Planning your flight is a stressful thing to do as there are so many things to think about. But figuring out a way to have your precious guitar onboard is a new level of stress. This is why guitar cases are invented! Thanks to them, you can protect your guitar during flight properly. If you’re currently looking for one, we want to recommend you get a Sweetwater guitar case. It’s the world’s biggest online musical instruments retailer with a top-notch guitar case collection. You can find cases from trusted brands like Gator, Gibson, SKB, and many more. Serving millions of people every year, the quality of the cases it offers is impeccable. Below are our handpicked options that have been bought by many guitarists. They’re strong and lightweight. Some are even waterproof! Keep scrolling and read more about them!
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Gator TSA Series Electric Guitar Case LED Edition
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Thanks to the Gator TSA Series Electric Guitar Case LED Edition, you’ll never be uneasy anymore! Thanks to its tough polyethylene shell, this Sweetwater guitar case can protect your precious guitar from bumps and impacts. You can hand your guitar over to the baggage handlers and know that no matter what happens, nothing can scratch your guitar!
Also, as the name suggests, this case features LED lighting inside the case. While this isn’t a mandatory feature, we really appreciate it as it allows us to find accessories easily when the lighting isn’t optimal. Moreover, the injection-molded handle allows you to transport the case comfortably. Such a good deal, right?
Pros
- It comes with a TSA-approved center latch for hassle-free travel.
- The rubber insert on the handle makes it super comfortable to hold.
- Though tough, this case is surprisingly lightweight.
Cons
- The LED is a convenient feature, but some people may never use them.
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SKB 3i-4217-18T iSeries Waterproof Acoustic Guitar Case
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If durability is your main concern, then the SKB 3i-4217-18T iSeries Waterproof Acoustic Guitar Case is what you want. This Sweetwater guitar case offers you military-strength protection that’s hard to beat. With this case, you can rest assured your guitar is safe and sound. But what’s more amazing is that it’s waterproof! It won’t just keep moisture out, but also water!
This guitar case is designed for traveling guitarists and also features convenient built-in wheels. While the handle is comfortable to hold, traveling can be tiring. But thanks to those wheels, your life will be a little bit easier! So, what are you waiting for? Keep your acoustic guitar safe from unwanted impacts and water with this case now!
Pros
- It’s built to withstand the impact and water from airline travel.
- This case is designed to fit the majority of acoustic guitars.
- Aside from being durable, this case is also corrosion-resistant!
Cons
- It’s often mistaken as a weapon case at the airport.
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Gibson Accessories Deluxe Protector Case
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Want to protect your Gibson SG? Then look no further than the Gibson Accessories Deluxe Protector Case! Inspired by the ’70s Gibson guitar cases, this guitar case is made from premium polyethylene and features powder-coated hardware, making it a nice investment for those who love traveling.
Not to mention, the center latch of this case comes with a TSA-approved lock, so it’s always ready to fly with you no matter where you go. Designed with comfort in mind, we also appreciate the handle’s comfort. You won’t regret getting this Sweetwater guitar case!
Pros
- This case isn’t only beautiful but is also durable.
- The latches are strong, and the center latch comes with a TSA-friendly lock.
- We love the soft interior, promising your guitar will be scratch-free.
Cons
- Unfortunately, this case is a bit too expensive for some.
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SKB 1SKB-44PRO Pro Rectangular Electric Bass Case
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To keep your Precision and Jazz basses scratch-free, you should consider getting the SKB 1SKB-44PRO Pro Rectangular Electric Bass Case! Ideal for traveling musicians, this Sweetwater guitar case is both lightweight and secure. The exterior is crafted from tough ABS plastic, allowing it to be not as heavy as its competitors.
Of course, the latches are also TSA-friendly. They’re easy to use and can withstand the bumps from air travel. What about the inside? There’s nothing to worry about, as it’s covered with plush material and can keep your guitar’s body and neck safe. With this case, you can finally travel with your electric bass confidently!
Pros
- There’s a dedicated compartment for your guitar’s accessories.
- Thanks to the rugged ABS shell, this guitar case is both durable and lightweight.
- The latches are extremely robust, and the handle is solid.
Cons
- It’s a little pricey compared to some options out there.
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Gator ATA Molded Guitar Case
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If you have an acoustic guitar and want to travel the world with it, we recommend getting the Gator ATA Molded Guitar Case. Though lightweight, this guitar case is built to stand the test of time. Even after numerous trips, you’ll never find signs of wear and tear on the case or your precious guitar. Pretty awesome, isn’t it?
In addition to that, the inside of this Sweetwater guitar case is both plush and soft. It does an awesome job of protecting your guitar, and the latches are solid, too! On top of that, there are small formed feet at the bottom of the case, allowing it to stand up. However, you can’t open it while it’s standing.
Pros
- It’s suitable for dreadnought acoustic guitars.
- We love how the neck cradle can prevent snapping.
- Despite being super durable, this guitar case is surprisingly lightweight.
Cons
- This case is a bit too small for some 12-string guitars.
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Gator GTSA-GTRELEC ATA Molded Guitar Case
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Sitting on top of this list is the Gator GTSA-GTRELEC ATA Molded Guitar Case. There are so many reasons why this guitar case is considered the best. One of them is the interior. The inside of this case fits your guitar snugly, so you don’t have to use extra straps to prevent your guitar from having excessive movement. A huge plus for travelers!
Moreover, this Sweetwater guitar case also comes with TSA-approved latches. They’re a breeze to open and close, unlike some cookie-cutter options on the market. What’s more, this case is built to be abused! The tough polyethylene shell is ATA-approved and will give you that much-needed peace of mind so you can enjoy your flight to the fullest.
Pros
- It’s suitable for Stratocaster, Telecaster, and other similar guitars.
- The interior is plush and can prevent scratches.
- The handle is super comfortable, which is perfect for travelers.
Cons
- This guitar is awesome, but some people wish the storage compartment had a lid.
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How To Choose The Best Sweetwater Guitar Cases for Travel
There are a few things for you to consider when you’re deciding which guitar case to choose. They include:
Durability
When choosing the best Sweetwater guitar case, you should consider its durability. Your guitar case must be tough and strong enough to withstand travel’s inevitable bumps and impacts and keep your guitar safe.
Compatibility
Not all guitar cases are made for your guitar. As you can see from our list above, some cases are made specifically for acoustic guitars, electric guitars, and others. So, before you make your purchase, make sure that it fits your guitar.
TSA-friendly latches and locks
A guitar case that’s suitable for traveling and flying should have TSA-friendly latches. Also, if your case comes with security closures, they should also be TSA-approved!
Can I hand carry a guitar on a plane?
Unless it’s a ukulele, no, you can’t. Unlike carry-on luggage, guitars are big and they don’t fit in the overhead compartment or under your seat. But they’re accepted as check-in baggage, which is why you should store your guitar inside your guitar case.
Does keeping a guitar in a case protect from humidity?
Yep! Keeping your guitar inside a case can protect it from humidity. Some waterproof cases can even protect your guitar from the water!
How can I travel with my guitar?
By keeping them inside a strong and durable case, of course! That way, you can go wherever you want without having to worry about your guitar receiving bumps.
Some images in this article are copyrighted by Sweetwater
