In Case of Trouble ...
In the last six years it has become increasingly difficult for musicians to fly with instruments. The professional musicians union—the American Federation of Musicians, or AFM—has reported complaints about instruments that were refused carry-on status and were subsequently damaged after transportation in an aircraft’s hold.
The AFM worked with the Transportation Security Administration on the adoption of uniform screening procedures, as well as with airlines on their carry-on luggage policies, going as far as to call a boycott against Delta when it proved recalcitrant. Delta then revised its rules against carrying on instruments in April. Still, if you fly Delta, or any other airline, and you’re carrying a guitar, violin, or other instrument case that needs special treatment, don’t be surprised if you are told to put it with the baby strollers, wheelchairs, and other last-minute checked items. Making Music has an up-to-date guide to airline carry-on polices at www.makingmusicmag.com/forte/airline.html.
Musicians who are flying to music camp or going on vacation with instruments should invest in a sturdy instrument case. As some professional musicians have found, a regular hard case won’t be up to the rough treatment and possible crushing that takes place in an aircraft’s hold.
In response to the demand, instrument case manufacturers are marketing different kinds of cases for all musicians on the go, not just those who are flying. The after-market case you buy will obviously depend on your needs. Musicians must also think of ergonomic issues, especially if nursing a sore back or shoulder, and climatic conditions, if you play an instrument sensitive to changes in heat and/or humidity.
In general, instrument cases fall into one of four categories: gig bags, flight cases, road cases, and wheelie bags. In our examples, we opted for after-market cases designed specifically for traveling musicians, although after assessing your needs, you might find that the case that came with your instrument is the best choice of all.
Gig bags are soft, usually nylon, bags that are designed for light travel. Most offer little protection other than a thin foam filler, although they are light and easily packed. If you’re going to music camp, you might want to buy one for use there, in addition to a flight or road case. Sturdier gig bags are available for moderate travel needs.
Flight cases, as the name suggests, are built to handle the loads and knocking of airline travel. Even sturdier options are road cases, which are used by professional road crews and are designed to take a lot of abuse. Lastly, some companies suggest circumventing airline rules with instrument cases that look more like typical hand luggage. If you choose this option, make sure the case offers protection in the event that you do have to check your bag.
Gig Bag
Opt for a gig bag with a sturdy construction, even if you don’t plan to travel extensively with your instrument. Interior foam padding, high denier nylon, strong handles, and quality zippers and hardware will protect your investment. An ergonomic strap is a must to protect your shoulders.
For further information, visit www.gatorcases.com
Flight Case
An instrument case that can handle the rigors of an aircraft’s cargo hold must be made of the right materials. Hard cases made with cardboard or thin plywood won’t do. Look for thick foam, solid plastic, and/or carbon fiber construction and a high strength-to-weight ratio.
For further information, visit www.karuracase.com
Road Case
Road cases are built tough for rough handling by roadies, hence their industrial metal straps and rivets, heavy-duty casters, and shock-absorbing technology. Road cases are ideal for musicians who travel by air extensively and want their instruments to receive rock star treatment.
For further information, visit www.roadreadycases.com
Wheelie Bag
Wheelie bags look and operate like small- to mid-size hand baggage suitcases. Band musicians especially can transport their instruments in them without drawing attention to what they are carrying. Wheelie bags are also a good idea for musicians who prefer to take the weight off their arms and shoulders.
For further information, visit www.talwarbrothers.com
