Writer’s Choice

Key Features
- ATA molded polyethylene exterior
- EPS foam interior
- Extensive neck cradle
- TSA approved lock
- Injection-molded handle
- injection-molded polyethylene feet
Value for Money

Key Features
- Polypropylene copolymer resin exterior
- Water-tight gasket seal
- TSA locking latch
- Easy-glide wheels
- Total neck support
- Accessory pocket
Best Budget

Key Features
- ATA Roto-Molded Polyethylene exterior
- Injection Molded Carry Handle
- TSA-approved Locking Latch with Impact diversion housings
- EPS Foam Nest with Black Plush Lining
- Extended Reach Neck Cradle with compartment for accessories
Guitars are meant to be carried wherever you go. But traveling with a guitar by road or on an airplane is risky. In particular, air travel is riskier. What are the risks? During air travel, the guitar as luggage often gets damaged due to mishandling if not packed in a decent hard case. Preferably, a flight case can withstand such damage.
On top of that, there are rules and regulations for air travel that apply to carrying a guitar, clearly implying that there are no substitutes for standard flight cases. So, I decided to come up with some of the best guitar flight cases you can buy now. Before we jump into the list, let’s figure out how you should choose the best one.
What to consider when buying the best guitar flight case?
- First, a durable, heavy-duty exterior guitar flight case can brace impact without damaging the guitar.
- A soft, cushiony interior that fits your guitar! (With adequate neck rest).
- A guitar flight case with a TSA-approved latching lock system would be difficult to pass through ports without one.
Apart from that, you may look for features like spacious accessory compartments to carry all the accessories like extra strings, capos, tuners, etc., since you will be away for a long time, and a comfortable handle to carry the guitar. High-end best guitar flight cases may come with easy-glide wheels for easy maneuvering through airports and waterproof gasket seals to protect from moisture.
So that you have the best guitar case for the next time you travel by air, I have picked the 15 best guitar flight cases you can buy in 2022. Take a peek.
How We Decided

49
Products
Reviewed

28
Total Hours
Researched

4
Experts
Interviewed

9
Brand
Reviewed
- How We Decided
- 1. Fender Deluxe Molded Strat/Tele Electric Guitar Case
- 2. SKB Injection Molded Electric Guitar Case (3i-4214-OP)
- 3. Gator Case For Classical Acoustic Guitars (GTSA-GTRCLASS)
- 4. Gator Molded Case for Strat/Tele Style Electric Guitars
- 5. Gator Case for Double Cut-Away Guitars Fits Gibson SG Guitars (GTSA-GTRSG)
- 6. Gator Case for 335 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars (GTSA-GTR335)
- 7. SKB Injection Molded Waterproof Les Paul Case (3i-4214-56)
- 8. Fender Deluxe Molded Jazz and Precision Electric Bass Guitar Case
- 9. SKB 1SKB-44 Electric Bass Rectangular Case
- 10. Crossrock Air Carbon 4/4 Classical Guitar Case (CRF6000CMBK)
- 11. Crossrock Purity Carbon Ultra-Light Classical Guitar Case (CRF7000CBK)
- 12. Crossrock Anti-scratch Flight Case Poly Carbon 4/4 Classical Guitar (CRF4000CBK)
- 13. Gator Acoustic Dreadnought Guitar Case (GTSA-GTRDREAD)
- 14. SKB 1SKB-000 Deluxe Acoustic Guitar Hard Case
- 15. SKB iSeries Waterproof Acoustic Guitar Case (3i-4217-18)
- Rules for Flying with Guitar
- Guitar Flight Cases Buyer's Guide
- Conclusion
1. Fender Deluxe Molded Strat/Tele Electric Guitar Case
Key Features
- ATA molded polyethylene exterior
- EPS foam interior
- Extensive neck cradle
- TSA approved lock
- Injection-molded handle
- injection-molded polyethylene feet
This fantastic Fender case, I deem the best guitar flight case that fits all Stratocaster or Telecaster guitars. They have designed this case keeping extensive air travel in mind. Its features, like a TSA-approved locking latch placed conveniently at the center, durable exterior, soft cushiony interior, ample neck rest, and spacious storage pocket, made it to my list
Pros
- Durable molded plastic exterior for better protection
- Center placed lock for better safety
- Soft interior for a custom wrap
- Ergonomic handle for easy carry
- Rubber-coated feet that offer better balance with the floor
Cons
- The storage pocket is not easily accessible
Models fit
It fits most Stratocaster and Telecaster electric guitars
Verdict
This case can handle any impact or sustain heavy luggage piles with a high-grade material exterior and a premium plush interior. You can buy it without any second thought!
