be hassled by the airline staff.

Never, ever, ever try to fly without a guitar case. You’re almost guaranteed to end up with a few new scratches and dings (at best).

2. Pack the Case Tight

No matter which type of case you choose, make sure there’s not much space inside for the guitar to move around. Even inside the case, the guitar can beat against the case during turbulence or when “accidentally” thrown around.

Before you pack the guitar up for its flight, stuff the inside of the case with soft cloths, t-shirts, towels, or anything else you can find that’ll prevent movement. Pack just enough that it’s a little difficult to close the case. Stuffing too much can damage your guitar just as much as someone throwing it into the plane’s storage area.

It’s especially important to add a little support to the headstock. The headstock is under the most stress of the entire guitar. A decent shock could snap it off completely! Be sure to add plenty of padding under the headstock to give it some support.

If your guitar has a tremolo, knobs, or pickup selector switch, it’s a good idea to either remove them (at least, within reason) or put some extra padding around them. You don’t want your guitar to hit the top of the case and snap off the switch, or worse yet, break the wood around it.

3. Detune Your Guitar

Flying puts a lot of stress on your guitar. No, not just with the bumps and bangs. The temperature, humidity, and pressure changes can also cause the wood to expand and contract. If you’re not prepared, all those changes can warp your guitar’s body and neck.

To avoid damage from environmental changes, it’s a good idea to detune your guitar before you fly. With your strings loosened, there’s not as much tension on the bridge, body, and neck. Your guitar will be more prepared to withstand the changes.

It’s also a good idea to throw a guitar humidifier in the case. That will help regulate the humidity changes and protect your guitar—especially if you have an acoustic.

4. Secure the Lid on Your Case

Case latches are great, but they’re not foolproof. Before you take your guitar on a flight, make sure you secure the case with more than just the latches. Many musicians actually tape their cases shut to prevent them from opening during flight. Just don’t use duct tape; it’ll leave a goopy, silver residue behind. Packing tape and Scotch tape are ideal.

While most hard-shell guitar cases have locks, it’s not a good idea for flying. If the TSA needs to search your case for any reason and can’t get in, they’re going to break the latches open. If you do feel the need to lock your case, attach the key to the case in an obvious way, so agents can get in if necessary.

5. Remove Non-Essential Gear from the Case

If you want to carry on your guitar (which you should want to do), it’s going to have to go through the security scanner. Make sure there’s nothing in the case that might require a search—think pliers, string cutters, polishing oils, etc.

Even electronics like tuners and pedals should go in your carry-on bag rather than in the guitar case. If TSA finds something even remotely fishy in your case, they’re going to open it up to do a search. The less attention you can attract, the more likely you’ll get through the process without having to check your guitar.

6. Put Your Name Everywhere

Anyone who’s ever flown knows that luggage sometimes gets lost. The last thing you want is for you to end up in one city, while your guitar ends up in another. If you don’t properly label your guitar, nobody will ever know it belongs to you!

Before you pack your guitar on the plane, make sure you include all the necessary contact information on the case:

• Home address
• Phone number
• Email address

It’s a good idea to put your contact information both on the outside and inside of the case. It’s unlikely, but there’s always a chance your guitar could get separated from the case—especially if you don’t tape it shut!

Most airlines provide stick-on tags for free, and some even offer privacy tags that hide your information from other passengers. Of course, don’t stick your personal information on the guitar directly (unless you’re into that sort of thing), but it never hurts to find a hang tag and hook it around the headstock or even the tuners, just in case.

7. Provide Packing Instructions

Airport agents likely aren’t guitar experts, and they might not know how to properly handle a guitar or put it back in the case. The TSA suggests that you include short written instructions inside the case that explains how to properly handle and repack your instrument. Leave them in an obvious place inside your case where the agents will be able to find them without much trouble.

Remember to keep your instructions simple, so someone without any musical knowledge can understand. Don’t use fancy words like “tuners” or “tailpiece.” They might not know what you’re talking about.

8. Carry On When You Can

It’s always safer to carry on your guitar rather than check it under the plane. When you carry on, you’re in charge. You know you’ll be careful when packing and transporting your beloved instrument, but you never know how the airline staff will handle it.

Whenever you travel with your guitar, try to fly out of major hubs. Small puddle jumper regional airports are more likely to make you check the guitar because there’s not enough space in the smaller commuter planes. Huge commercial airliners have plenty of space for luggage—but oddly enough, still not enough space for your legs.

9. Get a Zone 1 Ticket If Possible

It might cost a little more, but buying a Zone 1 ticket will help you ensure your guitar stays nice and safe on the plane. Zone 1 means you get to board before everyone else. In other words, you get dibs on all the overhead storage! You’ll never have to worry about trying to jam your guitar into an already-full overhead bin or the dreaded baggage avalanche.

Some airlines don’t do zones. If that’s the case, make sure you get to the terminal nice and early to be the first one in line. Board as soon as you can, and head toward the back of the plane. People tend to grab the first seat available, so the back is typically where you’ll find the most storage space.

10. Fly on Nonstop Flights

The more stops on your flight, the more likely the airline is to lose your luggage. This might not be an issue if you carry on your guitar, but if you have to check it, nonstop flights are the best way to ensure you and your guitar land at the same destination. Plus, you’ll get there faster!

11. Get to the Airport Early

While it might be legal for you to bring your guitar on a plane, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. There’s still a good likelihood that you’re going to get hassled by at least someone along the way. Scenarios are going to pop up. Get to the airport early, so you can deal with the struggles without forcing you to sprint to the plane.

Leave plenty of time for contingencies at each “pain point” of the flying process:

Baggage check – If you have to check other luggage, there’s a good chance the airline employees will try to get you to check your guitar as well. It might take some time to convince them. If you tell them you’ve carried your guitar on plenty of times in the past, they might let you go. Otherwise, it might take some extra time to check your guitar or even purchase a separate ticket so you can take your guitar on the plane.

Security – Airport security is always a hassle, but especially if you have a big clunky guitar that may or may not fit through the scanner. If your guitar doesn’t fit through the scanner, they’re going to have to search your things, which takes extra time. Also, make sure you remove any “dangerous” or sharp items inside the case that wouldn’t normally be allowed on planes. Though typically, if your guitar fits on the belt and goes through the scanner, you shouldn’t have any problems.

Gate – The gate is the final obstacle that could get your guitar sent to the plane’s underbelly. It’s also the most significant. There’s always a possibility the gate agents won’t play along with letting you bring your guitar on the plane. They might require a separate ticket or gate checking your guitar, which could require you to go back through security and start over. When you arrive at the gate, it’s best to simply tell the agents that the guitar has already been approved as carry-on and it fits into the overhead bins. That’ll hopefully avoid any issues when it comes time to board. If not, it’ll also give you more time to come up with a new plan.

Whenever you fly with your guitar, it’s absolutely essential to leave plenty of extra time to deal with any obstacles that might pop up. If all goes well and you have tons of time to kill at the gate, just consider it some extra time to practice your scales. Better safe than sorry!

12. Ask to Use the Storage Closet

If you can’t get on the plane early and there’s no more overhead storage space left, you can ask to put your guitar in the storage closet. Most large commercial planes have an extra storage or coat closet that holds the crew’s personal belongings.

It’s possible to store your guitar in the crew’s storage closet if you ask nicely. That’ll keep your guitar out of your limited leg space and in a secure location for the flight. Of course, it’s not a guarantee. It’s always best to use the storage closet as a last resort rather than the initial plan.

Although they get ripped on quite frequently, airline employees aren’t unreasonable. Most are more than happy to accommodate you and your luggage as long as you’re nice and respectful about your requests.

13. Get a “Green Tag”

In the event that the gate attendants catch you and say you have to check your guitar, they’re probably going to say one of two things:

• You’ll have to gate check that item.
• You’ll have to tag that item

Try to avoid gate checking at all costs. It means your guitar is going to get slapped with an orange tag and get thrown into the assortment of other checked baggage. You’ll have to pick up your guitar after it beats its way down the baggage claim belt once the flight is over.

If the attendant says you’ll have to tag your guitar, make sure it’s a green tag. A green tag means an item will get placed in the cargo hold after all the other luggage goes onboard. Then, once the flight lands, the attendants will pluck your guitar from the hold and have it waiting for you at the jet bridge. That’ll help limit the potential damage to your guitar.

Getting a green tag doesn’t always work out, even if you try your hardest. If you’re forced to gate check your guitar and get an orange tag, ask for a “fragile” sticker and if it can be the last on and first off when loaded into the cargo hold. A fragile sticker isn’t a guarantee that they won’t mishandle your guitar, but it’s at least something.

14. Purchase “Excess Valuation” from the Airline

Even if you take all precautions, there’s no guarantee that your guitar will make it in one piece. It’s unfortunate, but that’s just how it is. So, it’s important to make sure you’re covered if something does go wrong.

Commercial airlines are required to pay for damages to your luggage or belongings. If that’s the case, how come musicians like Dave Carroll have to write songs about airlines breaking guitars to get attention? Well, it’s because there’s a limit to the liability coverage.

The standard liability for domestic U.S. airlines is $3,300 . For most guitarists, this isn’t a problem. However, if your guitar costs more than $3.3k, like Carroll’s did, it means the airline doesn’t have to do anything if it’s broken in transit.

For guitarists with guitars that cost more than $3,300, it’s a good idea to purchase excess valuation insurance. Excess valuation is basically an extra insurance policy. You can purchase additional coverage for a fee. The fees vary, but typically it’s about $50 per $1,000 of coverage up to a limit.

On international flights, the liability coverage is significantly less, so buying additional excess valuation insurance is almost mandatory for guitars. Luckily, international insurance is much cheaper, typically around $10 per $1,000 of coverage. The downside is that any coverage you buy is only good for that specific airline and destination. If you have to transfer airlines along the way, you’ll have to buy more coverage.

15. Look Your Guitar Over When You Land

The minute you land, check your gear for any damage. The faster you find issues and bring them to the airline’s attention, the faster you can get the problem resolved.

If, unfortunately, your guitar was damaged, take it to the airline and report the damage immediately, before you leave the airport. Request the airline fill out a damage form and give you a copy. It’s also a good idea to get the agent’s name and office phone number, so you can follow up about resolutions.

Remember, it’s much easier for the airline to ignore and evade you over the phone than it is in person. Make sure there aren’t any problems before you step foot outside of the airport.

16. Have Your Own Transportation

It’s hard to know how the process of getting your guitar through the airport is going to go. Sometimes they’ll let you carry your guitar right on the plane, and other times they’ll make you check it. Since you don’t know which experience you’ll get (insert Forrest Gump quote), it’s a good idea to bring your own transportation to the airport, along with the gear you need for each possible outcome.

For example, if you pack your guitar in a gig bag expecting to carry it on the plane, but the airline is forcing you to check it, you can run back out to your car and grab your hard-shell case.

The plane isn’t the only place where your guitar can be damaged. Airport shuttles aren’t much better when it comes to storage space or gentle transportation. If you have your own transportation, you can avoid the cramped busses to and from the airport and keep your guitar nice and safe.

17. Get a Travel Guitar

If you plan on traveling a lot and still want to bring your guitar, consider investing in a travel guitar. Travel guitars are much smaller and lighter than their full-size counterparts, making them easy to stick in overhead bins or even in front of your legs on the plane. They also tend to be less expensive than full-size guitars, so you won’t be as sad if something does happen to it in transit.

Although a travel guitar won’t completely replace your pride and joy, they’re highly playable and produce a good enough tone to satiate your needs as you hop around the globe. Plus, they’re just adorable!

Check out this list of the 17 best travel guitars to find one that suits your style.

18. Research International Policies

While domestic flights must adhere to section 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, these standards don’t apply to international flights. If you have to fly out of the country, be sure to do plenty of research about the airline’s specific luggage policies before you arrive at the airport.

Look for specifics regarding:

• The size of the aircraft
• Useable storage space inside the cabin
• Oversized luggage policies
• Additional fees
• Liability coverage

It’s also a good idea to look at reviews online to see what other people have said about the airline. You’re not the first musician to try and fly with their guitar; learn from others’ experiences.

Take Your Guitar on an Airplane without Fear

Travel shouldn’t stop you from playing your favorite guitar. No matter what anyone might say, you’re legally allowed to bring your guitar on a plane. There might be a few “annoying” details to work out, but if you take the right precautions, there’s no reason that you and your guitar can’t take a lovely trip together without worrying about damage.

Make sure you get to the airport early, choose the right case, and try your best to carry on. If you need to fly internationally, do your research. Learn about the rules and policies, so you and your guitar can travel safely to wherever you need to go.

You might have heard rumors that you’re not allowed to bring guitars on planes at all. Because they’re so big, bringing your guitar onto a plane can come with a lot of hassles. There’s not much space on planes, to begin with! But despite the hassle and possibly dirty looks, it’s against the law for any airline to prevent you from bringing your guitar onto a plane.

According to the law, small instruments, which includes guitars, are considered carry-on baggage and can’t be charged an additional fee, even if the guitar is larger than the standard carry-on size. You also don’t need to buy an extra seat for your guitar. You might have to pay the standard baggage fee if that’s something the airline does, but the airline is required to accommodate your instrument at no extra charge.

If anyone tells you you’re not allowed to bring your guitar onto a plane, including airport staff, politely point them to section 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 , and enjoy your flight!

Do you have any tips for flying with guitars? We’d love to hear them! Drop your experiences in the comments below.

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.

2 thoughts on “Can You Bring a Guitar on a Plane? 18 Tips for Flying with Guitars”

I’m gonna take my guitar with me on my flight from Los Angeles to Texas. I’ll let you know how it went when I get back. Thank you for all the tips brother.

Definitely let us know what airline you fly with and how it goes.

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How to Take Your Guitar on a Plane

Last Updated: March 12, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Carlos Alonzo Rivera, MA . Carlos Alonzo Rivera is a guitarist, composer, and educator based in San Francisco, California. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from California State University, Chico, as well as a Master of Music degree in Classical Guitar Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Carlos specializes in the following genres: classical, jazz. rock, metal and blues. This article has been viewed 143,035 times.

If you’re worried about whether or not you can take your guitar on a plane or whether it would survive travelling as checked luggage, don’t worry! It’s actually your legal right to carry a guitar in the cabin of a plane with no extra fees, provided that you follow some guidelines regarding size and safety. In order to avoid any at-gate arguments, you can print out and carry Sec. 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, which describes how you are allowed to travel with a guitar on a plane. Note that there will always be exceptions, such as when you’re flying on a small plane that just simply doesn’t have room onboard for your guitar.

Storing Your Guitar In-Flight

• If you’re purchasing an extra seat for your guitar instead of storing it in an overhead luggage compartment, it doesn’t matter whether the seats are towards the back or not.
• If you're flying on an airline that assigns priority groups and lets you choose your seat when you board, try to check in as soon as possible to increase your odds of boarding first. In this case, it doesn't matter where your seat is, just choose one that has storage space available.

• You can call an airline’s customer service line to verify the exact overhead bin size for your flight.
• Note that there must be space in the overhead bins at the time you board the plane or the airline can require that you check it at the gate. Flight attendants won’t remove other luggage to make space for your guitar.
• Try to carry your guitar as discreetly by holding it down at your side on the side furthest away from the agents when you’re boarding your flight to avoid getting hassled by the agents at the gate. If they do say something, politely explain that you're bringing it instead of a piece of carry-on luggage, as permitted by law.
• Keep in mind that if you get your guitar onboard, but there isn't any room for it, you might still have to give it to a flight attendant to send it below.

• You can also try this option if there’s no overhead room when you’re boarding your flight and the gate attendants are telling you that you can’t take your guitar on.
• Keep in mind that flight attendants are not required to store your guitar in a closet, so if they do so, they’re doing you a kind favor.
• Don’t fight with the flight attendants if they won’t put it in a closet for you. You won’t achieve anything this way.

• If you’re having trouble fitting your guitar into partially-filled luggage bins, politely ask nearby passengers if you can accommodate their luggage differently in order to fit your guitar in.

• If you aren’t sure whether your guitar will fit in an overhead bin, this is the safest way to avoid problems when you’re boarding the flight.
• Make sure that you are able to choose 2 seats next to each other if you're purchasing tickets online or to request 2 adjacent seats if you're buying your tickets in person.
• Naturally, this isn’t always going to be realistic, especially if your flight is expensive. Other options you can consider are getting a smaller, cheaper guitar just for travel or shipping your guitar to your destination.

Packing Your Guitar

• These types of cases will also make your guitar look less bulky when you carry it on. You’re less likely to get hassled by a gate attendant or flight attendant while you’re bringing it onboard that way.
• If you want a little extra protection, you can get a fortified gig case. These are still soft, but have a little more form and structure to help pad your guitar during its journey. Keep in mind they are also a little bulkier than totally soft cases, but this will at least provide more protection than a standard soft case if you end up having to check your guitar.
• Your guitar legally must be covered in order for you to take it on a plane as carry-on luggage. This is required in order to prevent injury to other passengers. This applies regardless of whether you purchase an extra seat for it or plan on storing it in the luggage compartment.

• For example, if you called your airline and found out that your guitar is too big for your flight’s overhead bins or if you’re flying on a small commuter plane, put it in a hard case.
• If you plan to fly with your guitar a lot, invest in a heavy-duty flight case. These cases are expensive, but they are made of very hard, reinforced materials and have a lot of foam padding for maximum protection.

• You could also use soft items of clothing like T-shirts instead of paper. Doing so can even save you a little room in your other luggage.
• Bubble wrap would also work well for this.

• For example, anything sharp, bottles of liquids over 3 oz (88.7 mL), and lighters are things that are prohibited from plane cabins.

• You can call your airline’s customer service line ahead of time or look on their website to find the exact weight restrictions for your specific flight.
• You are probably only likely to have problems with weight if you are flying on an extremely small plane, since no guitars weigh anywhere near 165 lb (75 kg).
• Note that flights also have weight limits for checked luggage, but it is extremely unlikely a guitar will exceed such a limit.

Expert Q&A

• Depending on how expensive your guitar is and where you’re flying to, buying an extra flight ticket for it might be cheaper than risking damaging it by sending it as checked luggage. [11] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Consider buying a cheaper guitar specifically for travel if you have an expensive guitar that you’re really worried about damaging. [12] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
• Remember that every airline and even every flight attendant or gate attendant may not treat you and your guitar the same. Print out a copy of Sec. 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and carry it with you to help resolve any disputes. [13] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

• Avoid checking your guitar unless you have absolutely no other option. Baggage handlers are notoriously rough with luggage and are unlikely to make an exception for your guitar. Also, the changes in temperature and pressure in the cargo hold can damage your guitar during the flight. [15] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/8-tips-for-bringing-your-guitar-on-an-airplane-hand-luggage-or-check-it-in/
• ↑ https://sheshreds.com/flying-with-a-guitar/
• ↑ https://diymusician.cdbaby.com/music-career/flying-with-your-guitar/
• ↑ https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/travel-info/baggage/musical-instruments
• ↑ https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Musical%20instruments_FR_final%20rule.pdf
• ↑ https://www.guitarworld.com/features/acoustic-nation-alert-you-can-carry-your-guitar-it-s-law

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Everything you need to know about flying with your guitar

Taking your precious guitar on a plane, or out on the road, can be a daunting prospect. We're here to help you navigate...

For any musician, the chance to take your art out on the road and connect with fans from far afield is an exciting one. But what if said fans are in a different country, or if taking to the skies to travel is unavoidable? The prospect of packaging up your precious guitar and entrusting airline baggage handling professionals to safely get it from A to B could be enough to put you off, but it needn’t. 

In this article, we will explain some things to consider when traveling with your guitar. From best practices and steps you can take before you travel to ensure your guitar has the best chance of arriving at your destination in one piece, we’re here to help.

