what about the reunion blues or midnight rider guitar bags? or other kinds of hardshells, like tweed or fender hard cases? a little variety please sir..
One thing you did not mention is that your soft case travels on you back. A hard shell case you have to carry it with your hand. It frees up both hands when traveling thru the airport.
Delta starts boarding by calling for preboards and they say it’s for anyone who needs a little extra time boarding. They don’t question why you need the extra time. As long as you manage to be there when they start boarding you just smile and walk on with your guitar.
Haven't had to fly with a guitar yet, but I did used to fly over 100K miles a year for work. Always be kind and polite to airline employees, hotel employees, etc. You'd think it would go without saying, but I've witnessed plenty of customers being downright abusive to these workers, especially if there are weather delays or at hotels if there's a conference in town, etc. A little kindness and appreciation go a long way and occasionally gets you an upgrade you didn't even ask for because you were the one customer who treated that employee with respect that day. They will help you if they can and you treat them well.
Here in Canada, I take my Gibson with hard shell, when flying. It goes perfectly in the overhead storage. Underneath the plane?......that's just stupid. Bring a 3rd rate guitar that does the job and cost nothing to replace.
As a guitar player who's been playing for almost 45 years and also an employee of Southwest Airlines for over 20 years, I concur with everything you say in this video. Concerning Southwest Airlines, I would recommend the Business Select option as it puts you in the first group of 15 passengers boarded after the preboard passengers.
Bags for electrics, cases for acoustics. Bags mostly for pockets for me, they really carry a lot of stuff. I really liked #6. "If you let me, I'd love the opportunity".. this is just a great life concept in general for dealing with people and how to ask for something. Nice job Rhett, really great video, thanks and keep them coming!
Yes sir, some airlines are unfriendly. My rules are Les Paul in ABS case unmarked even though I have Gibson flat ABS cases. My Strat goes into a Fender 620 case to carry on! Never ever leave your gear on the transport, except a tour bus because there is usually someone guarding it. Do not be discouraged when something does walk off, because if you tour alot you lose gear. Do not let it get you down!! That is why you need all your gear covered by insurance in your contract!!! Demand it. It does not give you back your favorite instruments, but it does take the bite out of the lost. Musicians inventory insurance!!
A couple of things I found out: 335 size guitars do not fit overhead on most flights. Hence, I have never actually travelled with my semi-hollow. I actually travel with a cheaper instrument, really brings the stress level down :)
Great vid! Also: if you do not manage to get the guitar into the passenger cabin but it ends down in the plane's cargo area DO NOT FORGET to loosen the tension of the strings!!! If you do forget, you might open your bag or case when you arrive to your destination and find broken strings, pulled bridge or even damaged guitar neck (if it is a finer classical instrument). Happened to an acquaintance of mine a few years back. He learnt the hard way. Now, you do not need to... ;)
Good stuff. A few more tips: Try to travel SouthWest if possible. Try to do early check-in. GO STRAIGHT TO THE BACK OF THE PLANE!!! There's usually more room back there in the overheads with fewer people because most folks want to get off the plane as fast as possible so they fill up the front quickly. If you have to gate check and there is someone there that is responsible for putting the instrument under the plane, TIP THEM!!! Slip them $5-$10 and ask them to take care of your baby. It has gone a long way for me! Pack as light as possible!
I would add: fly direct whenever possible. A stopover doubles the potential for every kind of problem - difficult gate agents, delays, even the outright loss of checked luggage. Which usually contains my pedals, cables and stage clothes.
Hardcase, always. Mine is signed by Brian May which makes me look out for the instrument even more. Of I ever lost it or damaged it... I could never forgive myself
Also, be careful when leaving your guitar in a coat closet. When I flew to the states with my guitar, a flight attendant helped me store my guitar at the very end of the plane. I had to wait until everyone had left to retrieve it later. I had to wait in the US customs line for over 2 hours because I was at the very end. I wasn't in a hurry, so it turned out fine. Just another thing to consider.
Simple. Mark the tubes with tape and pen. Remove the tubes and wrap them properly so the glass don't break. Put bouncy things in the corners and stretch plastic. Now it is safe, doesn't matter how you get the amp to the place you want.
Bands have travelled with their amps in roadcases. Unfortunately the only way is putting it through the baggage area where it could get wrecked, so I'd follow the other guys advice and at least secure the tubes before putting it in the roadcase for the plane.
yeah i'd go with rent locally for your amp or bring digital set up and rent cabs . . . unless you have a pro roadie crew with flight experience and can pack amps for traVEL or pay overweight and bring a USA made Peavy tube amp (head and cab or combo) and use mailing packing tactics
I used to have a great Gig beg that had a steel hook and chain at the headstock end in a pouch so that the gig bag could be hung from the closet Brett described. Many dressing rooms have racks to hang your bag that contains your gigging clothes or hotels have rolling racks for the same purpose and that hook can be a lifesaver. I have not seen many new cases with this feature but its great to have.
I'm a cruise ship musician so I fly with my guitar(s) often. I use Mono soft cases (which are surprisingly protective) and carry them on. I always pay extra to be in Group 1 so there's room in the overhead. If I'm on a regional jet the overheads are too small so they have to be gate checked. My cases are all marked FRAGILE in bold lettering so the baggage handler is aware. I've never had any issues with a gate checked guitar. Before Mono cases I used ATA flight cases which have to be checked, are heavy and a pain in the ass. Glad I switched. Good video!
Great video. A couple of additional pro tips: 1/ If your gig bag has a strap, when you approach the counter at boarding to ask permission, slide the bag onto the shoulder furthest away from the agent, so it's partially obscured. They can still see it's a guitar gig bag but it doesn't look as large-it can make the difference between them quickly agreeing to let you carry on or resisting. 2/ If the airline insists on gate checking your guitar and you wanted to carry on (which you always should), they will tie a gate check tag onto your gig bag. While you're walking down the jet bridge to board, surreptitiously and nonchalantly yank the tag off and "accidentally" drop it on the floor of the jet bridge. When you reach the door of the plane to board, politely ask if the guitar can go in the coat closet. Guess what? I've never seen a situation where the FA at the door checked to see if your gig bag got tagged. If it doesn't have a tag they are guaranteed to assume either that they already gave you permission to carry on, or they forgot to tag it at the counter, and either way it's a situation where they always fall back on putting the guitar in the coat closet. It's worked for me every time.
I agree with Rhett. A sturdy gig bag is the way to go, and the airline tips are spot-on. Asking for help, and being nice about it is the key. Amazing how many folks will help you if your just ask nicely. Southwest Airlines is great... Just don't bring gear that you will not use. The extra weight and bulk are not worth it. Super video Rhett! I wonder what Rick and Dave think?
Mono gig bag all the way! Currently have the Mono dual acoustic electric model and works great. Usually have to check it in here in Australia, but always comes out the other side fine with a prayer :) Before that had one of those semi-hard cases for my acoustic and it was fantastic. Numerous flights to and from the US to Japan, Korea, Australia. Lived a long life of over 10 years. Loving the new mono life though. Almost been a year now.
I checked my Ovation in a SKB molded case and viewed the airport workers “loading” it on to the conveyer going to the plane’s cargo hold. They slammed the case onto the conveyer so hard it bounced! The guitar was not damaged one bit, but I replaced the case after getting back home.
Well, Rhett, I must say thank you for this wealth of information. While no professional, I have had occasion to fly both domestically and internationally with guitars along. One thing that I am pleased that you mentioned was the "personality" thing. I have had little trouble traveling with guitars that came from people. Partially, this is because I have the knack of charming people. It isn't hard for me, as I can usually find something nice to say to someone and mean whatever it is. The subject matter is less important than sincerity and a nice smile/grin. Being pleasant to people from the start can really smooth things along. Best part is the cost: NOTHING! I don't know when I'll fly next, but I'll try to remember to ask about coat closets BEFORE asking about gate checking. The closets would obviously be tons better than most other storage compartments. Much of the rest of your advice I've generated for myself, after making mistakes which drove home the need for solutions. Your solutions are solid. I'm sure that many people have benefited and will benefit from the content of this video.