2. SKB Injection Molded Electric Guitar Case (3i-4214-OP)
Key Features
- Polypropylene copolymer resin exterior
- Water-tight gasket seal
- TSA locking latch
- Easy-glide wheels
- Total neck support
- Accessory pocket
This is SKB’s innovative injection molded guitar case made of polypropylene copolymer resin, one of the best guitar flight cases. Its molded-in hinges, trigger system, TSA locking latch, rubber-cushion grip handles, military grade-built quality, premium plush interior, and neck support make it a fantastic choice for touring musicians who travel by air frequently.
Pros
- Resistant to impact, corrosion, and fungus
- Molded hinge for more extended use
- Soft-plush interior for a custom wrap
- Rubber molded cushion grip
- Spacious accessory pocket
Cons
- It does not fit Gibson Les Paul guitars
Models fit
- Designed to fit many electric guitars
Verdict
This heavy-built high-end guitar case is water and corrosion-resistant and built explicitly for premium guitars. We like the excellent rubbery grip on the handle, custom wrap interior, and impact-proof exterior.
3. Gator Case For Classical Acoustic Guitars (GTSA-GTRCLASS)
Key Features
- ATA Roto-Molded Polyethylene exterior
- Injection Molded Carry Handle
- TSA approved Locking Latch with Impact diversion housings
- EPS Foam Nest with Black Plush Lining
- Extended Reach Neck Cradle with compartment for accessories
This is Gator’s best guitar flight case, made of solid, military-grade polyethylene plastic, and can protect your guitar from any flight tussle. It is equipped with a TSA locking latch and has impact diversion housings for added protection. The handle has an ergonomic grip handle that makes it easy to carry during air travel. A black powder-coated continuous valance all over the outer shell adds to the style. The interior has a thick EPS foam nest, thick plush with an extended protective neck cradle is there to protect your axe.
Pros
- Strong and durable exterior
- Ergonomic carry handle
- Trigger style locking latch
- Premium foam nest with thicker plush Lining
Cons
- Storage is not spacious
Models fit
- Designed to Fit Classical Shaped Acoustic Guitars
Verdict
In a word, this guitar flight case is just incredible. Its premium features are a durable exterior and a soft cushiony interior. Trigger release systems and TSA locks will take you through airports. An ergonomic handle makes it easy to carry around the world.
4. Gator Molded Case for Strat/Tele Style Electric Guitars
Key Features
- ATA Roto-Molded Polyethylene exterior
- Ergo-grip injection molded carry candle
- TSA approved locking latch
- EPS Foam Nest with thick plush lining
- Extended reach neck cradle
- Storage compartment
This guitar case from Gator is among the best guitar flight case that fit all Strat/Tele style electric guitars. The outer shell is made of high-quality materials, including ATA molded polyethylene. This Gator Case’s custom-fit EPS foam nest with thick plush in the interior, highly protective extended neck cradle with trigger style TSA-approved locking latch, ergonomic grip handle, and spacious storage compartment made this Gator Case my choice for extensive air travel.
Pros
- Durable and heavy-duty molded exterior
- Thicker plush lining for a custom fit
- Ergonomic grip for easy carry
- Black powder-coated hardware for extended-lasting use
- Surface-mounted latch to evade any impact
Cons
- Expensive
Models fit
- It fits most Stratocaster and Telecaster electric guitars.
Verdict
This guitar flight case fits all Fender Stratocaster and Telecaster Style Electric Guitars. Its ultra-durable exterior, premium foam nest, extended neck cradle, TSA lock, and oversized storage compartment make it one of the best choices for air travel.