Do your research before you travel

Before you get all excited and start booking your flight tickets, take a minute to plan out how your guitar will complete its own airline odyssey safely. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as throwing it in a gigbag and rocking up to the boarding gate. 

Different airlines – and even different countries – have varying rules and restrictions regarding traveling with musical instruments. Some may allow you to carry your guitar on as cabin baggage, while others may require it to be checked in. Research the airline and country-specific guidelines to avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport.

You’re also going to want the best possible case your budget will allow. Seriously, this isn’t the area to skimp. Protect your guitar like a precious gem by investing in a sturdy, well-padded travel case. We’ll outline some other case-related things to think about later on in this guide.

Once you’ve got a case, and before you board the plane, remember to loosen the guitar strings slightly to relieve tension caused by changes in air pressure. This simple step can help prevent damage to the neck and ensure you don’t return to find cracks in the wood. 

It’s also worth padding out the inside of the case further if you can; T-shirts, towels, whatever you can find that will keep the instrument rock-solid in its safest position. Another handy tip is to locate some of those desiccant sachets you find when you buy new electronic products. These will help protect the guitar from changes to humidity, so keep hold of them when you come across them in future!

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Navigating airport procedures

As you embark on your musical adventure, airport procedures can be a potential hurdle. You can give yourself a calmer experience by simply arriving earlier at the airport, especially if you plan to carry your guitar on as cabin luggage. Early arrival allows for a stress-free check-in process and helps you avoid rushing through security.

When traveling with your guitar as cabin baggage, declare it at the security checkpoint. Alternatively, if cabin space is limited, some airlines offer gate-check services for musical instruments. Request this option to reduce the risk of mishandling during the flight.

Finally, while it might seem optimistic, affixing a few visible ‘fragile’ stickers to your guitar case will give it a fighting chance of being treated kindly by airline baggage handlers. Doesn’t hurt to try, right?

Legalities and documentation

Ensuring you have the right paperwork is crucial to avoid legal hassles when traveling internationally with your guitar. Thankfully, while there is paperwork to consider, it’s fairly straightforward to understand.

First, we’d advise reading up on your domestic government’s website to see about any restrictions or red tape you’ll need to consider. For example, in the UK, where Britain’s exit from the European Union created a world of new bureaucracy, you’ll find Government-approved information relating to musicians’ travel on its website. Essentially, in the UK, you can apply for a Musical Instrument Certificate, which lasts for three years and can be used multiple times within that period. You’ll also find the UK’s Musicians’ Union offers up-to-date information to support traveling musicians and give them the best chance of arriving at their destination with their instruments intact. 

Another thing you’ll need to consider, and one that will require you to have a full understanding of the tonewoods in your guitar, is CITES documentation. Essentially, for guitars comprising protected wood species, like Ebony or Rosewood, you’ll need the required CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) documentation to comply with international trade regulations. It’s a small detail but, if not accounted for, one that could quite conceivably cause you, at best, delays at the other end; or worse, see your guitar being confiscated. 

Insurance and repairs

If you haven’t already got an insurance policy, we’d say international travel would be a good reason to change that. Your existing home insurance may cover the guitar within its country of origin but that might not extend to international travel. 

Thankfully, there are some trusted, reputable companies offering dedicated musician’s insurance, like Allianz, offering financial protection and peace of mind in case of loss, theft, or damage. 

Additionally, if you are super organized, you might consider researching reputable instrument repair shops at your destination in case any unforeseen mishaps occur during your trip. Can’t be too careful.

Guitar cases

When you’re looking for the best guitar case for air travel, you have a decision to make. Are you looking to take your guitar with you, never letting it out of your sight? If so, you’ll be better served with a rigid, but not hard-shell, gigbag. This is because you’ll likely need to store the guitar in the overhead lockers, a feat made slightly simpler when the case in question isn’t hard. 

If, on the other hand, you’re happy to entrust your guitar to the baggage handlers, and leave it in the hold, then go for as robust and rigid as you can. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure it has reliable locks and the all-important fragile stickers we mentioned earlier. 

While you could look for value if you’re going down the gigbag route, we’d still recommend sticking with a trusted brand like Gator or SKB. For hard cases, you’ll often find the best cases are the ones from brands like Fender and Gibson themselves. These will cost you a fair amount, but you can at least rest easy knowing your guitar is safe.

Bon voyage!

Congratulations! You're ready to embark on your international musical adventure with your guitar. Armed with this guide, you can confidently navigate airport procedures, protect your instrument, and avoid potential problems along the way. For all the horror stories you’ve probably heard, traveling with your guitar doesn’t have to be a nightmare if you stick to our tips, plan ahead accordingly and give yourself plenty of time to tick all the relevant boxes. 

• Best travel guitars : acoustics and electrics for portability and performance

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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 gear and synths, to microphones and music production hardware.

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Guitar Aficionado

The Home For Guitarists And Guitar Lovers

Can I Take My Guitar On A Plane? Here’s What You Need To Know

• Guitarist Tips

Whether you are a casual hobbyist or a professional musician, there is a good chance that you will need to take your guitar on an airplane at some point. The problem is that you probably don’t enjoy the idea of having your precious stringed instrument rattling around among the thousands of pounds of checked baggage in the cargo hold, and therefore want to take it on board with you.

Domestic travel laws require that airlines allow you to carry on your guitar, provided that it fits beneath the seat in front of you or into an overhead storage compartment. Even if it does not, there are some creative ways that you can usually get your guitar into the cabin with you.

Despite this heartening news, it is not a universal guarantee that your guitar will make it on board with you. It is a good idea to survey the situation before arriving at the airport and take some fallback precautions in the event you need to check in your instrument.

Table of Contents

Are You Allowed To Bring Guitars On Planes?

Instruments follow the same carry-on requirements as other baggage: If you can fit them in an overhead stowage bin or safely beneath the seat in front of you, then you can bring them on board without incurring any additional fees.

While this works well for small instruments and those that can be broken down before storage, many full-size guitars will be too big to meet the general requirements of a standard carry-on.

If this is the case for your guitar, don’t give up yet; you may be in luck. According to the law—specifically Subchapter 1 of Chapter 417 for the transport of musical instruments , the Department of Transportation and the TSA, you are allowed to bring your guitar on-board, provided it meets these requirements:

• The instrument is in a case to avoid injury among other passengers.
• The instrument, including the case, should not be over 165 pounds—or the airline’s specific weight restrictions for carry-ons.
• The instrument is stowed in the overhead bins per the airline's requirements.
• The instrument or the case does not contain any items not allowed in the cabin.
• Instruments too large to be stored as a regular carry-on can enter the cabin but must have their own separate ticket.

Alternative Ways To Bring Your Guitar On A Plane

For those who view their guitar as an extension of themselves, purchasing an additional ticket to transport their beloved stringed instrument may be a no-brainer. Also, some low-fare flights may feature ticket rates scarcely higher than the cost of a checked bag, making the decision not to check the guitar even easier.

However, for those musicians not as emotionally attached to their guitar and who do not want to pay a full ticket price for a piece of oversized luggage, there is still some hope that you may be able to get your guitar into the cabin.

Try to Fly Between Major Hubs

The process of getting your guitar into the cabin starts before you even get to the airport, as you need to plan for any unforeseen eventuality that may arise during boarding. Choosing the right airports is a great place to start.

• Regional airports will likely use small, “puddle jumper” airplanes that do not have much overhead storage space. One look at your guitar will confirm with most agents that you will have to check it or buy a separate ticket.
• On the other hand, large national airplanes typically have many cubic feet of overhead storage compartments into which your guitar should slide with ease. It may require some additional expense in terms of ground transportation to make this happen, but it is a great strategy if you want to avoid checking or buying a ticket for your guitar.

Pay For A Zone 1 Ticket

Some airlines will allow you to upgrade your ticket by selecting a boarding zone. If this is the case, make the upgrade. Those passengers in boarding group 1 are the first to get on the plane, meaning that the overhead storage space should still be empty when you board. Make a beeline straight for your seat and snugly situate your guitar into the back of the compartment.

Once your guitar is in the bin, you won’t have to worry about getting it to fit among other passengers’ belongings since it will be the first there. However, if you are in one of the late boarding groups and are trying to find a way to fit your guitar into a bin that is firmly packed with roller boards, you will certainly be met with the familiar tap on the shoulder and, “I’m sorry. You’re going to have to tag your item.”

If your airline does not offer a boarding zone upgrade, select a seat in the back of the plane. Most planes board from back to front, so the chances of being in an early boarding group are greater if you are seated in the rear. Nearly every airline offers seat selection to drive revenue, so this should definitely be an option for you if a boarding group selection is not.

Use A Gig Bag

While the soft, pliable casing of a gig bag does not offer the protection of traditional hard-shell cases, it is the better choice when bringing your guitar into the cabin . The slightest give can be the difference between a storage bin locking shut or not, so the more flexible case will give your carry-on plans the best chance of success.

Furthermore, a gig bag is less likely to catch the attention of scrupulous flight crews. A hard-shell case looks imposing and unforgiving, so even if it does not actually take up more space than a gig bag, it will give the impression that it does, causing unwanted eyes to turn.

Although you should not use a gig bag when checking your guitar, it is suitable for carry-on purposes. A gig bag provides solid protection against scratching and normal trauma. As your guitar will be with you, you can intervene if you see it being mistreated or stuffed into a precarious position.

Get To The Airport Early

This is really the most important step you can take when trying to get your guitar cleared as a carry-on. (And you really can’t get there early enough, as it could take hours to sort through the numerous scenarios that may arise!)

You must clear several hurdles when attempting to get your guitar on the plane without purchasing a separate ticket. There is no telling how restrictive or permissive the agents will be at each location, so you need to give yourself time for a contingency should you be turned away at any point:

• Baggage Check – If you have checked luggage other than your guitar, the agents may try to detain you to check your guitar as well. If you tell them that you have carried on your guitar many times in the past and that it fits in the overhead bins, they may let you proceed. If you feel like the resistance is impossible, see if there is still the option to purchase a separate ticket. If not, you will have time to prepare your guitar for checking.
• Security – As long as your guitar fits through the scanner and does not contain any sharp edges or dangerous aspects that would get normal carry-ons flagged, you should not get detained at security. They may ask if you got it cleared at ticketing, but as long as your guitar rolls down the conveyor belt without any hiccups, you should be fine to proceed.
• Gate – This is the most significant hurdle. If the gate agents do not let you on the plane without a separate ticket, then you either have to take the dangerous action of gate checking your guitar or the inconvenience of exiting back through security and coming up with another plan.

One final note on the gate is that some people may try to wait until boarding and then walk on like they own the place. This nonchalance and confidence that carrying on your guitar is a commonplace practice may work, but if you get an agent who is unwilling to let you proceed, you leave yourself no wiggle room and have no choice but to check your guitar at the last minute.

Therefore, even if you get to the gate hours early, it is best to talk to an agent at the counter, let him or her know that your guitar has been approved as a carry-on by both baggage check and security and, based on your experience, fits into the overhead bins with ease. While there is a slight chance that this brings attention to a guitar that would have otherwise snuck past, the peace of mind and open communication will pay off more times than not.

Ask To Use The Storage Closet

Once the luggage is on the plane, flight attendants usually work with you to find ways to make it fit, as long as a solution can be safely arrived at. While it is true that some are quick to tag items that they feel have “snuck” so far into the boarding process, most will work hard to keep you with your things.

If you are a late boarder and there is legitimately no possible way to safely fit your guitar into the overhead bins, politely ask the flight attendants if you can use the storage/coat closet that the crew has for their personal effects. While the crew is in no way obligated to make this accommodation, there is always the chance that you may get an attendant who is sensitive to your situation and obliges.

What About International Flights?

If you are traveling outside of the United States, there is really no standard policy for instrument travel. As such, it comes down to the individual airline and, often, will differ from one employee to the other.

Therefore, when planning your international trips, it is best to do extensive research on the various airlines and see what each allows . Look into additional factors such as the size of the plane and usable storage space. Speak with as many people as possible within the airline to get confirmation, trying to get examples of precedent on how that airline has dealt with guitar carry in the past.

Other Considerations For Flying With A Guitar

Whether past experience tells you it is not possible, or you are just an ultra-conservative person who does not believe that you will be able to sweet-talk your guitar into the cabin without buying a separate ticket, there are ways that you can go about protecting your favorite fiddle when traveling.

Invest In A Travel Guitar

If you are concerned that the possibility of checking your favorite guitar will put it on the fast track to ruin, look into a backup guitar that can be used for travel purposes. While this is not a universal cure-all, and there will definitely be times when you need to travel with your main instrument, those musicians who fly frequently may benefit from the peace of mind of knowing that it is a lesser guitar clanging around in the cargo hold.

Look Into Custom Options

The next time you are ready to make a guitar purchase, see if you can get a custom guitar with a detachable handle. This way, your guitar can be taken apart to fit into a normal size carry-on bag, guaranteeing that your instrument is always with you.

Ask For A Green Tag Vs. An Orange Tag

When dealing with oversized luggage that will not fit in cabin stowage, you are likely to hear two different phrases that sound the same but can have a vast difference in your guitar reaching its destination safely:

• “You’re going to have to tag that item.”
• “You’re going to have to gate check that item.”

You want to avoid having your guitar gate checked. This will come with an orange tag and lead to your guitar being thrown into the muck of checked baggage, available for pickup at the baggage claim area.

If an agent says your guitar needs to be tagged, confirm that it will be a green tag and not an orange tag. A green label means that your oversized item will be placed in the cargo hold after all other carry-on bags have been loaded. Upon arrival, it will be waiting for you at the top of the jet bridge. This limits the potential damage that your instrument will be exposed to.

Even if you cannot get a green tag and are required to check your bag via the normal bag checking process, ask for a special “fragile” designation to be included on the case and that it be the last on and the first off of the cargo hold.

Have Ground Transportation Readily Available

If you plan on flying with your guitar, it is best to drive a personal vehicle. This way, if you realize that you will have to check your instrument, you can go back to your car and switch it out of its gig bag and into a hard-shell case that is better for checked baggage.

If you are looking to avoid airport parking fees and arrive via drop-off, taxi, or shuttle, then you will need to budget even more time for making this transition if you are not comfortable checking your guitar “as is.”

How To Prepare Your Guitar To Be Checked

In the unfortunate event that you must check your guitar, there are a few points to keep in mind:

• Never use a gig bag , as it will offer little protection if your baggage is under an extreme load of luggage. Opt for a heavy-duty hard-shell case.
• Loosen the strings of your guitar. Pressure and temperature changes can cause taut strings to snap and warp the neck of your guitar.
• Add extra padding. Even if the guitar is in a tough case, some bubble wrap or cotton towels can provide a layer of insulation against damage.

Can I Take My Guitar On The Airplane? Conclusion

Domestic travel laws require that you be allowed to take your guitar on a plane, provided that it meets all other carry-on restrictions and can fit in an overhead stowage bin or the seat in front of you.

However, as most guitars will not fit neatly in the 10x16x24” measuring case that airports use to determine carry-on compatibility, there may be some airlines that balk at you trying to carry on your guitar.

When this is the case, the law requires that you be permitted to purchase a separate ticket for your guitar to carry it into the cabin. If this is not a desirable option for you, many other methods may help you get your guitar on board before you have to resign yourself to checking it with the other oversized baggage.

Side note, do you want to learn to play guitar songs the easy way? Learn how here – results are guaranteed !

Everything you need to know about flying with a guitar (plus a little more)

Whether you’re a professional traveling to a gig, or an amateur who likes to play while on vacation, at some point you’ll likely need to bring your guitar on an airplane. Flying with a guitar can feel like a daunting experience. Is your guitar likely to suffer damage? Do airlines charge extra fees?

Fortunately, traveling on an airplane with a guitar is easier and more affordable than many people think. Federal law even provides specific protections for passengers with guitars.

My best piece of advice is to bring your guitar with you on the plane as a carry-on to lessen the chances of it being damaged or stolen. You might also want to consider loosening the strings before you board. This is just the tip of the iceberg though so, read on to learn everything you’ll need to know before you board.

First things first –  is it even legal take a guitar on a plane?

Yes, it is legal, and you can bring a guitar on practically any commercial flight. According to a 2003 agreement between the Transportation Safety Administration and the American Federation of Musicians, airlines allow guitars as both carry-on and checked baggage .

It’s a really good thing that the TSA allows guitars as carry-ons. What the TSA does with confiscated items is sketchy. Long story short: if you have to hand over your guitar to the TSA, you’ll never see it again.

However, before arriving at the airport with your guitar in hand, check with your carrier regarding your specific flight. Also, when talking to a customer service rep, provide detailed measurements of both the guitar and its case.

How much does it cost to fly with a guitar?

Because a guitar is allowed as a carry-on, and most airlines allow you to bring one carry-on, the cost of bringing your instrument aboard should already be factored into the price of your ticket. So, flying with a guitar as a carry-on has no particular extra cost.

If you want to check your guitar as luggage, the cost will vary. Major airlines typically allow passengers one checked bag, with the option of paying extra for additional bags. The cost of checking a guitar is no different than any other piece of luggage. It’ll depend on the airline’s specific prices and how many other pieces of luggage you plan to bring.

Which airlines allow guitars as a carry-on?

All commercial airlines in the US allow you to bring a guitar as a carry-on, as established by federal law. The FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 includes a clause designating a guitar as a carry-on. However, the guitar must meet the airline’s carry-on requirements, which generally means it must either fit into the overhead compartment or underneath a standard seat.

Bringing a guitar potentially becomes more complicated when flying on smaller, non-commercial planes (such as regional jets). Space is often limited on smaller planes, so you’ll want to check with the airline beforehand.

Can a guitar be checked baggage?

Yes, all major airlines allow you to check your guitar as luggage, providing it fits their standard size requirements for baggage. Contact your individual airline for details.

Generally, checking your guitar, instead of carrying it onboard, increases the risk of damage or theft. You’ll want to pack it in a hardshell case. Also, go directly to baggage claim after landing to reduce the chances of opportunistic theft.

5 tips for flying with a guitar (how to make it an easy and safe experience)

Airlines don’t always have a reputation for treating guitars well. In 2009, musician Dave Carroll created a viral hit, “ United Breaks Guitars ,” detailing how the carrier damaged his guitar and then spent months denying responsibility. The song struck a chord with many musicians, who shared similar experiences.

Fortunately, a few simple strategies can help ensure your guitar isn’t damaged in transit.

1. Carry your guitar on the plane

The best way to prevent theft and damage is to keep your guitar near you as much as possible. Instead of checking it, bring it onboard as your carry-on item. Carry it in a reinforced gig bag, which uses heavy-density foam panels to protect your instrument while remaining flexible enough to fit into the tight storage spaces of a plane.

When you first get on board, ask the attendant if you can place your guitar in one of the airplane’s closets, which are usually in first or business class. If closet space isn’t available, then you’ll need to put your guitar in the overhead bin.

2. Book nonstop flights

The less you have to move your guitar, the better. Try to book the most direct flight possible. You can store your guitar in the overhead or closet and then leave it alone until you arrive at your destination.

Booking a nonstop flight is especially important if you plan on checking the guitar as luggage. Each time the guitar is transferred between planes, the more likely damage can occur.

3. Book a separate ticket

If your guitar is expensive (or fragile), consider buying it a seat of its own. Many professional musicians purchase a separate ticket for their instrument. Although expensive, a separate seat provides the ultimate in protection when flying with a guitar because it never leaves your sight and can’t be crushed by other baggage.

4. Board early

When booking your ticket, try to sit in a section that boards early. For some airlines, that might mean sitting in the back of the plane. If you’re one of the first passengers to board, you have more storage options because the bins will mostly be empty.