Flying with your guitar - a subject near and dear to me. Good tips here and mirrors my own experience. However, the high end sturdy bags often weigh quite a bit and get heavy on the shoulder walking through large airports and then waiting for transportation. It's a fine line between finding a bag that is light weight but also offers protection for the guitar. Also, the thick padded bags won't fit as easily into the overhead bins. With a slimmer bag, I find I can usually lay it on top of smaller suitcases and coats. My last tip is after you have stowed your guitar in an overheard bin, close that bin. Other passengers will assume that bin is full. Then watch the bin closely and be ready to adjust your guitar if another passenger or flight attendant needs space in the bin where the guitar is located. I have other tricks on this subject as well. Main tip as Rhett mentioned, is to be friendly to the flight attendants.
This was one of your most valuable videos. Thank you for this insight, bro. Lots of good insights here! I'm glad I continued watching it despite the fact it's a sponsored video. Most of those across UA-cam tend to suck.
I live in Switzerland and I’m from San Francisco, so I travel back-and-forth several times a year. I usually bring my GS mini. I also usually fly business, so bringing my guitar on board isn’t a big deal, but when I travel around Europe in coach, and I fly some of the smaller airlines, I actually purchase a ticket for my guitar. It’s the only way I can travel with it without checking it. The second thing was that I went through the TSA at SFO, and my guitar bag always gets pulled for inspection. I was talking to the TSA guy and he said there’s something that looks like it’s in your guitar, and we were trying to figure it out, and I was like oh wait a minute, that’s my humidifier pack. I thought I was going to have to surrender my humidifier pack. I was surprised that he let me keep it in the guitar. My advice is to take humidifier packs out of your guitar before you travel. They’re kind of pricey, and you don’t wanna have to surrender it up if you don’t have to. I’ve had a lot of positive Experience as well flying. But then again I’m not a douche. I’m always really nice and I try to be considerate.
Really right on video about traveling with an electric guitar. The only thing I would point out in addition is it's a good idea to once you've booked the flight and again when you confirm your flight, take a minute to look up the airplane. If you know the odds of you gate checking your instrument are higher then bring a hard shell case and make sure the guitar is snug in there. I've only had to gate check a guitar once but I knew so in advance so I brought a Strat in a form fitted hard shell case. When they gate checked the guitar I saw the baggie handler THROW my guitar into the plane. He broke the handle of the case but the guitar survived. Good Job Rett.
Used your approach to bring my guitar as a carry on today with Air Canada and it worked out great. First to board in economy class. Thanks for the great vid.
@@kendrakrust1244 There are no objective cons whatsoever. The only con would be not liking the way they look which is understandable although I personally love them. Many headless guitars even have bodies that are similar to normal guitars. I'm partial to the paddle shape because I use flatwound strings and a brighter guitar actually balances the dark tone of my weird choice in strings (and my weird choices over all come to think of it). Have a look at Strandberg, Legator, and Kiesel if you want larger bodied headless guitars though.
Excellent video and great advice! I would add two points: 1. For domestic flights in the US, it's the law the airline has to allow you to take your "small musical instrument" (AKA a guitar) on the plane *if there is room for it in the overhead compartments when you board* - another reason you want to be one of the first people to board the plane. 2. Every time you interact with airport staff (security, gate agent, baggage handler, flight attendant, whatever...) be friendly and respectful, and try to make a personal connection. They'll be more likely to help you - by allowing you to put the guitar in the coat closet, or by taking extra care when putting it in the cargo hold if you're forced to gate-check, or whatever else may happen. I have a Mono M-80 that I love. It's a great case for guitar - it's even protected the neck of my Les Paul in the cargo section of a few planes (gate checked, of course). As a repair tech, I generally recommend a hard case for storage, a good quality gig bag for travel.
i don't like your take on "dont use the original case because it helps the resale value" maybe if it was an super old guitar that would be valid but buying a second case would defeat the point of your "savings" Also I like to enjoy my things not save it for whoever buys it off me later. I actually have never sold any of my guitars and I think most people are not super collectors and would rarely sell their instruments as well.
That’s your opinion man. Rhett is a professional musician. And a huge part of being a player is trading and selling a. It’s great that you hold on to all of your things, but I think that his take on taking care of original cases is incredibly valid. I do the same with my 60’s strat my 70’s Sg and so on. People want original cases when you trade or sell those things. So why not take care of them like you would the guitar?
The thing is that the guitar and case is delivered as a set, a serious collector would most likely want the complete set in its best condition. There is no reason to use the original case to travel with, you can use it at home.
Great video! I travelled with my guitar a few times in the past year. Everything you said is right. The one thing that you dod not mention is to detune the guitar...you are changing altitudes, temeratures and humidity...I read years ago that there can be enough small changes to have a major issue depending on the guitar. As for traveling with your main guitar, I would suggest a loved backup over a main guitar. Two years ago I was traveling with my Epiphone AJ 200...I bought it a decade ago for $100...upgraded the nut and saddle to bone, put a LR Baggs Ibeam in there...its a cool busking/campfire guitar. I even got a few of my favorite players to sign it. The only thing was when I was at the gate looking on Reverb to see how much they run for if I have to replace it. At that time a used Epiphone AJ 200 was $300 with case and no upgrades...my O ring puckered a bit at that. Fortunately I had no major issues. It flew in the overhead going to my destination and gate checked on the way back. Just minor scuffing going through baggage on the way back. Last year did the same trip with my beat to shit Yamaha FG 160 that just has an LR Baggs M1 passive on it. This thing was an old church guitar and beat up. Got ot for $100 and a pack of smokes...I don't smoke, it just made the sale more interesting to tell. So added the pickup and Thomastic strings after, the idea is to get every little bit of potential out of the instrument with minimal investment. It went in the overhead both ways. Coming back I did buy vinyl so I had to tie that to my backpack to count as one bag.😉 So either trip I was fortune. I detuned my guitar at the airport before I got onboard. I will also mention that I strongly recommend being polite and friendly when dealing with TSA, the front counter or the flight staff. Saying that you are patient and that you appreciate their effort (regardless of if they are or are not doing anything extra) goes a long way. Keep in mind they have to deal with several idiots per flight and they deal with many flights a day...don't be that jerk. Even if things don't go your way, being polite and thanking them for trying may just be the little gratuity that gets them to help you. If not, in the future avoid that airline.
I'm not a gigging musician but I used to fly to Brazil every year when I was younger and having my guitar with me was as important as having underwear =) It's a hit or miss with American Airlines. My dad works for them and I got to fly with them for free so that was my only option. One of the reasons why I got a Taylor GS mini was bc of the nice case that came with it. There were times when they were super nice and would put my guitar in the coat closet for me, other times they were rude and made me check my guitar...it just depends if they're stressed or not or if the flight is full. Either way, the GS mini case made me comfortable enough to take my guitar into the airplane or check it at the gate. Prior to purchasing my GS mini when I first started learning guitar I'd stuff my gig bag with t-shirts and socks. Definitely don't get a hard case to fly bc all hard cases have to be checked (at least with American). Been there, done that =/
I had a gig in Egypt in which we had to stop in Istanbul then take a small flight to Sharm El Sheik to perform the World Youth Forum in front of the president of Egypt amongst other world leaders. Needlessly to say I've never been through more high security check points in my life BUT I managed to keep my guitar on me the whole time without issue until our return flight at a check point in Turkey the gate officer found my guitar multi tool and then proceeded to find any way he could to demonstrate that it was a weapon...it was tossed in the trash but the guitar flew safely in the overhead above me :) long story short, it can be done just be smart about it
I once bought a guitar case made of EVA material, which is very convenient and durable. What I like most is that it can be carried on the back or at the side.
Excellent tips on flying. Another reason to hold the guitar in front of you (and you gave a couple of really good ones) as you board is that it makes it appear smaller-- gives it a lower profile that is less daunting to the crew, appears to take up less space and therefore more likely to engender sympathy and cooperation. My only experience with travel damage was at a local gig. My 335, in a Gibson hard case, was propped against an amp waiting to be loaded out. It was jostled slightly and fell onto its face on a hard floor, breaking the headstock. Hard cases are not the great protection I thought they were-- in fact, the very rapid deceleration of the guitar when a hard case hits the floor is far more damaging than a case with some "give" to it. Bridges and guitar cases need to roll with the punches. And most incidents involve dropping or bumps, not crushing forces. Thus fully embracing my sample bias, I'm now a gig-bag guy.
Good vid Rhett! Yes I mostly use a gig bag and while 90% of our shows are drive-to, I have flown to Europe and Hawaii multiple times with guitars. In every instance I asked politely and they offered the coat closet for storage. The crews were great and never gave me any hassle. Cheers from The Road Dogs Band in SoCal!