5. Gator Case for Double Cut-Away Guitars Fits Gibson SG Guitars (GTSA-GTRSG)
Key Features
- ATA Roto-Molded Polyethylene exterior
- TSA approved locking latch with impact-evading housing
- EPS Foam Nest with plush lining
- Extended Reach Neck Cradle
- Injection-molded carrying handle
This guitar flight case is designed to fit Gibson SG electric guitars. The G-PG Acoustic Pro Gator Case is built with polyethylene plastic to protect your axe. It has a TSA-approved lock and an impact diversion housing to deal with luggage tussles. It has a comfy grip injection molded handle so that you can carry it easily when needed. It boasts a thicker EPS foam nest. The spacious accessory compartment makes it a great option for flights.
Pros
- Durable, impact-proof, long-lasting exterior
- EPS foam plush lining with impact evasion housing
- Ergonomic soft grip for comfortable carry
- Extended neck cradle for neck protection
- Black powder-coated durable and stylish hardware
Cons
- Not fits all double-cutaway guitars
Models fit
- It fits Gibson SG Electric Guitars
Verdict
This best guitar flight case has an ultra-durable exterior, premium foaming interior, extended neck cradle, and ergonomic grip for the carrying handle that caught our attention. Other features, like the black powder continuous valence, make it a stylish option for stylish guitarists.
6. Gator Case for 335 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars (GTSA-GTR335)
Key Features
- ATA Roto-Molded Polyethylene exterior with black Powder Valence
- Ergonomic Grip Injection Molded Carry Handle
- TSA approved trigger-style locking latch with Impact diversion housings
- EPS Foam Nest with Thick plush lining
- Extended Reach Neck Cradle
This best guitar flight case is for Gibson 335¬ Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars and is built with durable Roto-molded polyethylene; it’s a military-grade safety case. The interior formed with universal fit EPS protective foam interior nest will secure your guitar while on luggage-pilling. Its air travel-friendly locking latch, easy-carry ergonomic handle, and other features make it a fantastic choice for touring musicians.
Pros
- Durable with military-grade molded exterior
- Universal Fit EPS Protective Foam with thick plush interior
- TSA accepted locking center Latch ideal for air travel
- Ergonomic soft grip for comfortable carry
- Surface-mounted impact diversion housing with trigger style locking latch
- Extended reach neck cradle
Cons
- Storage compartment is not spacious
Models fit
- Fits Gibson 335¬ Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars
Verdict
The TSA locking system is at the center for added protection. This flight case fits your guitar Gibson 335¬ Semi-Hollow Electric Guitars thanks to its EPS foam nest and thicker plush interior. We also appreciate the surface-mounted locking latch with impact diversion housing. Apart from that, the durable exterior and ergonomic grip handle make it a worthwhile consideration.
7. SKB Injection Molded Waterproof Les Paul Case (3i-4214-56)
Key Features
- Polypropylene copolymer resin exterior
- UV, solvent, corrosion, and fungus resistant
- Complete gasket seal
- Automatic ambient pressure equalization value
- TSA Locking Latch system
- Wheels attached
This high-strength resin-made best guitar flight case features a platinum plush interior, making it one of the best choices for flight. Other features include gasket water-resistant seal, corrosion, and impact-resistant. Its stainless steel molded-in hinge, TSA locking with extra locking loop, rubber cushiony grip handle, and automatic ambient pressure equalization valve turned it into an excellent guitar carrier for air travel.
Pros
- Ultra-high strength exterior
- Thick plush lining interior
- Stainless steel molded-in hinges
- Trigger style easy TSA Locking Latch system
- Rubbery grip for easy carry and pull
- Easy and quiet-glide wheels
- Spacious accessory compartment
Cons
- Overpriced
Models fit
- Most Les Paul Guitars
Verdict
This high-end flight guitar case fits most Les Paul or similar-shaped guitars. Consider buying it for your premium Les Paul. The waterproof gasket seal, UV, corrosion, fungus, and solvent-resistant features are what we appreciate the most among the features. It has a wheel for easy glide in a long walkway, a durable body, and a cushiony interior; all you need in a top-notch guitar flight case.
