Regardless of whether you’ve spent hundreds or thousands of dollars on a new guitar, you’re going to want to keep it as safe as possible. Designed with the sole purpose of providing protection for your guitar, the best guitar cases and gig bags shield your instrument from damage when travelling, preventing your instrument from being damaged so easily from being knocked or dropped.
A gig bag is typically a soft case with some form of padding on the interior to protect your instrument. They often come with budget and intermediate-level guitars, and offer the benefit of being lightweight and transportable, but aren’t suitable for proper touring or taking on flights. Guitar cases, on the other hand, are a much more robust solution, composed of hard plastics or wood, and thus are better at keeping your instrument protected when it’s getting chucked in a van or on a plane. They are, however, much heavier and more expensive than a gig bag.
If you want the best overall gig bag, I reckon it’s the Mono Vertigo Ultra. Yes, it’s expensive for a gig bag, but at what cost versus a new guitar? With its ballistic nylon exterior, top-quality zips, and plenty of pockets, it’s a worthy investment for any guitar player. If you prefer a guitar case, check out the catchily named Gator GTSA-GTRELEC ATA, which fits a variety of guitars and has a military-grade exterior for the ultimate in protection.
If you’re struggling to decide between a gig bag or a guitar case, or you just want to a helping to guide you through the buying process, have a look at my how to choose section. I’ve also curated some FAQs to answer any burning questions you might have, and put together a glossary of key terms to help you navigate the technical lingo used in this guide.
Best gig bag
✅ Buy if: You want the most durable gig bag that can even stand up to poor weather conditions.
❌ Avoid if: You need a flight case that can sustain heavy travel use in cargo holds.
Overview
It’d be a hard-fought battle, but Mono might just be the kings of guitar cases, offering countless hard cases and gig bags in their extensive range. Of all of their cases, I am a huge fan of the Mono Vertigo Ultra, which is a high-end gig bag that goes beyond the competition.
Build quality
Mono's build quality is pretty much legendary at this point, and the same can be said of this case, with heavy-duty zips, handles, and adjustable back straps. A standout in the design is the custom molded rubber outsole – the rubberized section to the bottom of the bag – to ensure your guitar should survive drops.
The integrated headlock is a huge upgrade on cheaper gig bags, which may have a strap of some type to hold the neck in place, but allows some movement – this does not. Features such as this demonstrate that the design and build of the Mono Vertigo Ultra is to the highest standard, with no compromise.
Usability
This is still, ultimately, a gig bag, so I wouldn’t go as far as trusting it for stints in an airplane cargo hold, but I’d have reasonable confidence in most other applications, and particularly day to day travel to band practices, gigs, etc., where it will outperform just about any other gig bag, and in rain or shine too, as it’s got a waterproof ‘sharkskin’ shell.
Best guitar case
✅ Buy if: You want a super durable hard case that can fit a variety of different guitars.
❌ Avoid if: You have a very specific model of guitar, like an Explorer or V-shape.
Overview
The Gator GTSA-GTRELEC ATA Molded hard case is a multi-model case, designed with Strats and Teles in mind, but can fit other models too. It’s my favorite hard case in Gator’s range, outperforming other cases in their lineup – particularly wooden cases – due to it being lightweight, while remaining exceptionally strong.
Build quality
The military-grade polyethylene plastic construction scratches easily, but this is the only issue I have with it. Otherwise, it is extremely durable and can withstand major knocks and keep your guitar safe. A highlight is the chunky, plastic latches, including a TSA-approved lockable centre-latch, which will take years of abuse and remain functional, unlike cheap metal latches.
Usability
Gator claims the GTSA-GTRELEC ATA is primed and ready to use for airline travel, and I am inclined to agree with them. As a minimum, I would say it will be more than capable of protecting your guitar when travelling to and from gigs and transporting lots of gear in vans. It’s also a convenient, rectangular design that would be good for stacking at home when storing guitars.
Best budget
✅ Buy if: You want a slimline, affordable gig bag that is perfect for carrying on your back.
❌ Avoid if: You are particularly prone to dropping your guitar, as it has limited padding.
Overview
The Boss CB-EG01 is a lightweight, affordable gig bag that will fit a vast array of solid-bodied electric guitars. It’s a very simple design, but sometimes less is more, and that’s absolutely the case with gig bags. There are cheaper gig bags out there, but I believe it is a false economy buying them; pay a little more and get the CB-EG01.
Build quality
As with anything with the Boss brand name on it, you can be sure that everything is built to a high standard. The handle and shoulder straps are solid and comprehensively sewn into the case, ensuring they don’t rip over time.
