If you want to bring your guitar on your next backpacking trip, there are a few things you should know first. How to how to bring guitar backpacking is a very easy process. Yes, it is possible to take your guitar with you on an outdoor excursion. But it’s not as easy as slipping your guitar into the backpack and walking out the door. There are some logistics that need to be taken care of before packing up and hitting the trail. We’re here to help.
The first thing you’ll need to do is find out what type of pack works for your setup. You’ll want something that will hold the weight of the instrument well – if it doesn’t have straps, don’t worry too much about size, but make sure it can handle the weight of your instrument so it doesn’t affect the balance of the pack too much. You may consider using tie downs or straps to secure any loose items in order to avoid damage during travel.
Related Article: How to carry a guitar without a case
Know What You’re Getting Into
-If you don’t have a case, you’ll want to think about what kind of backpacking experience you’re getting into. If you’re going to be staying in campgrounds or other designated areas for the duration of your trip, you should have an easier time packing your guitar without too much hassle. If you are going to be camping out in the wilderness, you’ll need to pack up carefully.
Packing Your Guitar:
-The first thing you’ll need to do is find out what type of pack works for your setup. You’ll want something that will hold the weight of the instrument well – if it doesn’t have straps, don’t worry too much about size, but make sure it can handle the weight of your instrument so it doesn’t affect the balance of the pack too much. You may consider using tie downs or straps to secure any loose items in order to avoid damage during travel.
-Solid cases are best – they provide more protection and peace of mind than soft bags and gig bags.
-If you don’t have a case, you’ll want to think about what kind of backpacking experience you’re getting into. If you’re going to be staying in campgrounds or other designated areas for the duration of your trip, you should have an easier time packing your guitar without too much hassle. If you are going to be camping out in the wilderness, you’ll need to pack up carefully by removing all accessories from the headstock and wrapping them separately
Get a Good Backpack
When it comes to backpacks, you have two options: a hard case or a soft pack. Hard cases are great for protection but offer less comfort and maneuverability. Soft packs are more comfortable for your back but offer less protection.
-A good backpack is going to be big enough to carry your guitar and any other items you want to take with you on your trip. You’ll also want a backpack that has a waist strap so it doesn’t put all the weight of the pack on just one shoulder.
-Look for a pack that has at least one side pocket in order to hold an instrument stand or tripod which will provide extra stability while out in the wilderness.
-Take into account that this type of bag will be carrying quite a bit of weight in addition to what’s already in it, so make sure it can handle the load!
Consider Extra Straps
If you’re carrying a guitar in a case, you’ll need some way to strap it down if the guitar isn’t strapped into a case. You can use a carabiner or a length of rope that is long enough to tie around the neck and body of the pack, then back to the waist belt.
-Tie one end of this onto the top of the headstock and one onto the bottom of the lower bout. This will ensure that it stays in place where you want it at all times.
-If you have a hardshell case, there should be some built-in straps for securing it to your pack – just make sure they are wide enough to support your instrument’s weight.
Packing Your Guitar:
-You’ll also want to keep an eye on any loose strings or other small pieces that might fall out during transportation. You can put them in the main compartment, but don’t forget about them!
Consider a Special Case
If you have a travel guitar or a smaller backpacking guitar, you may want to consider a special case. There are a few on the market that can help you keep your instrument protected and in great shape for the duration of your trip. These cases are often padded with foam and have straps that allow you to hook them onto your pack. You may also want to consider an extra set of strings, new strings will get dirty quickly on the trail, and it’s always good to know what size (gauge) your current strings are so you can get replacements if needed.
You’ll also need to think about how you plan on holding the instrument while hiking – some people attach it to their backpack strap or put it in their pack, while others find it easier to use a strap of some kind (maybe one that clips onto their pack). Consider what is more comfortable for your body and what’s going to work best with how you hike.
Tips for Traveling
-If you have a hard case, it can be strapped to the outside of your pack.
-You’ll want to pack the guitar in a way that will keep it from getting damaged during travel. This means placing it inside a case and packing clothes around it so there is padding on all sides.
-Playing an instrument while backpacking can be exhausting, but don’t let that stop you from practicing every day!
Make Sure Your Guitar Is Well-Tied Down
-No matter what type of pack you use, the guitar should be secured to the inside of the pack. You can secure it by using straps or some other tying method.
-There are different ways tie down your guitar. Some people like to use a strap that goes around their neck. Others prefer to carry it on their back with their arms around the instrument, then use another strap over the head and under the opposite arm (think parachute straps).
Keep It In One Piece!
-Padding is important so your guitar doesn’t get banged up. You can either buy an already padded case or create your own padding with bubble wrap, blankets, towels, foam, etc.
-You may want to consider using a smaller pack for your day pack in order to keep the weight of the guitar to a minimum.
-Don’t forget about any accessories that you may need to take care of – extra strings, strap locks, tuners, picks, capo, etc.
Avoid Weather Conditions If Possible
-Unless you’re looking for a challenge, it’s best to avoid taking your instrument out in weather conditions. It’s not worth the risk if you can avoid it. If you do plan on bringing your guitar out in the rain, bring a case that will keep it dry and any other items inside dry as well.
-It may be necessary to invest in some waterproofing spray or treatment so the wood doesn’t warp or absorb too much moisture.
The Final Word
-The most important thing to do is get a good case for your guitar. You want something that’s going to make the guitar easy to transport and protect it from any damage.
-If you don’t have a good case, consider getting a gig bag. They are less durable, but often cheaper and lighter weight.
-Don’t forget about the strings! You’ll need new ones on your instrument before you go, or it will either not hold its tuning or break during travel.
-And lastly, be sure to have some form of protection for where you’re staying – whether it’s an indoor space or under the stars – so that your guitar doesn’t get wet or dirty. A mat specifically designed for guitars is perfect for this job.
How to bring guitar backpacking FAQS
Yes! However, know that your guitar is an expensive item and needs to be treated with care. Be sure to pack it securely so that it doesn’t get damaged or lost during transport.
You’ll want to find the best backpack for your instrument – make sure the straps are strong enough to accommodate the weight of your instrument (if not, you can use tie downs or straps to secure any loose items). You’ll also want a solid case in order to protect your instrument.
You’ll want to pack extra strings, tuners, picks, an electronic tuner, a strap lock-down system, straps or tie downs for securing loose items, and a damp cloth for wiping down any sweat or dirt that may have accumulated on your instrument’s body.
A: If you intend to camp out overnight with your guitar during your trip–which is totally possible–you should make sure it’s protected well enough to survive the conditions! Due to changing temperatures and humidity levels during this time of year, you’ll want to be extra careful when packing up. Make sure there are no cracks or seams that could allow moisture into the inside of the case–this will cause damage over time. Some backpacking experts recommend lining it with a plastic bag before putting your instrument in. This way you won’t have to worry about any wetness from condensation getting inside and damaging your instrument. We also recommend sealing off any other areas on the outside of the case where moisture could enter and cause damage.
Conclusion
Bringing a guitar backpacking is a great way to explore places where you can’t take your acoustic guitar. But, backpacking with a guitar is not without its risks. You should be prepared to face the elements, but also to face the risks of traveling with your beloved instrument.
If you’re considering taking your guitar with you on your next adventure, these tips will help you do it safely and effectively.
1 thought on “How to bring guitar backpacking”
Comments are closed.