8. Fender Deluxe Molded Jazz and Precision Electric Bass Guitar Case
Key Features
- ATA molded ABS-made exterior
- TSA locking latch
- Foam interior nest with polyester plush interior
- Extended reach protective neck cradle
- Injection-molded handle
- Surface-mounted impact diversion housings
- Injection-molded polyethylene feet
This deluxe molded best guitar flight case is built with advanced materials with a TSA-approved locking latch placed at the center; this case will transport your guitar without any harm. It has a strong exterior with a premium plush interior lining that protects your axe better than any average guitar case. A spacious accessory compartment is there to carry picks, cables, straps, etc. You will love the rubberized feet, which add more stability while on the go.
Pros
- Military-grade durable ABS exterior shell
- TSA-approved locking latch placed at the center
- Custom-fit foam nest; premium polyester plush interior
- Ergonomic handle for easy carry
- Rugged feet for better balance with the ground
Cons
- Price raised recently
Models fit
- It fits most Fender electric basses, including Precision, Jazz, and Jaguar basses.
Verdict
This superb flight guitar case fits many electric guitar models. We like its custom-fit premium interior padding over any other features it has. It is a fantastic instrument case that is flight-ready with a TSA lock and a comfy ergonomic handle. Recommended.
9. SKB 1SKB-44 Electric Bass Rectangular Case
Key Features
- Fiberglass reinforced nylon latching system
- TSA approved locks
- Rubber over-molded handle
- Extended reach neck cradle
- Accessory compartment
This flight guitar case is reengineered exterior with bumper-protected corners. This SKB case includes a trigger-release TSA latching system and a comfortable handle. This unique bass guitar case fits most “P” and Jazz style axes. A tight-fit interior, full-length neck support, and premium plush protection on all sides make it a remarkable guitar case.
Pros
- Fiberglass reinforced durable and trigger release latching system
- Bumper protected valance
- Injection-molded feet for more balance with the ground
- Full-length neck support for more protection
- EPS foam inside to snug fit the axe
Cons
- Too much snug fit more few models
Models fit
- It fits most “P” and Jazz style axes
Verdict
Fiberglass durability with bumper-protected valance and injection molded feet makes it among the best guitar flight cases. Its premium-built case supports most of the P and Jazz-style guitars. A guitar case that matches your touring musical lifestyle.
10. Crossrock Air Carbon 4/4 Classical Guitar Case (CRF6000CMBK)
Key Features
- Carbon fiber outer shell
- Premium Foam padding with lining
- Dupont Nylon TSA-approved locking latches
- Crossrock patented handle
- Padded backpack straps with padded protective cover included
- Net weight 5lb.
The brand describes this best guitar flight case as “light as air, strong as steel.” In the real sense of the term, its durable and robust carbon fiber exterior made it possible to produce this case that looks premium from both inside and outside. With the TSA-certified lock, 5 lbs. weight, and elegant black design, the detachable straps will feel like air on your back with 100% safety for your axe while traveling by air.
Pros
- Lightweight (net weight 5 lbs. only)
- Strong and Indestructible steel-like carbon fiber shell
- Thick padding interior with silk-like lining that snug fit your guitar
- TSA-lock with extended-lasting latches
- Leather handle for easy carry with detachable straps for backpacking
Cons
- Pricey
Models fit
- 4/4 Size Classical Guitar
Verdict
Its weight, of course. It’s a premium and durable case, and it’s so lightweight but strong that we recommend it for your premium guitar. The interior is amazingly soft to provide optimum care for your axe. The carbon fiber strength will take you through any hassle. It’s a pricey yet best guitar flight case that is undeniably worth the buck spent.
11. Crossrock Purity Carbon Ultra-Light Classical Guitar Case (CRF7000CBK)
Key Features
- 4.5 lbs only
- carbon fiber outer shell.
- Foam padding with lining inside
- TSA-approved lock, easy latch
- Padded backpack straps
- It comes with a padded protective cover.
The key features of this flight case include a 100% carbon fiber-made exterior and adequate padding inside with neck support. This is Crossrock’s one of the best guitar flight cases. It is a lightweight yet durable case to protect your axe while traveling. The TSA-approved locking latches make it more travel-friendly. The case can withstand extreme hand pressure. It comes with premium backstraps to carry the case instead of the tenuous wheels at the airport. On top of it, the case comes with a free protective padded cover.
