Can You Take A Guitar As A Carry On? Absolutely, and guitarplayers.net is here to guide you through every step of ensuring your beloved instrument travels safely with you. We’ll explore the ins and outs of airline policies, offer practical tips, and share invaluable insights to make your journey as smooth as a perfectly executed guitar solo. Discover insider secrets for stress-free travel with your musical companion and find advice on musical instrument travel.
1. Understanding Airline Policies on Guitars as Carry-Ons
Navigating airline policies can feel like deciphering a complex chord progression, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding the rules regarding guitars as carry-ons is the first step to a stress-free journey.
1.1. The Official Stance: FAA Regulations and Guitars
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the USA has regulations that support musicians. According to the FAA, airlines must allow passengers to store small musical instruments, like guitars, in overhead bins or under seats, provided there’s space available and the instrument meets the airline’s size restrictions for carry-on baggage. This means knowing your rights is crucial.
1.2. Airline-Specific Rules: A Detailed Comparison
While the FAA sets the standard, each airline has its own specific rules. Here’s a comparison to help you navigate:
| Airline | Carry-On Size Limit (Linear Inches) | Weight Limit (lbs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 45 | Not Specified | If it fits in the overhead bin or under the seat, you’re generally good to go. |
| United Airlines | 45 | Not Specified | Similar to American, but be wary of smaller regional jets. |
| Southwest Airlines | 50 | Not Specified | Southwest’s “first come, first served” boarding can be an advantage. |
| Delta Airlines | 45 | Not Specified | Delta is generally accommodating, but it’s always best to check with a gate agent. |
| JetBlue | Varies | Not Specified | JetBlue’s policies can vary; check their website before your flight. |
Note: Always check the airline’s official website for the most up-to-date information, as policies can change.
1.3. The Murphy’s Law: Addressing Potential Issues
Even with the best planning, things can go wrong. Murphy’s Law dictates that anything that can go wrong will go wrong, so it’s best to be prepared. Here are a few common issues and how to address them:
- Full Flights: Overhead bins fill up quickly. Boarding early increases your chances of finding space.
- Uncooperative Staff: Remain polite but firm. Knowing your rights under FAA regulations can be helpful.
- Size Restrictions: Use a smaller case, like the Breedlove Tour Mate, to increase your chances of compliance.
2. Preparing Your Guitar for Air Travel
Proper preparation is key to ensuring your guitar’s safety. Think of it as tuning up before a big performance – essential for success.
2.1. Choosing the Right Case: Hard vs. Soft
The great debate: hard case or soft case? Here’s a breakdown:
- Hard Cases: Offer maximum protection for checked baggage but can be bulky and less likely to fit in overhead bins.
- Soft Cases: More likely to be allowed as carry-ons due to their smaller size and lighter weight. A well-padded semi-hard case, like the Breedlove Tour Mate, offers a good balance of protection and convenience.
Remember, a firm case with padding provides shock absorption that a hard case might lack, protecting against drops and impacts.
Breedlove Tour Mate case
2.2. Loosening Strings: Why It’s Crucial
Changes in air pressure during flights can put significant stress on your guitar’s neck. Loosening the strings reduces this tension, minimizing the risk of damage. According to guitar experts, detuning your strings a whole step down is generally sufficient.
2.3. Additional Protection: Padding and Support
Add extra padding around the headstock and neck with soft cloths or bubble wrap. This provides additional shock absorption and prevents movement inside the case. Securing any loose items inside the case is also crucial to prevent them from scratching or damaging the guitar.
3. Strategies for Smooth Airport Navigation
Navigating the airport with a guitar requires a strategic approach. Think of it as planning your route to the stage – knowing the path ahead can save you time and stress.
3.1. Checking in Strategically: Online vs. In-Person
- Online Check-In: Avoids the ticket counter, reducing the chance of being forced to check your guitar.
- In-Person Check-In: Can be useful for asking about early boarding, but be cautious, as staff might tag your guitar for checking.
3.2. TSA Guidelines: What to Expect at Security
Be prepared to remove your guitar from its case for inspection. TSA agents may need to swab the instrument or case. Remaining calm and cooperative will help expedite the process.