I use a Small Dog climate case on top of the hard case for my acoustic but don't fly to gigs. It cost $140 about 20 years ago and has held up great. There's a shoulder strap for long walks from the car to the venue, it insulates from heat & cold, and has a large zip compartment for cables & stuff (but I keep most of that in a separate shoulder bag. Carrying the hard case inside the small dog IS heavier than a gig bag, but my Taylor 710ce L-1 has safely visited hundreds of venues this way, as did my Taylor 1995 GAMC did for years before that. Works well for me and I don't have to remember to bring all my partial capos, tuner, and special picks, they're always in the hard case.
My Gibson hardcase fits perfectly into a semi hollow gig-bag, so... both! its so convenient to have the protection of the case as easy to carry as the bag
For airlines, I unscrew the neck from the body, wrap everything in blankets and put them into a hard plastic suitcase. Then pad out gaps. I’m going to get foam with cutouts which will fit the suitcase. Nobody sees a guitar and everything is well protected. The only issue on longer journeys could be cold but i’ve never had any issues with tuning after reassembling.
Hard case is an absolute must for an acoustic guitar, I’ve used almost every trick you mentioned for domestic flights, definitely worth it to just pay the small fee for upgraded boarding and have the peace of mind. OHSC+overhead bin is totally groovy.
Rhett I am so so glad you made this video. it’s always a great idea to take off any backpacks (and hold them in front) when entering an airplane plane not just with guitars. Somehow I’ve always done it by instinct and now it makes complete sense
Both gig bags and hard cases have their uses, its nice to be reassured that your guitar is safer(less prone to damage and can be locked) when its in a hard case but the shoulder straps on a gig bag are life savers for when you need to carry a pedalboard, amp, and guitar at the same time.
I've been giging all around the world with three guitars (J45, duesenberg, Nylon Taylor) for the last 6 years and I've always check my guitar. I found a trick, I put all of my guitar in a trick case and wrap them together. So that way I save money for extra luggage (I just paid for one extra), and the fact that they are wrap together they are protect! I've been doing more than 30 shows per year overseas and never had a problem. Cheers!
in the 80's-early 90s l was in a band and worked musical retail. We did some gigs in england and across the channel and came back to texas broke. The next time we did l bought a Steinberger guitar and a digitech single rack space valve efx, the old silver one very hard to find now but everything had to fit in the overhead on a plane and it did. Brilliant. Replace the Valve efx with a axe fx or helix now. While the drummer ,keyboard and bass player were sorting out backline rented gear l was wearing out eur-rail passes. The Steiny guitar was the key. l still have it 30 years later.
Hi, I have flown with the mono vertigo twice, checked under the fragile and oversized luggage section. No issues so far. The airlines have flown with have a very strict hand-carry baggage policy, and will not allow anything over certain dimensions to be hand-carried, which includes guitars. Even strandberg headless guitars exceed the specified length.
I've actually had no problems flying with United with my guitar. And any qualms within the USA regarding that, I refer to the 2012 FAA Act that states an instrument can be brought on so long as it fits in the overhead compartments. Thus, when flying, I find the most important thing being to check the plane model and the size of the overhead bins. I do get questions, but I find factually stating the length of my guitar and the length of the bins makes people recognize I've done my research. International flights are a whole different, story, however, which I find is super dependent on each airport, connecting flight airport security, and individual airlines.
I agree, getting my guitar into that closet at the front of the airplane, where the crew hangs their coats, is key. That’s my main objective when boarding.
You may have mentioned this but if not - If the guitar is going to end up in the cargo hold - loosen the strings! Extreme temperature changes can occur quickly and the wood will expand/contract faster than the steel strings. Guitars with tremolo may be less prone to issues in this scenario but why chance it. I learned this the hard way. I knew but forgot, busted headstock and the guitar was extremely cold when I got it yet it is was summer. Could have been poor handling but I now always loosen the strings first.
+1 on the Mono Vertigo, I’ve brought it with me to I think 7 different countries now? I’ve brought a strat, a jazzmaster, and even my ‘71 SG in it on planes. I’ve had to check it before (the most nerve wracking experience I’ve ever had) and everything was completely fine. I’d also recommend getting the Tick, it’s the little pouch that attaches to the case, you can fit so much stuff in them and because it’s attached the airport can’t charge you like it’s another item!
Soft case. Which is the sturdier gig bag type. I like the Gator Pro cases. Very sturdy and supportive. Quite a bit cheaper than mono, I don't have one of those to compare, but the Gator seems stiffer and has more compartments. The Gruv Gear bags looked good too. In Europe, at least here on Schiphol with KLM they have a sequence for boarding. First the families with children then seating from the rear to front. First class has a separate line. Not much cooperation in getting in earlier. I took take a bolt on neck guitar and disassembled it and packed it in a normal suitcase. On a flight to Thailand I didn't want to run into a situation like Guthrie Govan that refused to board a plane because they wouldn't let him take the Charvel as cabin luggage. Or the United breaks guitars scenario. I've personally seen ground personnel throw suit cases 10 feet from the carts onto the conveyor belts. You don't want that with your guitar in any case.
I love detachable necks. Fender style guitars fit nicely in a suitcase. Just make sure you make witness marks on the guitar and neck so when you put them back together, they can be easily intonated.
In the Atlanta and NY Kennedy airports, as well as probably others, they have the "smart lanes" that cannot accommodate "oversize items" such as guitars. If you want to take your guitar on the plane at these airports, you have to go through regular (not pre-check) TSA and specifically their lanes that accommodate "oversize items".
Word. And I love MONO cases. Almost as protective as a hard shell case, maybe even more so in some ways. And they are built like - bullet proof. Worth every penny IMHO...
I have recently been traveling on the plane with my guitar. I left the hard case at home (although it perfectly does the job) and I used a reinforced gigbag. Actually, quite a cheap one, but with moulded shape to the guitar inside. I added a soft rubber square behind the neck base so it did not move an inch. put a bubble wrap around the headstock, a folded paper between the stings and the fretboard and off I went ! Plus, it is small (less than 1,12 m high), compact, light, and looks like a black violin case without any fancy make marking. Comes really unnoticed. All your tips are good & useful, thanks. So far, so lucky, I had to check my guitar only once and it was hand delivered to me at the arrival. The more it goes, the more I think airlines are aware and trying to be helpful to musicians, which is good :)) I remember the times when there was no security problem as we know nowadays and I had boarded with a Les Paul in its hard case AND a small VOX amplifier... Old times ! ;-)
Rhett Makes great points here from experience. TSA Pre-Check is a must-do. I'm a luthier who spent 10 yrs as a guitar roadie, and I see a LOT of broken guitars. Gig bags are good for going from your home to band practice. If you travel, use a hard case. If overhead space gets tight, they can make you check the gig bag, and it goes underneath with the rest of the luggage. Get a good case and check it as baggage. Again, buy a good flight case and put the original away. Unless you have a roadie, don't bring that cherished guitar on the road with you.
My basses and guitars all have moulded hard cases with TSA locks. I don't live in the U.S. but have found that travelling across Canada on WestJet with my guitars checked is not a problem.
Been using a MONO Vertigo for my Tom Anderson for a couple of flights (>10) ...International/Commercial, Gate Checked when unlucky and bring on-board when lucky. No worries about it and guitars are fine. My bandmates used the same as well, checked in acoustic, bass, Duesenberg etc all on MONO cases, and turned out fine. The theory is when they see hardcase, chances are they may put heavier stuff above it. With soft case, the will put in last. MONO cases can take some tosses, drops and rough handling. On the road, it is so much easier to carry around and move, save the energy to enjoy an ice-cream while walking to the venue. Have bought me some Reunion Blues, time to try it next time I get to fly!
I used to only use gig bags, then I bought my first guitar with a hard case, and immediately realized this was the only way to go. Thomann is especially great about helping to find the right case for whichever guitar I need. 👍👍👍😏😏😏
I bought a mono gigbag for primarily the boot; When it snows it is the best option, the neck support is nice, the top opening is great for fast setups.
Brilliant advise Rhett! Another reason to take that guitar into the hotel is to lessen the thermal effects, especially on acoustics. I recently bought a TravelerGuitar expressly for the purpose of maintaining my chops and writing songs while on vaca. Looking forward to packing the TG gig bag with socks and undies, while using my laptop bag under seat for the rest of my stuff.
