Protecting your prized acoustic guitar seems like a no-brainer. Well, unless you’re Willie Nelson, who often carries his legendary “Trigger” acoustic-electric—a 1969 Martin N-20 nylon string—in hand or over his shoulder sans protective case. This is an interesting posture of bravery, as Nelson’s previous guitar was a Baldwin Professional 800C classical-electric that ended up pulverized under the feet of a drunken fan.
While there may be many reasons a singer-songwriter might wish to be “just like Willie,” we don’t recommend adopting his lackadaisical approach to safeguarding your acoustic guitar. In fact, we have 12 top acoustic guitar cases for you to consider as excellent defenses against tragedies large and small.
Pictured: Gator Flight Pro V3 TSA Series ATA Molded Acoustic Guitar Case
Table of Contents
Quick Chart of Acoustic Case Features
The Top Acoustic Guitar Cases
What Are the Pros and Cons of Hardshell and Softshell Acoustic Guitar Cases?
Guardians Against Danger
Quick Chart of Acoustic Case Features
|
Model |
Construction |
Size |
Extras |
|
Hardshell |
Most acoustics |
TSA-approved lock |
|
|
Softshell gig bag |
1/2- to 3/4-size |
External storage pocket, budget priced |
|
|
Softshell gig bag |
Dreadnought |
External storage pocket |
|
|
Hardshell |
Jumbo |
Internal storage compartment, lockable |
|
|
Hardshell |
3/4 size |
Internal storage compartment, lockable |
|
|
Hardshell |
12-string dreadnought |
Internal storage compartment, lockable |
|
|
Hardshell |
Dreadnought |
Internal storage compartment, lockable |
|
|
Hardshell |
Concert |
Built-in humidifier, internal storage compartment, lockable |
|
|
Hardshell |
Dreadnought |
Eco-friendly interior |
|
|
Hardshell |
Dreadnought and other shapes |
Internal storage compartment, lockable, eco-friendly interior |
|
|
Hardshell |
Jumbo |
Internal storage compartment, lockable, eco-friendly interior |
|
|
Hardshell |
Dreadnought |
Waterproof, outfitted with wheels |
The Top Acoustic Guitar Cases
Whatever your typical transport situation might be, we’ve identified 13 amazing acoustic cases up to the task of pampering your baby. Please note: We have arranged the cases in alphabetical order. The numbering is purely for clarity and readability and does not imply a qualitative rating system.
1. Gator Flight Pro V3 TSA Series ATA Molded
Why We Picked It: It’s a mighty guardian of guitars with a tough outer shell and a foam interior that shrugs off harsh handling.
Key Features:
- Fits most acoustics
- ATA-molded polyethylene shell and foam interior
- TSA-acceptable lock
Shop Now: Gator Flight Pro V3 TSA Series ATA Molded Acoustic Guitar Case
Guitarist Jude Gold of Jefferson Starship once posted a whimsical yet worrying video of the band’s guitars being loaded onto an airplane conveyor belt. One view and you’ll know why you should “hire” the Gator Flight Pro V3 TSA Series case as your acoustic’s bodyguard. The tough molded outer shell of the Flight Pro V3 deflects bumps, punches, scrapes and collisions, and the EPS foam interior and neck cradle isolates the guitar from harmful jolts. The Flight Pro V3 is lightweight, which means your muscles aren’t paying the price for protection, and TSA-approved locks allow security checks without having to break latches and (if the officers are nice) tape the case shut again. Even if traveling by van or SUV, the case makes packing easier, as other guitars and basses, pedalboards and so on can be stored on top of it without any breakage concerns.
2. Gator GBE-Mini-Acou
Why We Picked It: Even small-sized acoustics need protection, and this gig bag offers reinforcement where the odds of harm are high.