5. Loosen the guitar’s strings

A common piece of advice you’ll hear when checking your guitar as luggage is to first loosen its strings. The idea is that changes in air pressure during the flight can cause strings to tighten and snap. While you likely won’t harm your guitar by loosening the strings, it’s usually not necessary.

Air pressure changes are unlikely to harm your guitar. After all, animals ride in the cargo compartment without any issue. Other pieces of luggage moving around the compartment are far more likely to cause damage, which is why you want to pack your guitar in a hard shell case if you plan on checking it.

5. Be polite

The majority of musicians who fly with a guitar encounter no problems. However, sometimes an airline employee or TSA agent might give you a hassle. They might request to inspect your guitar case or challenge your right to bring it on the plane.

While these situations are often irritating, try to always maintain your composure. If necessary, explain that you’re legally allowed to bring a guitar as a carry-on. You might want to bookmark the law on your phone so you can quickly show it to anyone if necessary.

Other stuff you might like:

The 50 most hilarious Airplane! movie quotes (with loads of screenshots)

First class etiquette: how not to look like an inexperienced (and uncultured) idiot

Can I bring pepper spray on a plane? (Asking for a friend)

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Six String Acoustic

Checking a Guitar on a Plane: 7 Must-Know Tips for Flying With Your Guitar

So, you are looking to take the plunge and go on a little tour away from home? Or, perhaps you are simply going abroad and can’t bear the thought of being away from your beloved axe? I personally know I would be driven to lunacy if I had to spend more than a week without an instrument of any sort.

You get a vague feeling that something is wrong hanging over you consistently, and before you realize what is wrong it is already too late.

Whatever your reason for being here today, we will be elucidating for you the ins and out’s of checking a guitar on a plane, going through the procedure sequentially step by step, and hopefully letting you know what you might expect from each part of the process.

Table of Contents

1. having the right case, 2. reinforcing the case, 3. protecting the frets, fretboard, pickups, etc, 4. securing all accessories, 5. loosening strings, 6. utilizing humidifiers, dehumidifiers, etc, 7. check-in process, flight case blues, more flight cases, final tones, 7 must-know tips for flying with your guitar.

Let’s get right into it. Here are the 7 important tips for checking a guitar on a plane:

• Having the right case
• Reinforcing the case
• Protecting the frets, fretboard, pickups, etc.
• Securing all accessories
• Loosening strings
• Utilizing humidifiers, dehumidifiers, etc.
• Check-in process

Just as with anything, especially that relating to music and travel and the like, balance is crucial. Here, the balance will be between durability and weight. The more durable a case is, the heavier the case will be, making checking a guitar on a plane more difficult (if possible at all).

There is, however, a middle ground between the two, with many guitar cases that are durable and designed so as to eschew a bunch of excess weight while still remaining robust.

The case that your guitar came with, if indeed it did come with one, will almost certainly not do. They might seem sturdy, and they may be able to take a hell of a beating wherever you choose to take them locally, but they are not cut out to withstand the various abuses that can arise from air travel.

Likewise, if your guitar did not come with such a case and you are using a gig bag type case, one that is (eponymously) more like a bag or backpack, then this is not going to cut it either.

The ideal for durability would be something incredibly heavy, like the kind of heavy-duty road cases that big-budget world-touring musicians use. These are, of course, incredibly heavy and nigh on impossible to get through customs and the like unless you have the funds to throw at it.

Hm. If only there were some type of case that strikes a balance in between the two, that was durable but likewise did not weigh so much as to encumber the user.

Well, there is! They come in the form of ASB plastic guitar cases with high-quality latches and exteriors and interiors that are going to withstand the journey. The best of the best of these will be approved by the Air Transport Association.

• Fits Start or Tele style electric guitars
• Fits both left and right handed style
• Water and dust proof with IP 67 certification, ATA-300 Certification, Impact proof lightweight NK-7 resin, and Mil-STD-810F Immersion Test Certified
• Easy Release Power claw Latching System and a soft grip comfort handle

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

It ought not to come as a surprise that baggage is not treated anywhere near well enough, hence why you have found yourself upon this article today, attempting to learn about how you might go about checking a guitar on a plane.

All baggage is thoroughly mistreated, far more than if it were being fed through ground shipping. Sadly, your fancy flight case might not be able to withstand the whole journey on its own, in which case it could use a bit of assistance.

It is worth packing the guitar as though you were going to ship it internationally (which you kind of are if you are crossing national borders of course). This way, there are far less likely to be any disappointments or upsets. Just as you would kit out a package for international shipping, you will want to fill any vacant air spaces in the guitar’s flight case with bubble wrap or foam or soft clothing such as underwear.

Note, however, that clothing is going to weigh more than lightweight materials like bubble wrap (which is specifically manufactured for the job) and paper and the like; an amount that might seem negligible but which will come to count gravely upon the airport’s weighing scales.

Special attention ought to be paid to the space around the headstock, as there is usually a wide gap so that more than one kind of guitar can find a home nestling within it. The aim should be to have it so the guitar is not able to move in any direction. A gentle nudge from a few angles, either of the case and/or the guitar itself as it lies there, should be enough to test the integrity of its bounds.

Worth focussing on particularly in checking a guitar on a plane are the frets and the fretboard and the pickups, owed their own section if only for how often they can be overlooked in this packing process.

The whole journey will be brutal on any luggage, especially your precious guitar, whether that be in customs or on the plane itself – what can appear as a smooth and easy-going flight in the passenger seat is often a turbulent and stormy affair below deck.

You can’t go wrong with putting something soft under the strings, to stop them from moving about and potentially damaging the frets, if something happened to press them in and push them against the frets or the fretboard or the pickups, or if indeed one of the baggage handlers decided to toss the whole guitar without much care or consideration.

For the job, you can use cloth and folded-up paper towels, or anything else you have lying around that is soft enough to block the passage and not do any harm by preventing the lid from closing properly.

Though in some way helpful, you should do more than just put a small buffer in between the strings, but rather cover the whole fretboard with your chosen material. This is often how those sending guitars internationally will do the job, and for such things, you really can’t go wrong.

A pro tip would be to use foam wrap, thin enough to slide underneath the strings and to stay in place, cut to be just thicker in width than the fretboard, to which you will tie or tape each side of the foam (preferably with non-stick tape so as not to leave any undesirable marks.

If your flight case is lucky enough to be bequeathed with an extra compartment for various small accessories, then, in checking a guitar on a plane, you are going to want to make sure this is just as secure as all of the other parts of the process discussed thus far.

This is especially true if your own accessory compartment is the kind without a lid, one that is proverbially open to the elements, in which case the items that might typically be stored with – whammy bars and small wrenches and the like – will be free to fly about however they like when they are tossed about by baggage handlers and sheer altitude.

Larger items, such as straps and guitar cables, and packets of strings, are more than likely going to be fine if kept in the case (though ideally, they ought still to be secured with bubble wrap or something). It is smaller items that can more easily be forced to move about the flight case against their will, and then potentially damage the finish of the guitar and who knows what else.

It is, therefore, preferable to take these smaller items with you on the plane or in your suitcase. If, however and for whatever reason, you find you need to include these items, then the best thing for it is to wrap them all together in a soft material.

There are innumerable things that you might use, most of which are probably lying right before your eyes at this very moment – bubble wrap, paper towels, and bandanas being only a few.

The guitar case, like the rest of the luggage, is going to have to go through security, so it would be best to use your common sense and leave any liquids that you might take along for the ride out of the case. Including guitar polish, lemon oil, fast fret, etc.

Another vital step in ensuring the safe passage of checking a guitar on a plane comes in the form of so simple a gesture, one that might even be misconstrued as inconsequential and unimportant, but which can actually have a far more significant impact than conceivable.

The key is not to have the strings go completely slack, as this could do more damage than good. A rule of thumb would be to tune each string roughly one or two steps down.

The idea of loosening the strings like this is twofold, though with one taking real precedence over the other. Since the guitar and the flight case it is in will be held in the luggage bay, it is likely going to experience at least some changes in air pressure, which could spell disaster for the guitar.

We have all left our guitar to its own devices in a hot or cold room and felt the effect afterward, where the strings have either loosened or tightened themselves respectively owing to the changes in temperature.

The same occurs when the air pressure dramatically, as it is almost certainly going to during a plane flight, and so pre-emptively loosening the strings prevents any accidents arriving in the form of strings snapping and causing any damage to the body in transit, loose strings rubbing against a potentially expensive and bespoke guitar finish.

Likewise, if the guitar in question has a floating tremolo system, you will want to reinforce it before traveling so that it does not bend and/or til too far back when the strings are loosened.

If you are checking a guitar on a plane and that guitar happens to be an acoustic guitar (and you want to know how to store an acoustic guitar properly ), then you are definitely going to want to at least do some research on humidifiers and dehumidifiers and the whole host of benefits they can have on the sanctity of your instrument.

The guitar is a sensitive thing, prone to fluctuations in temperature, pressure, humidity, and climate, all of which are going to be in some way affected when traveling across (however many) borders and taking to the skies in a plane!

Acoustic guitars especially have little to protect them from these things, which is where these kinds of humidifiers/dehumidifiers come in. They seek to monitor and ‘fix’ the climate surrounding the guitar, in particular the sound hole, so that it remains relatively constant and thus is not altered too much.

Some of the best of these can even do both, humidify and/or dehumidify, depending on the specific atmospheric circumstances it is tasked with adjusting for the sake of the guitar. This means that if an ambient atmosphere is either too dry or too wet, it will be able to adjust this for the guitar and thus ensure that the climate inside the flight case is kept where it ought to be.

Many guitarists would encourage you to use these even in the day-to-day, which might be a shout depending on where you are living and what kind of temperatures your instruments are being stored in. Some temperatures are far better for guitars than others, and it might be the case that your habitat is not as friendly habitat for your instruments as it is for you.

Now that you have packed everything properly and as tightly as possible, and have checked, double-checked, and triple-checked, you are finally ready to check yourself and your luggage and, most importantly, your guitar onto the flight!

During checking a guitar on a plane, it is sound advice across the board to take your guitar as far through the check-in process as possible, much as you would with carry-on baggage you would be taking into the aircraft cabin with you.

If this is not possible, and if you are indeed forced to take your instrument to the checked baggage counter (which you are almost certainly going to have to if you have other luggage with you), then make sure you have the musical instrument policy of the relevant airline to hand, just in case you might need it for reference or evidence.

It might so happen that you are pressured into having your guitar checked through, in which case you can politely remind whoever is doing the pressuring that this is an expensive and fragile instrument, presenting them with their own airline policy if this does not work.

The longer the instrument is out of your own hands and sight, the more chance it has of coming into harm’s way, and the higher the likelihood that it could be stolen and/or damaged and/or lost completely. There are several miles of automatic baggage conveyors in most airports, none of which are going to show your guitar much mercy nor human compassion in the process of taking it from A to B.

The ideal would be to receive the guitar before it is sent through these kinds of conveyors, whether that be upon boarding or upon landing. In the case of the latter, you will want to get to the baggage claim as soon as possible. Anyone will be able to tell a guitar from a suitcase, and yours would not be the first to be stolen away.

Some Additional Thoughts

Sadly, even if you follow all of these sequential pieces of advice down to the letter, there is still an inherent risk involved in checking a guitar on a plane. Being so out of your hands, it would be best to avoid doing so altogether and only do so in the most necessary circumstances.

So, if you do not need to do so for a performance, it would seriously be worth considering leaving it at home or taking one that does not matter as much to you.

It could even be worth investing in other musical instruments for the cause, one that: a) you are not going to miss so much in the case of destruction or theft, and/or b) that is actually easier to check in at all.

There are plenty of travel-sized guitars around these days, some artists even making a career out of using them exclusively, which in terms of being a touring musician is certainly thinking along the right lines.

I am just about to head on holiday myself and was racking my brains on how I could do so and still keep the music part of my mind occupied. I toyed with buying a travel guitar, but I realized I have neither the money nor the time to make it a reality.

I decided instead to purchase an even smaller musical instrument and one that I could get away with keeping in my main luggage. A harmonica, while rather removed from the guitar in a lot of ways, still fosters the aspect that I desire in taking it away, namely the ability to mindlessly play it without too much thought.

For all the protection a fancy flight guitar case can offer, they can equally fall prey to the same fate as just about any other luggage. Baggage handlers, as we have already attempted to convey, simply do not treat the baggage with any respect.

Granted, they are not paid to do so, nor are they given enough time to do so. Flight cases will be taking the same route as any other checked baggage when checking a guitar on a plane, and thus will be subject to the same hardships.

One ought to expect at least some scuffs and scratches on the case by the end of the first leg of the journey. I suppose it does not help that most flight cases are black, a color which harbors stains and scuffs and marks of this kind rather too well for its own good. I have seen my own suitcases and checked luggage sustain a fair number of injuries in the past, with a convalescence that will be unending.

The flight case might even sustain further damage – it is certainly within the realms of possibility – if a checked baggage handler feels a little too strong in one moment and dashes the flight case sky high without a thought

Flight cases, though strong and durable, are not indestructible. In in-flight cases, there is a trade-off in terms of strength and ability to withstand outside pressure, the dichotomy between weight and durability.

They can take a hell of a kicking, sure, but they can also reap the consequences, and your flight case would not be the first to be caved in by the terrors and trials and tribulations of air travel. In these cases, it remains only to be thankful that they took the hit, and not the guitar.

Whatever flight case you do decide to invest in, chances are there is a bigger, beefier, and better one lying just around the corner out of reach, one that might make your checking-a-guitar-on-a-plane experience more painless.

The ideal flight case for the traveler that is flying alone (or at least without the help of a dedicated touring crew) is one that prioritizes balance between durability, a lightweight, and a low price.

If, however, money is no object and you do not mind how much you pay (for you only want the best), and if you also do not care how heavy the guitar case might end up being, then it would be worth investing some time researching some of the more heavy-duty flight cases. The sky is the limit with these sorts of things, and you can rest assured that manufacturers will always take these things way too far.

And if you do, in fact, have a dedicated touring crew along for the ride with you, or at the very least have a few more hands than just you and a friend (or special friend), then by all means sink some time into looking at some of the flight cases designed for these kinds of professional purposes.

You would be surprised at just how expensive a small encasement of four walls can be for your beloved instrument or amplifier.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, you are somewhat wiser about the process of checking a guitar on a plane, and thus are feeling a little more at ease with the procedure. Things are only as scary as you make them, and if you are as clued up as you can be and are equipped with the musical instrument policy of the relevant airline, then you will be absolutely fine.

So, whatever you decide to do and however you choose to go about it, and most importantly wherever you end up going, we all wish you the very best in your various peregrinations around the world on the end of a guitar string.

You can take a guitar on an airplane either as carry-on or checked baggage, but it’s important to check the specific airline’s policies as they can vary. For protection, use a hard case, especially if checking the guitar. Be prepared for security screening and consider insurance for your instrument. Keep in mind the size of the guitar may not fit in overhead bins on smaller aircraft.

To pack a guitar for check-in, use a hard-shell case for maximum protection, loosen the strings to relieve tension, and cushion the headstock and body with bubble wrap or soft materials. Ensure the guitar is immobile inside the case to prevent movement during transport.

It is generally better to carry on a guitar if possible, as this reduces the risk of damage and loss associated with checked baggage handling.

Related Articles:

By Nate Pallesen

Nate is just your average (above average) guitar player. He's no Joe Satriani, Jimi Hendrix or Jimmy Page - wait this site is about acoustic guitars (sorry) He's no Django Reinhardt, Chet Atkins, or Michael Hedges, wait? who!? He's no Robert Johnson, Eric Clapton or Ben Harper - more familiar? Anyway you get the point :-)

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How to Fly with a Guitar: Guitars on Airplanes

Would you like to carry on a guitar when you travel? Or does the idea of flying with a guitar give you chills?

What do you need to know before taking a guitar onto an airplane? How can you keep your guitar safe, and keep your mental and physical health?

Below, you’ll find the good and bad of traveling with a guitar. You’ll get the best practices of flying with instruments. And you’ll also get a magic phrase to help you get what you want.

Is Flying with a Guitar Worth It?

Before we hop on a plane with guitar in tow, we may ask, “Is it worth the trouble?” Here are some questions that may help:

• Will I have time to play guitar?
• Will I have the space to practice?
• Will I be checking my other baggage anyway?
• Am I prepared for any injury or inconvenience that may result?

If the answers are all favorable, flying with a guitar may be great option.

The Downsides of Flying With a Guitar

The best part about flying with a guitar is that we have the guitar when we land and get settled. We can practice and play. We keep any momentum we may have in our practice. And we keep our hands in good shape.

But there are also downsides. Most of the downsides of flying with guitars involve the airport itself. Here are few:

Carrying it around the airport

At the airport, we often walk very long distances. If we have a guitar with us, we have to carry it everywhere. If we eat in a restaurant, we have to put it somewhere.

Guitars can get heavy. Toting a guitar around the airport can be tiring (and painful !). This may be the biggest inconvenience of the whole trip.

Guitars may be damaged on planes

Whenever we travel with a guitar, we must accept that something may happen to it. Travel can be bumpy and turbulent. As such, guitars sometimes get damaged on planes.

Years ago, a music video went viral with the title “ United Breaks Guitars ”. And it’s not just United. Even if the airport staff is careful, guitars can still become damaged. This is true even if the guitar is not checked through baggage claim.

Negotiating the Plane

Planes are small spaces, especially with a carry on guitar. Toting a guitar down the aisle can be cumbersome. Lifting the guitar into the overhead bin can be dangerous to the people below it.

And if we also have a shoulder bag or other item, the challenges can compound.

Best Practices to Fly with a Guitar

Assuming we are up for the game, what are the best practices for flying with a guitar? What can we do to ensure the best chances of a successful flight?

Accept the risk and relax

First, we must accept the risk. If we’ll be stressed the entire trip, it may not be worth it. Instead, we must fully accept that something may happen.

It helps to predict possible challenges, and have a plan ready in case.

Make sure the guitar will fit in the overhead

Before travel, we can check the overhead compartment size on the airline website. If we know on what type of plane we will travel, we can easily find this information.

Then we can measure our guitar to make sure it will fit. If it doesn’t, there’s no need trying to carry it on.

Classical guitar cases are smaller than normal steel-string acoustic guitars . These usually will fit in the overhead.

Pack it well

The headstock (with the tuning keys) are usually the most vulnerable part of the guitar in travel. If the case drops, or gets jarred violently, the weight of the headstock may crack it at the nut (top of the fretboard).

To guard against this, we can pack our “soft goods” (socks and undies) under the headstock. This will support the headstock in case of impact.

Likewise, if the guitar can move around in the case, the risk grows. So also fill the case around the guitar to stop any wiggling or sliding. We can wedge a t-shirt or sock alongside the guitar to fill the space.

Use a guitar case with straps

Whether we choose a soft case (gig bag) or a hard case, we can use backpack or shoulder straps. Straps make it easier to carry the guitar long distances.

That said… legendary guitarist Julian Bream often opted to carry his guitar or suitcase in his left hand, to build strength.

Still, it’s nice to have the option of freeing the grip and carrying the guitar on our back.

Loosen the strings

When flying with guitars, it’s best practice to loosen the strings. They do not have to be completely loosened. But releasing the pressure on the neck is common advice. A few twists of the tuning keys will usually suffice.

This means we’ll have a short “re-stretching” time when we arrive and tune it back up . But there’s no getting around that.

Be Extremely Friendly to Airport Staff and fellow passengers

When stepping out of the normal, expected airport behavior, it helps to be nice. Airline staff is tasked with getting many people on the plane and seated in a short time. Their responsibility is to all passengers, and the company.

In the heat of the moment, asking any sort of special treatment can trigger emotional responses for them. To guard against this, and as a general best practice for life, we can be friendly.

Arguing rarely works. In any battle of power or will, the airline staff will win.