The zips are metal and weighty, and the interior is softly lined with velvet, helping keep your guitar safely cocooned and protected from any scratches. All of this indicates a level of quality that you don’t get with unbranded, super-cheap gig bags.
Usability
This is an ideal gig bag for students taking their guitar to school or classes. The large front pocket is perfect for storing tab sheets, books, and, short of an amplifier, almost everything else you’ll need for a class. I wouldn’t call it suitable for any kind of significant transit, other than being carried or on your back, but it’s unlikely that you will be buying it for this reason anyway.
Best for acoustic guitar
✅ Buy if: You want the reassurance of a lifetime warranty with the purchase of your acoustic case.
❌ Avoid if: You have a dreadnought with a non-standard-sized headstock or a unique body shape.
Overview
SKB’s tagline is ‘global transport authority’, and the quality of their 18 Dreadnought acoustic guitar hard case backs this up. I’m particularly nervous with acoustic cases, because they are that bit more delicate than their electric brothers, so, for me, any kind of acoustic hard case needs to be super tough, and preferably, back up any claims of toughness, with credentials.
Build quality
Everything with the SKB 18 case screams robustness, from the TSA-standard locks and fiberglass reinforced nylon trigger unlock & lock system, to the injection molded polypropylene outer. These may sound like a lot of marketing terms to make you think the case is stronger than it is, but I can confirm, this is built to last – and make your acoustic last too. On the inside, the plush green lining may not be to everybody’s taste color-wise, but quality-wise, there shouldn’t be any complaints.
Usability
There is a decent-sized storage compartment under the neck support, which allows for various bits of gear to be stowed away, but otherwise, it is fairly simple and figure-hugging for maximum support. On the shape front, they have a range of different shapes, varying in price depending on size – larger being more expensive – but all built with comparable features and quality.
I have gone with their dreadnought case, the SKB 18, as it remains the most popular body shape for acoustic, though if you have another body shape, I encourage you to look at the different cases SKB offers in their range. Even if you are buying this for your dreadnought, I would still recommend checking the dimensions of the case in comparison to your acoustic.
Best for electric guitar
✅ Buy if: You want a case that has a vintage aesthetic to match vintage-inspired Fender guitars.
❌ Avoid if: You have anything other than an S-type or T-type guitar. Many other models will fit, but this is primarily designed for Fenders.
Overview
There’s something about the look of Fender tweed that screams class. Maybe it’s because we’ve all seen it on some of the best amps ever made, or maybe it’s because those early Fender guitars were kept in tweed cases. You can recreate that golden era vibe with the Fender tweed case.
Build quality
It’s made from very durable 3-ply wood, meaning that your instrument is protected from all manner of bumps and knocks. If you’re traveling to shows, the studio, rehearsals, or just to jam with friends, then this case will not only keep your instrument safe, it will really help you look the part too! On the inside, it’s got a soft crushed acrylic plush lining, so your guitar dwells in luxury comfort, safe from any tiny scratches it might suffer in a cheap bag or something less sturdy.
Usability
I probably wouldn’t risk it on a flight, but it is ideal for home storage or transporting to and from shows. Unsurprisingly, coming from Fender, it is designed for use with Strats and Teles, primarily, but most S and T-type electrics should also fit, though it would be worth confirming dimensions before purchasing.
Best for bass
✅ Buy if: You want a strong, premium hard case that fits multiple bass shapes or a number of strings.
❌ Avoid if: You want the most secure fit possible for your bass. This generic case will allow some (minimal) movement.
Overview
Ibanez might not be a name you immediately think of when it comes to guitar cases, let alone bass cases, but given their extensive lineup of bass guitars, it’s not a surprise they’ve produced a case to complement them, hence the MRB500C.
As with everything that Ibanez does, you can expect this to be thoroughly designed from the bottom up, not just thrown together. It does, therefore, come at a premium price point, but you get what you pay for, and this is a comprehensively tough case.
Build quality
Constructed from high-quality ABS on the exterior and paired with durable plastic latches, including a TSA-approved lock, this is definitely a case that has been built with flying in mind, and I would suggest it’s up to that task. The plush lining inside the case is notably premium-feeling, and the addition of an Ibanez tool case is a nice touch that adds to the high-end experience the case provides.
Usability
Ibanez has built the MRB500C to accommodate 4-string, 5-string, and even 6-string basses, so the number of strings should be of no concern. While it has a cutout mold inside to reduce movement laterally, Ibanez has cleverly made it so it can fit both right and left-handed models. These fit the vast majority of their bass range, and should also fit most conventionally styled bass guitars (P and J Basses), though I’d always recommend double-checking your particular bass guitar will fit before purchasing.
