My husband has recently taking up playing the guitar and he loves it.
But he has become reluctant to travel for more than a week or two since he can't practice and he loses his calluses and his progress.
Any ideas how to best travel with a guitar? We otherwise are always carry-on only packers.
Or any ideas how to access a guitar if he doesn't bring his own? Rent one? Buy a simple one?
Appreciate what anyone can share!
(From my BIL who was a musician back in the day) Assuming you won't want to buy the guitar it's own seat on the plane, you would need a good quality hard shell case, and properly prepare the guitar before travel. Make sure the airline will allow you to gate check it, and have it returned at the door, and not at the baggage carousel.
I'm going to gently suggest giving consideration as to where and when the practicing will take place in hotel rooms, or apartments, to avoid complaints from neighbours who may not appreciate being serenaded by your DH.
I understand how your husband feels, as someone whose guitar/bass is never far from their hands. Unfortunately, I don't think there are many good solutions. I've had to fly with my guitar a few times and it makes me incredibly anxious. Airlines are notorious for damaging musical instruments. The best you can do to protect your instrument is buy a very heavy duty case (like a good Gator hardshell case) and request to gate check it. Sometimes they will let you put it in the little locker/cupboard they have on bigger planes but you won't know if they have space until you're actually boarding. I know they also make smaller travel sized guitars but I don't know if they're small enough to be a carry on. You could, if you are desperate, consider something really small like a ukulele.
Renting could be an option, depending on where you are going. Or if he just wants some time to practice every day he can walk in to any guitar shop (we have many here on Denmark Street) and just start playing. You don't even have to pretend like you want to buy something, many guitar shops will just let you play!
Good luck and hope you are able to find a solution.
perhaps something like this?
Professional musicians in family - not guitar, but an instrument that is "supposed" to be allowed as carry-on. Case measurements meet air carrier total length limits per written airline policies. Musicians Union has provided letters to the effect that certain instruments are allowed to fly. Displaying these "proofs" has had no result if a gate agent doesn't wish to allow the instrument on board.
We have our own stories of difficulties. There are many more stories easily googled of others who have been denied plane access - or had instruments smashed if carried in hold.
As a hobbyist, don't fly with the guitar.
All good thoughts!
If he brings or get one will also be a good neighbor. LOL
Or maybe he can busk and earn enough to pay for a meal.