3.3. Boarding Smart: Early Bird Gets the Worm
Boarding early is crucial for securing overhead bin space. Airlines often allow passengers with small children or those needing assistance to board first. If possible, politely ask the gate agent for an earlier boarding position.
4. Onboard Etiquette and Storage Solutions
Once on board, knowing how to handle your guitar is essential for a smooth flight. Think of it as performing on stage – professionalism and consideration go a long way.
4.1. Finding the Perfect Spot: Overhead Bin vs. Closet
- Overhead Bins: Ideal for smaller cases. Place the guitar with the neck facing up to prevent other bags from pressing down on it.
- Closets: Some planes have closets near the front of the cabin. Flight attendants may allow you to store your guitar there, but it’s subject to availability.
4.2. Communicating with Flight Attendants: A Friendly Approach
Politeness goes a long way. Explain that you’re carrying a delicate musical instrument and ask for their assistance in finding a safe storage location. Some flight attendants are musicians themselves and will be more than willing to help.
4.3. Dealing with Limited Space: Creative Solutions
If overhead space is limited, consider placing the guitar under the seat in front of you, provided it fits. Alternatively, ask a fellow passenger if they would be willing to swap seats to accommodate your guitar.
5. What to Do When You Have to Gate-Check Your Guitar
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might have to gate-check your guitar. This isn’t ideal, but knowing how to handle it can minimize the risk of damage.
5.1. The Gate-Check Process: What to Expect
Gate-checking means your guitar is tagged at the gate, placed in the cargo hold just before takeoff, and returned to you on the jet bridge after landing. It’s better than checking it at the ticket counter, as it reduces handling.
5.2. Protecting Your Instrument: Last-Minute Precautions
Before handing over your guitar, double-check that the strings are loosened and that there’s adequate padding inside the case. Consider adding a fragile sticker to the case.
5.3. Upon Arrival: Inspecting for Damage
As soon as you receive your guitar, inspect it thoroughly for any signs of damage. If you notice anything, report it immediately to the airline and file a claim.
6. Alternative Options: Shipping or Buying a Travel Guitar
If the stress of flying with a guitar is too much, consider alternative options. Think of it as choosing the right instrument for the gig – sometimes, a different tool is the best solution.
6.1. Shipping Your Guitar: Pros and Cons
- Pros: Avoids the hassle of carrying your guitar through the airport. Offers more protection with proper packaging.
- Cons: Can be expensive. Requires careful packaging to prevent damage.
6.2. Travel Guitars: Compact and Convenient
Travel guitars are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them ideal for flying. Brands like Martin and Taylor offer excellent travel-sized guitars that sound great and are easy to carry.
6.3. Renting at Your Destination: A Practical Solution
Renting a guitar at your destination can be a convenient option, especially for shorter trips. Many music stores offer rentals, and you can often find quality instruments.
7. Real-Life Scenarios: Stories from the Road
Hearing from other musicians can provide valuable insights. These real-life scenarios offer practical tips and cautionary tales.
7.1. The Case of the Cranky Flight Attendant
A musician recounts how a flight attendant initially refused to allow his guitar on board, citing lack of space. By remaining calm and politely explaining the FAA regulations, he was eventually able to convince her to find a spot in the closet.
7.2. The Tale of the Gate-Checked Gibson
Another musician shares a story of having to gate-check his Gibson Les Paul. Despite taking precautions, the guitar sustained a crack in the neck during the flight. This underscores the importance of using a sturdy case and considering alternative options for valuable instruments. According to anecdotal evidence, Gibson guitars, due to their unique design and stress points, may be more prone to cracking at the neck than Fender electrics with bolt-on necks.
Damaged guitar neck
7.3. The Success Story of the Breedlove Tour Mate
A guitarist raves about the Breedlove Tour Mate case, noting that it has allowed him to successfully carry his guitar on dozens of flights without incident. He emphasizes the importance of its combination of padding and compact size.
8. Understanding Your Rights: DOT Law
Navigating airline policies with a musical instrument can be complex, but understanding your rights under the Department of Transportation (DOT) can significantly ease the process.