Would love to fly with my mono, but like you, my main guitar is a 335, and it’s quite bulky. There’s always some risk they’d have me gate check it, and man it’s a Gibson headstock in a Mono.. thoughts?
For local gigs, I’m strictly a manufacturer’s gig bag person (PRS) regardless of the guitar. There are certain slightly less expensive guitars I save for flight, knowing that I don’t have to kill someone if something happens to that axe. To my, Aftermarket gig bags are a necessity for van or airline travel.
I’m an airline pilot and I bring my electric guitar with me on most occasions. I guess I’m lucky because in most cases I bypass TSA and I travel in uniform. So being a camaraderie between pilots my guitar always find a safe spot on the plane. A few times it actually was put in the pilots personal coat closet located in the cockpit. But on the flip side yes try and be the first one on the plane as this will assist in finding a safe spot on the plane. I also recommend using some of the clothes you’re traveling with and wrap your guitar with it so as to add extra padding in the big bag. Remember my fellow guitarists music instruments are one of the rare occasions where an oversized item does not need to be checked. It’s not required so don’t let them tell you otherwise.
What you said about gig bags is also true of most bags. Take you bags (laptops bags included) off your shoulder and carry them in front of you when boarding the plane people! I used to fly a LOT and that was one constantly annoying thing (getting shoulder slammed by someone walking by with their bag).
FWIW, I have an ATA compliant SKB cases, not the cheaper ones, the really beefy $300+ ones and I have flown with them several times, having checked my guitar. I’ve done it with a Martin acoustic, a Gretsch White Falcon and some solid body guitars as well.
Two more details: There is a higher chance of being able to take a gig-bag on board than a hard-case. Often at check-in they ask to check hard-cases, while gig-bags are ok as cabin luggage. Also check-in is a lot less hassle if you hold the instrument in a way the agent doesn’t see it easily. What works best for me is putting it on the floor an leaning it against the counter in front of me. If you’re on a flight that isn’t crammed to the gills, boarding last can also work andask nicely if you could have a seat with an empty place next to you. This way the instrument doesn’t have to be stored overhead. As to the list of airlines to avoid add to the list: Ryanair in Europe
Got my first Gig Bag this year. The dude at Kiesel talked me into the gig bag over hard case. I dig it man. Helix HX fits in the pouch. Super-good support and padding. $30 to not check my guitar...Done and done
I was always a hard case person but thanks to you I purchased the Mono Vertigo & the Tick 2.0 to go with it an so far loving it. Loving the fact of being able to store everything on my back besides an amp when I go play. Thinking of purchasing a Pedaltrain Nano and building a smaller board to fit in the tick. I have the Nano+ but is slightly too big. The Nano’s dimensions should fit perfect.
Thanks Rhett! I'm not a gigging musician who travels but travel for work a couple times a month. Because my family life is so hectic, I've always wanted to bring my guitar along to practice in my hotel room, but never figured out the logistics. I even looked into travel guitars but they're still too long to put in my carry on. Problem solved! One thing that's great about Southwest is they still offer free checked bags. Since your guitar will replace your carry on bag, you'll have to check your luggage.
Awesome advice! Especially the nut slot syringe! LOL Here's a funny story. I was traveling with TWO hard acoustic cases and I brought them both on board an airplane. They moved me to first class, at no extra charge, because of my guitars. I can't remember the airline, this was in the seventies but that's what I call flying the friendly skies. My cousin was with me and I think he might have told a stewardess that I was in the Moody Blues. LOL Maybe scamming the friendly skies?
Hard case whenever possible. I always have that "There but for the grace of god...." feeling when travelling with my guitars. Aftermarket hard cases are good advice Rhett.
I mean, I have my dream guitar. 50’s style Gibson les Paul with a tobacco burst... I’m not selling this thing ever so I don’t care if the hard case gets dinged, thanks for the video I feel confident about traveling with it now 👌
Awesome! Got a 2016 Gibby Standard, a month later , took a chip off the bottom back. Saw it and was like "that's my relicing". It's mine, ain't gonna sell it either.
RERTT THANK U THAN K U !!!!!! I inherited some very special guitars from my late brother in-law, I have to travel from LA to Chicago thank you for your info ....
I do most of what you do. for my acoustic. When I take my electric on vacation, no case needed, I take " bolt on" guitar and unbolt it. put it in my suitcase then reverse it in the hotel. Not the Aerican Deluxe of course but the parts castor or the MIM.
great tips. I have traveled by commercial flight several times with my Les Paul using the Mono Vertigo and only once had to gate check it. Just to be safe I would suggest to tune it down just in case.
Flew Delta to Ecuador with my Bass. Most flights, it was no problem and we were allowed to put them in the overhead. On the last flight, they asked me to Gate check my guitar. They put a Gate check label on it and I proceeded down the jet way. At the plane a really helpful FA told me that they had put the wrong type of tag on my guitar. There are two types of Gate Check tags. One gets your item back to you on the jet way at your destination, the other sends it through the luggage handing system upon arrival. So if they force you to Gate Check, make sure that you will get it back at the gate and not at the carousel.
I'm moving to Italy for 6 months and I'm picking up a new guitar next week. I'm really nervous about taking my guitar with me. This video really helped and I'll call my airline tomorow to see what their regulations are so I know what to expect.
For my Gibson guitars (and other angled headstock guitars) I use hardcases (I'm partial to the new Gator ATA Molded TSA cases) and for my solid body, straight headstock guitars I carry gigbags (I've been using the Fender FE1225 gigbags - great protection and a major step up). For the picks/cables/strings/etc. I bought a small carry bag to carry those things. I have it stocked to handle any gig - acoustic, electric, or bass - and I'm ready to go just picking it up. For that I bought one of the Mesa/Boogie utility bags off Reverb. It's fantastic.
In all my flight gigs I've used a Gator Hard Case for my Tele. One reason is I never got a Mono before. Now that I do have a Mono and a Mono Dual...I might use the Mono for a flight gig...and see if I can gate check it. I'm from the Philippines and most airlines don't allow Guitars on the plane from my XP.
My first video course, The Tone Course, is available now! Check it out here.
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what about the reunion blues or midnight rider guitar bags? or other kinds of hardshells, like tweed or fender hard cases? a little variety please sir..
One thing you did not mention is that your soft case travels on you back.
A hard shell case you have to carry it with your hand.
It frees up both hands when traveling thru the airport.
Agreed that American and United are not guitar friendly. I might throw Delta in there too. Southwest has been the best all around.
Agreed, I’m just too damn tall for southwest planes.
I flew Spirit one time with a broke ass band and it was a total dump but ironically they took good care of the guitars, it was weird.
"United Breaks Guitars" says it all!
Delta starts boarding by calling for preboards and they say it’s for anyone who needs a little extra time boarding. They don’t question why you need the extra time. As long as you manage to be there when they start boarding you just smile and walk on with your guitar.
Gave a thumbs up as soon I heard you never fly United or American. Also, thanks for the other travel/packing tips :)
TSA guy (holding syringe): Uh, sir? Can you tell me what this is?
Rhett: That? That's nut lube.
TSA guy: Please step out of line and follow me.
Nut sauce*
Hahahaha
This is why I mostly play harmonica these days.
Haven't had to fly with a guitar yet, but I did used to fly over 100K miles a year for work. Always be kind and polite to airline employees, hotel employees, etc. You'd think it would go without saying, but I've witnessed plenty of customers being downright abusive to these workers, especially if there are weather delays or at hotels if there's a conference in town, etc. A little kindness and appreciation go a long way and occasionally gets you an upgrade you didn't even ask for because you were the one customer who treated that employee with respect that day. They will help you if they can and you treat them well.
Let's hope so.
You wouldn’t piss off the sound tech at your gig, I hope. Equally don’t piss off the people who help you get there and back
in 2012 Obama signed ffa modernization reform act that allows musicians to bring instruments on the plane as carryon.
Pentley Holmes Music
“Mind the way guys, grand piano coming through”
Second best thing he did as president. Best was killing Bin Laden.
At the airline’s discretion.
..as long as it meets the carry on rules. So I ALWAYS pay to board early and shove it in a overhead.
Here in Canada, I take my Gibson with hard shell, when flying. It goes perfectly in the overhead storage. Underneath the plane?......that's just stupid. Bring a 3rd rate guitar that does the job and cost nothing to replace.
As a guitar player who's been playing for almost 45 years and also an employee of Southwest Airlines for over 20 years, I concur with everything you say in this video. Concerning Southwest Airlines, I would recommend the Business Select option as it puts you in the first group of 15 passengers boarded after the preboard passengers.