Key Features:
- Fits 1/2- to 3/4-sized mini acoustics
- Interior padding reinforced at headstock and bridge
- Exterior storage pocket
Shop Now: Gator GBE-Mini-Acous Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
The Gator GBE-Mini-Acou gig bag offers excellent security for small acoustics, and it’s flexible enough to protect your guitar while fitting in tight spots. While you shouldn’t risk giving the GBE-Mini-Acou to an airline baggage handler, its petite dimensions could work for storing your guitar in an airplane’s coat closet, overhead bin or even under your seat. Nothing is guaranteed, of course, so always check with the airline to confirm storage options and consider opting for early boarding to ensure bins are available. For car transport and normal hand cartage between gigs and rehearsals, the GBE-Mini-Acou offers outstanding protection with its durable nylon exterior and interior padding.
3. Gator GT-Acoustic-TPV2 Transit Pro
Why We Picked It: It’s a soft but super tough carry-all with convenient storage pockets.
Key Features:
- Water-resistant fabric
- 3/4" foam padding and plush micro-fleece lining
- Exterior storage pockets
Shop Now: Gator GT-ACOUSTIC-TPV2 Transit Pro Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
If you travel to most gigs via Uber, Lyft or taxi, a soft case is easy to lug on the go. Any problems usually occur when you get to the venue, and your bandmates toss their instruments, amps and pedalboards around the usually small gear storage area. The Gator GT-Acoustic-TPV2 Transit Pro is lightweight but sturdy enough to guard against clueless musicians sliding or dumping equipment against your acoustic guitar. The TPV2 Transit Pro’s generous 3/4" foam padding system is designed to protect headstocks, necks and bodies (even the bottoms of guitars) to offer comfort when you see your drummer roll their hardware case up against your acoustic. The gig bag’s external pocket can accommodate a small preamp or pedal—as well as guitar cables, a mobile device, charts and your favorite microphone—if you plug direct into the venue’s house sound system.
4. Gator GW-Jumbo
Why We Picked It: It’s a traditional-looking hard case for keeping jumbo-sized acoustics safe.
Key Features:
- Constructed with 5-ply cross grain Luan plywood
- Internal plush-lined foam padding
- Lockable
Shop Now: Gator GW-Jumbo Acoustic Guitar Case
Jumbo acoustics are beautiful producers of big, warm and jangly tones, but they are also giant targets for potential gig and transport disasters. The Gator-GW-Jumbo can swat away bumps and bashes with its 5-ply wood outer shell, while its internal foam padding will keep your jumbo safe—even from inadvertent case drops on sidewalks or concrete flooring. (After all, big jumbo cases can be sometimes awkward to carry, so slipping out of a guitarist’s hands is not uncommon.) The Gator-GW-Jumbo’s internal storage compartment should be able to hold a guitar strap, headstock tuner, picks and more.
5. Gator GWE-Acou-3/4
Why We Picked It: For small-sized acoustic players concerned with gig bag transport, this hardshell case is a step up in protection.
Key Features:
- Fits 3/4-sized acoustic
- Plush-lined interior with accessory compartment
- Can be locked
Shop Now: Gator GWE-Acou-3/4 Hardshell Acoustic Guitar Case
For most journeys with your 3/4-sized acoustic, the Gator GBE-Mini-Acou (or similar) gig bag will do the job brilliantly. But if you’re looking at a fly gig or an over-packed van—or don’t trust the care and courtesy of others—the Gator GWE-Acou-3/4 is like upgrading a bodyguard from Legally Blonde’s Elle Woods to Alien’s Ripley. The GWE-Acou-3/4 is ready for action with a 3-ply Luan wood outer shell, padded interior, lockable latch and metal feet at the bottom and side to protect its Tolex covering.
6. Gator GWE-Dread-12
Why We Picked It: It keeps your 12-string acoustic from extreme jostling than can affect tuning, as well as safeguards its higher-tension neck from potential breakage.