If we’re friendly and light-hearted about it all, we can usually get what we want. And they can feel good about helping us. (More on this below!)

Likewise, flying is stressful for most passengers. Staying calm will help all around to have a better flight.

On the Plane, Closet First, Overhead Second

Once we step on the plane with a guitar, the first order of business is to address the welcoming steward.

We can (smile and) ask if the plane has a coat closet. And if so, whether we may store our carry on guitar in it.

If we can use the coat closet, we don’t have to negotiate the aisle.

If there is no closet, or if it is not permissable to store the guitar, we have to use the overhead storage.

Regardless of where we sit, we can use the first available overhead bin we see. This way, we don’t have to carry the guitar any further down the aisle than we have to.

Contingency Plans: What to Do If….

With all our well-laid plans , things may still not go as expected. We may encounter challenges or friction. Here are a few scenarios with suggestions.

The Magic Words to Get Your Way

We may be told that there is no room on the plane and that we must check the guitar. Or we may be told that it is too big and it won’t fit.

This is moment to pause, relax and smile. Here’s a statement that can help the steward to think of new ways to help, and let us through to the plane.

Magic Phrase:

“Look, I know this is non-negotiable, but what would have to happen to let me try to fit my guitar on the plane?”

This sentence is persuasive in many ways (explained in the video above). It helps the steward to visualize you getting your guitar on the plane.

Another tactic is to simply ask to try. If they say there’s no room, ask if you can try. They will often acquiese.

We may get nervous approaching the steward to board. That’s normal. Just take a deep breath and be nice.

Access Denied: Forced Checking of Guitar

If there truly is no way to get the guitar on the plane, the next best option is a Special Handling Tag. This is used mainly for wheelchairs and strollers.

With a special handling tag, we leave the guitar just outside the entrance to the plane, at the end of the gangway. Airport staff put it into the hold of the plane. Then, upon arrival, staff will bring it back up to the exit. Once we step off the plane, our guitar is waiting for us.

If this is also not possible, we have to gate check the guitar. Here, it’s best to take a moment and make sure that the guitar is well packed. And if the case locks, to lock it. We can remove any backpack or shoulder straps, and carry them with us. Then pray for the best.

What to do if your guitar gets damaged

If the guitar gets damaged, we must accept it. We can contact the airline for compensation. We can file an insurance claim. (Homeowners or renters policies will sometimes cover possessions damaged.)

It’s sad, but we knew this was a possibility.

All Part of the “Flying With a Guitar” Game

Perhaps the main tip for flying with a guitar is to keep an open mind and “roll with the punches”. Chances are, everything will be fine. We’ll have an uneventful flight, and arrive with our guitar intact. We can then get on with our travel and practice.

If anything bad does happen, there is no one to blame but ourselves. It’s not the airlines fault. It’s not the staff’s fault. It’s our fault. 100%. If we play the game, we may lose, and we know that going in.

Hi, I’m Allen Mathews. 

I started as a folk guitarist, then fell in love with classical guitar in my 20’s. Despite a lot of practice and schooling, I still couldn’t get my music to flow well. I struggled with excess tension. My music sounded forced. And my hands and body were often sore. I got frustrated, and couldn’t see the way forward. Then, over the next decade, I studied with two other stellar teachers – one focused on the technical movements, and one on the musical (he was a concert pianist). In time, I came to discover a new set of formulas and movements. These brought new life and vitality to my practice. Now I help guitarists find more comfort and flow in their music, so they play more beautifully. Click here for a sample formula.

Great Work!!!  I thank you sincerely for all the effort you have put in and the terrific work you do for the classical guitar community. -

Allen I have looked for the right online teacher for classical guitar for 8 months. Spent some money in the process. Never got anywhere. Then I found your site. Excellent! I now believe I will reach my goals in playing some beautiful music in the future. Thank you, Chuck -

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How To Travel With A Guitar On A Plane. Ultimate Guide To Packing Your Guitar For Air Travel

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As a musician who loves to travel, I know that bringing my guitar on a plane can be a daunting task. The thought of damaging my precious instrument or having it lost in transit always makes me nervous. However, with enough research and preparation, traveling with your guitar can be stress-free and enjoyable.

In this ultimate guide, I will share my personal experience and tips for packing your guitar for air travel. From researching airline policies to choosing the right case and checking in your guitar, you’ll learn everything you need to know to ensure your guitar arrives safely at your destination.

So whether you’re a professional guitarist heading out on tour or simply want to strum some tunes on vacation, read on for the ultimate guide to traveling with your guitar on a plane.

Table of Contents

Research the Airline Policies

You’ll want to make sure you check out the airline policies before taking off, so you don’t run into any unexpected surprises. Each airline has its own rules and regulations when it comes to carrying musical instruments on board.

Some airlines allow passengers to bring their guitars as carry-ons, while others require them to be checked in as baggage. It’s important to read up on these policies beforehand and plan accordingly.

When researching the airline policies, pay attention to the size and weight restrictions for both carry-on and checked luggage. Some airlines may have specific requirements for guitar cases or may charge additional fees for oversized items. Additionally, some airlines may not allow certain types of cases or guitars on board due to safety concerns.

By knowing these policies ahead of time, you can avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport. In order to get through security smoothly with your guitar, it’s important that you follow all TSA guidelines as well. This includes packing your guitar properly and ensuring that it is easy to inspect if needed.

By doing your research ahead of time and following all necessary guidelines, you can ensure a stress-free travel experience with your beloved instrument. Now that you know the importance of researching airline policies, let’s move onto choosing the right case for your guitar.

Choose the Right Case

When choosing the right case for my guitar, I always consider three key points:

Hardshell vs. softshell cases: Hardshell cases offer more protection but can be heavier to carry around, while softshell cases are lighter but may not provide the same level of protection.

Size and weight: It’s important to choose a case that fits the size and weight of my guitar to ensure it stays secure during travel.

TSA-approved locks: Looking for TSA-approved locks adds an extra layer of security when checking in my guitar at the airport.

I always keep these factors in mind to ensure that my guitar is well-protected and secure during travel.

Hardshell vs. Softshell Cases

Ah, the eternal dilemma of musicians: do you want to entrust your beloved instrument to a hardshell case and risk it getting damaged by careless baggage handlers, or do you opt for a softer option and pray that your guitar won’t end up resembling a pretzel by the time you reach your destination?

Here are some things to consider when choosing between hardshell and softshell cases:

Protection: Hardshell cases offer more protection against impact than softshell cases. However, some companies make hybrid cases that combine the best features of both types.

Weight: Hardshell cases are typically heavier than softshell ones due to their sturdy construction and materials used.

Durability: Softshell cases may wear out faster than hardshells due to being made from less durable materials such as fabric or leather.

Cost: Hardshell cases tend to be more expensive than softshells due to their increased protective features and sturdier construction.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what works best for your individual situation. Consider the size and weight of your guitar before making a final decision on which type of case will provide optimal protection during air travel.

Consider the Size and Weight

To ensure the utmost protection for your beloved instrument, it’s imperative to carefully consider the size and weight of the case you choose. A hardshell case may provide more protection, but it can also add significant weight to your luggage. On the other hand, a softshell case may be lighter and easier to carry around, but it may not provide as much protection from external damage.

When choosing a case, make sure that it fits your guitar snugly. A loose-fitting case can cause your guitar to shift during travel, which can result in damage to the neck or tuning pegs. Also, consider the weight of the case itself – you don’t want it to take up too much of your baggage allowance.

Overall, finding a balance between size and weight is key when traveling with a guitar on a plane.

As you prepare for air travel with your guitar in tow, another important factor to consider is TSA-approved locks.

Look for TSA-Approved Locks

Don’t risk damage or theft of your beloved instrument – make sure to look for TSA-approved locks when selecting a case for your next trip. These locks are specially designed to allow the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents to open and inspect your case without damaging it. This means that you can keep your guitar safe while also complying with airport security regulations.

Here are three things you need to know about TSA-approved locks:

They can be opened by TSA agents using a special key or combination code, which ensures that they won’t break the lock if they need to inspect your case.

You can find TSA-approved locks at most music stores, luggage stores, and online retailers.

It’s important to double-check that the lock is actually TSA-approved before purchasing it, as there are many types of locks on the market that claim to be approved but aren’t.

Prepare Your Guitar

Before I pack my guitar for air travel, I always make sure to prepare it properly. First, I loosen the strings to relieve tension on the neck and prevent any potential damage during transport.

Next, I remove any detachable parts such as the strap and tuner knobs to prevent them from getting lost or broken.

Finally, I secure the neck and headstock with a padded strap or towel to prevent any movement or impact while in transit.

By taking these steps, I can ensure that my guitar arrives safely at my destination.

Loosen the Strings

It’s important to remember that the tension in your guitar strings can cause damage during flight, so it’s recommended to loosen them slightly. I always make sure to do this before packing my guitar for air travel. According to a survey of musicians who travel frequently by plane, 75% always loosen their guitar strings before flying.

To loosen the strings, simply turn each tuning peg counterclockwise until there is some slack in the string. Don’t worry about detuning too much – you just need enough slack so that the strings aren’t under full tension during the flight. Once you’ve loosened all six strings, gently tug on each one to make sure there is some give. This will help protect against any sharp jolts or impacts that could occur during transit.

Next up: removing detachable parts from your guitar to ensure safe travels!

Remove Detachable Parts

Now that we’ve loosened the strings, let’s move on to the next step: removing detachable parts. This is an important step because it reduces the risk of damage during transit.

Detachable parts include items such as guitar straps, capos, and tuners. These items can easily be removed and packed separately in your carry-on or checked luggage. In addition to reducing damage risks, removing detachable parts also makes your guitar more compact for travel.

It’s important to keep in mind that airlines have strict regulations regarding baggage size and weight. By removing these parts, you’ll make it easier to fit your guitar into a case that meets airline requirements.

As we continue with our guide on how to pack your guitar for air travel, the next step is securing the neck and headstock.

Secure the Neck and Headstock

To ensure the safety of your instrument during air transit, it’s imperative that you take the necessary steps to secure the neck and headstock.

First, loosen the strings by turning each tuning peg in a counterclockwise direction until they’re all similarly slack. This will alleviate pressure on your guitar’s neck and prevent warping or cracking while in flight.

Next, use a soft cloth or foam pad to wrap around the headstock and secure it with tape or an elastic band. This will protect against any potential damage caused by turbulence or rough handling during transport. Additionally, consider adding extra padding around the neck area within your guitar case for added security.

Now that you have securely fastened your guitar’s neck and headstock, it’s time to pack your case.

Pack Your Case

Let’s get your music buddy all snuggled up and ready to fly in its protective case. Packing the guitar case properly is essential to ensure that it arrives at your destination unscathed. Here are some tips for packing your guitar case:

• Place a soft cloth or towel on the bottom of the case to provide extra cushioning.
• Insert the guitar into its designated compartment, making sure it fits snugly.
• Fill any empty spaces with bubble wrap or towels to prevent movement inside the case.

When choosing a travel case, it’s important to opt for one that provides adequate protection for your instrument. Hardshell cases are recommended, as they offer more security than soft bags. A good quality travel case will have a sturdy exterior and padding on the interior to protect against bumps and jolts during transit.

To further safeguard your guitar, consider investing in TSA-approved locks. These locks allow airport security personnel to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock or case. Additionally, you may want to purchase insurance for your instrument in case of damage during transport.

Labeling your guitar case is crucial so that it doesn’t get lost or mistakenly taken by another passenger. Use durable luggage tags with clear identification information including your name, contact details, and flight information. Attaching a brightly colored ribbon or strap can also make it easier to spot among other luggage.

As you pack your guitar safely away in its protective casing, remember that preparation is key when traveling with musical instruments. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your cherished companion will arrive at its final destination safe and sound. Now let’s move onto labeling our cases properly!

Label Your Case

When I travel with my guitar, one of the most important things I do is label my case. Adding identification tags and using fragile stickers not only helps me easily identify my guitar at baggage claim, but also alerts airport personnel to handle it with care.

Additionally, including contact information on the case can be helpful in case your guitar gets lost or misplaced during travel. Taking these simple steps can give you peace of mind while traveling with your precious instrument.

Add Identification Tags

Make sure you don’t forget to attach identification tags to your precious instrument before takeoff, so that it can be returned to you in case of any mishaps. I recommend using multiple identification tags with different contact information, just in case one gets lost or damaged.

You can use luggage tags and write your name, phone number, and email address on them. Additionally, you can print out a label specifically for your guitar case that includes your name, flight details, and contact information.

It’s also a good idea to include some sort of identifying feature on your guitar case itself. This could be a unique sticker or marking that sets it apart from other cases on the baggage carousel. Adding these extra layers of identification will give you peace of mind while traveling with your guitar.

Now let’s move on to the next step – using fragile stickers!

Use Fragile Stickers

Using fragile stickers on your luggage can be an effective way to reduce the chances of mishandling during transport. Studies show that packages marked as fragile are handled more carefully by airline staff, which means your guitar is less likely to suffer damage during transit.

It’s important to place these stickers prominently on your guitar case so that they’re visible and easily recognizable by airline personnel. In addition to using fragile stickers, it’s also a good idea to include contact information on your guitar case.

This will ensure that if your guitar does get lost or misplaced during transport, it can be easily returned to you. Including your name, phone number, and email address is a great way to make sure that you can be reached in the event of any issues with your instrument.

Include Contact Information

Now that you’ve marked your guitar with ‘fragile’ stickers, it’s time to make sure it’s easy to locate in case of mishandling.

One way to do this is by including your contact information on the exterior of the guitar case. I always tape a note with my name, phone number, and email address onto the top of my guitar case. This way, anyone who comes across it can easily reach out to me if needed.

Including your contact information not only makes it easier for airport staff to identify who owns the guitar, but also ensures that you can be contacted if there are any issues with its transportation.

Additionally, having your contact information on the outside may increase the chances of someone returning your luggage to you if it gets lost.

As you head towards check-in, remember that packing your guitar safely doesn’t end there. There are still a few more steps you need to take before boarding the plane with peace of mind.

Check-In Your Guitar

When checking in, you’ll want to ensure that your musical instrument is handled with care and arrives safely at your destination. One option is to check-in your guitar as oversized baggage. This means that it will be loaded into the cargo hold of the plane along with other large items, such as strollers and wheelchairs.

To prepare your guitar for check-in, make sure it’s in a hard case that fits its size and shape snugly. Use extra padding, such as bubble wrap or towels, to protect any fragile parts like the headstock or bridge. Add a luggage tag with your name, contact information, and flight details so that if the airline misplaces your guitar, they can easily track it down.

Once you arrive at the airport, take your guitar directly to the oversized baggage counter. You may need to pay an additional fee depending on the airline’s policies. Make sure to ask for a fragile sticker and watch as they load it onto the plane.

With these precautions taken care of, you can relax knowing that your guitar will be waiting for you when you land.

As much as we all love our guitars, sometimes we don’t want them too far out of reach during a long flight. In the next section, I’ll show you how to carry your guitar onboard so that it stays close by throughout your journey without causing any disruption or discomfort to yourself or other passengers.

Carry Your Guitar Onboard

Want to keep your beloved instrument close by during your flight without disturbing anyone? Learn how to carry it onboard with ease in this section.

Carrying your guitar onboard has its advantages, as you can ensure its safety and avoid any potential damage that may occur during the checked baggage process. However, it’s important to note that not all airlines allow musical instruments as a carry-on item, so be sure to check with your airline before heading to the airport.

When carrying your guitar onboard, the size and weight of the case matter. A hard-shell case is recommended for added protection, but make sure it fits within the airline’s carry-on size restrictions. You don’t want to be forced to check it at the gate because of an oversized case. Additionally, consider investing in a lightweight case or removing unnecessary items from your existing one to reduce its weight.

Once you’re on board, store your guitar in an overhead bin or ask a flight attendant if there’s space in a closet designated for crew use only. Be mindful of other passengers’ belongings and try not to take up too much space when stowing your guitar. Remember that even though you’ve carried it onboard doesn’t mean it won’t move around during turbulence, so always secure it properly inside the storage compartment.

Now that you know how to carry your guitar onboard like a pro, let’s dive into unpacking it once you arrive at your destination!

Unpack Your Guitar

Now that I’ve successfully carried my guitar onboard and arrived at my destination, it’s time to unpack and get ready to play!

The first thing I do is check for any damages or scratches that may have occurred during travel. Once everything looks good, I tune my guitar before playing to ensure the best possible sound.

With everything set up and ready to go, it’s time to enjoy my trip with some music!

Check for Damages

You don’t want to risk arriving at your destination only to find your beloved instrument damaged, so take a moment to carefully inspect it before heading to the airport. Here are some things you need to check for damages:

• Check for scratches or cracks on the body of the guitar.
• Look at the neck and headstock for any signs of damage or warping.
• Check that all tuning pegs are working correctly and not loose.
• Inspect the strings for any breaks or missing pieces.

If you do find any damages, it’s best to get them fixed before traveling with your guitar. This will ensure that your instrument is in top condition and won’t sustain further damage during transit.

Once you’ve checked everything over and made sure there are no issues, it’s time to move onto the next step: tune your guitar.

Remember, taking care of your instrument is crucial when traveling with a guitar on a plane. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your guitar arrives at its destination safe and sound.

Tune Your Guitar

It’s time to make sweet music, so grab an electronic tuner and get ready to tune that baby up! Before you pack your guitar for a flight, it’s essential to ensure that it’s in the best possible condition.

Tuning your guitar is one of the most crucial steps in preparing for air travel. The change in altitude and temperature can cause your guitar strings to either tighten or loosen, leading to tuning issues. To avoid this problem, use an electronic tuner to adjust each string accurately.

Take some time to play each note and make any necessary adjustments before packing up your instrument. With a properly tuned guitar, you’ll be able to enjoy playing music on your trip without any interruptions or frustrations.

So go ahead and get ready to rock out on the plane!

Enjoy Your Trip!

Time to kick back and enjoy your trip! You’ve done the hard work of packing your guitar for air travel, and now it’s time to relax and soak in the excitement of your upcoming adventure.

Here are a couple of ways you can fully enjoy your trip:

Explore new places: Whether you’re traveling for a gig or just for fun, make the most out of your destination by exploring all that it has to offer. Check out local museums, try new foods, and immerse yourself in the culture.

Connect with others: Traveling solo? Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with fellow travelers or locals. You never know who you might meet or what opportunities may arise.

Remember, traveling is about embracing new experiences and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So go ahead, let loose, and have some fun!

But before we wrap this up, here’s one last tip – don’t forget to document your journey. Take plenty of photos and videos so that you can relive these special moments long after the trip is over. And who knows? Maybe someday you’ll even look back at these memories as the start of something big in your music career!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any additional fees for bringing a guitar on a flight.

Bringing a guitar on a flight can be quite an exciting experience, especially if you’re planning to perform at your destination. However, it’s crucial to know whether there are any additional fees for bringing your musical instrument on board.

Airlines usually charge extra fees for oversized or heavy luggage, and this includes guitars. The amount of the fee varies depending on the airline, so it’s essential to check with your carrier before booking your flight.

Some airlines may even offer special rates or waivers for musicians traveling with their instruments, so don’t hesitate to ask about those options as well!

Can I bring multiple guitars on a flight?

When it comes to bringing multiple guitars on a flight, the answer is: it depends.

Some airlines allow passengers to bring more than one carry-on item, while others strictly enforce the one-carry-on rule. Additionally, some airlines may charge extra fees for each additional item brought on board.

It’s important to check with your specific airline before packing multiple guitars for air travel. If permitted, make sure to properly secure and protect each instrument during the flight to prevent any damage or mishaps.

What should I do if my guitar is damaged during the flight?

If your guitar is damaged during a flight, it’s important to act quickly and report the damage to the airline as soon as possible.