8.1. What the DOT Says About Musical Instruments
The DOT has specific regulations to protect musicians traveling with their instruments. These rules are designed to ensure that airlines treat musical instruments fairly and consistently. Here are the key points:
- Carry-on Instruments: According to DOT regulations, airlines must allow passengers to carry on small musical instruments, such as guitars, provided they can be safely stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat.
- Size and Weight Restrictions: The instrument must meet the airline’s standard size and weight restrictions for carry-on baggage. These restrictions vary by airline, so it’s essential to check with your carrier before traveling.
- Space Availability: The DOT guidelines state that instruments should be accommodated if there is space available at the time the passenger boards. However, if the overhead bins are already full, the airline is not required to make special accommodations.
- Checked Instruments: If an instrument is too large to be carried on, it must be checked. In this case, the airline is liable for any damage caused by negligence. It’s advisable to declare the value of the instrument and purchase additional insurance if necessary.
8.2. How to Assert Your Rights Respectfully
Knowing your rights is one thing, but asserting them effectively requires a delicate balance of confidence and courtesy. Here’s how to navigate potential conflicts with airline staff:
- Stay Informed: Before heading to the airport, familiarize yourself with the DOT regulations and the specific policies of the airline you’re flying with.
- Be Polite and Professional: Approach airline staff with a calm and respectful demeanor. Explain that you are aware of your rights under DOT regulations and that you would like to carry your instrument on board.
- Present Documentation: Keep a copy of the DOT regulations and the airline’s policy on musical instruments with you. If necessary, present this documentation to the staff.
- Escalate if Necessary: If the airline staff is unwilling to comply, politely ask to speak with a supervisor or customer service representative.
- Document Everything: Keep a record of all interactions with airline staff, including names, dates, and times. This information can be valuable if you need to file a complaint later.
- File a Complaint: If you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a complaint with the DOT. The DOT takes these complaints seriously and will investigate the matter.
8.3. When to Politely Push Back and When to Concede
There may be times when asserting your rights is straightforward, and other times when it requires more tact and judgment. Here are some guidelines:
- Push Back When:
- The instrument clearly meets carry-on size and weight restrictions.
- There is available space in the overhead bins.
- The airline staff is misinterpreting or ignoring DOT regulations.
- Concede When:
- The flight is completely full, and there is genuinely no space for the instrument.
- The airline staff is being genuinely helpful and offering reasonable alternatives.
- Continuing to argue would cause a significant delay or disruption to the flight.
8.4. Real-World Examples of Applying DOT Law
- Scenario 1: A guitarist is told at the gate that their guitar must be checked, despite it fitting within the airline’s carry-on size limits. The guitarist politely presents a copy of the DOT regulations and requests to speak with a supervisor. The supervisor reviews the regulations and allows the guitarist to carry the instrument on board.
- Scenario 2: A violinist is boarding a flight, and the overhead bins are already full. The flight attendant suggests checking the violin, but the violinist explains that the instrument is fragile and valuable. The flight attendant offers to store the violin in the first-class closet, ensuring its safety throughout the flight.
9. The Impact of Temperature and Humidity
Temperature and humidity fluctuations can significantly affect wooden instruments, so it’s crucial to take precautions to mitigate potential damage.
9.1. How Temperature Changes Affect Guitars
- Expansion and Contraction: Wood expands when exposed to heat and contracts when exposed to cold. These changes can cause cracks, warping, and other structural issues.
- Finish Damage: Extreme temperatures can also damage the finish of your guitar, causing it to bubble, crack, or peel.
9.2. How Humidity Levels Affect Guitars
- Dryness: Low humidity can cause the wood to dry out, leading to cracks, loose joints, and a sunken top.
- Excessive Humidity: High humidity can cause the wood to swell, leading to warping, buzzing strings, and a muffled tone.
9.3. Steps to Protect Your Guitar from the Elements
- Case Insulation: Use a well-insulated case to protect your guitar from temperature fluctuations.
- Humidity Control: Use a humidifier or dehumidifier inside the case to maintain a stable humidity level.