Pros
- Ultralight
- Durable carbon fiber outer shell
- Durable foam padding with lining
- Patented ergonomic handle
- Premium backpack straps can take up to 200lb pulling
Cons
- Interior is relatively cheap and flimsy feeling
Models fit
- 4/4 Size Classical Guitar
Verdict
It’s the premium best guitar flight case on my list. Carbon fiber-made cases are the most durable you can get. We like its features like lightweight, carrying backpack straps, and ergonomic handle. It’s one of my favorite high-end flight guitar cases for premium axes.
12. Crossrock Anti-scratch Flight Case Poly Carbon 4/4 Classical Guitar (CRF4000CBK)
Key Features
- Poly carbon outer shell
- Handmade padding with premium velvet lining
- TSA-approved lock with easy latch.
- Crossrock original designed carry handle
- Padded backpack straps
The interior of this Crossrock flight case contains premium padding and adequate neck support to fit your guitar. It features a zippered accessory bag instead of a storage compartment beneath. It comes with premium latches, and the outer shell is shiny and textured to avoid scratches. The Crossrock can withstand considerable hand pressure. The padded backpack strap is a handy feature with all the other travel-friendly features.
Pros
- Anti-scratch durable, and strong exterior
- Thick and premium padding with velvet lining for a snug fit
- Patented ergonomic handle for easy carry
- Deluxe padded backpack straps
Cons
- Pretty expensive
Models fit
- Designed for classical 4/4 size guitar
Verdict
Here is another high-end best guitar flight case. It’s scratch-resistant, ultra-durable exterior, thick plush lining with a premium foam nest that we could not overlook. It is protective, and you can take it anywhere without much worry. Its TSA lock and ergonomic handle are its highlights too.
13. Gator Acoustic Dreadnought Guitar Case (GTSA-GTRDREAD)
Key Features
- ATA Roto-Molded Polyethylene exterior with black powder continuous valence
- Ergo-Grip Injection Molded Handle
- TSA approved Locking Latch with Impact diversion housings
- EPS Foam Nest inside with black plush lining
- Extended Neck Cradle
This Gator guitar flight case is made of solid, military-grade polyethylene plastic to protect your axe from any damage that may occur during air travel. Hardware such as TSA-approved locking latches protected by impact diversion housings will sustain the guitar through trips. Other features, like the ergonomically produced injection molded handle, will give you the comfort you may need during transportation. The thick EPS foam with thick plush and the extended reach neck cradle will ensure the safety of the guitar when placed within the case.
Pros
- Durable, military-grade exterior
- Ergonomic carry handle for comfortable carry
- Air travel-friendly trigger release TSA locking latch
- Foam nest with thick plush lining to snug fit
- Extended reach neck cradle for more protection
Cons
- The back of the guitar has a minimal cushion
Models fit
- Designed to fit dreadnought shaped acoustic guitars
Verdict
All dreadnought-shaped acoustics fit in this durable molded plastic-made guitar flight case. Its extended-reach neck cradle provides total protection. We like the comfortable grip handle that allows us to take it miles in the air.
14. SKB 1SKB-000 Deluxe Acoustic Guitar Hard Case
Key Features
- TSA latching locks with trigger release latching system
- Bumper protected valance
- Cushioned rubber over-molded handle
- Neck support
- EPS foam interiors
- Injection-molded feet
The 1SKB-000 guitar case is SKB’s best guitar flight case that fits any 000 acoustics, equipped with extended reach neck support to fit Taylor, Martin, Johnson, and Santa Cruz 000-sized guitars. This is an ideal case for air travel, with a premium and strong plush interior and TSA-approved locks. Molded-in bumpers offer protection from scratches, while ergonomic rubbery handles provide more balance.
Pros
- Indestructible rubber molded handle
- Extended reach neck cradle
- The firm foam inside to snug fits your guitar
- Injection-molded feet for better balance on the ground
Cons
- The storage space is not spacious enough
Models fit
- Fits 000 guitars
Verdict
The interior is comfy and fits axes snugly. Its rubber molded over the handle and adequate neck support offer more protection; it’s built for impact damage control, and its TSA locking latch is perfect for a guitar flight case. You can buy this case for extensive travel purposes.
