I've flown guitars a lot around the US. It seems that if I'm taking one guitar, a thin gig bag as a carry-on works perfectly. I pack mine with my clothes to protect the guitar, since the "closet" on the plane and the overhead bins are always tight. The clothes help cushion the shoving that goes on while getting it in place, or when it's in flight.
I've found that if you're taking one hard shell it has to be checked, so you must Duct tape the case shut. Yes, it will probably ruin the case, but it's to protect the guitar. Guitars out of their cases laying on the runway are not exactly precious guitars. They sort of look like toothpicks. Not exactly easy on my stomach. So duct tape those shut. The tape they provide is usually a bit skimpy, as well.
If I'm taking a couple gits I'll duct tape them together in 2 hardshell cases. Sometimes the skycaps will count them as 1 bag. That's sweet and money saving, as I think it's $20 to ship a git!
I watched a bass player have to check his bass last minute on my last flight. It was in a gig bag with some padding. I'm not comfortable with that.
I always say nicely that I need to bring my guitar on-board, and since the guitar is smaller than a bass, they usually let me find a spot. My favorite spot is behind the last seat. I put it on the floor, so that the last seats can recline. With baggage fees being charged now, and people trying to save time, more roller-bags are on board more than ever and the overhead bins are always full.
This past time I even looked into getting a double guitar bag.
Has anyone ever gotten a "double guitar" gig bag? I've never seen one in person. I'm very curious about those. comment if you've had one.
Happy Flying!!! Protect your git at all costs!
- Marc
www.marcamendola.com