Key Features:
- Fits 12-string dreadnought acoustics
- Plush-lined interior with accessory compartment
- Locking latches
Shop Now: Gator GWE-DREAD-12 Hardshell 12-String Acoustic Guitar Case
Like jumbo-sized acoustics, 12-string models can also be somewhat awkward to cart around. Add the tension imposed on the neck to accommodate all those strings, and an unfortunate thump on the headstock as you carry your 12-string through the door of a club can be catastrophic. The Gator GWE-Dread-12 alleviates worries related to bumps, smacks, wallops and drops as it embraces 12-string acoustics with a 5-ply cross-grain outer shell and a padded interior.
7. Gibson Dreadnought Modern
Why We Picked It: It defends square- and slope-shouldered dreadnoughts and struts a “pride of ownership” Gibson logo on the outer shell.
Key Features:
- Fits most dreadnought and slope-shouldered acoustics
- Dark rosewood exterior with gold latches
- Plush grey interior lining
Shop Now: Gibson Dreadnought Modern Hardshell Acoustic Guitar Case
If you ever need a “step back” security team, it’s when you’re lugging a cherished Gibson Hummingbird Special, J-45 Standard, Bats in Flight or other iconic acoustic to gigs, rehearsals and sessions. The Gibson Dreadnought Modern isn’t exactly a covert protector—it showcases the Gibson logo on its top—but it’s rough-and-ready for any threats with its wood exterior, plush lining and four heavy-duty latches (one lockable).
8. Guild Deluxe Humidified
Why We Picked It: If you tour through different climates, the internal humidifier in this hardshell case can keep your acoustic from cracking and warping.
Key Features:
- Fits Guild concert-sized acoustics
- Built-in HumiCase humidifier
- Green crushed-velvet interior
Shop Now: Guild Deluxe Humidified Hardshell Acoustic Guitar Case
Designed for Guild Concert models, such as the M-20, M-120 Westerly Collection, M-240E and others, the Guild Deluxe Humidified offers more than just a bang barrier for your acoustic. The hardshell case and crushed-velvet interior definitely stand strong to prevent cartage and packing mishaps, but the not-so-secret sauce is the built-in HumiCase humidifier that keeps the case’s microclimate optimized for your acoustic’s health. Whether you regularly travel from Iceland to Nashville to Palm Springs or keep your guitar stored in a basement, the Deluxe Humidified hardshell case can thwart wood cracking, wobbly frets, loose bridges and flawed action and intonation. Think of it as a guardian that not only shelters your acoustic from human foibles and accidents, but also from two of the primary elements—air and water.
9. Road Runner RRDWA Deluxe Wood Dreadnought
Why We Picked It: It’s a conventional-looking hardcase with steadfast protection.
Key Features:
- Multi-ply wood case with Tolex covering
- Cushioned interior lining
- Eco-friendly
Shop Now: Road Runner RRDWA Deluxe Wood Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Case
If you’re a weekend warrior who’s also a defender of the environment, the Road Runner RRDWA Deluxe Wood Dreadnought is calling out to you. The multi-ply wood shell will get your guitar safely to gigs, and the protective interior cushioning is manufactured without any dyes that could pollute Mama Earth.
10. Road Runner RRMADN ABS Molded Dreadnought
Why We Picked It: This ABS-molded case can thwart callous cargo handlers and rough road crews from harming your dreadnought.
Key Features:
- ABS-molded outer shell
- Plush-lined interior
- Tab-Lock latches
Shop Now: Road Runner RRMADN ABS Molded Acoustic Dreadnought Guitar Case
An ABS molded case typically offers superior impact resistance over wood and Tolex models, so if you find yourself boarding a lot of airplanes to get to gigs, the Road Runner RRMADN ABS Molded Dreadnought is an ideal travel companion. Designed to accommodate a variety of acoustics, it may be worth checking out the RRMADN even if your guitar of choice isn’t a dreadnought. (To be safe, reach out to one of our Guitar Center Gear Advisers to see precisely which models this case can carry.) In addition to a rugged outer shell and plush interior, the RRMADN includes a generous inner compartment, Tab-Lock latches and the ability to lock up the case. Like the RRDWA, the interior cushioning is eco-friendly.
11. Road Runner RRMAJBO ABS Molded Jumbo
Why We Picked It: Like the dreadnought version, this molded case keeps jumbo acoustics from harm.