15. SKB iSeries Waterproof Acoustic Guitar Case (3i-4217-18)
Key Features
- Quality injection-molded polypropylene copolymer resin exterior
- UV, solvent, fungus, and corrosion resistant
- Complete gasket seal and pressure equalization value
- TSA approved locking latches
- Molded-in hinges
- Glide wheels
This is one of the best guitar flight cases from iSeries is built from an ultra-durable material and is entirely waterproof. It is corrosion and impact resistant. Its molded-in hinges, trigger-release latch system, and TSA-approved locks make it airline friendly. It also features a platinum plush interior, extended-reach neck support, and all-around protection so that you can securely fly with your guitar. On top of it, its snap-down cushiony grip handles are there for easy carry on the way.
Pros
- Durable and impact-resistant exterior
- Corrosion, fungus, UV, solvent resistant
- complete gasket seal for water resistance
- Automatic ambient pressure equalization
- Molded-in hinges for extended use
- Cushion grip for easy carrying
- Easy-glide wheels for ease of use
Cons
- Overpriced
Models fit
- It fits all acoustics guitars, including Taylor Grand Auditorium guitars.
Verdict
It’s not only durable but also stylish and highly protective. Its molded grip handle is comfortable, and the wheels are there to glide effortlessly through the airports. It’s a fantastic guitar flight case, a highly recommended flight guitar case from me.
Rules for Flying with Guitar
The Department of Transportation, through Section 403 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 enabled the carrying of musical instruments on a flight.
“This rule requires that carriers must allow a passenger to carry into the cabin and stow a small musical instrument, such a violin or a guitar, in a suitable baggage compartment, such as the overhead bin or under the seats in accordance with FAA safety regulations. ”
“403 of the Act and this final rule provide that carriers are required to allow passengers to stow their musical instruments in an approved stowage area in the cabin only if at the time the passenger boards the aircraft, such stowage space is available.” With the exception of certain disability assistance devices, overhead bins or underseat stowage space is available to all passengers and crew members for their carry-on baggage on a “first come, first served” basis.”
You can carry a guitar in the cabin too-
“We encourage passengers traveling with musical instruments to take steps to board before as many other passengers as possible to ensure that space will be available for them to safely stow their instruments in the cabin.”
– Department of Transportation
There is another option, which is to purchase an extra seat! Of course, you would not spend $400 on a $100 case. It is viable for high-end and premium guitar cases ($1000 or more, maybe!)
Or, you can simply check in your guitar. There is a risk involved regarding safety. I strongly recommend choosing a strong and durable guitar flight case to avoid any damage in case of any heavy luggage pile-up or mishandling.
Pro tip
- Consider taking lots of photographs of your guitar flight case before packing it and gearing up for the flight. It will help you claim compensation in a situation where the airline denies damage.
- Choose your seat at the front or rear, where the closet is. You can ask the crew to put your guitar there so you can keep an eye on it.
- To gain more insight, you may have a look at our essential flying tips.
Guitar Flight Cases Buyer’s Guide
The best guitar flight cases are lightweight! Yes, you have heard it right. But at the same time, it must be heavily built, long-lasting, and impact resistant. It’s great if they can sustain heavy luggage pile-on. They should be hard-shell molded plastics, fiberglass, or carbon fiber made. I love scratch-resistant exteriors. Many of them are entirely waterproof, corrosion, UV, and solvent-proof. Carefully choose from the best guitar flight cases according to your need.
The interior of a best guitar flight case usually comes with a substantial material foam nest with thick plush. The idea is that the interior must fit your guitar with only a fraction of a finger loose. Protective interiors are the thing you need to make sure of before buying. Don’t forget to look up an extended neck rest for better protection.
IMPORTANT: The hardware of the best guitar flight case must be durable, and don’t forget to buy the case with long-lasting hinges, latches, handles, and TSA-approved locks. If the case falls, heavy-duty hinges and latches keep your axe safe and secured. TSA-approved locks are useful in the event of an inspection. Within the US, it’s a norm you should follow.
Conclusion
The list covers cheap-to-high-end and best value-for-money best guitar flight cases. All the instrument cases include the must-have features a flight should have. Don’t forget to write to us about which guitar on our list you like the most. Thanks for reading.