Did you know that according to the Department of Transportation, airlines mishandled over 3 million bags in 2019 alone? This statistic highlights the importance of being prepared and taking necessary precautions when traveling with your guitar.

When reporting the damage, be sure to provide detailed descriptions and photos of the damages. It’s also a good idea to have insurance for your guitar in case any irreparable damages occur.

Remember, staying proactive can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Can I store my guitar in the overhead compartment?

When it comes to storing your guitar on a plane, the overhead compartment may seem like a convenient option, but it’s not always the best choice. Depending on the size of your guitar and the available space in the compartment, it could get bumped around or even damaged by other passengers’ luggage.

Plus, if you’re flying on a smaller aircraft with limited overhead space, you might not be able to fit your guitar up there at all. It’s always best to check with the airline ahead of time and see if they have any specific guidelines for carrying musical instruments onboard.

In some cases, they may allow you to store your guitar in a closet or even purchase an extra seat for it. Whatever approach you choose, make sure to pack your instrument carefully and securely so that it stays protected throughout the flight.

Are there any restrictions on the size or type of guitar that can be brought on a flight?

As a musician who loves to travel, I always wonder if there are any restrictions on the size or type of guitar that can be brought on a flight.

It’s important to know because not all guitars are created equal, and some may require special handling during air travel.

After some research, I discovered that most airlines allow passengers to bring their guitars as carry-on items, but there may be size restrictions depending on the airline.

Additionally, some airlines may require specific cases for certain types of guitars, such as hard-shell cases for acoustic guitars.

As someone who values freedom in both music and travel, it’s reassuring to know that with a little preparation and knowledge of airline policies, I can take my guitar with me wherever my adventures take me.

In conclusion, traveling with your guitar doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By doing your research on airline policies and selecting the appropriate case, you can ensure that your guitar arrives safely at your destination. Remember to prepare and pack your guitar carefully, label your case clearly, and check-in or carry-on your instrument according to airline regulations.

According to a recent survey conducted by Sweetwater Music Instruments & Pro Audio, 66% of musicians have traveled with their instruments at some point in their careers. This statistic highlights just how common it is for musicians to travel with their guitars and underscores the importance of knowing how to do so properly.

With this ultimate guide in hand, you can confidently take your beloved instrument on all of your musical adventures without fear of damage or loss. Safe travels!

Meet Audrey and Carl Thompson. This dynamic married couple not only shares a passion for each other but also a deep love for exploring the world. Through their captivating writing, Audrey and Carl offer a unique perspective on traveling as a couple. They delve into their personal experiences, shedding light on the challenges and joys of navigating the globe hand in hand. Their insightful articles address the questions and concerns many travelers face, helping you forge a stronger bond with your partner on your own incredible adventures.

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Taking a Guitar on a Plane: Tips and Tricks for Getting It On

Are you planning to travel with your guitar? Then you may be wondering how to take your guitar on a plane.

Luckily, you can bring your guitar with you on most airlines, either as a carry-on or checked baggage. However, there are some guidelines you should follow to make sure that your guitar arrives as safely as you do at your destination.

• Guitars can be taken as carry-on but there are exceptions
• Be creative and you might get it on
• Prepare for checking it in by packing it right

Rules For Guitars on Domestic Flights

According to the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 , U.S. airlines are required to accept musical instruments on planes as either as carry-on baggage or checked baggage, provided that certain conditions are met.

This means that you have the right to bring your guitar on a plane with you. However, it’s important to realise that each airline may have its own specific rules and regulations regarding musical instruments, so it’s always a good idea to check with your airline before you travel. Especially when it comes to something as important as your guitar!

Rules For Guitars on International Flights

The rules for traveling with a guitar on an international flight are a little more complex as it really depends on the airline. I have listed all of the major and most popular airline rules a little further down the page.

Understanding Airline Policies

As boring as that sounds, it is important to understand the policies of the airline you’re flying with . It might mean the difference between whether you decide to take your guitar on the plane or not.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Knowing Your Airline’s Rules

Each airline has its own rules regarding musical instruments, including guitars. Some airlines allow you to carry your guitar on board as cabin baggage, while others require you to check it in as hold baggage. It’s important to check with your airline before you travel to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Here are some of the most popular airline’s rules for musical instruments :

United States

• American Airlines
• United Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• South West Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• Hawaiin Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• Frontier Airlines
• Jet Blue Airlines
• British Airways

Some airlines may also require you to fill out a special form or provide advance notice if you plan to bring your guitar on board, so reading the above rules is a great way to be prepared. I hate it when I get to the gate only to be told I have to check something in.

Domestic airlines rarely charge an extra fee for carrying a guitar on board, however, they often only allow small instruments. International airlines have a range of rules including fees. And, this fee can vary depending on the airline and the size of your guitar.

Packing Your Guitar

You should pack your guitar well for any flight. It could end up squeezed in an overhead bin or get thrown in with the check-in baggage. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Choosing a Case

Choosing the right case is crucial to ensure your guitar stays safe during the flight. There are two main types of cases to consider: hard cases and soft cases.

Hard cases offer the most protection, but they are also heavier and bulkier. They will be a lot more difficult to put in the overhead bin as they take a lot more room. And with a guitar, this space is precious, as it is a tight squeeze to fit it in any overhead bin.

Soft cases or gig cases are lighter and easier to carry around, but they offer less protection. So, if you opt for a gig case, you will have to prepare and protect your guitar a lot more.

Securing the Guitar

Once you’ve chosen the case, it’s important to secure the guitar properly inside the case to prevent any damage during the flight. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Loosen the strings: Loosening the strings slightly can help relieve tension on the neck of the guitar during the flight.
• Use padding: Add foam padding or bubble wrap to protect the guitar from any bumps or jolts during the flight. Focus on the vulnerable spots like the neck which will suffer the most.
• Use straps: To keep the guitar in place inside the case. You can use straps that come with the case or add your own straps if needed.
• Pack accessories separately: Pack any accessories, such as pedals or cables, separately from the guitar to prevent them from scratching or damaging the guitar.

Do everything you can to imagine which part of the case will be put under pressure or bashed and protect that. Also remove anything you can and take it in your bag.

At the Airport

Here’s what you should think about during the check-in and boarding process.

Check-In Process

When you arrive at the airport, head to the check-in counter to check your guitar in. Most airlines will allow you to bring your guitar on board as a carry-on item, but some may require you to check it in as baggage. 

If you are required to check your guitar in, make sure it is properly packed in a hard-shell case. Or, alternatively, have someone ready to take it if you decide it is too risky to check it in.

Although the staff may say one thing at the check-in, the boarding staff are ultimately the gate keepers when it comes to getting your guitar onto the plane. I have had a number of situations where the check-in staff and boarding staff contradict one another, so always assume the worst.

So, if you get to boarding, do not be surprised at the gate when they require you to check your guitar in. If they do so, make sure it goes on last so that it is not squashed by heavy gear.

On the Plane

Once you’re on the plane, it’s important to know where to store your guitar. Here are some tips to help you find the best place for your guitar during your flight.

Overhead Storage

The overhead bins are the most common place to store your guitar during a flight. However, these bins can fill up quickly, so it’s best to board early to ensure you have space. If you can, book a seat at the back of the plane to board first, as people at the back of the plane usually get to board first.

When storing your guitar in the overhead bin, make sure it’s in a case to avoid injury among other passengers. Some airlines may require you to place your guitar in a soft case, while others may allow a hard case. Check with your airline before your flight to ensure you have the correct case.

In The Closet

You may never have seen it or used it, but many planes have a closet at the front. It is a longer cupboard designed for hanging things like suits. It is worth asking the flight attendants when you board the plane if you can store your guitar in the closet. It is the perfect spot for it, and if there are not many people with suits or jackets, there may be space too.

Under-Seat Storage

It is unlikely that you will be storing your precious guitar under the seat in front of you. However, if it is small enough or you are desperate enough you may want to try it.

Pay for An Extra Seat

Some airlines may also require you to purchase an extra seat for your guitar if it’s too large to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

You might also want to buy the seat next to you anyway. If the price is cheap enough. 

Obviously, this can get quite expensive, but if your guitar is worth a lot of money, then you might consider it.

Arriving at Your Destination

After a long flight, you’re probably looking forward to collecting your guitar and getting on your way. Here are some tips to make the process as smooth as possible.

Collecting Your Guitar

When you arrive at your destination, head to baggage claim to collect your guitar. If you checked it, it should be waiting for you with the other checked bags. There is also an oversized luggage area, but it is rare that a guitar will end up there.

Inspecting for Damage

Before leaving the airport, check your guitar for any damage. Check the body, neck, and headstock for cracks or other signs of damage. Look for scratches or dents on the finish.

If you notice any damage, report it to the airline as soon as possible. They may be able to help you file a claim for repair or replacement.

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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Bringing A Guitar On A Plane – Everything You Need to Know

Whether it’s your first time flying with a guitar or you’ve done so before, bringing a guitar on a plane can be stressful. It can be difficult knowing the right things to do and ensuring your guitar doesn’t get damaged or stolen while flying.

That’s why I wanted to compile all the helpful tips possible for flying with a guitar, so you know exactly what to do when bringing a guitar on a plane. If you follow the 10 tips below, you’ll be flying safe and sound with your guitar stress-free. Let’s dive right in.

1. Check your airline’s instrument policy

Before you fly, do some research to learn the instrument policy of the specific airline you’re flying on. Simply googling “[Name of Airline] instrument policy” usually does the trick. Still, it’s safest to also call the airline if you really want to be 100% sure they’ll allow your instrument.

American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta, and Southwest all accept instruments, but have different policies. Southwest, for example, only accepts instruments on a conditional basis, which means you should definitely double check before trying to bring an instrument on board one of their flights.

2. Store Your Guitar Above Deck

Try to do everything possible to ensure your guitar doesn’t go below deck with the other checked baggage and luggage. This is because the luggage cabin below deck experiences much more pressure and temperature changes than the above deck cabin of the plane.

Try and store your guitar in an overhead bin if it will fit, or ask the flight attendants if they can take it and store it onboard somewhere above deck. If all else fails, remember to be polite and simply explain that you’re willing to store your guitar anywhere as long as it doesn’t go below.

The best way to do this is by communicating with airline staff, airport staff, and flight attendants before boarding the plane, or as early as possible. Let them know you’re flying with a guitar and would really prefer to keep it out of the luggage cabin below deck.

3. Loosen your guitar strings

As you fly, the temperature changes and so does the pressure in the cabin, as well as below deck. That’s why to be safe, it’s best practice to loosen your guitar strings. You can still leave your strings on your guitar, but I recommend tuning them way down to take as much pressure off of your guitar during the flight as you can.

Even if you can fit your guitar in the overhead compartment or onboard the cabin of the plane, it’s best to loosen your strings and avoid any unnecessary extra pressure on your guitar’s neck.

4. Pack your guitar in a quality case

An easy way to ensure your guitar is as safe as possible is to invest in a high quality guitar case. Preferably, this would be a hard shell case. There is no safer place for your guitar than in a hardshell case.

A good case will protect it from bumps and bruises, and keep it safe throughout the flight. You can rest easy knowing your guitar is in a protective case.

5. Add some extra padding

Even after your guitar is in its case, it can’t hurt to take a few extra precautions if you’ll be flying with your guitar. When bringing a guitar on a plane, pack some t-shirts, socks, rags, or towels into any empty spaces that remain in the case.

The idea here is to reduce any movement of the instrument in the case, so it isn’t rattling around against the edges during the flight. By packing the extra space full of soft, padded material you’ll keep your guitar snug and secure and reduce any possible damage while flying with your guitar.

6. Consider a budget or travel guitar

Travel guitars pack the tone and playability of upscale instruments into a much smaller and convenient size. They’re ideal for any type of travel, but particularly good for air travel. Travel guitars take up way less space, whether that space is in your trunk, your pack, or a plane’s overhead compartment bin.

Martin actually makes a great steel string travel guitar . Or if you want a smaller guitar that still has a more traditional shape, the Little Martin fits the bill. There are many affordable yet high-quality travel guitars available on Amazon as well.

If you still want to bring a full-sized instrument, it might be best to fly with a budget guitar. The nice thing about flying with a cheaper guitar is that you’ll be less concerned about it getting stolen or damaged. I wrote a whole guide post of my 10 favorite budget acoustic guitars , ranging in price from the mid $100s to under $500.

These budget guitars play as good as many premier models, but come with less anxiety of them getting damaged or stolen.

7. Try to Book your Seat in the Front or Rear

If you’re allowed to choose your own seating on your flight, it’s best to try and score a seat in the front or rear of the plane. These areas of the plane are typically called to board first, so you’ll have priority when it comes to stowing your guitar on the plane, as you’ll be one of the first passengers.

Check whether your airline boards from the front or rear first, and then try to ensure that you’re one of the first passengers to board.

8. Keep Your Cool / Be Polite

Flying with your guitar can be stressful, but one of the best things you can do is keep your cool and remain polite. This is especially important when it comes to interacting with flight and airline staff.

If anyone gives you trouble about flying with your guitar, calmly explain yourself and your preferences for storing the instrument. This way, people will be much more likely to want to help you out and ensure your guitar flies safely.

9. Consider Shipping

If flying with your guitar seems like too much hassle or stress, you can always consider shipping it instead. Shipping a guitar is not too expensive, and will typically cost you around $25 for ground shipping with insurance included. Definitely spend the extra cash for insurance, as this way you’re protected if something goes wrong during the process.

10. Know the Law and Your Rights

Did you know you have the law on your side when traveling with a musical instrument. It’s important to know your rights. The following is from 49 U.S. Code § 41724. Musical instruments :

SEC. 403. MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS. (a) IN GENERAL—Subchapter I of chapter 417 is amended by adding at the end the following:

‘‘§ 41724. Musical instruments ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL— ‘‘(1) SMALL INSTRUMENTS AS CARRY-ON BAGGAGE.—An air carrier providing air transportation shall permit a passenger to carry a violin, guitar, or other musical instrument in the aircraft cabin, without charging the passenger a fee in addition to any standard fee that carrier may require for comparable carry-on baggage, if—

‘‘(A) the instrument can be stowed safely in a suitable baggage compartment in the aircraft cabin or under a passenger seat, in accordance with the requirements for carriage of carry-on baggage or cargo established by the Administrator; and

‘‘(B) there is space for such stowage at the time the passenger boards the aircraft.

For instruments too large to fit in an overhead or under your seat, you can bring them aboard but you do have to buy another ticket:

‘‘(2) LARGER INSTRUMENTS AS CARRY-ON BAGGAGE.—An air carrier providing air transportation shall permit a passenger to carry a musical instrument that is too large to meet the requirements of paragraph (1) in the aircraft cabin, without charging the passenger a fee in addition to the cost of the additional ticket described in subparagraph (E), if—

‘‘(A) the instrument is contained in a case or covered so as to avoid injury to other passengers;

‘‘(B) the weight of the instrument, including the case or covering, does not exceed 165 pounds or the applicable weight restrictions for the aircraft;

‘‘(C) the instrument can be stowed in accordance with the requirements for carriage of carry-on baggage or cargo established by the Administrator;

‘‘(D) neither the instrument nor the case contains any object not otherwise permitted to be carried in an aircraft cabin because of a law or regulation of the United States; and

‘‘(E) the passenger wishing to carry the instrument in the aircraft cabin has purchased an additional seat to accommodate the instrument.

Now you have everything you need in order to fly with a guitar safely. When bringing a guitar on a plane remember to try and store it above deck, loosen the strings, and make sure it’s protected in its case.

You could also consider a travel guitar or budget guitar so that you’re not traveling with a guitar that’s irreplaceable.

Lastly, know your rights when it comes to flying with an instrument, and remember to be polite when communicating with staff. If all else fails, you can consider shipping your guitar instead.

I hope this helped you out, and that you’re less stressed about bringing your guitar on a plane. Thanks for reading, and as always, happy picking!

Ready to Get Better at Guitar, Faster?

Whenever you’re ready to take your guitar playing to the next level, check out a few of my favorite resources below:

The Best Acoustic Guitar Strings – A unique polymer coating makes these guitar strings last for months or even years at a time, making for an exceptional value. They provide the perfect mix of boom, range, twang, and brightness that acoustic music is known for. — CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

The Best Acoustic Guitar – Beloved by everyone from Paul Simon to Gordon Lightfoot, the Martin D-18 is one of Martin’s most legendary guitars ever… It’s an excellent, premier quality acoustic guitar for bluegrass, country, folk, rock and more. This is also what I play myself — CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Chords, Tabs & Video Lessons for 100 Epic Songs – This free guide that I created for fellow guitarists gives you chords, tabs, and video lessons for the 100 best songs to learn on guitar… I spent many hours putting this guide together to help you get better at guitar, faster. — CLICK HERE TO GET IT FREE

Fingerpicking vs Flatpicking Guitar – Learn which picking style is right for YOU by exploring examples, history, and popular players of each style. Discover essential techniques and pros and cons of each approach. — CLICK HERE TO GET IT FREE

Corbin Buff

Corbin has played guitar for over a decade, and started writing about it on Acoustic World in an effort to help others. He lives and writes in western Montana.

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Are Guitars Allowed on Airplanes?

One of the most common questions that I get from musicians who are new to traveling is “are guitars allowed on airplanes?”

In this post, you’ll learn about all of the regulations for traveling a guitar as well as some helpful tips that will save you the time and stress the next time you decide to fly with your guitar.

In short, the answer is yes. According to the law, guitars and other musical instruments are indeed allowed on airplanes. However, the caveat is that there are certain regulations that you’ll need to follow based on the specific airline that you choose. 

Table of Contents

Guitars Are Allowed on Airplanes…It’s the Law!

Many people believe that since guitars take up so much space and are an awkward shape, that they must be banned from airplanes due to the inconvenience they bring to others.

However, this is a common misconception. In fact, The Department of Transportation together with TSA has enacted new policies governing traveling with musical instruments. As an artist, the good news is that you are legally permitted to fly with your lovely guitar. Most airlines in the U.S. now allow passengers to fly with guitars.

The two organizations reached an accord that airlines should consider guitars as both checked baggage and carry-on items. You can carry your guitar on board depending on its size and shape. In the case you purchased an Economy ticket, then you can carry a small musical instrument in addition to other small personal items.

One thing to consider beforehand, however, is whether it will fit in the overhead cabin of your particular plane. Just because you’re allowed to carry a guitar on the plane does not make it any less inconvenient. 

Are There Any Restrictions When Carrying Guitars on Airplanes?

Although many airlines may allow you to take your guitar on the plane, there are specific policies and procedures regarding flying with guitars based on which airline you choose to go with. Some of them allow you to carry one instrument and a carry-on bag. Others have restrictions on the size of carry-on bag allowed or prompt you to pay a seat to carry your guitar.

In addition, you may only be allowed to bring your guitar as a carry on if there is sufficient storage space at the time you board the aircraft.

Therefore, before boarding a plane, be sure to have your guitar and case inspected by their airline security. This helps ensure that the aircraft you’re boarding has sufficient space in its overhead cabin to accommodate your guitar case.

The standard dimensions required for all instruments is 22x14x9 inches. The dimensions provided include both the handles and wheels. It should basically fit under one seat.

Which Airlines Allow Guitars as Carry-ons?

As previously mentioned, the major U.S. airlines allow you to bring your guitar on as a carry.

Here is a breakdown of the major airlines in the United States that can allow you to fly with a guitar or any other musical instrument, as well as their specific policies that you should keep in mind.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is one of the largest and most affordable carriers in the world. If you’re considering flying with a guitar with Southwest Airlines, then make sure you completely understand their baggage policy beforehand.

Southwest Airlines allows you to carry one personal item and one carry-on item for free.

For checked baggage beyond two bags, there is a fee per bag based on size and weight. According to their carry-on bag policy, each item shouldn’t exceed the provided dimensions (24x16x10 inches). The measurements factor in both wheels and handles. It should also fit under the seat that is ahead of you or in an overhead cabin.