- Avoid Extreme Environments: Avoid leaving your guitar in direct sunlight, in a hot car, or in a cold, damp basement.
- Acclimation: Allow your guitar to gradually acclimate to changes in temperature and humidity. Avoid sudden transitions from cold to hot or vice versa.
9.4. Best Practices for Long-Term Storage
- Stable Environment: Store your guitar in a location with a stable temperature and humidity level.
- Proper Case: Use a high-quality case that provides adequate protection from the elements.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect your guitar regularly for signs of damage or wear. Take it to a qualified technician for repairs as needed.
10. Insurance Options for Your Guitar
Protecting your investment with insurance is a smart move, especially if you travel frequently or own a valuable instrument.
10.1. Types of Insurance Policies
- Homeowner’s Insurance: May cover your guitar if it’s stolen or damaged in your home. However, it may not cover damage that occurs during travel.
- Renter’s Insurance: Similar to homeowner’s insurance, but for renters.
- Musical Instrument Insurance: Specifically designed to cover musical instruments. These policies typically cover damage, theft, and loss, both at home and during travel.
10.2. What to Look for in a Policy
- Coverage: Ensure the policy covers damage, theft, and loss, both at home and during travel.
- Deductible: Consider the deductible amount and whether it’s affordable for you.
- Exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions in the policy, such as damage caused by neglect or normal wear and tear.
- Value: Make sure the policy covers the full value of your guitar.
10.3. How to Document Your Guitar’s Value
- Appraisal: Have your guitar appraised by a qualified appraiser.
- Receipts: Keep receipts for your guitar and any accessories.
- Photos: Take clear photos of your guitar, including close-ups of any unique features or damage.
- Serial Number: Record the serial number of your guitar.
10.4. Filing a Claim: Step-by-Step Guide
- Report the Incident: Report the incident to the police or airline as soon as possible.
- Notify the Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company to file a claim.
- Provide Documentation: Provide all necessary documentation, including the police report, appraisal, receipts, and photos.
- Cooperate with the Investigation: Cooperate fully with the insurance company’s investigation.
By understanding these factors, you can ensure your guitar remains in top condition, ready to play whenever inspiration strikes.
Traveling with a guitar can be an adventure, and with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Remember to check airline policies, protect your instrument, and assert your rights when necessary. For more tips, lessons, and a community of fellow guitar enthusiasts, visit guitarplayers.net. Discover a wealth of guitar tabs, sheet music, and a vibrant forum for guitarists of all levels. Join guitarplayers.net today and take your guitar journey to new heights.
FAQ: Flying with Your Guitar
1. Can I really bring my guitar as a carry-on?
Yes, you can generally bring a guitar as a carry-on, provided it meets the airline’s size restrictions and there’s space available in the overhead bins.
2. What if the flight attendant says there’s no room for my guitar?
Politely explain that you’re aware of the FAA regulations and ask if there’s any alternative storage, such as a closet.
3. Should I loosen the strings on my guitar before flying?
Yes, loosening the strings reduces tension on the neck and minimizes the risk of damage from changes in air pressure.
4. What’s the best type of case for flying with a guitar?
A well-padded semi-hard case, like the Breedlove Tour Mate, offers a good balance of protection and convenience.
5. Is it better to check in online or in person when flying with a guitar?
Checking in online can help you avoid the ticket counter, reducing the chance of being forced to check your guitar.
6. What happens if my guitar gets damaged during a flight?
Report the damage immediately to the airline and file a claim. Be sure to document the damage with photos and keep any relevant paperwork.
7. Can I buy a separate seat for my guitar?
Yes, if you want to guarantee its safety, you can purchase a seat for your guitar.
8. Are there any guitars specifically designed for travel?
Yes, travel guitars are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for flying. Brands like Martin and Taylor offer excellent travel-sized guitars.
9. What if I have to gate-check my guitar?
Ensure the strings are loosened, add extra padding, and ask where the guitar will emerge upon landing to avoid it going to baggage claim.
10. Where can I find more tips and connect with other guitar players?
Visit guitarplayers.net for lessons, reviews, sheet music, and a vibrant community of guitar enthusiasts.