Bags for electrics, cases for acoustics. Bags mostly for pockets for me, they really carry a lot of stuff. I really liked #6. "If you let me, I'd love the opportunity".. this is just a great life concept in general for dealing with people and how to ask for something. Nice job Rhett, really great video, thanks and keep them coming!
Did they unscrew the back plates?
Acoustic hard cases take up a lot of room though
Why am I watching this I play the drums
I play bass and I'm here
I don't know
@@PatrickXIX Bass GUITAR???
Diego Sales Facundini yess
Same
Yes sir, some airlines are unfriendly. My rules are Les Paul in ABS case unmarked even though I have Gibson flat ABS cases. My Strat goes into a Fender 620 case to carry on!
Never ever leave your gear on the transport, except a tour bus because there is usually someone guarding it.
Do not be discouraged when something does walk off, because if you tour alot you lose gear. Do not let it get you down!! That is why you need all your gear covered by insurance in your contract!!! Demand it. It does not give you back your favorite instruments, but it does take the bite out of the lost. Musicians inventory insurance!!
A couple of things I found out:
335 size guitars do not fit overhead on most flights. Hence, I have never actually travelled with my semi-hollow.
I actually travel with a cheaper instrument, really brings the stress level down :)
My 335 doesn't leave the house.
Great vid!
Also: if you do not manage to get the guitar into the passenger cabin but it ends down in the plane's cargo area DO NOT FORGET to loosen the tension of the strings!!!
If you do forget, you might open your bag or case when you arrive to your destination and find broken strings, pulled bridge or even damaged guitar neck (if it is a finer classical instrument). Happened to an acquaintance of mine a few years back. He learnt the hard way.
Now, you do not need to... ;)
Good stuff. A few more tips:
Try to travel SouthWest if possible.
Try to do early check-in.
GO STRAIGHT TO THE BACK OF THE PLANE!!! There's usually more room back there in the overheads with fewer people because most folks want to get off the plane as fast as possible so they fill up the front quickly.
If you have to gate check and there is someone there that is responsible for putting the instrument under the plane, TIP THEM!!! Slip them $5-$10 and ask them to take care of your baby. It has gone a long way for me!
Pack as light as possible!
well many times the musician has no control over which airlines are booked so always be prepared.
Never had a problem with a Les Paul in a Mono bag.
I would add: fly direct whenever possible. A stopover doubles the potential for every kind of problem - difficult gate agents, delays, even the outright loss of checked luggage. Which usually contains my pedals, cables and stage clothes.
Hardcase, always. Mine is signed by Brian May which makes me look out for the instrument even more. Of I ever lost it or damaged it... I could never forgive myself
Dude id never use it ever again if it gets signed
Also, be careful when leaving your guitar in a coat closet. When I flew to the states with my guitar, a flight attendant helped me store my guitar at the very end of the plane. I had to wait until everyone had left to retrieve it later. I had to wait in the US customs line for over 2 hours because I was at the very end. I wasn't in a hurry, so it turned out fine. Just another thing to consider.
Ever since I started watching your channel I switched to Mono cases and I CANNOT thank you enough.
What about amps? I’m really curious about that and it’d be really cool if you do a follow up about that
Rent from backline wherever you're going... don't travel with an amp.
Or you could mail ahead
Simple.
Mark the tubes with tape and pen.
Remove the tubes and wrap them properly so the glass don't break.
Put bouncy things in the corners and stretch plastic.
Now it is safe, doesn't matter how you get the amp to the place you want.
Bands have travelled with their amps in roadcases. Unfortunately the only way is putting it through the baggage area where it could get wrecked, so I'd follow the other guys advice and at least secure the tubes before putting it in the roadcase for the plane.
yeah i'd go with rent locally for your amp or bring digital set up and rent cabs . . . unless you have a pro roadie crew with flight experience and can pack amps for traVEL or pay overweight and bring a USA made Peavy tube amp (head and cab or combo) and use mailing packing tactics
How to travel safely with a Gibson?
Haha, good joke
Don't!!! Get an Epi for that :-D
Yep never bring one
An original 1960’s Gibson
We better ask Slash)
@@sanyaaynas7832 Slash probably uses flight cases, like most A-listers.
I used to have a great Gig beg that had a steel hook and chain at the headstock end in a pouch so that the gig bag could be hung from the closet Brett described. Many dressing rooms have racks to hang your bag that contains your gigging clothes or hotels have rolling racks for the same purpose and that hook can be a lifesaver. I have not seen many new cases with this feature but its great to have.
Man, you come up with very simple, but extremely helpful video ideas! thanks Rhett
I'm a cruise ship musician so I fly with my guitar(s) often. I use Mono soft cases (which are surprisingly protective) and carry them on. I always pay extra to be in Group 1 so there's room in the overhead. If I'm on a regional jet the overheads are too small so they have to be gate checked. My cases are all marked FRAGILE in bold lettering so the baggage handler is aware. I've never had any issues with a gate checked guitar. Before Mono cases I used ATA flight cases which have to be checked, are heavy and a pain in the ass. Glad I switched. Good video!
Great video. A couple of additional pro tips: 1/ If your gig bag has a strap, when you approach the counter at boarding to ask permission, slide the bag onto the shoulder furthest away from the agent, so it's partially obscured. They can still see it's a guitar gig bag but it doesn't look as large-it can make the difference between them quickly agreeing to let you carry on or resisting.
2/ If the airline insists on gate checking your guitar and you wanted to carry on (which you always should), they will tie a gate check tag onto your gig bag. While you're walking down the jet bridge to board, surreptitiously and nonchalantly yank the tag off and "accidentally" drop it on the floor of the jet bridge. When you reach the door of the plane to board, politely ask if the guitar can go in the coat closet. Guess what? I've never seen a situation where the FA at the door checked to see if your gig bag got tagged. If it doesn't have a tag they are guaranteed to assume either that they already gave you permission to carry on, or they forgot to tag it at the counter, and either way it's a situation where they always fall back on putting the guitar in the coat closet. It's worked for me every time.
I agree with Rhett. A sturdy gig bag is the way to go, and the airline tips are spot-on. Asking for help, and being nice about it is the key. Amazing how many folks will help you if your just ask nicely. Southwest Airlines is great... Just don't bring gear that you will not use. The extra weight and bulk are not worth it. Super video Rhett! I wonder what Rick and Dave think?
Mono gig bag all the way! Currently have the Mono dual acoustic electric model and works great. Usually have to check it in here in Australia, but always comes out the other side fine with a prayer :) Before that had one of those semi-hard cases for my acoustic and it was fantastic. Numerous flights to and from the US to Japan, Korea, Australia. Lived a long life of over 10 years. Loving the new mono life though. Almost been a year now.
I checked my Ovation in a SKB molded case and viewed the airport workers “loading” it on to the conveyer going to the plane’s cargo hold. They slammed the case onto the conveyer so hard it bounced! The guitar was not damaged one bit, but I replaced the case after getting back home.
Well, Rhett, I must say thank you for this wealth of information. While no professional, I have had occasion to fly both domestically and internationally with guitars along. One thing that I am pleased that you mentioned was the "personality" thing. I have had little trouble traveling with guitars that came from people. Partially, this is because I have the knack of charming people. It isn't hard for me, as I can usually find something nice to say to someone and mean whatever it is. The subject matter is less important than sincerity and a nice smile/grin. Being pleasant to people from the start can really smooth things along. Best part is the cost: NOTHING!
I don't know when I'll fly next, but I'll try to remember to ask about coat closets BEFORE asking about gate checking. The closets would obviously be tons better than most other storage compartments. Much of the rest of your advice I've generated for myself, after making mistakes which drove home the need for solutions. Your solutions are solid. I'm sure that many people have benefited and will benefit from the content of this video.
It's necessary to create a sort of musically oriented airlines... "Jefferson Airlines" or something like that.
And for the future: starship
@@karlhouseknecht Jefferson Spacelines?
Love it!!!!
