Guitar Case vs Gig Bag How to Protect Your Guitar

Most guitar damage does not happen on stage. It happens at home, in the car and on the way to a lesson. The right case or bag, and a safe place to rest the guitar, prevent nearly all of it.

Gig bags

A gig bag is a padded soft case with shoulder straps. It is light, easy to carry and has pockets for strings, a tuner and a strap. It protects against bumps and scratches. It will not protect against something heavy landing on it.

Hard cases

A hardshell case has a rigid shell and a fitted interior that holds the guitar still. It is the safest way to store or transport a guitar, especially in a loaded car or van. It weighs more and costs more than a bag.

Which one do you need

• Walking or biking to lessons. A gig bag is easier to carry.
• Gigs, travel and stacked gear. A hard case.
• Long term storage. A hard case keeps the guitar steady and shielded.

Check that the case fits your guitar's shape. Unusual body shapes need a case made for them.

At home, use a stand or a hanger

A guitar leaned against a wall will fall sooner or later. A stand holds it upright and ready to play. A rack holds several guitars or cases in a small footprint.

Mind heat and humidity

Do not leave a guitar in a hot car or next to a heater. Acoustic guitars in particular react to very dry and very damp air. A case gives the instrument a more stable home than an open room.

A guitar you can reach gets played

Keep the guitar somewhere safe and visible and you will pick it up more often. When you do, fresh strings and a good setup make it worth it. See how often to change guitar strings and what a guitar setup is.

Browse cases, bags and stands in accessories.