Best for flying
✅ Buy if: You do a significant amount of travelling, and find carrying your guitar is too heavy.
❌ Avoid if: You do not regularly travel by plane with your guitar – this may be more than you need.
Overview
SKB is known for its extremely durable, premium hard cases, and for me, the catchily-named 3i-4214-66 hard case from their iSeries range is the Rolls-Royce of guitar cases. Built for every scenario and even weather condition, with a waterproof exterior, this is a case for professionals, and it does come with a price that reflects that, but your guitar will thank you.
Build quality
Designed to provide ‘military-strength protection’, the 3i Series cases are made from ultra-high-strength polypropylene copolymer resin, built to easily cope with any number of impacts and even water. This might make you think this is some kind of super-sealed hyperbaric chamber, but in fact, the case also has an automatic ambient pressure equalization valve to ensure your guitar does not suffer from excessive pressure issues.
Planes are pressurized, so this shouldn’t be an issue anyway, but the fact that they have added this feature shows an incredible attention to detail and unerring goal of ensuring your guitar is totally and utterly safe.
Usability
This is a perfect case for airline travel due to its robust construction. But what makes this stand above other cases for use with air travel – and most other types of travel, in all honesty – are the built-in wheels, which make it so easy to transport, without making the case feel much larger than other comparable hard cases.
I’d also consider this if you’re a solo performer who is regularly on the move and finds carrying a hard case challenging – the ability to pull it on those wheels is a huge bonus. For fans of other guitar shapes, fret not, as there are Les Paul, SG, PRS, and ‘open cavity’ (universal) versions to suit your guitar.
How to choose
Aside from the obvious differences in type of guitar – don’t try to fit a bass into a standard electric case, or an acoustic into a bass case, because I promise it won’t end well – there are a number of other things to consider before buying a gig bag or hard case.
There are a huge number of different cases out there, and from external looks alone, you may not be able to tell why one is a better fit for you than another. When I’m buying a hard case, there are three things I like to start off with, and that inform my next steps.
1. Shape and size
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Some cases will be designed around one specific model, whereas others will be more universal. This is particularly common with hard cases, where you may have a rectangular box with foam inserts that can be cut to size, or simply, some divided sections where the body, neck, and head of the guitar go, respectively, and are held in place, which works for the vast majority of guitar shapes.
There are outliers, such as Vs, Explorers, or any number of other wild shapes, which will definitely need something more specialist, but otherwise, many hard cases could be just as suited to holding a Strat as a Tele, as an SG. I have personal experience of having a hard case which fits most guitars perfectly, but my Les Paul Special slid around – remedied by throwing a thick pair of socks in the bottom of the case to take up the room and mean it couldn’t move… not exactly an elegant solution, but an effective one.
2. Travel considerations
Cases can be pretty expensive, particularly if you are buying the best available, so you may not want to be purchasing more than one, but the truth is that different cases are optimized for different environments.
A flight case, for instance, is a supremely rugged case, designed specifically for (no surprises) flying; it will, however, not be ideal for casually taking between guitar lessons, or carrying on public transport to get to open-mic nights. And, conversely, soft gig bags, which are much lighter and often have back straps, making them extremely easy to carry, aren’t going to offer the same amount of protection if thrown into a cargo hold on a plane.
An ABS hard case is a good mid-point, offering lots of protection, but lightweight enough to carry around fairly easily, though you may feel that this is still a compromise.
3. Additional storage
Most cases – hard or soft – will have some room for storing additional extras. For example, I can just about store my guitar, two cables, and a tuner pedal inside my hardcase – not to mention little extras like picks and spare strings, of course – meaning I only had to bring my amp separately. The ability to throw a few extras in a case can be really helpful if you are heading to a gig, lesson, or practice and want to reduce your luggage.
Soft cases can be particularly excellent for this, often coming with decent zip pockets on the front, allowing you to store music books or tablature, which you may regularly require for lessons. Conversely, shaped hard cases will likely have significantly less storage as they are molded to a specific size, with the deliberate intention of not leaving too much room for anything else to move around.
FAQs
Is a high-end gig bag better than a cheap hard case?
Depending on the context, a seriously premium gig bag could definitely be better than a cheap hard case. I would still prefer a hard case over most high-end gig bags for flying, or significant travelling in most circumstances.
Can I store my guitar in its case for long periods?