Yeah nah im taking a jefferson airplane
Flying with your guitar - a subject near and dear to me. Good tips here and mirrors my own experience. However, the high end sturdy bags often weigh quite a bit and get heavy on the shoulder walking through large airports and then waiting for transportation. It's a fine line between finding a bag that is light weight but also offers protection for the guitar. Also, the thick padded bags won't fit as easily into the overhead bins. With a slimmer bag, I find I can usually lay it on top of smaller suitcases and coats. My last tip is after you have stowed your guitar in an overheard bin, close that bin. Other passengers will assume that bin is full. Then watch the bin closely and be ready to adjust your guitar if another passenger or flight attendant needs space in the bin where the guitar is located. I have other tricks on this subject as well. Main tip as Rhett mentioned, is to be friendly to the flight attendants.
This was one of your most valuable videos. Thank you for this insight, bro. Lots of good insights here! I'm glad I continued watching it despite the fact it's a sponsored video. Most of those across UA-cam tend to suck.
I live in Switzerland and I’m from San Francisco, so I travel back-and-forth several times a year. I usually bring my GS mini. I also usually fly business, so bringing my guitar on board isn’t a big deal, but when I travel around Europe in coach, and I fly some of the smaller airlines, I actually purchase a ticket for my guitar. It’s the only way I can travel with it without checking it. The second thing was that I went through the TSA at SFO, and my guitar bag always gets pulled for inspection. I was talking to the TSA guy and he said there’s something that looks like it’s in your guitar, and we were trying to figure it out, and I was like oh wait a minute, that’s my humidifier pack. I thought I was going to have to surrender my humidifier pack. I was surprised that he let me keep it in the guitar. My advice is to take humidifier packs out of your guitar before you travel. They’re kind of pricey, and you don’t wanna have to surrender it up if you don’t have to. I’ve had a lot of positive Experience as well flying. But then again I’m not a douche. I’m always really nice and I try to be considerate.
Really right on video about traveling with an electric guitar. The only thing I would point out in addition is it's a good idea to once you've booked the flight and again when you confirm your flight, take a minute to look up the airplane. If you know the odds of you gate checking your instrument are higher then bring a hard shell case and make sure the guitar is snug in there. I've only had to gate check a guitar once but I knew so in advance so I brought a Strat in a form fitted hard shell case. When they gate checked the guitar I saw the baggie handler THROW my guitar into the plane. He broke the handle of the case but the guitar survived. Good Job Rett.
Thank you for this. I’m flying to my first professional gig in another state and this video gave me so much more confidence to fly with my guitar.
Used your approach to bring my guitar as a carry on today with Air Canada and it worked out great. First to board in economy class. Thanks for the great vid.
I bought a headless guitar just to travel with and I liked it so much, its became my goto axe!
Are there any cons to it?
How's the tone of the one your bought, and which one did you get?
@@kendrakrust1244 There are no objective cons whatsoever.
The only con would be not liking the way they look which is understandable although I personally love them.
Many headless guitars even have bodies that are similar to normal guitars.
I'm partial to the paddle shape because I use flatwound strings and a brighter guitar actually balances the dark tone of my weird choice in strings (and my weird choices over all come to think of it).
Have a look at Strandberg, Legator, and Kiesel if you want larger bodied headless guitars though.
Look up Ciari folding guitars, my jaw is still on the floor from watching the demo video
Excellent video and great advice! I would add two points:
1. For domestic flights in the US, it's the law the airline has to allow you to take your "small musical instrument" (AKA a guitar) on the plane *if there is room for it in the overhead compartments when you board* - another reason you want to be one of the first people to board the plane.
2. Every time you interact with airport staff (security, gate agent, baggage handler, flight attendant, whatever...) be friendly and respectful, and try to make a personal connection. They'll be more likely to help you - by allowing you to put the guitar in the coat closet, or by taking extra care when putting it in the cargo hold if you're forced to gate-check, or whatever else may happen.
I have a Mono M-80 that I love. It's a great case for guitar - it's even protected the neck of my Les Paul in the cargo section of a few planes (gate checked, of course). As a repair tech, I generally recommend a hard case for storage, a good quality gig bag for travel.
SInce I got my Mono Vertigo case, I haven't look back. I just got their dual case, so now I can cary two guitars in a very efficient way.
i don't like your take on "dont use the original case because it helps the resale value" maybe if it was an super old guitar that would be valid but buying a second case would defeat the point of your "savings" Also I like to enjoy my things not save it for whoever buys it off me later. I actually have never sold any of my guitars and I think most people are not super collectors and would rarely sell their instruments as well.
I like used gear, and I really like beat up cases and cabs.I HATE reliced guitars..
That’s your opinion man. Rhett is a professional musician. And a huge part of being a player is trading and selling a. It’s great that you hold on to all of your things, but I think that his take on taking care of original cases is incredibly valid. I do the same with my 60’s strat my 70’s Sg and so on. People want original cases when you trade or sell those things. So why not take care of them like you would the guitar?
@@ld9725 LOL...I like beat up cases...
He’s a bass player...... might want to rethink if you decided to listen to his point.
The thing is that the guitar and case is delivered as a set, a serious collector would most likely want the complete set in its best condition. There is no reason to use the original case to travel with, you can use it at home.
Great video! I travelled with my guitar a few times in the past year. Everything you said is right. The one thing that you dod not mention is to detune the guitar...you are changing altitudes, temeratures and humidity...I read years ago that there can be enough small changes to have a major issue depending on the guitar.
As for traveling with your main guitar, I would suggest a loved backup over a main guitar. Two years ago I was traveling with my Epiphone AJ 200...I bought it a decade ago for $100...upgraded the nut and saddle to bone, put a LR Baggs Ibeam in there...its a cool busking/campfire guitar. I even got a few of my favorite players to sign it. The only thing was when I was at the gate looking on Reverb to see how much they run for if I have to replace it. At that time a used Epiphone AJ 200 was $300 with case and no upgrades...my O ring puckered a bit at that. Fortunately I had no major issues. It flew in the overhead going to my destination and gate checked on the way back. Just minor scuffing going through baggage on the way back.
Last year did the same trip with my beat to shit Yamaha FG 160 that just has an LR Baggs M1 passive on it. This thing was an old church guitar and beat up. Got ot for $100 and a pack of smokes...I don't smoke, it just made the sale more interesting to tell. So added the pickup and Thomastic strings after, the idea is to get every little bit of potential out of the instrument with minimal investment. It went in the overhead both ways. Coming back I did buy vinyl so I had to tie that to my backpack to count as one bag.😉
So either trip I was fortune. I detuned my guitar at the airport before I got onboard. I will also mention that I strongly recommend being polite and friendly when dealing with TSA, the front counter or the flight staff. Saying that you are patient and that you appreciate their effort (regardless of if they are or are not doing anything extra) goes a long way. Keep in mind they have to deal with several idiots per flight and they deal with many flights a day...don't be that jerk. Even if things don't go your way, being polite and thanking them for trying may just be the little gratuity that gets them to help you. If not, in the future avoid that airline.
If you are handicapped you get free early boarding. One of the few side benefits that are helpful with having a generally bad situation.
My new Martin d16 came with a really good gig bag as long with my Taylor GS min . I do like a hard case for the car .
I'm not a gigging musician but I used to fly to Brazil every year when I was younger and having my guitar with me was as important as having underwear =)
It's a hit or miss with American Airlines. My dad works for them and I got to fly with them for free so that was my only option. One of the reasons why I got a Taylor GS mini was bc of the nice case that came with it. There were times when they were super nice and would put my guitar in the coat closet for me, other times they were rude and made me check my guitar...it just depends if they're stressed or not or if the flight is full. Either way, the GS mini case made me comfortable enough to take my guitar into the airplane or check it at the gate. Prior to purchasing my GS mini when I first started learning guitar I'd stuff my gig bag with t-shirts and socks. Definitely don't get a hard case to fly bc all hard cases have to be checked (at least with American). Been there, done that =/
I had a gig in Egypt in which we had to stop in Istanbul then take a small flight to Sharm El Sheik to perform the World Youth Forum in front of the president of Egypt amongst other world leaders. Needlessly to say I've never been through more high security check points in my life BUT I managed to keep my guitar on me the whole time without issue until our return flight at a check point in Turkey the gate officer found my guitar multi tool and then proceeded to find any way he could to demonstrate that it was a weapon...it was tossed in the trash but the guitar flew safely in the overhead above me :) long story short, it can be done just be smart about it
Also keep record and detail photos of your serial numbers and guitars! This will help loads if anything is unfortunately stolen.
I once bought a guitar case made of EVA material, which is very convenient and durable. What I like most is that it can be carried on the back or at the side.