Overweight and oversized baggage are chargeable. Bags that are more than 115 linear inches will not be accepted as checked bags by Southwest Airlines. But for bags that measure 63-115 linear inches, you will be charged about $75.

The same fee applies to overweight bags weighing between 51-100 pounds. Those that weigh more than 100 pounds are not accepted.

Southwest Airlines considers all musical instruments special luggage. This is why they have provisions meant to protect your guitar.

In the event that your guitar slightly exceeds the provided 10 by 16 by 24 inches dimension, then you can still carry it on board provided there is space in the overhead compartment or under a seat in front of you.

If there is no space in the provided options, then you can still purchase a ticket for a seat to carry your guitar.

Southwest also has provisions for hauling a guitar on a seat. These include:

• The instrument should be secured just like a passenger with seat belt and should not cause obstructions to signs.
• The ticket should cost not more than that of a child’s seat.
• You can still substitute a piece of luggage for your guitar.
• Southwest Airlines holds no liability for any damage caused to your instrument in the course of hauling.
• Instruments exceeding 150 inches are not allowed as carry-ons.

Delta Airlines

Commonly referred to as Delta, Delta Airlines is another major airline in the United States that allow you to fly with a guitar. It is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. The airline allows you to travel with a guitar as a carry-on or checked baggage but depending on the shape and size.

For you to travel with a guitar, your instrument should not go beyond 150 inches or 381 centimeters in total length. The recommended weight is 165 lbs. or 75kg. All musical instruments measuring more than 200 cm or 78.74 inches are not accepted by Delta Airlines as checked luggage.

Delta also requires you to keep your guitar in a hard-shelled case. TSA approves and lays down all the requirements that qualify a case as hard-shelled or not.

They also allow you to buy a ticket for your instrument at full flight price in case you don’t want it to be checked in or if it exceeds the provided dimensions. Just like Southwest Airlines, Delta requires you to secure your guitar with a safety seat belt. The instrument should also not pose hindrances to exits and signs. For security reasons, your guitar should always be next to your seat.

American Airlines

Another popular airline in the United States is American Airlines . They are the leading airline regarding fleet size, passengers flown, scheduled and even destinations served.

American Airlines allows you to travel with a small musical instrument like a guitar as a carry-on item. If you’re going to be traveling with a guitar, you should make sure to book your flight super early. 

They will haul your guitar as long as it fits in a seat at the front of your seat or in the overhead cabin. If there isn’t any available space, then you might be asked to buy a ticket for your instrument.

The cost of the seat is just like that of an adult passenger.

You might also incur other applicable carrier-imposed fees and taxes. Prior to buying an additional seat, ensure that your guitar meets the provided restrictions. It should not weigh over 165 lbs. or 75kgs. Size restrictions vary depending on the type of airplane you board. Anything that is big or heavier than the provisions above will be shipped through cargo.

Due to the fragile nature of musical instruments, American Airlines will not be held liable for any damages caused, so make sure you’re using a hard case that’s packed tight. 

How to Carry a Guitar on an International Flight

If you’re traveling abroad with your guitar, then there are two options to consider on how to carry your instrument. You can carry your guitar as a carry-on or as checked baggage. As a carry-on item, you need to have a high-density and well-reinforced bag for your guitar.

A gig bag with backpack strap can make it easy for you to carry your guitar. However, gig bags do not provide the best protection, so if you’re checking your guitar as baggage, go with a hard shell chase instead. 

Invest in a heavy-duty hard case for your guitar that is reinforced with a steel frame. Cheap and low-end bags and cases lack proper padding and support, which can result in damage during transit.

You might also want to consider carrying a conspicuous bag that is easy to identify in case your instrument gets out of sight.

If you’re interested in picking up a hard case, I would recommend an SKB Guitar Case. Just make sure you get one that fits the shape of your guitar.  You can find SKB hardshell cases on Amazon .

Moreover, before booking a flight with any airline, be sure to check whether they allow passengers to fly with guitars or other musical instruments. Make a list of them then pick the one that has favorable rules and procedures. This can help you avoid possible disappointments on the actual day of the flight.

When measuring the weight of your instrument, remember to include the carrying case. It should not exceed 165 lbs. You should also not carry any other instrument apart from the permitted one i.e. your guitar.

How to Fly With a Guitar (5 Simple Tips)

The fact of the matter is that flying with a guitar will be inconvenient. period.

Despite the fact that guitars are allowed on airplanes by law, there will always be some complications when you’re carrying a large delicate item aboard a plane.

Here are some tips on how to fly with a guitar that can save you a lot of trouble.

1. Bring a Travel Guitar

If you’re flying with a guitar and don’t actually need something to gig or record with, then travel guitars are a great option.

If you’re just someone who’s going on vacation and want to be able to practice while you’re gone, then investing in a travel guitar is a good idea.

A travel guitar is just a stripped-down version of the guitar. It gives you everything you need to practice, and that’s it.

Guitar neck, fretboard, strings. All you need to practice in a compact, easy to carry package.

Obviously this doesn’t replace a full guitar if you’re going to be performing or recording, but if you’re just looking for something to practice with while you’re on vacation, it’ll fit the bill.

Using a travel guitar completely eliminates the hassles when it comes to flying with a guitar.

They are small enough so you can just put it in a backpack and bring it along.

Here is my top Recommendation for a Travel Guitar

Traveler Guitar Ultra – Electric Guitar – This is definitely my choice for the best travel guitar. It’s a bit on the expensive side, but if you’re someone who tends to travel a lot, then it’s definitely worth the investment. This is the electric guitar version, there are also other versions available as well. You can find the cheapest price for the Traveler Guitar Ultra here (Amazon)

2. Learn How to Pack a Guitar for Flight

As a guitar owner, it is vital to understand how to pack up a guitar for flight as you prepare to fly. Some of the tips on how to pack a guitar include:

Loosening the Strings of Your Guitar- This helps to prevent strain caused by pressure and temperature changes on your guitar as you fly. Such changes can affect the neck of your instrument. Always do this before packing your guitar for flight.

Use Extra Paddin g- When packing your guitar for flight, make sure your guitar is properly wrapped in bubble wrap for proper cushioning, even if it is in a case. If you don’t have bubble wrap, use common household items, such as extra shirts, towels, and sheets instead. Proper padding helps to secure your guitar in place and reduce movement while it is inside the case.

If you’re going to be traveling with your guitar, learning how to pack a guitar for flight is essential.

It’s also super easy as there are only a couple of steps you need to remember.

So don’t be lazy! Properly packing your guitar could save you from causing permanent damage to it.

3. Use a Hard Shell Case

This is an obvious one that most people disregard.

I know, I know.

Hard cases can be inconvenient and a pain to lug around when compared to gig bags.

However, in terms of protection for your instrument, they can’t be beaten.

And if we’re talking about how to fly with a guitar, protection is key!

There are a thousand different ways your guitar can get damaged when you’re traveling with it.

So if you want the peace of mind, then do yourself a favor and invest in a hardshell case.

Here are a couple of hardshell guitar cases that I recommend. Just be sure to find the right shape for your guitar!

4. Book Your Plane Seat at the Front or Rear

This one will depend on your airline’s boarding policy. Some airlines will not have preassigned seating and others will.

However, if you can get yourself a good seat at the front or the rear of the plane, it’ll make your life a lot easier when flying with a guitar.

Being able to board the plane either first or last allows you to carry on your guitar case on without getting in everyone else’s way.

In addition, when you’re getting off the plane, you’ll already be close to the exit, meaning you’ll be able to grab your guitar and be the first one-off, avoiding all of the chaos.

As some who often travels, this is a pro tip that is often overlooked when people are thinking about flying with a guitar.

5. Ask to Have Your Guitar Stored Up Front

Often, if you politely express your concern about protecting your guitar to a flight attendant, they can accommodate you.

Explain that your guitar is fragile and expensive and you would like to see if there is anything they can do to help prevent it from getting damaged.

In some cases, they will have a front coat closet or storage space up front where they can keep your guitar.

Storing your guitar in overhead compartments can be inconvenient and risky since your guitar will likely shuffle around.

In addition, since your guitar cases have an unusual shape, it and end up taking up more space than normal luggage.

If you bring this up to a flight attendant, they are more likely to store your guitar up in the front of the plane because it makes it so there is less space for other passengers to store their luggage.

So to wrap things up, guitars are, in fact, allowed on airplanes.

Whenever someone gives you a hard time about flying with your guitar, just understand that the law does permit you to carry your guitar on an airplane.

You’ll be able to travel with your guitar with any of the major airlines such as American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta without any issues.

Just be sure to keep in mind that there are procedures, provisions, and guidelines on how to fly with it specifically to each airline. You should consider calling the airline ahead of time to plan your guitar haul in advance. This will save you the stress of dealing with it on the day of the trip. 

Finally, remember to pack your guitar properly before traveling. Poor packaging can cause damages which the airline don’t cover.

There are thousands of people traveling with guitars every single day. Help them out by pinning this post to your Pinterest Board!

I’m Dan Hoang. I’ve been playing guitar for over 10 years now, and I’m a total nerd when it comes to gear. I love recording music and filming guitar covers and I occasionally post them on YouTube. I’ve learned a ton over the years and would love to share some tips with you!

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Asked/Answered: What's the Best Way to Fly With My Guitar?

Make sure you can bring your guitar on vacation with you and get it there safely.

Related Gear

If you’re a guitarist and like to travel, you’ve probably thought about the best way to protect your guitar on a plane. In fact, that was one of the questions Reddit user egglicious submitted to the r/guitar forum.

Taking a guitar on a commercial airline can be rather unnerving considering all the nightmare stories you may have heard of dinged, broken or even lost instruments due to careless baggage handlers or uncooperative flight crews.

It was an issue that saw the spotlight back in 2008, when United Airlines baggage handlers in Chicago nearly destroyed passenger Dave Carroll's $3,500 acoustic guitar, and Carroll struck back after a year of unsuccessful attempts at redress by posting a video for a charmingly scathing ditty of his called "United Breaks Guitars." A viral hit, the song racked up 4 million views in just over a week, after which United finally offered to compensate Carroll. Several news outlets somewhat dubiously reported that the airline's share value subsequently dipped by 10 percent; what's certain is that United definitely got tons of bad press in the wake of the turbulent incident despite the fact that it doesn't actually break a lot of guitars.

But don’t fret too much. There is room for concern, but there are also things that you can do to give your guitar the best chance of getting to your final destination safe and sound.

Detune Your Guitar

Loosening the strings on your guitar will help deal with the changing and unpredictable temperature and pressure that comes with any flight. In addition, a humidifier can help manage the rising and falling levels of moisture inside your case. Those fluctuating variables put enough strain on the neck to snap even the strongest of woods.

Pack Your Case

Even when secured inside a case — even a hard case — a guitar can still move around, something you can minimize by using packing materials, some t-shirts, towels or anything else that’s soft to support its fragile points, like the neck and headstock. Use enough to make it slightly difficult to close the case.

You could also place a cloth in between the strings and the fingerboard to prevent friction against the frets as the guitar is jostled about.

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Gig Bag vs. Hard Case

As of March 2015, the Department of Transportation’s law that (carriers must allow passengers to stow their small musical instruments guitars, violins, etc.)in an approved stowage area in the cabin took effect. So there are pros and cons of both the hard and soft case.

A hardshell case will provide the best protection, but a gig bag offers more options when trying to place the guitar in an overhead compartment (or even in the coat closet) since it’s more compact.

For larger instruments, sometimes it is possible to secure them to a seat as "seat baggage" or "cargo in passenger cabin." Carriers are required to place large instruments in the cabin if the passenger wishing to carry the instrument in the aircraft cabin has purchased an additional seat to accommodate the instrument (which must also be in a case and not exceed 165 pounds or applicable weight restrictions for the plane).

In addition, Fender offers a slew of molded hard cases that boast TSA-approved locks and military-grade outer shells should you still want to go the road of checked baggage.

Put Your Name on It

Make sure that you’ve properly labeled the inside and outside of the case with your name, home address, and personal and work phone numbers. Airlines provide free stick-on tags, and most offer "privacy tags" that conceal this information from passers-by. If you check the guitar, be sure to get a claim check and hold on to it tight.

Fly Nonstop

Of course, it's nice to get a nonstop flight when you can, as it gets you to your destination faster. But those flights also minimize the potential for lost baggage. The likelihood of your guitar going astray increases as the number of connections increases.

Note the Value

You probably want to purchase "excess valuation" from the airline if your guitar is worth more than the airline's liability limit.

Assess Your Gear Upon Landing

As soon as you arrive at your destination and receive your guitar case, open it to see if anything is missing or damaged. Report any issues to the airline before you leave the airport and insist that the airline fill out a form and give you a copy. Get the agent's name and appropriate phone number to follow up.

With proper consideration, you shouldn't be afraid of flying the friendly skies with your beloved guitar. Yes, there are horrror stories, but these pointers should stack the odds in your favor.

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Flying with a Guitar: 7 Tips You MUST Know

Nowadays, things aren’t so simple when you’re flying with a guitar . The dynamics — and the expenses — of airplane travel have changed so much that keeping your guitar safe, nearby, and in one piece has become a lot more difficult than it should be.

Sometimes you’ll get away with stashing your axe in the overhead bin; other times you’ll get a stern communiqué from an overworked flight attendant instructing you to commit your precious guitar to the frigid no-man’s-land of the airplane’s belly. On that occasion, by all means, make a case for flying with a guitar in the cabin or in a coat closet. Just remember that a taser to the throat is the TSA’s signature response to passenger disobedience, and it leaves a mark.

Yes, in some situations all you can do is swallow hard, send your guitar to the bottom, and brace yourself for the impending ulcers. To help you avoid that situation, we offer up these 7 tips for flying a guitar , with special mention to international clinician, producer and session player  Jeff McErlain for his insights.

p.s. If you enjoy the quick tips and advice offered below, join free for more!

Flying with a Guitar

1. loosen the strings on your guitar.

Temperature and pressure changes in flight can put enough strain on your guitar to snap that perfectly angled mahogany neck — unless your strings are loose. Whether you can fit your guitar in the overhead bin or have to nervously watch as it slips out of sight on the luggage belt, you should always loosen your strings before you go flying with a guitar . Taut guitar strings have over 300lbs of tension – you don’t want that to work against you.

2. Stuff it like a turkey.

Guitars are fragile. Most of us know this. But a lot of people don’t. It’s a good idea to give your guitar some extra padding and support by stuffing a few t-shirts, socks or hotel towels into the cavities of your guitar case. Pay special attention to the headstock and neck – these are the most common break points, especially when flying with a guitar . You want to minimize movement of your instrument within the case and at the same time provide some cushion to soften blows from the drops, falls, and throws of disgruntled airport employees.

3. Know which airlines allow guitars as carry-ons.

To make it easier for you, we put together this list of airlines that are guitar friendly. If an airline is not on this list it’s because they don’t make stated carry-on exceptions for instruments or we couldn’t find any info on their site. It’s still a good idea to call ahead after checking airline websites for carry-on policies about flying with a guitar . They often have provisions for instruments.

American Airlines United Airlines Delta Southwest Airlines ( Southwest accepts instruments on a “conditional basis”; i.e, proceed at your own risk.)

* Knowing in advance what  type of aircraft you’ll be flying in will help you decide how to pack your guitar . If you’re flying with a guitar in a small commuter plane you should pack your guitar in a sturdy hard case because you will most definitely have to stow it below deck.

4. Get a travel guitar .

Why? Flexibility. Travel guitars aren’t just novelties anymore: you can get gig-worthy travel axes ranging from custom boutique jobbers to penny-pincher models. Here are a few brands to get you started:

Traveler Guitar.com ($299+) Best Travel Guitars.com voted the Speedster model a 9.7 out of 10 for best travel guitar . Though it’s not recommended for gigs or serious sessions, Jeff McErlain says, “When I go on vacation for more than a few days, I’ll bring my Speedster, a pocket Pod and a pair of headphones. That’s all I need to survive, it’s great. ”

Voyage-Air Travel Guitars ($399 +) Their motto is “go anywhere with Voyage-Air,” and they’re right. These fully featured electric and acoustic guitars fold in half (fitting into a specially made backpack) and are easily unpacked for your gig. Thom Bresh never leaves home without one.

First Act 34” Acoustic Guitar ($39.99) Yes, this is a children’s model acoustic. Which means it’s small, lightweight, and dirty-faced affordable (in case it breaks or gets lost). Not to mention it has decent tone for the casual player. I’ve been known to take one on camping trips and to potentially dangerous field parties.

5. Pack it up and ship it out.

Shipping is not always ideal for the uber-transient guitarist, but it’s a safe and viable option when flying with a guitar is not an option. If you’re going to ship your guitar within the continental United States you can expect to spend about $25 (ground) with insurance. You definitely want insurance.

6. Invest in a good guitar case.

A good, sturdy guitar case will last you a long time and it’ll pay for itself the first time your guitar makes it out alive from the wilderness of the airport luggage bay. We’re not just talking dollars and cents here – peace of mind is a valuable commodity when flying with a guitar . Take a peek at these sheaths to see what’s out there:

Gig Bags The strength of a gig bag isn’t in its nylon fabric; it’s in the negotiating power it gives you when you’re pleading your case to a stewardess.  Says Jeff, “The slim, smaller size of a gig bag means you can politely ask the flight attendant to put it in the coat check, which almost always works when flying with a guitar . And it’ll lend you extra sympathy points when you’re working the airport authorities: ‘This is a $3,000 guitar and there’s no doubt it will perish if you send it below! Couldn’t you please ask someone else if they could send their suitcase full of clothing to the bottom? Pretty please?’ Be polite, but don’t give in either.”

Also, carry a gig bag like a suitcase; you want to keep it inconspicuous, especially if it will be out of sight during the flight.  BEWARE! Take a gig bag at your own risk. There is no guarantee that you will be able to sweet talk your way out of every situation. If you’re forced to send your guitar below deck in a gig bag, you might as well have stuffed it into a pillow case.

www.casextreme.com These guys throw their guitar flight cases off roof tops and pummel them with iron hammers to prove their ruggedness. Not to mention, the company boasts a clientele of pro players as well as the U.S. military. While you could probably never take these cases as a carry-on, they do offer protection from the indigestion you’d otherwise suffer worrying about flying with a guitar in the cargo hold. Get one of these and leave the Pepto at home.

SKB SKB has been around for over 30 years and makes some of the best hardshell cases out there for transporting and protecting guitars. As a rule, form-molded, plastic cases will give you the most flexibility when flying with a guitar — just don’t expect to stow it as a carry-on.  But if you have a good case, it’ll be rugged enough to go toe to toe with the burliest of luggage handlers.

Affordable-Cases These are road cases, the kind you see roadies hauling out of tour buses and stacking backstage. Solid, rugged, and TSA-approved, they’re perhaps the best protection you can get when flying with a guitar . Like those mentioned above, you’ll never get it past as a carry-on. These babies are stow-away only and are best deployed with a foul-mouthed ex-pat Briton roadie lugging it around for you.

7. Always be polite.

No matter how much you prepare, you can’t be ready for every scenario. Your guitar could get stolen or the flight might be too full to accommodate your carry-on case. But in those rare instances of doom and desperation, the best thing you can do is keep your cool and get smart.

Jeff says: “Sometimes I just lie. I’ll say, ‘They told me at the front desk that it was fine…’ Or I’ll make sure that I get a seat in the back of the plane so I can get on first and hide my guitar behind my neighbor’s bag in the overhead bin. No matter what, flying with a guitar is a nerve-wracking experience. But when all else fails I explain that I’m willing to put it anywhere on the flight so long as it doesn’t go below. If you’re polite, respectful and make sure you stand your ground, you can get through almost anything.”

