Traveling with a guitar by car is simple; even a gig bag will do if the guitar is not exposed to extreme heat or cold. Traveling with your guitar on a plane can be a much bigger hassle, and if it’s your first time traveling with your instrument via plane, there are a few important things that you should know, even before you purchase your plane tickets. Some airlines may make accommodations for traveling musicians, but others have strict rules about baggage.

1. Use a Case: A gig bag isn’t suitable for traveling on an airplane. Luggage is often handled roughly when changing flights or coming down the conveyer belt. Pack accessories such as your capo, picks, & slides in another form of luggage so that they don’t come loose in-transit.

2. Button Up: Make sure all of the clasps on the hard-shell case are closed tightly. If you are able to lock the guitar with keys, it is best to do so. Different airlines have different rules about locks on all luggage, so it’s always best to check with the airline first.

3. Carry-on: When checking in at the luggage counter, ask if you can bring the guitar with you as a carry-on. Some airlines do allow this. If it is not allowed, ask them to carry your guitar to the loading area as opposed to tossing it onto the conveyor belt. Also, it is always possible to buy a seat on the plane for your guitar if it is extremely fragile. This is an expensive option, but one to keep in mind.

4. Tag Your Bag: Many guitar cases look alike and you may not be the only musician on the plane! Put an identifying mark on your hard-shell case, so when you retrieve your luggage, you will easily be able to identify your guitar.

5. Stay Loose: Detune and loosen your strings before traveling. Often, TSA will reach inside of the guitar to check for contraband or other items, so before leaving for the airport, detune the guitar yourself. This lowers the possibility of damage when your guitar is checked.

Safe travels and…

Keep Rockin’!!!!

Guess I’ve Got That Old Traveling Bone by another.point.in.time ©March 28, 2011
Mojave guitar cases by Derek K. Miller ©July 25, 2009