Excellent tips on flying. Another reason to hold the guitar in front of you (and you gave a couple of really good ones) as you board is that it makes it appear smaller-- gives it a lower profile that is less daunting to the crew, appears to take up less space and therefore more likely to engender sympathy and cooperation.
My only experience with travel damage was at a local gig. My 335, in a Gibson hard case, was propped against an amp waiting to be loaded out. It was jostled slightly and fell onto its face on a hard floor, breaking the headstock. Hard cases are not the great protection I thought they were-- in fact, the very rapid deceleration of the guitar when a hard case hits the floor is far more damaging than a case with some "give" to it. Bridges and guitar cases need to roll with the punches. And most incidents involve dropping or bumps, not crushing forces. Thus fully embracing my sample bias, I'm now a gig-bag guy.
Good vid Rhett! Yes I mostly use a gig bag and while 90% of our shows are drive-to, I have flown to Europe and Hawaii multiple times with guitars. In every instance I asked politely and they offered the coat closet for storage. The crews were great and never gave me any hassle.
Cheers from The Road Dogs Band in SoCal!
I use a Small Dog climate case on top of the hard case for my acoustic but don't fly to gigs. It cost $140 about 20 years ago and has held up great. There's a shoulder strap for long walks from the car to the venue, it insulates from heat & cold, and has a large zip compartment for cables & stuff (but I keep most of that in a separate shoulder bag. Carrying the hard case inside the small dog IS heavier than a gig bag, but my Taylor 710ce L-1 has safely visited hundreds of venues this way, as did my Taylor 1995 GAMC did for years before that. Works well for me and I don't have to remember to bring all my partial capos, tuner, and special picks, they're always in the hard case.
Are you a gig bag or hard case person?
My Gibson hardcase fits perfectly into a semi hollow gig-bag, so... both! its so convenient to have the protection of the case as easy to carry as the bag
@@vinniesmyyth334 That's a great idea! Never thought of that! :)
I’m a whatever suits the gig person
Mono gig bag for sure. Even have one for my Helix.
I own all hard cases, but I'd LOVE to get a Mono dual case so I can always bring 2 guitars with me just in case!
For airlines, I unscrew the neck from the body, wrap everything in blankets and put them into a hard plastic suitcase. Then pad out gaps. I’m going to get foam with cutouts which will fit the suitcase. Nobody sees a guitar and everything is well protected. The only issue on longer journeys could be cold but i’ve never had any issues with tuning after reassembling.
Hard case is an absolute must for an acoustic guitar, I’ve used almost every trick you mentioned for domestic flights, definitely worth it to just pay the small fee for upgraded boarding and have the peace of mind. OHSC+overhead bin is totally groovy.
Rhett I am so so glad you made this video. it’s always a great idea to take off any backpacks (and hold them in front) when entering an airplane plane not just with guitars. Somehow I’ve always done it by instinct and now it makes complete sense
Both gig bags and hard cases have their uses, its nice to be reassured that your guitar is safer(less prone to damage and can be locked) when its in a hard case but the shoulder straps on a gig bag are life savers for when you need to carry a pedalboard, amp, and guitar at the same time.
Gig bag - I use both Mono and Reunion Blues. Both are awesome!
I've been giging all around the world with three guitars (J45, duesenberg, Nylon Taylor) for the last 6 years and I've always check my guitar. I found a trick, I put all of my guitar in a trick case and wrap them together. So that way I save money for extra luggage (I just paid for one extra), and the fact that they are wrap together they are protect! I've been doing more than 30 shows per year overseas and never had a problem. Cheers!
in the 80's-early 90s l was in a band and worked musical retail. We did some gigs in england and across the channel and came back to texas broke. The next time we did l bought a Steinberger guitar and a digitech single rack space valve efx, the old silver one very hard to find now but everything had to fit in the overhead on a plane and it did. Brilliant. Replace the Valve efx with a axe fx or helix now. While the drummer ,keyboard and bass player were sorting out backline rented gear l was wearing out eur-rail passes. The Steiny guitar was the key. l still have it 30 years later.
Hi, I have flown with the mono vertigo twice, checked under the fragile and oversized luggage section. No issues so far. The airlines have flown with have a very strict hand-carry baggage policy, and will not allow anything over certain dimensions to be hand-carried, which includes guitars. Even strandberg headless guitars exceed the specified length.
I've actually had no problems flying with United with my guitar. And any qualms within the USA regarding that, I refer to the 2012 FAA Act that states an instrument can be brought on so long as it fits in the overhead compartments. Thus, when flying, I find the most important thing being to check the plane model and the size of the overhead bins. I do get questions, but I find factually stating the length of my guitar and the length of the bins makes people recognize I've done my research.
International flights are a whole different, story, however, which I find is super dependent on each airport, connecting flight airport security, and individual airlines.
Couldn’t post this at a better time ! I’m permanently moving and I was concerned about this...
Thanks and love your vids!
"permanently moving", eh? My brain just exploded.
THIS IS THE MOST HELPFUL UA-cam CHANNEL FOR GIGGING MUSICIANS!
I agree, getting my guitar into that closet at the front of the airplane, where the crew hangs their coats, is key. That’s my main objective when boarding.
Did you actually listen to this video?
You may have mentioned this but if not - If the guitar is going to end up in the cargo hold - loosen the strings! Extreme temperature changes can occur quickly and the wood will expand/contract faster than the steel strings. Guitars with tremolo may be less prone to issues in this scenario but why chance it. I learned this the hard way. I knew but forgot, busted headstock and the guitar was extremely cold when I got it yet it is was summer. Could have been poor handling but I now always loosen the strings first.
+1 on the Mono Vertigo, I’ve brought it with me to I think 7 different countries now? I’ve brought a strat, a jazzmaster, and even my ‘71 SG in it on planes. I’ve had to check it before (the most nerve wracking experience I’ve ever had) and everything was completely fine. I’d also recommend getting the Tick, it’s the little pouch that attaches to the case, you can fit so much stuff in them and because it’s attached the airport can’t charge you like it’s another item!
Oh yes that the corner straight in the letterbox beautiful PT
Soft case. Which is the sturdier gig bag type. I like the Gator Pro cases. Very sturdy and supportive. Quite a bit cheaper than mono, I don't have one of those to compare, but the Gator seems stiffer and has more compartments. The Gruv Gear bags looked good too.
In Europe, at least here on Schiphol with KLM they have a sequence for boarding. First the families with children then seating from the rear to front. First class has a separate line. Not much cooperation in getting in earlier. I took take a bolt on neck guitar and disassembled it and packed it in a normal suitcase. On a flight to Thailand I didn't want to run into a situation like Guthrie Govan that refused to board a plane because they wouldn't let him take the Charvel as cabin luggage. Or the United breaks guitars scenario.
I've personally seen ground personnel throw suit cases 10 feet from the carts onto the conveyor belts. You don't want that with your guitar in any case.
I love detachable necks. Fender style guitars fit nicely in a suitcase. Just make sure you make witness marks on the guitar and neck so when you put them back together, they can be easily intonated.
In the Atlanta and NY Kennedy airports, as well as probably others, they have the "smart lanes" that cannot accommodate "oversize items" such as guitars. If you want to take your guitar on the plane at these airports, you have to go through regular (not pre-check) TSA and specifically their lanes that accommodate "oversize items".
I also have had multiple bad experiences while traveling with insturments on Jet Blue
Word. And I love MONO cases. Almost as protective as a hard shell case, maybe even more so in some ways. And they are built like - bullet proof. Worth every penny IMHO...
I have recently been traveling on the plane with my guitar. I left the hard case at home (although it perfectly does the job) and I used a reinforced gigbag. Actually, quite a cheap one, but with moulded shape to the guitar inside. I added a soft rubber square behind the neck base so it did not move an inch. put a bubble wrap around the headstock, a folded paper between the stings and the fretboard and off I went ! Plus, it is small (less than 1,12 m high), compact, light, and looks like a black violin case without any fancy make marking. Comes really unnoticed. All your tips are good & useful, thanks. So far, so lucky, I had to check my guitar only once and it was hand delivered to me at the arrival. The more it goes, the more I think airlines are aware and trying to be helpful to musicians, which is good :)) I remember the times when there was no security problem as we know nowadays and I had boarded with a Les Paul in its hard case AND a small VOX amplifier... Old times ! ;-)
Rhett Makes great points here from experience. TSA Pre-Check is a must-do. I'm a luthier who spent 10 yrs as a guitar roadie, and I see a LOT of broken guitars. Gig bags are good for going from your home to band practice. If you travel, use a hard case. If overhead space gets tight, they can make you check the gig bag, and it goes underneath with the rest of the luggage. Get a good case and check it as baggage. Again, buy a good flight case and put the original away. Unless you have a roadie, don't bring that cherished guitar on the road with you.