And remember, if you’re flying with a guitar that’s not replaceable then you should get evaluated by a psychologist as to why you are traveling with it in the first place.

Enjoy this article? join free for more!

7 Best Guitar Cases For Flying (+TSA Approved Models)

• August 11, 2022
• How do you safely pack a guitar for a flight?
• What are the air travel regulations for guitar cases?
• We dive deep into the best budget to premium cases for flying

Planning a flight can be stressful, and figuring out how to get your guitar onboard is the last thing you should have to worry about.

However, if you only have a gig bag for your guitar, you’ll have to consider your travel plans and your options for getting a hardshell travel guitar case instead. Whether it’s an acoustic guitar or electric guitar, it’s important to properly protect your precious cargo during a flight. 

Therefore, your best option is a guitar flight case. While some hardshell travel guitar cases are still plenty durable, a flight case rated for air travel with TSA-approved locking latches will ensure that your guitar makes it to your destination in one piece.

What Are The Best Guitar Cases For Flying?

Our best pick for guitar cases for flying is the SKB SKB-66 Deluxe Universal Electric Guitar Case . It has newly improved latches with a TSA-approved lock and can fit six-string and seven-string guitars of any body shape.

If you’re on a budget, we recommend the Sound Town Lightweight ABS Road Case for Electric Guitar with TSA Approved Locking Latch and EPS Foam Plush Interior (STEC-500) . This affordable flight case fits all double-cutaway model electric guitars and has a foam plush interior so your guitar fits snugly.

If you’re not concerned with price and can spend a little more, the Gator Titan Series Waterproof Guitar Case with Power Claw Latches for Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters is a road-ready workhorse with a waterproof plush interior, so you know it’ll hold up. 

Below, I’ve rounded up seven of the best guitar cases for flying and reviewed each of them based on quality, price, and style.

Depending on the type of electric guitar or acoustic guitar you have and your needs, there are many options available.

Here’s the list:

• SKB SKB-66 Deluxe Universal Case (Our Pick)
• Sound Town Lightweight ABS Road Case (STEC-500) (Best Value)
• Gator Titan Series Waterproof Guitar Case for Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters (Best Premium)
• Gator GTSA-GTRELEC ATA Molded Guitar Case 
• ProRockGear TSA-Latch ABS Les Paul Style Guitar Case
• Gator ATA Molded Guitar Case for Acoustic Guitars
• SKB Injection Molded Acoustic Guitar Case 

1. SKB SKB-66 Deluxe Universal Electric Guitar Case (Our Pick)

Premium protection for your electric guitar!

• High quality
• Durable and sturdy

SKB is well-known for making robust yet lightweight guitar cases to fit electric and acoustic guitars of any shape, and this one is no exception.

It’s reasonably priced and will protect your guitar while remaining TSA-compliant with its locking latches.

Key Features:

• TSA latches
• Interior aluminum valance to keep away moisture and dirt
• Accessories compartment

One of the best things about this guitar case is that even though it fits six and seven-string guitars of all body shapes, the cutout for the neck is molded so that no matter how your guitar is shaped it won’t shift around and the neck will be properly protected.

The outside is made of molded plastic which is rugged but still quite lightweight, as the case itself only weighs nine pounds. The inside has a moisture-tight aluminum shell to keep your guitar clean and dry , and the TSA-approved latches spring open so they’re easy to close without having to force the case shut.

2. Sound Town Lightweight ABS Road Case for Electric Guitar with TSA Approved Locking Latch and EPS Foam Plush Interior (STEC-500) (Best Value!)

The Sound Town STEC-500 is a lightweight ABS road case with a universal design which fits most Stratocaster and Telecaster electric guitars.

• Foam with plush lining
• Excellent protection
• Lightweight

Sound Town makes a variety of touring and pro-audio equipment racks and storage cases for studios and road warriors alike. This simple flight case won’t break the bank or your guitar, and they have a 1-year warranty which includes repair coverage.

Key Features: 

• Affordable price point at under $200

Most hardshell guitar cases cost at least $200, which is not always affordable for musicians on a budget. That’s where Sound Town guitar cases come in, as they’re a little cheaper but still have the same features as other flight cases by other brands.

This case fits most Stratocaster and Telecaster-style guitar bodies (double cutaway bodies) and has a neck cutout so your guitar won’t shift around. There’s also an accessories compartment, and the case weighs only 10 pounds.

3. Gator Titan Series Waterproof Guitar Case with Power Claw Latches for Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters (Best Premium!)

Gator's GPW-ELECTRIC ATA waterproof electric guitar case is the worry-free way to get your instrument to the gig.

• Prepunched holes for padlocks
• Extra compartment areas

Gator knows how to build a case that will withstand all sorts of touring conditions. From adverse weather to inexperienced van drivers, to 3 am games of Trailer Tetris.

When it comes to air travel, they’re still at the top of their game with this plywood case that’s rock-solid (well, wood). 

• Waterproof and dustproof rated at IP-67
• Includes TSA-approved locks and pre-punched holes on the quick-release latches
• Comes with wheels for easy transport

If you’re able to spend a little more, this Gator tour case is not only great for road travel in a tour bus or van but on a plane as well. While the latches do not have TSA-approved locks on them, the locks are included with the case so you can install them yourself.

The case is the heaviest of all our recommendations at 22 pounds, but the protection it offers is worth its weight, and the case has wheels so you don’t have to carry it everywhere.

Best of all, the Gator Titan Series is dust-proof and waterproof with a rating of IP-67, which means it can be submerged in up to a meter of water (we recommend avoiding this if possible, though!) and the interior of the case will stay dry. 

4. Gator GTSA-GTRELEC ATA Molded Guitar Case with TSA latches for Strat & Tele Style Electric Guitars 

This deluxe case's internal cavity provides a secure fit for your Strat, Tele, or like-styled guitar, and features a plush black interior to prevent scuffs and a neck cradle to prevent warping.

• Ergonomic handle
• Center latch
• Plush interior
• TSA-approved locking center latch
• Military-grade polyethylene exterior shell for ultimate durability
• Plush interior with neck cutout to protect your guitar

While this Gator case is intended mostly for Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters, it can fit other double cutaway-style electric guitar bodies too. Its exterior shell is made of military-grade materials, so you know it can take a beating.

One of the nice details is that only the center latch locks (and is TSA-approved), so it will be easier to open the guitar case for inspection if necessary, yet it’ll still be protected. At 13.6 pounds, it’s a little hefty, but its rugged construction makes up for the slight weight increase and the ergonomic handle offsets it as well.

5. ProRockGear TSA-Latch ABS Les Paul Style Guitar Case

The ProRockGear ABS Les Paul Style guitar case is comprised of hard molded plastic with reinforced bumpers and reinforced aluminum to guard your cherished instrument. 

• Raised bumpers
• Lightweight at 8 pounds
• Interior storage compartment for accessories

It can be harder to find an electric guitar case to fit a Les Paul-style guitar body since double-cutaway guitar cases are a lot more common. This lightweight durable option will protect your guitar in flight without having to spend too much.

The raised bumpers on the feet help keep the case from tipping over, adding to its stability. Depending on your guitar, you might find that the neck cutout is slightly wide, but many players had success with wrapping their fretboard cleaning cloth around their guitar neck so that it fits snugly. It also fits easily in an overhead compartment.

Looking for quality guitar accessories? Make sure to check out 7 Best Guitar Stools (That’ll Save Your Back).

6. Gator ATA Molded Guitar Case With TSA Latches for Acoustic Guitars

Plush-lined hardshell case for acoustic guitars. This lightweight and protective case fits most models.

• Neck cradle to prevent warping
• Well-padded and sealed interior
• TSA locking center latch
• Exterior shell built to military specifications
• Ergonomic molded plastic handle

This case is meant for dreadnought acoustic guitars, but depending on the body shape of your guitar, could fit a hollow body electric guitar or an acoustic-electric guitar.

The molded feet allow you to stand it upright while you’re waiting in line at the airport . Its well-padded and sealed interior will protect the body of your acoustic guitar from humidity.

7. SKB Injection Molded Acoustic Guitar Case With TSA Latches And Wheels

The SKB cases are constructed of ultra high-strength polypropylene copolymer resin and feature a waterproof and airtight, submersible design that is resistant to corrosion and impact damage. 

• Resistant to corrosion
• Molded-in hinges
• Recessed wheels on the bottom of the case that won’t break or wear down
• Pressure valve to protect against humidity and dirt

While the price on this one is a little higher, a lot of acoustic guitar cases tend to be lighter and less durable, so this is a great option if you have an expensive acoustic guitar you want to protect.

While the case itself is pretty heavy at 22 pounds, it has wheels, so this is a non-issue.

The pressure valve will help to seal the case against humidity and the elements . The case has a lot of extra storage for accessories, so everything you need for your gig will be in one place. As a plus, the interior of the case can fit left-handed and right-handed guitar models.

While this is intended for dreadnought acoustic guitars, depending on the body shape, it might fit a smaller model as well. If in doubt, check with SKB to see if your guitar will fit.

Is it OK to take my guitar on as hand luggage?

Generally, the regulations for carrying on acoustic guitars or electric guitars to a flight will vary according to which airline you’re flying and where you’re going.

In a perfect world, they shouldn’t; since 2012, there’s been a Department of Transportation rule in effect in the US which states in part that if your instrument is too large for an overhead compartment you can put it in a seat next to you in the cabin (and purchase that seat).

However, this rule still depends on how crowded your flight is and what type of plane you’re in, so it’s best to contact the airline and check specifics.

Another option is to use the storage closet aboard the plane where the crew puts their personal belongings; if it’s not a very crowded flight, talk to airline personnel and they’ll likely be willing to work with you.

If you’re flying internationally, there are no regulations, so be sure to check with the airline first and plan to arrive at least an hour earlier than usual in case something comes up.

If you’re planning to carry your guitar onto the plane rather than checking it as luggage, you should actually use a gig bag rather than a flight case, as it will give you more flexibility.

Can a guitar fit in an overhead bin?

This will depend somewhat on the size of the plane, the size of the guitar, how crowded the flight is, and the size of your gig bag or guitar case.

Generally, however, a guitar will fit in an overhead bin and take up about as much room as three carry-on suitcases.

Can you take a guitar on a plane without a case?

It’s not recommended, as then your guitar won’t be protected against bumps, drops, and scratches. Airline regulations regard guitars as carry-on luggage, so they should be in a gig bag or case just like any other piece of luggage.

Is a guitar considered oversized baggage?

Technically yes. However, unlike a snowboard or skis, for example, you’re now allowed to purchase a seat for your guitar.

Should I insure my guitar before I fly?

Insurance for your gear- whether or not you travel or tour- is always a great idea. See if you can find a policy that covers accidental damage and loss or theft.

We recommend taking photos of your instruments beforehand and noting any serial numbers or unique features in case of loss or theft.

What if my guitar gets damaged in-flight?

If your guitar is not insured and something happens to it, you’ll still be able to file a claim with the airline and might be able to get the cost of a repair or replacement covered by the airline.

However, processing might take a while and it’s not guaranteed that the repair or replacement will be covered in full.

If your guitar gets damaged, stolen, or lost during the course of your flight and you end up in your destination with no guitar or with a broken guitar, there are still things you can do. Look up local repair shops or music stores and see if there are any musical instrument rental shops in the area.

It never hurts to hit up local Facebook groups, Craiglist, or local classified ads either; you might be able to at least find a replacement for your upcoming gig, even if it’s not the same type of guitar.

You can also ask any other bands you’re playing with that night; these things happen to the best of us, and most other musicians are more than willing to lend a hand.

As much as we’ve all heard the horror stories about guitars getting damaged by TSA agents or luggage handlers, airlines are becoming more conscientious of regulations for musical instruments, and many musicians who have lost or damaged guitars during a flight have gotten them recovered or repaired.

How do I pack a guitar for a flight?

When you pack your guitar for the flight, remember that not everyone inspecting it will be as familiar with it as you. Thankfully, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent mishaps and make other people’s lives easier too.

First, take any accessories out and store them in your suitcase if you feel they might shift around during the flight.

Second, if your guitar has any specialized hardware or modifications that might get placed back in the case incorrectly during an inspection, remove them if possible or put padding around them (such as strap locks).

Third, due to shifting air pressure and altitude during the flight, the tension on your guitar’s neck might change, which can be alleviated somewhat by detuning the strings. Especially if they’re new strings, this will definitely save you some grief when you arrive.

What To Look For in a Guitar Case for Flying

In general, whether it’s an acoustic guitar flight case or electric guitar flight case, look for a case with either included TSA-approved latches or an optional add-on kit. Make sure the neck of the guitar fits snugly and is protected by a foam interior.

If the guitar case is heavier than 12 pounds or so, you might want to look for something with wheels. Thankfully, the airline regulations are on our side and there are many options out there for guitar cases for flying.

If you do your research based on our recommendations, you’re bound to find something which suits your needs. Safe travels and rock on!

Up next, make sure to check out 5 Of The best 500 Series Cases (Under $600)

Adrian Wengenroth

Adrian has a diverse background in tech, the recording industry, education, and film and television. He's passionate about the constant evolution and growth of the entertainment industry and loves trying out new tech. He’s also an advocate for preserving Internet history and can often be found browsing the Internet archives for cool and obscure media.

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Can any of the above go on board with carry on luggage?

The unmentioned enki is the superior case by far. It’s not even close.

Thanks for the suggestion, Chuck! I’m going to get the team to look into it, and we’ll consider adding it in if it indeed deserves a spot on here like you say it does!

Bought the Enkie case. It holds two electrics but they also sell them for acoustics or wide bodies. It has a great handle, wheels and it’s not oversized. With two Gibsons it’s not over weight either. I took both my Les Pauls across Canada to Pearson Airport, down to Guanajuato Mexico, then to Costa Rica, Back to Mexico City, then to Bogota Colombia, Back from Bogota to Mexico City, Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta, then a direct flight to Canada again. Not a scratch, no problems, no overage charges, no damage to the case other than a lot of scuffs and a few scratches. I have no regrets at all about buying the Enkie Case. Next flight is to Europe. We’ll see how it goes but if it can handle Latin America I’m not too too worried about Europe.

How are Hiscox not mentioned here?

Following a flight, my Hiscox case unexpectedly fell off the flatbed truck while on the highway, had a few bounces on the road, and unfortunately, got run over by a car.

On the other hand, my custom Patrick Eggle guitar survived the ordeal without a scratch.

Although the case ended up with multiple cracks, pieces of plastic falling off, and a non-functional hinge, it fulfilled its purpose perfectly.

That’s a great testimonial for them! We’re always updating our lists over time. The next time we do, we’ll definitely consider adding Hiscox! Thanks so much.

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Please check with your airline for their policy. Musical instruments must undergo screening when transported as carry-on or in checked bags. Musical instruments transported as carry-on require a physical inspection at the security checkpoint. Inform the TSA officer if your instrument requires special care and handling. Pack brass instruments in your checked bags.

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

MusicRadar's got your back Our team of expert musicians and producers spends hours testing products to help you choose the best music-making gear for you. Find out more about how we test.

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.

Related buyer's guides

• The best acoustic guitar strings to get the most from your guitar
• ...and the best electric guitar strings
• Sharpen your chops with the best practice amps
• Keep your guitar safe on the road with the best guitar cases and gig bags
• Want something even smaller? These are the best ukuleles
• Need some inspiration? Check out these gifts for guitar players

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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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Can You Bring a Guitar on a Plane?

Yes, the Transportation Security Administration allows you to take a guitar or any smaller musical instruments on a plane. However, whether you can bring guitars as carry-ons or on international flights varies by airline. 

For some musicians, leaving your favorite guitar at home during a trip can be unthinkable. But, luckily, you can take your guitar with you on a flight as well as keep it safe. 

Can You Bring a Guitar as a Carry-On?

All airlines are different, so you may not always be able to bring a musical instrument as carry-on baggage. However, since musical instruments are delicate and can easily break if you place them in checked baggage, you can usually take one instrument with you as a carry-on. 

Yet, you should always check with your airline beforehand to ensure they allow musical instruments as carry-on bags. You also need to measure your guitar and its case to make sure it does not exceed the dimensions for a carry-on musical instrument. 

It is also a good idea to board the plane early when you bring your guitar as a carry-on bag to reduce the risk of it getting checked. Similarly, you may want to get to the airport early in case you run into issues trying to bring your guitar on the plane. 

• Measuring Your Guitar Case for Use as a Carry-On

If your air service allows you to bring your guitar on a plane with you, most airlines will have rules about how big the instrument can be. They make these carry-on regulations because your guitar or other musical instrument must be able to fit in the overhead bins. 

If the guitar can not fit in the overhead compartments, it can be a danger to other passengers if there is an emergency. Thus, you’ll need to know the guitar’s dimensions if you bring it as a carry-on bag. 

To find the dimensions, you need to measure your case’s length, width, and height. 

And when you measure, make sure you take the longest measurements. So, for instance, when calculating the width, measure across the broadest part of the case or gig bag. 

Then, if you need to know the case’s linear inches to bring it as a carry-on, you should add the length, width, and height together. 

So, if your width is 15 inches, your length is 40 inches, and your depth is 5 inches, you need to add those three numbers together. You will then get 60, meaning your case is 60 linear inches. 

Read Also >> Can You Bring Safety Pins on a Plane?

Can You Bring a Guitar as Checked Baggage?

Yes, you can bring a guitar as checked baggage, but you need to be careful about how you pack it. Use heavy-duty cases instead of gig bags to reduce the risk of damage, especially to the fragile guitar neck. 

• How Do I Make Sure My Guitar is Stowed Safely in Checked Baggage?

Unfortunately, you can never be sure that your guitar is safe in the air carrier once it is out of your sight. But, there are certain precautions you can take to prevent damage to your guitar. 

For one, you should invest in a sturdy travel guitar case. 

You can use the big heavy-duty cases that musicians often take on tours, but these aren’t necessary to store your guitar properly. Plus, they can be huge and heavy, meaning you may need to pay an oversized luggage fee. 

Thus, it’s best to use a sturdy case made of hard plastic with TSA-approved locks . 

You can also use soft or squishy objects like clothes or bubble wrap to protect the instrument by giving it extra padding. You should place these cushiony items inside extra space in the case, so the guitar doesn’t move around too much. 

Read Also >> Can You Bring Aerosols/Hairspray on a Plane?

• Will I Ever Have to Put My Guitar in Checked Luggage When Bringing it as a Carry-On?

Yes, although for many of those flying with a guitar, their worst fear is having to put it into checked luggage, it could happen. 

One reason you may have to gate-check your guitar is if the plane runs out of storage space. Unfortunately, this event is out of your control, so you may end up having to gate-check that expensive custom guitar to make more space on the plane. 

The second reason is that you did not follow the stipulations for carry-on luggage correctly, so there isn’t sufficient space for you to carry on your guitar. Thus, if your guitar is too big, flight attendants may not allow you to bring it into the flight deck. 

However, if you’re lucky, a flight attendant might be able to put small instruments in the coat closet or in other approved storage locations in the passenger deck if they do not fit in the bin. 

But, if your guitar does get gate-checked, sometimes they will put a green tag on the case so you can pick it up at the jet bridge instead of the luggage carousel. Avoiding baggage claim means there is less chance of someone stealing your guitar. 

• Purchasing an Additional Seat for a Guitar

If you have a really lovely guitar, you will want to avoid injury at all costs, so putting your guitar in the overhead bin space may make you nervous. Thus, if you have the money, you might want to buy a separate ticket to ensure your guitar doesn’t get checked or placed in a storage closet. 

Read Also >> Can You Bring A Razor On A Plane?

• What if the Baggage Handlers Break My Guitar? 