In short, yes. It’s one of the best places you can keep your guitar for longer periods, as outside factors have less impact, such as light, dust, and it even helps with humidity and heat. It’s particularly good if the case is hard and well-padded.
Do I need a case if I just play at home?
You may feel that a stand is enough for your guitar, but I would suggest a case is a good investment anyway, as it does offer that extra protection from the elements – yes, they can even play a factor indoors. A case can also be a convenient way of storing your guitar, allowing you to lay it down flat and store it under beds, which you wouldn’t want to do without a case.
Can I take my guitar as a carry-on?
While under the FAA Modernization Act, airlines must allow musical instruments as carry-on if they fit safely in the cabin, it is a risk to take your guitar as carry on, particularly if it’s a busy flight, as it must be stored in the designated storage spaces, such as overhead bin, which may well be full – we know that our guitars are more important than normal luggage, but other passengers will not feel the same. Your other option is that you can buy an additional seat for your guitar, which is often the choice of vintage guitar owners who want that next level of safety for their instrument.
Should I loosen my strings before flying?
It’s a good idea to loosen your strings a bit, but not fully. While the pressure changes shouldn’t be a factor, given airplane cabins are pressurized, the real risks are temperature swings and rough handling.
How do I make sure my Les Paul is safe in its case?
Les Pauls have a lot of wonderful features, but they also have one notoriously bad habit: breaking between the neck and headstock joint.
Some modern models have tried to reinforce this part of the guitar, but the same fears remain – and rightly so, a 50s Les Paul standard at the time of writing is over $2,500.
To make sure your Les Paul, and specifically its neck, is particularly secure, look for a case with additional neck bracing, keeping the neck secure, and preferably, the headstock safely surrounded to limit movement to zero and ensure it is not resting on the bottom of the case.
Of course, with a Les Paul, the neck is not the only concern, and other areas to consider are the lining of your case on the nitro finish on your Les Paul (if it has one) and the humidity in the case, which should be maintained at around 40-50%.
Can I maintain humidity in an acoustic guitar case?
You absolutely can, and most cases will do a good job of combatting changes in humidity anyway, however if you want to go to another level or attention to humidity, I would suggest investing in a specialized case humidifier, such as the D'Addario Humidipak (two-way system) or even a damped sponge/perforated case humidifier, which will help maintain a stable environment. A word of warning, not to leave a soaking sponge in your case for extended periods, particularly not against the wood of your acoustic, as it may leave lasting water marks.
Key terms
- ABS: A tough, lightweight plastic commonly used in molded guitar cases for good impact resistance without too much bulk.
- Archtop: Refers to guitars with a carved, raised top (and often back), which require deeper or specially shaped cases.
- ATA rated: A certification indicating the case meets airline transport standards for durability and protection.
- Bout: The curved sections of a guitar’s body; case interiors are shaped to match the upper and lower bouts for a snug fit.
- Case candy: The extras that come with a new guitar or case, such as tools, paperwork, stickers, or a strap.
- Denier: A measurement of fabric thickness and strength – higher numbers usually mean tougher, more abrasion-resistant gig bags.
- Flight case: An ultra-rugged case designed for touring and air travel, typically heavier but offering maximum protection.
- Fitted case: A case shaped specifically for a particular guitar model or body style to minimize movement inside.
- Hardshell: A rigid case with a solid outer structure, offering significantly more protection than a soft bag.
- Molded case: A case formed from heated plastic shaped around a guitar profile, creating a strong, lightweight shell.
- Neck cradle: A padded support inside the case that holds the guitar neck in place and reduces stress during transport.
- Nitro-safe: Indicates the interior materials won’t react with or damage delicate nitrocellulose guitar finishes.
- Plush lining: The soft, fuzzy interior fabric that cushions the instrument and helps prevent scratches.
- Plywood: Layered wood construction used in many traditional hardshell cases for strength and durability.
- Shell: The outer structural body of the case that provides its main protection.
- Tolex: A vinyl covering often wrapped around wooden cases, giving a classic look while adding some moisture resistance.
- TSA latches: Locking latches approved for airport security, allowing agents to open and relock the case without breaking it.
How we test
At Guitar Player, our team of writers aren't just music enthusiasts; we're real-life musicians. Our hands-on experience with cases and gigbags ensures that our reviews and recommendations are backed by practical knowledge and real-world testing.
When it comes to selecting the best guitar cases and gigbags, we leave no stone unturned. Meticulously evaluating factors like build quality, durability and value for money, it's only after rigorous testing in a variety of scenarios do we choose products for our guides. We stand by our selections, ensuring that every case we recommend is one we'd use ourselves.