My basses and guitars all have moulded hard cases with TSA locks. I don't live in the U.S. but have found that travelling across Canada on WestJet with my guitars checked is not a problem.
Been using a MONO Vertigo for my Tom Anderson for a couple of flights (>10) ...International/Commercial, Gate Checked when unlucky and bring on-board when lucky. No worries about it and guitars are fine. My bandmates used the same as well, checked in acoustic, bass, Duesenberg etc all on MONO cases, and turned out fine. The theory is when they see hardcase, chances are they may put heavier stuff above it. With soft case, the will put in last. MONO cases can take some tosses, drops and rough handling. On the road, it is so much easier to carry around and move, save the energy to enjoy an ice-cream while walking to the venue.
Have bought me some Reunion Blues, time to try it next time I get to fly!
I used to only use gig bags, then I bought my first guitar with a hard case, and immediately realized this was the only way to go. Thomann is especially great about helping to find the right case for whichever guitar I need. 👍👍👍😏😏😏
I bought a mono gigbag for primarily the boot; When it snows it is the best option, the neck support is nice, the top opening is great for fast setups.
Brilliant advise Rhett! Another reason to take that guitar into the hotel is to lessen the thermal effects, especially on acoustics. I recently bought a TravelerGuitar expressly for the purpose of maintaining my chops and writing songs while on vaca. Looking forward to packing the TG gig bag with socks and undies, while using my laptop bag under seat for the rest of my stuff.
Who would have thought this would be such a good video!
Very good video and what for you know, nothing has changed. The advice holds good 😊
Would love to fly with my mono, but like you, my main guitar is a 335, and it’s quite bulky. There’s always some risk they’d have me gate check it, and man it’s a Gibson headstock in a Mono.. thoughts?
Bolt on necks make traveling really easy. Take the neck off, throw in suitcase, check the bag.
I would never do that
For local gigs, I’m strictly a manufacturer’s gig bag person (PRS) regardless of the guitar. There are certain slightly less expensive guitars I save for flight, knowing that I don’t have to kill someone if something happens to that axe. To my, Aftermarket gig bags are a necessity for van or airline travel.
I’m an airline pilot and I bring my electric guitar with me on most occasions. I guess I’m lucky because in most cases I bypass TSA and I travel in uniform. So being a camaraderie between pilots my guitar always find a safe spot on the plane. A few times it actually was put in the pilots personal coat closet located in the cockpit. But on the flip side yes try and be the first one on the plane as this will assist in finding a safe spot on the plane. I also recommend using some of the clothes you’re traveling with and wrap your guitar with it so as to add extra padding in the big bag. Remember my fellow guitarists music instruments are one of the rare occasions where an oversized item does not need to be checked. It’s not required so don’t let them tell you otherwise.
What you said about gig bags is also true of most bags. Take you bags (laptops bags included) off your shoulder and carry them in front of you when boarding the plane people! I used to fly a LOT and that was one constantly annoying thing (getting shoulder slammed by someone walking by with their bag).
FWIW, I have an ATA compliant SKB cases, not the cheaper ones, the really beefy $300+ ones and I have flown with them several times, having checked my guitar. I’ve done it with a Martin acoustic, a Gretsch White Falcon and some solid body guitars as well.
This is great-I just flew from CA to NYC w/ 3 guitars, bass, and a fiddle and a bunch of other gear. Always a little nerve racking
Two more details:
There is a higher chance of being able to take a gig-bag on board than a hard-case. Often at check-in they ask to check hard-cases, while gig-bags are ok as cabin luggage.
Also check-in is a lot less hassle if you hold the instrument in a way the agent doesn’t see it easily. What works best for me is putting it on the floor an leaning it against the counter in front of me.
If you’re on a flight that isn’t crammed to the gills, boarding last can also work andask nicely if you could have a seat with an empty place next to you. This way the instrument doesn’t have to be stored overhead.
As to the list of airlines to avoid add to the list: Ryanair in Europe
Got my first Gig Bag this year. The dude at Kiesel talked me into the gig bag over hard case. I dig it man. Helix HX fits in the pouch. Super-good support and padding. $30 to not check my guitar...Done and done
I was always a hard case person but thanks to you I purchased the Mono Vertigo & the Tick 2.0 to go with it an so far loving it. Loving the fact of being able to store everything on my back besides an amp when I go play. Thinking of purchasing a Pedaltrain Nano and building a smaller board to fit in the tick. I have the Nano+ but is slightly too big. The Nano’s dimensions should fit perfect.
Thanks Rhett! I'm not a gigging musician who travels but travel for work a couple times a month. Because my family life is so hectic, I've always wanted to bring my guitar along to practice in my hotel room, but never figured out the logistics. I even looked into travel guitars but they're still too long to put in my carry on. Problem solved! One thing that's great about Southwest is they still offer free checked bags. Since your guitar will replace your carry on bag, you'll have to check your luggage.
I bought a Kiesel headless guitar. Made things a lot easier when traveling (and I fly AA a lot). It’s great.
Totally agree! Kiesel headless in their soft case is super-light and super-secure :)
Thanks so much! I recently got a special guitar made for me from a renowned maker and will be traveling with it soon. This is VERY helpful!!!!
Awesome advice! Especially the nut slot syringe! LOL Here's a funny story. I was traveling with TWO hard acoustic cases and I brought them both on board an airplane. They moved me to first class, at no extra charge, because of my guitars. I can't remember the airline, this was in the seventies but that's what I call flying the friendly skies. My cousin was with me and I think he might have told a stewardess that I was in the Moody Blues. LOL Maybe scamming the friendly skies?
Hard case whenever possible. I always have that "There but for the grace of god...." feeling when travelling with my guitars. Aftermarket hard cases are good advice Rhett.
I mean, I have my dream guitar. 50’s style Gibson les Paul with a tobacco burst... I’m not selling this thing ever so I don’t care if the hard case gets dinged, thanks for the video I feel confident about traveling with it now 👌
Awesome! Got a 2016 Gibby Standard, a month later , took a chip off the bottom back. Saw it and was like "that's my relicing". It's mine, ain't gonna sell it either.
RERTT THANK U THAN K U !!!!!!
I inherited some very special guitars from my late brother in-law, I have to travel from LA to Chicago thank you for your info ....
I do most of what you do. for my acoustic. When I take my electric on vacation, no case needed, I take " bolt on" guitar and unbolt it. put it in my suitcase then reverse it in the hotel. Not the Aerican Deluxe of course but the parts castor or the MIM.
great tips. I have traveled by commercial flight several times with my Les Paul using the Mono Vertigo and only once had to gate check it. Just to be safe I would suggest to tune it down just in case.
Flew Delta to Ecuador with my Bass. Most flights, it was no problem and we were allowed to put them in the overhead. On the last flight, they asked me to Gate check my guitar. They put a Gate check label on it and I proceeded down the jet way. At the plane a really helpful FA told me that they had put the wrong type of tag on my guitar. There are two types of Gate Check tags. One gets your item back to you on the jet way at your destination, the other sends it through the luggage handing system upon arrival. So if they force you to Gate Check, make sure that you will get it back at the gate and not at the carousel.
I'm moving to Italy for 6 months and I'm picking up a new guitar next week. I'm really nervous about taking my guitar with me. This video really helped and I'll call my airline tomorow to see what their regulations are so I know what to expect.
For my Gibson guitars (and other angled headstock guitars) I use hardcases (I'm partial to the new Gator ATA Molded TSA cases) and for my solid body, straight headstock guitars I carry gigbags (I've been using the Fender FE1225 gigbags - great protection and a major step up).
For the picks/cables/strings/etc. I bought a small carry bag to carry those things. I have it stocked to handle any gig - acoustic, electric, or bass - and I'm ready to go just picking it up. For that I bought one of the Mesa/Boogie utility bags off Reverb. It's fantastic.
In all my flight gigs I've used a Gator Hard Case for my Tele. One reason is I never got a Mono before. Now that I do have a Mono and a Mono Dual...I might use the Mono for a flight gig...and see if I can gate check it. I'm from the Philippines and most airlines don't allow Guitars on the plane from my XP.