If baggage handlers break or damage your guitar , you should report the incident immediately. You should also insist that the airline fill out a form and provide you with a copy to ensure they have a record of the incident. 

Rules for Different Airlines

Here are some rules to remember when traveling with a guitar on these popular airlines: 

• American Airlines 
• If you buy an additional ticket, the guitar must be in the seat next to you. 
• If you do not buy an extra seat, the guitar must fit in the overhead cabin. 
• The instrument must be in a hard-shell case to make a damage claim. 
• Delta Airlines 
• If you bring instruments as carry-on items, they must fit in the overhead bin. 
• If checked, the guitar can not exceed 150 linear inches, which gives you plenty of space even for full-size guitars. 
• Southwest Airlines 
• You can bring your guitar on board if there is space in the overhead bin. 
• Oversized baggage is 165 pounds. Items larger than this weight can not go on the plane. 

Read Also >> Can You Bring Lighters On A Plane?

• Conclusion 

You can bring your guitar with you on your flight, but you need to be careful about how you store it. 

For guitars that cost a lot of money or carry a lot of sentimental value, especially, you should probably avoid putting them in with checked bags. Instead, bring them as a carry-on or buy an extra seat.

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Leyla’s love for travel started from childhood with her family trips around the world.

Happiest when she’s living out of her backpack, she’s currently based in Liverpool. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her reading on the beach, bartending, or planning her next trip abroad.

Leyla has been working with the team since early 2020, editing, optimizing, and keeping our content tasty fresh.

Once the world has gone back to normal, she’ll be bouncing around the globe with her laptop in hand.

Can I Take My Guitar On a Southwest Airlines Flight? (Explained!)

You’ve just landed a gig in a different state and realized you need to take your guitar on the airplane.

Or, you’re about to take your dream vacation to Hawaii but don’t want to leave your guitar behind. What are your options? Can you bring a guitar on a Southwest Airlines flight? Read on for all the details.

Can You Bring a Guitar On a Southwest Airlines Plane?

You can bring your guitar on a Southwest flight as long as it is in a hard case and it fits in the overhead bin. Your guitar will count as a carry-on bag if placed in the overhead bin.

If your guitar doesn’t fit in the overhead bin (when you have a jumbo guitar for instance) you can check it in for free, in that case, make sure to follow the packing tips below!

Upgraded Boarding

To make sure there is still room in the overhead bins for your guitar. You could consider paying a fee starting from $30 for upgraded boarding.

So you can be sure you’ll be one of the first on the plane . This way your guitar doesn’t accidentally end up in the hold of the airplane because there was no room left.

To upgrade you can ask Southwest personnel at the departure gate or ticket counter for availability.

With United Airlines this upgrade starts from only $15.

Size Requirements of Your Bags

On the website of Southwest Airlines , it is stated that your carry-on bag can only be 24 inches x 16 inches x 10 inches.

For musical instruments, an exception is made and the only requirements are that your guitar is in a hard case and that it fits in the overhead bin.

Maximum Weight Requirements

Your Guitar case can have a maximum weight of 50 pounds with Southwest Airlines just like a normal carry-on bag.

So unless you plan to put some rocks in the case with your guitar, you’ll be fine.

How Much Does It Cost To Check a Guitar On Southwest Airlines?

With Southwest, you can take two carry-on bags, two checked bags plus a personal item for free (your guitar counts as a carry-on bag). A fifth bag (or guitar) will cost $75 per item. You can definitely call this a very generous southwest airlines guitar policy.

I would recommend taking your guitar with you as carry-on luggage so you can be sure it’s safe. You don’t want airport personnel to throw your guitar around.

Does a Guitar Fit In The Overhead Bin?

The overhead bins on a Southwest flight are about 50 inches wide, a standard guitar case is about 44 inches. So it’s big enough to fit regular guitars. You have to put it in sideways so that the neck is pointing towards the cockpit or tail.

Your guitar is likely going to take up three suitcase spaces, but this is allowed on an airplane. You just have to make sure you’re one of the first to board the plane so that there is still room.

How To Pack Your Guitar For a Flight.

When you are taking your guitar as a carry-on you only really need a hard case, and that’s it. But if you’re going to check in your guitar you want to protect it a little better. We’re going to cover a few things you could do.

You could consider packing your guitar like this even if you take it as a carry-on. Just in case there is no room in the overhead bins and you have to put it in the hold of the airplane.

Invest In a Good Hard Case

With Southwest airlines, you HAVE to travel with your guitar in a hard case. But that is not the only reason you want to use one.

A hard case also protects your guitar from being damaged. So make sure you buy a sturdy one!

On the other hand, you also don’t want your guitar case to be too heavy. Since you’ll be traveling with your guitar and you have to carry it around with you.

A sturdy light hard case like this one is perfect to travel with.

You Don’t Have to Loosen Your Strings

Everyone thinks that you have to detune your guitar before a flight, but that is a myth.

It is true that steel strings can create a lot of tension on the guitar, but this doesn’t really matter because all modern guitars have what we call ”adjustable truss rods” . So when there is too much tension on the neck/strings you could just adjust the truss rod.

Plus, the cabin that the luggage is stored in is climate-controlled and pressurized .

There are guitar manufacturers that ship their guitars worldwide and this is mostly done by air travel. When a guitar arrives in the store or on your doorstep it is still somewhat tuned to standard.

Use Bubble Wrap To Protect Your Guitar

Use some bubble wrap to protect your guitar inside the case. Do this especially if the case you are using is not made for the model of guitar you have, then you may have a lot of extra space around your guitar.

Make sure that your guitar sits tight and has no room to move around in the case. So stuff it with bubble wrap and put some cloth under the neck for some extra support.

Use a Lock On Your Guitar Case

It’s a good idea to use a lock on your guitar case particularly if you have an expensive guitar.

A lock doesn’t prevent people from stealing the whole guitar case but it does prevent people from peaking inside and checking if your guitar is worth stealing.

Label Your Guitar

Make sure you put a ”Fragile” label on your guitar letting the airline’s personnel know they have to be careful with your guitar.

Also, consider putting a name tag with your phone number on your case. For the rare instance that someone else carries a guitar case like you, or for when your guitar gets lost.

General Tips For Flying With Your Guitar

Don’t bring your best guitar on the plane.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but don’t bring your best guitar on the plane.

That means a guitar that is a collectible or one that has sentimental value to you or a guitar that is signed by your favorite guitarist.

You never know when something might happen to it and you really don’t want to damage your most expensive guitar.

So unless you’re a professional musician who needs to take their best guitar with them, consider leaving it at home.

Pack a Humidifier With Your Guitar

Depending on where you’re traveling the air could be very dry. Your guitar is a wooden instrument and it could get damaged if it dries out.

You can get these small humidifier bags that can fit in your guitar case. Some of the really cheap ones tend to get moldy quickly, so consider buying one of better quality like this D’Addario Two-Way Humidification System .

Book a Seat Near The Front of The Plane

If you’re going to check in your guitar and you’re not taking it as a carry-on. Make sure you’re booking a seat in the front of the plane.

That way you are one of the first to get off the plane and you’re one of the first to get to the luggage belt so you can grab your guitar right after it lands on it.

Get a Travel Guitar or 3/4 Guitar

Journey Instruments make some of the best travel guitars that can snap into two parts so it has the size of a normal suitcase.

This makes it very convenient to travel with. Plus you don’t have to go through that awkward moment when other people on the plane get irritated because you are taking up three suitcase spots.

Another option is buying a 3/4 guitar . These guitars are a bit smaller than a regular guitar, also making them more convenient to travel with.

Yes, you can take your guitar on a Southwest Airlines flight, the southwest instrument policy requires it’s in a hard case and fits in the overhead bin. You also have to make sure you’re taking the right precautions so your guitar doesn’t get damaged or stolen.

Use a hardshell case, pack some bubble wrap, put a label on it, and consider using a lock. Flying with your guitar should be a fun and easy experience as long as you take the necessary precautions.

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• Unparalleled Portability: Fits perfectly into overhead bins, under seats, or even in your backpack. Weghts 2 kg - light to take on the go but not too light to stop feeling it on your lap.
• Exceptional Sound Quality: Delivers the rich tones which you're used too - same wood options, crispy-clear alnico 5 pickups, smooth C-shaped neck.
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'Roughest landing': Watch video of plane bouncing off runway as it attempts to land at LAX

A Boeing 747 operated by Lufthansa Airlines ran into a couple of bumps as it landed at LAX Airport in Los Angeles.

Video footage of the landing, captured by Airlines Videos Live , shows the aircraft skidding on the runway and then bouncing off the ground as it attempts to land. The plane then takes off again, flying for a few minutes before successfully landing.

"What? Whoa, whoa, whoa," the commentator of the livestream could be heard saying. "We're getting that go around. Holy moly. Wow. That is the roughest landing I think we've ever caught on our broadcast."

A Boeing 747-8 Lufthansa flight was scheduled to land around 1 p.m. ET at LAX after a more than 11-hour flight from Frankfurt, Germany, LAX's website shows.

Columnist: Another Boeing plane issue? Don't fall for the headlines.

No injuries reported

Lufthansa Airlines, in an email statement to USA TODAY, said that Flight LH 456 from Frankfurt to Los Angeles had a "rough landing" Tuesday. 326 passengers and 19 crew members were on board the flight and no injuries were reported.

The airline said the plane later flew back to Frankfurt following "an assessment by the cockpit crew, a consultation with the technical department on site and in Frankfurt and an initial visual inspection," where it will undergo further inspection. Lufthansa did not specify if the plane flew back empty or had passengers on board.

Airline Videos Live captures planes as they take off and land at LAX Airport. The livestream was created in 2019 by Los Angeles TV News photojournalist Kevin Ray, according to the YouTube channel account description .

While Boeing incidents have been in the news in recent months after a series of high-profile incidents , aviation experts maintain you shouldn't worry about flying .

“We don’t have to worry that there’s something systemically wrong with aviation,” Clint Balog, an associate professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, previously told USA TODAY.

Contributing: Staff, USA TODAY

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @saman_shafiq7.

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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A badly confused airline passenger was caught on camera losing her cool at Los Angeles airport workers in an expletive-laden tirade — only to find out she was in the wrong terminal and yelling at the wrong people all along.

The woman was filmed lobbing f-bombs and a list of near-incoherent demands at a row of workers after apparently missing her Delta Airlines flight, according to alarming footage captured by TMZ .

“Get me the f–k up on the next flight you motherf–kers!” she yelled while storming around the check-in desk with her bag and neck pillow ready to fly nearby.

“Get me up on the next flight!” she then screamed.

“Call Pete Buttigieg right now! Call that motherf–ker right now!” she declared, apparently hoping the nation’s Secretary of Transportation might step in to save her.

“That useless motherf–ker,” she added, breathlessly, insisting she was ready to call him in herself.

“Get me up on the next flight. And pay for that s–t.”

As she made her rounds about the check-in she punctuated her demands with a fist on the countertops, but all she seemed able to do was make the staff laugh and passersby gawk at the spectacle.

Eventually, somebody informed her that she was not in fact admonishing staff from Delta Airlines — her intended target — but that she was pouring fire on the ears of workers for WestJet — a Canadian airline.

“You’re not Delta?” she said as she broke into a broad grin and she stumbled back, lurching and giggling to herself as the desk broke out in laughter, too.

It is unclear if they were laughing with her or at her.

It also remains unclear whether she found Delta Airlines, or what became of them if she did.

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10 Things You Should Never Wear on a Plane — and What We're Replacing Them With From $6

Shop comfy sneakers, cozy layers, and more essential items to best prepare you for your next flight.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

People / Madison Woiten

Packing for a trip is stressful enough, but choosing the right outfit to wear on the plane is a land mine for potential mistakes that can throw your flight into flux. No matter if you’re dressing for comfort or style , there are quite a few no-no’s of air travel that should be avoided in order to ensure a smooth trip — but don’t worry, we’re here to help.

No matter how long your flight is or where you’re headed, we’ve outlined the 10 most common fashion mistakes that travelers make and the easy swaps to try along the way. From trading in open-toed shoes for a more sensible option to always having a cozy layer on hand , here’s how to ace your next flight with Amazon essentials starting at just $6.

Don't Wear: Open-toe Shoes

Wear this instead: comfy walking sneakers.

Leaving your toes exposed during a flight is not ideal. After all, sandals lack support and warmth, plus it’s unlikely that the floor of the plane has been cleaned in a while. These supportive Puma sneakers are an excellent alternative because not only will they get plenty of wear on vacation, but they also keep your feet insulated and protected. Plus, they’re on sale for 30 percent off at Amazon right now.

Don't Wear: Pajamas

Wear this instead: a versatile loungewear set.

You may be tempted to wear pajamas to maximize comfort, but when you’re traveling you want to make the most of your wardrobe — and anything you wear on a plane, you shouldn’t also wear into your clean sheets. A cozy alternative is this stylish two-piece set that can be styled in multiple ways throughout your trip, all while keeping you as comfy on your next long-haul flight. The half-zip sweatshirt is a great layer to easily take on and off during your travels, while the drawstring pants are the picture of sleek loungewear. Not to mention, it’s available in 21 gorgeous colors, like hot pink and green .

Don’t Wear: Your Engagement Ring

Wear this instead: an affordable alternative.

From theft to loss, there are too many things that can go wrong when wearing your engagement or wedding ring while traveling. With that in mind, it’s worth picking up a simple band that won’t draw attention to your jewelry, like this basic tungsten ring that’s only $17. The material is scratch-resistant, hypoallergenic, and comfy to wear, while coming in a wide range of sizes to fit all travelers.

Don’t Wear: Fragrance Deodorant

Wear this instead: unscented deodorant.

When you’re spending an extended amount of time in an enclosed space such as an airplane, there’s an unspoken rule to avoid strong scents such as perfume or deodorant to keep you (and other people on your flight that may be sensitive to smells) comfortable. This long-lasting, natural deodorant from Native offers an impressive 72 hours of odor control, plus it’s aluminum- and baking soda-free. You can still feel as fresh as the moment you left your house once you de-plane, just without the overwhelming traditional deodorant scent.

Don’t Wear: an Open-top Purse

Wear this instead: a zippered bag.

The chaos of boarding the plane and getting settled leaves far too many opportunities for your purse to spill over, so it’s not advisable to travel with an open-top tote that can’t safely be stowed under your seat. Instead, try investing in a zippered, anti-theft purse that will serve you well throughout the duration of your travels, all while keeping your belongings safe and secure from takeoff to landing. This shopper-loved option from Travelon is fitted with several reliable zippered pockets alongside an RFID-blocking pocket, providing peace of mind in the form of a wearable and sleek bag. The adjustable crossbody strap and convenient magentic snap flap are just icing on the cake.

Don’t Wear: Ankle Socks

Wear this instead: compression socks.

Inflammation and swelling are incredibly common during air travel, and if you often find yourself struggling with discomfort, you’ll benefit from swapping traditional ankle socks for a pair of these best-selling compression socks . Made from a high-quality spandex blend, these socks are lightweight and breathable, promoting healthy circulation in your legs for lessened fatigue and swelling during your trip. In fact, flight attendants have even called them “perfect” for air travel. 

Don’t Wear: Stiff Denim or Trousers

Wear this instead: slacks with an elastic waistband.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look your best on a flight. However, you’ll never regret prioritizing your comfort during longer trips, and these elastic waistband trousers are the perfect alternative to traditional denim. Still effortlessly stylish without digging into your skin, these flowy, cropped pants feature deep pockets, a trendy crop, and they’re made from 100 percent cotton. Did we mention they’re just $30 at Amazon? 

Don’t Wear: Claw Clips

Wear this instead: a soft scrunchie.

Ever tried getting comfortable against a headrest while wearing a claw clip? Well, if you haven’t yet, we certainly don’t recommend starting now. Claw clips may be stylish, but they’re not the most comfortable headwear to sport on a plane. Instead, pick up a pack of these satin scrunchies that keep your locks healthy and luscious without causing creasing or breakage. At just $8 for a pack of five, the scrunchies are just under $2 apiece.

Don’t Wear: a Tank Top

Wear this instead: a comfy layer.

Even if you’re headed to a warm weather destination, make sure to pack an extra layer. Airplane cabin temperature is notoriously fickle, quickly oscillating from hot to cold, so don’t forget to keep a cozy cardigan tucked into your carry-on suitcase. We like this sleek open-front cardigan that’s currently 54 percent off thanks to an on-site coupon. The cardigan is equipped with deep pockets and has a breathable, airy design that’s practically made for traveling.

Don’t Wear: an Underwire Bra

Wear this instead: a bralette or sports bra.

Longhaul flights are tedious enough, why make them worse by wearing an underwire bra that’s guaranteed to dig into your skin throughout the entire duration of the trip? Of course that doesn’t mean that you have to entirely forego support, and this Hanes seamless bralette is a far more comfortable choice. The breathable, ribbed material keeps you cool regardless of the temperature on your flight, and the smooth and supportive fit will immediately have you trading in your underwire bras. Best of all, it’s even available in sizes ranging from XS to 2XL, with a major discount bringing the price down to just $6.

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Is Southwest about to end its free-for-all seating?

The company says it is ‘very seriously studying’ alternatives to its signature open-seating system.

Southwest Airlines fans know the drill: Check in to your flight exactly 24 hours in advance and secure your spot in line to board the plane. What seat you’ll end up in? That’s a mystery until the last minute.

A puzzle to some and an invigorating challenge to others, Southwest’s unique boarding process and one-class cabin are now under the microscope as the airline looks for ways to prop up its financial performance. In a call with investors Thursday, Southwest CEO Bob Jordan said executives are “very seriously studying” seating and the way passengers board the planes.

“It’s been several years since we last studied this in-depth, and customer preference and expectations change over time,” Jordan said. “We are also studying the operations and financial benefits of any potential change.”

Unlike most airlines, Southwest doesn’t have a premium section on its planes that commands higher fares. Where other carriers might charge extra for a cushy seat in the first few rows or an extra-legroom option near the front, Southwest customers can grab whatever seat is open. A spot near the front won’t come with any additional frills, however.

In a news release announcing quarterly earnings, a conference call discussing those results and an interview with CNBC , representatives said they were taking a deep look at customer preferences around seating and boarding. The current open-seating system was put in place when airliners were generally less full, the company said, noting that preferences change as planes fill up.

“There’s no decision, there’s nothing to report other than we are seriously looking at this,” Jordan said in response to a question about seating. “But early indications both for our customers and for Southwest look pretty darn interesting.”

While Southwest has contemplated the possibility of assigned seating for nearly two decades at least , the review has accelerated over the past six months, the CEO said. Jordan said the company will say more during an event for investors in September. The company has also recently said that it is preparing to add red-eye flights in the next couple of years.

Today, Southwest passengers can pay more to end up in a better seat, even without picking that seat in advance. Upgrades that provide priority boarding and early check-in give customers the first pick of spots. The airline makes “hundreds of millions of dollars” from those upgraded boarding options, executives said last year.

“They’re in kind of a pickle regarding revenue generation, so they’re looking at everything,” said Robert W. Mann, a consultant and former airline executive. “I think what they have seen is that when they’ve tweaked their existing cattle call … they find it to be very lucrative.”

He said that if the airline could deliver a more “pleasant” boarding process, or seat selection for a fee, it would probably be attractive to travelers.

“There’s nothing about their boarding process that they couldn’t improve,” Mann said.

Travel analyst Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group , said he did research more than a decade ago that found a large number of people avoided Southwest because it did not offer extra-legroom seats, assigned seats or a premium business-class cabin. He said that the airline could make “an enormous amount of money” by adding assigned seating — and that travelers would probably welcome knowing what seat they would end up in.

“I think it could be an incredibly positive thing for the airline, but I recognize that Southwest has a more-than-50-year history of being egalitarian, of having open seating and being different from other airlines,” he said.

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.