Keep Your Instrument Safe While Traveling

Nothing beats hopping on a plane, settling down in a private cabin or luxury hotel, and celebrating by playing a song. However, traveling with an instrument can be as nerve-racking as it is rewarding.

Whether you’re touring for a performance or bringing your cherished instrument along for leisure, ensuring its safety is paramount. Below are practical ways to ensure your instrument remains safe from damage while traveling the world.

Choose the Right Case for Maximum Protection

A high-quality case is your first line of defense against potential damage. Hard-shell cases with foam interiors tailored to fit your instrument snugly are a must. Additionally, climate resistance should be a key consideration, especially if you’re traveling to areas with extreme weather variations.

If your instrument is particularly valuable or fragile, investing in a custom-built case might be worthwhile. For those sensitive to weight, lightweight carbon fiber cases offer durability without adding pounds to your luggage. Travelers flying with their instruments should always verify the dimensions of their case versus airline cabin requirements.

Handle Temperature and Humidity

Environmental factors like temperature and humidity are constant threats to your instrument’s well-being. Rapid changes in temperature can cause wood to crack, strings to slacken, or finishes to warp.

Brass sheet metal products, for instance, can tarnish faster in moist conditions if not taken care of properly. Integrate measures to maintain and care for brass components to ensure long-lasting quality.

To minimize risks, always carry an instrument humidifier or desiccant pack based on the material of your instrument. These tools maintain consistent humidity levels inside your case. Similarly, avoid leaving your instrument in a car or anywhere you may expose it to extreme heat or cold.

Safeguard During Transportation

One of the riskiest times for your instrument is during transit. If you’re flying, try to transport your instrument as carry-on luggage and ask crew members if there’s a storage closet on board. For instruments large enough to require checking, label the case with “Fragile” warnings on all sides.

For ground transportation, keep your instrument in an upright position and in a secured location where it won’t shift, such as behind a car seat or in a corner.

Insure Your Instrument

Finally, no matter the precautions you take, accidents can still happen. Because of this, insuring your instrument provides an added layer of security and peace of mind. Specialized insurance for instruments typically includes coverage for theft, accidental damage, and even loss.

Traveling with an instrument safely unlocks unparalleled opportunities for creative expression wherever you go. Just because your wanderlust takes you all over the world doesn’t mean you need to leave your love of music behind. Treat traveling with your instrument as an extension of its care and maintenance—its value extends beyond monetary worth.