Key Features:
- ABS-molded outer shell
- Plush-lined interior
- Tab-Lock latches
Shop Now: Road Runner RRMAJBO ABS Molded Jumbo Acoustic Guitar Case
As we previously mentioned in this article, jumbo acoustics are hefty and carrying a big case can sometimes be unwieldy. I’m certain most of us have witnessed bulky cases smacking against door jams, colliding with mic stands and other stage gear, dropping from the cargo space of SUVs when the liftgate is opened and even tripping up players as they attempt to rest their guitar on the floor of a crowded backstage area. While it can be difficult for some to gracefully navigate obstacles while managing a guitar case, pedalboard, backpack and perhaps a beverage, the Road Runner RRMAJBO ABS Molded Jumbo ensures any collisions won’t hurt your acoustic. Constructed with a tour-toughened hardshell, eco-friendly plush interior padding and Tab-Lock latches, the RRMAJBO is “clumsy conversant” and an excellent safeguard against transport and stowage damage.
12. SKB 3i-4217-18 Injection Molded Waterproof
Why We Picked It: It’s the superhero of security with a near-impenetrable, waterproof outer shell.
Key Features:
- Injection molded outer shell
- Watertight
- “Trigger release” TSA-acceptable locking system
Shop Now: SKB Injection Molded Waterproof Acoustic Guitar Case with Wheels
Not that we’re suggesting it, but if you were a troubadour roving the feudal states of Game of Thrones, you’d want the SKB 3i-4217-18 to carry your dreadnought. Looking like a military vault case, you could likely crawl inside of the 3i-4217-18 to survive an attack by Daenerys Targaryen’s dragons, and if you were to flee Westeros via the Iron Fleet, the case is also waterproof. The fortress-like case weighs a bit more than 23 lbs., but you don’t need to work out by doing reps with Ice, the great sword of House Stark, to consider picking it up with a guitar inside as it comes with wheels. If you want to travel by air, the SKB 3i-4217-18’s near indestructible casing could probably be strapped to the wings of dragons, so it can certainly survive jetliner cargo holds and baggage handlers. Fearful players seeking to protect their acoustics from just about any disaster should consider this rock-solid SKB case.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Hardshell and Softshell Acoustic Guitar Cases?
If you do a fair amount of fly gigs where you’re trusting airport baggage handlers to baby your guitar, good luck. Instead, we strongly advocate putting that trust in an ATA-rated or very sturdy hardcase. Some airlines may let you store your acoustic in the garment-bag closet (if they have one), and a softshell case would work just fine in this situation. But nothing is guaranteed, and you don’t want the horror of watching your acoustic gig bag being carried out of the cabin and banished to the cargo hold.
Pictured: Gator GT-ACOUSTIC-TPV2 Transit Pro Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
For less fraught circumstances, such as carting your acoustic guitar from your home to gigs, rehearsals and studio sessions, a soft case is likely just fine. Furthermore, many softshell cases offer external pockets for storing accessories, music notes, tablet computers and even snacks. Finally, gig bags are usually easier to pack into a vehicle than hardshell cases, which can take up a chunk of room and make it challenging to “Tetris” a practical arrangement of your band’s gear. If there’s no danger of damage, sliding a more flexible softshell case between amps, instruments and whatnot can ease cartage frustration.
Guardians Against Danger
I hope this guide helps improve your defensive posture regarding your acoustic guitars. And if you have an electric guitar or two leaning uncased against the wall of your living room or bedroom, you can look into protecting those instruments by perusing The Best Cases for Electric Guitar.
Pictured: Road Runner RRDWA Deluxe Wood Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Case
Don’t forget, the associates at your local Guitar Center can also help you choose the best case for your needs. If you want to do the search yourself, you can use our exclusive Rig Advisor app for personalized recommendations that are in stock right now (as long as you specify your Guitar Center location of choice). Feel more comfy with human interaction? We’ve got you—just reach out to our knowledgeable Gear Advisers.