Whether you're a professional musician, a student heading to a competition, or just someone who wants to practice on vacation, traveling with a violin, viola, cello, or double bass can be nerve-wracking. Will your instrument be safe? Will your case hold up? What about the airline's rules? Don't worry—we’ve got you covered. With the right planning, you can avoid common travel disasters and keep your instrument in perfect condition. Here’s everything you need to know for a smooth, stress-free journey.
1. Choosing the Right Case: Is Your Case Sufficient?
Your case is your instrument’s best (and sometimes only) line of defense during travel. Not all cases are created equal, and just because yours works fine for everyday use doesn’t mean it’s ready for the rigors of planes, trains, and automobile trips. A flimsy or poorly padded case can spell disaster, especially if it gets jostled around or checked in as luggage.
Key Features of a Good Travel Case:
- Hardshell exterior – Protects against drops, bumps, and crushing.
- Suspension system – Keeps the instrument from making direct contact with the case walls and absorbs external damage.
- Weather resistance – Waterproof or humidity-controlled cases help stabilize the interior of the case from changes in climate.
- Secure latches and locks – Essential to prevent accidental openings.
- Backpack straps or wheels (for larger instruments) – Makes toting your violin or bass along the journey easier.
Recommended Cases:
- For violins: American Case Continental Dart Violin Case, American Case Company Continental Violin Case, Super Light Compact Violin Case, or BAM Graffiti Hightech Oblong Violin Case (Navy/Red)
- For violas: American Case Company Manhattan Viola Case or BAM Contoured Hightech Viola Case
- For cellos: Super Light Agility Cello Case, BAM Graffiti Hightech Slim Cello Case (Green/Orange), or SL Super Light Hybrid Mobile Cello Cases.
- For double basses: Cushy Glider® Bass Bag with Wheels.
If your case is old, flimsy, or lacks padding, it might be time to upgrade before hitting the road. Investing in a strong, well-designed case is a small price to pay compared to the cost of repairing or replacing your instrument.
2. Packing Your Instrument for Travel
Packing your instrument properly is just as important as having the right case. Even the best case won’t protect against all potential mishaps if you don’t take the time to secure everything inside. Loose bows, tight strings, and forgotten humidifiers can lead to major headaches on the road.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide:
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Loosen the strings slightly to relieve tension from temperature and pressure changes.
- Violins/Violas: Very slight loosening (if at all).
- Cellos/Basses: Loosen about a quarter-turn on each peg to reduce tension but keep the bridge stable.
- Secure the bow in its designated holder—never leave it loose in the case.
- Use a soft cloth or silk bag to cover the instrument for extra protection.
- Place padding inside the case (foam or bubble wrap) around the scroll, neck, and bridge if there's extra space.
- Ensure humidity control:
- Use a Humidi-Guard™ or Dampit humidifier for control within the instrument.
- Use a case humidifier, like Oasis or Stretto, to help maintain stable moisture levels in the case overall.
The goal is to prevent anything from shifting – physically OR atmospherically – inside the case. If your instrument can move even slightly when you shake the case, you need more padding.
If using a bowless case, carry the bow separately in a dedicated bow tube or a compact bow case (e.g., the BAM Bow Tube).
Some musicians use a sturdy mailing tube for added protection when traveling with checked luggage.
3. Essential Accessories for Traveling Musicians
A well-packed case isn't just about the instrument—it’s also about having the right accessories on hand. When you’re traveling, access to a music store might not be an option, so it’s best to prepare for anything that might go wrong.
Must-Have Accessories:
- Spare strings – Changes in temperature and humidity can cause strings to snap.
- Rosin – Keep a small, travel-friendly rosin in your case.
- Tuner & metronome – Compact, digital versions help with practice anywhere.
- Peg drops & bow tightening tools – Humidity changes may affect tuning pegs.
- Microfiber cloths & Cleaner – Wipe rosin off the strings and body after playing.
- Mute – Required for practice in hotels or quiet environments.
- Music stand (collapsible) – Essential for rehearsals or performances on the go.
For Cellists & Bassists:
- Endpin stopper – Prevents slipping on hotel or venue floors.
Packing these small but essential accessories can be a lifesaver. A broken string or slipping peg can easily throw off a performance if you're not prepared.
4. Flying with Your Instrument
Flying is where things get tricky. Airlines have different rules, and staff members don’t always know their own policies. The key is to do your research ahead of time and be prepared to advocate for your instrument.
Carry-On vs. Checking Your Instrument:
- Violin & Viola – Always carry them on board; they fit in most overhead bins.
- Some companies make cases specifically for this purpose: GL Combi Overhead and BAM Hightech Overhead. But beware! These cases cannot hold bows.
- Cello – You may need to buy a separate seat; some airlines allow gate-checking with extra padding.
- Double Bass – These must be checked as oversized luggage, but not all airlines accept them. Always call ahead and check airline policies before booking.
Tips for Air Travel:
- Book early – Some airlines have limited space for instrument carry-ons.
- Arrive early – Gives you time to talk to airline staff if needed.
- Request "fragile" handling – Attach a visible "fragile" sticker to your case.
- Consider insurance – Many travel insurance policies do NOT cover professional musicians or high-value instruments. Consider Instrument-specific insurance (e.g., Heritage, Clarion, Anderson Group). Make sure your policy covers air travel and international damage.
- Overhead Compartments - Keep an eye on your case in the overhead compartment to prevent other travelers from stacking their luggage on top of it, which could crack or crush the lid.
If an airline ever tries to force you to check your instrument, politely but firmly insist on their policy (printed out if necessary). Always have a backup plan just in case.
5. Traveling by Car
If you're driving to a gig or festival, your instrument will still face risks like temperature changes and jostling. Fortunately, a little extra care can go a long way.
Car Travel Tips:
- Never leave your instrument in a hot or cold car – Heat can melt varnish, and cold can cause cracks.
- Use a seatbelt to secure the case – Prevents it from shifting or falling.
- Avoid direct sunlight – Keeps the case from overheating.
- Use a humidifier – Helps prevent wood shrinkage in dry climates.
For long road trips, take breaks and check on your instrument when possible. A well-ventilated, temperature-controlled car is ideal.
6. Hotel & Venue Storage Tips
Once you arrive, don't let your guard down. Hotels and venues can have unexpected dangers like excessive humidity, temperature fluctuations, and careless handling.
- Keep the instrument in its case whenever not in use.
- Keep a case tag in case your instrument is misplaced.
- Use a hygrometer in the case to monitor humidity levels.
- Store away from air vents, windows, and radiators to prevent damage.
A little awareness goes a long way in keeping your instrument safe while you're on the road.
7. What to Do If Damage Occurs
Even with the best planning, accidents can happen. The important thing is to stay calm and know your next steps.
- Cracks or seam openings – Loosen the strings and take it to a luthier immediately.
- Loose tuning pegs – Use peg drops or gently push the peg in while tuning.
- Warped bow – Avoid further tension and seek professional rehairing.
While many minor issues can be fixed, if something serious happens, don’t try DIY repairs: professional help is always the best option.
Conclusion: Travel Smart, Play Confidently
Traveling with a violin, viola, cello, or bass doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right case, accessories, and a little extra care, you can make sure your instrument arrives safely wherever you go. Whether you’re flying across the country or driving to a gig, following these tips will keep you focused on what really matters—your music.
Planning a trip? Check out Shar Music for high-quality cases, humidifiers, and travel accessories to keep your instrument safe!
