How to Travel by Train With Guitars

Use a hard case to protect your guitar.

A guitar is a big investment you need to take care of, especially when traveling. Even if you are traveling across the city on a train, there are a number of ways your guitar can be damaged during the ride. You should travel with care, and there are also preparations you should make before boarding the train to ensure your guitar makes it to its destination in one piece.

Instructions

1. Loosen the strings on your guitar so vibrations don't break them. Place a cloth between the strings and the fingerboard so the strings don't push against it, causing damage.

2. Place the guitar in a hard case, not a soft case. You never know what storage options will be available to you on the train, so you need an external case that will protect the guitar. This will also help if the train ride is bumpy; your guitar will be safer.

3. Hold the guitar while on the train in your lap or between your legs. Don't put it in the overhead compartment because it won't fit properly and could be damaged due to jostling. If you're traveling a long distance, consider purchasing the seat next to you for your guitar.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're traveling somewhere with a different climate, travel with a screwdriver and case humidifier as well. A screwdriver is needed to adjust the intonation on electric guitars, while a humidifier can help keep the guitar at constant humidity to ensure it doesn't dry out and get damaged.

• Add a strap to your hard case so it's easy to transport through train stations.

References

• Music Ed Magic: Tips on Traveling With a Guitar