Whether you're a seasoned musician looking for a portable instrument to take on the road or a beginner wanting to practice your skills while traveling, having the right travel guitar can make all the difference. In this comprehensive guide, we have compiled a list of 10+ best travel guitars for the money in 2024 to help you make an informed decision before making a purchase.
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Jump To
- What Do We Mean By Travel Guitar?
- What Makes a Great Travel Guitar?
- Selecting a Travel Guitar (Buying Advice)
- Travel Guitar Recommendations (by category)
- Should you get an electric or an acoustic travel guitar?
- What string gauge should you use for a travel guitar?
- The 10 Best Travel Guitars
- The Best Guitars (by categories)
- Best Nylon String for Guitars
What Do We Mean By Travel Guitar?
Travel guitars are a lifeline for musicians who are constantly on the move. They’re designed to be portable without sacrificing the soul of a guitar. Here’s what you need to know about these compact companions:
Size and Portability: Think small, think light. Travel guitars strip down the bulk, with reduced body sizes and shorter scale lengths, making them a breeze to carry. Many come with padded gig bags, perfect for slipping into an overhead bin or tossing in the back of a van.
Types and Varieties: You’ve got your acoustics and your electrics. Acoustic models like the Baby Taylor and the Martin Backpacker are favorites for their sound and portability. On the electric side, you’ve got the Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe and the Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe, offering the same playability you’d expect, just in a tighter package.
Construction and Materials: These guitars are built tough to handle the rough and tumble of travel. The Furch Little Jane uses solid woods, while the Composite Acoustics Cargo opts for carbon fiber, both choices ensuring durability and resilience against climate changes and physical knocks.
What Makes a Great Travel Guitar?
A great travel guitar hits several crucial marks for musicians on the move. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
Durability: As we just mentioned, travel guitars need to be tough. They’ve got to handle the bumps and bruises of the road, plus shifts in temperature and humidity. The Composite Acoustics Cargo Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitar nails this with its carbon fiber build, standing up to the elements and wear.
Sound Quality: Smaller size shouldn’t mean smaller sound. A good travel guitar still needs to deliver robust, pleasing tones. The Martin Steel-String Backpacker is a prime example, offering clear, crisp sound in a compact, unconventional design.
Versatility: Flexibility is key. Travel guitars should suit various playing styles and genres. The Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra Light is a standout, with its full-scale length in a compact form, ready to handle a wide range of musical styles while staying highly portable.
Selecting a Travel Guitar (Buying Advice)
Selecting the right travel guitar means weighing factors like size, playability, sound quality, and your own preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the choices and make an informed decision.
Types of Travel Guitars
Acoustic Travel Guitars: These produce sound without amplification. Top picks include the Taylor GS Mini for its stellar build and sound quality, and the Martin Steel String Backpacker, known for its portability despite its unconventional shape.
Electric Travel Guitars: These often keep a full-scale length but are more compact. The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric stands out for its portability and full-scale playability. The Blackstar Carry-On is another solid choice, blending compactness with quality sound and durability.
Hybrid Guitars: These mix acoustic and electric features. The Yamaha GL1 Guitalele is a standout, combining guitar and ukulele traits for a unique sound and excellent portability at a budget-friendly price.
Key Considerations
- Portability: The key feature of a travel guitar is its portability. Look for lightweight, compact models. The Martin Backpacker and the Washburn Rover are top picks for their easy transport.
- Sound Quality: Despite their smaller size, many travel guitars still pack a punch in sound. The Taylor GS Mini and the Cordoba Mini M are renowned for their rich tones.
- Durability: These guitars need to endure the road's wear and tear. Opt for sturdy materials. The Washburn Rover, with its solid spruce top and mahogany body, is built to last.
- Price: Travel guitars come in various price ranges. For budget-friendly options, consider the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele and the Hohner HAG250P. If you're willing to spend more, the Taylor GS Mini offers superior sound and build quality.
Travel Guitar Recommendations (by category)
Best Overall:
Taylor GS Mini - Often hailed as one of the best travel guitars for its exceptional sound quality and solid build. It’s a bit larger than some, but still very portable.
Best Budget:
Yamaha GL1 Guitalele - An affordable option that doesn't skimp on quality. Ideal for travelers seeking a lightweight, durable instrument without breaking the bank.
Best for Electric Guitarists:
Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric - Perfect for those who crave the feel of a full-scale electric guitar in a compact form. Highly portable with commendable sound quality.
Most Portable:
Martin Steel String Backpacker - Famous for its unique shape and extreme portability, making it ideal for those who need a compact guitar.
Best for Versatility:
Cordoba Mini M - Blends acoustic sound with a compact design, making it suitable for various playing styles.
Should you get an electric or an acoustic travel guitar?
Choosing between an electric and an acoustic travel guitar really comes down to what you need, how you play, and where you’re going to be. Here’s my take:
Acoustic Travel Guitars
Pros:
Portability and Simplicity: Acoustic travel guitars, like the Taylor GS Mini or the Martin LX1E Little Martin, are great because they don’t need any extra gear—no amps or cables. This makes them perfect for spontaneous playing and practice anywhere you find yourself.
Sound Projection: They naturally produce sound, which is perfect for casual performances or solo practice sessions. You don’t need an amp, making them ideal for beach trips, camping, or hanging out in hotel rooms.
Variety and Build: Travel acoustics come in all sorts of sizes and shapes. Compact models like the Baby Taylor or the unique Martin Backpacker offer decent sound quality for their size and are often quite durable—essential for travel.
Cons:
Volume and Tone Limitations: The smaller body size usually means less volume and a thinner sound compared to full-sized guitars. This might not suit all playing styles or genres.
Playability Issues: Some players might find the switch from a full-sized guitar to a smaller acoustic travel guitar a bit awkward. Models like the Backpacker, with its unique body shape, definitely require some getting used to.
Electric Travel Guitars
Pros:
Compactness and Versatility: Electric travel guitars, like the Traveler Guitar Travelcaster Deluxe, are designed to be extremely compact. Some models even have detachable or foldable parts, making them incredibly portable.
Silent Practice: Many electric travel guitars can be used with headphones, allowing for silent practice. This is great for shared spaces or while traveling.
Full-Scale Playability: Despite their smaller size, many travel electric guitars maintain a full-scale neck length, so your playing experience is similar to a standard electric guitar.
Cons:
Dependence on Gear: Electric travel guitars generally need an amp or headphones to be fully appreciated. This adds to the gear you need to carry, which can complicate travel.
Sound Needs Amplification: Without amplification, these guitars don’t produce much sound. This limits their use in impromptu acoustic sessions or situations where amplifying gear isn’t practical.
Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitars
An acoustic-electric travel guitar can be a solid middle ground. Guitars like the Martin LX1E come with pickups, so you can plug into an amp or PA system when needed. This makes them versatile for both unplugged practice and amplified performances.
Takeaway: Acoustic or Electric?
Choose an Acoustic Travel Guitar if:
- You value simplicity and portability.
- You don’t want to lug around extra gear like amps.
- You appreciate natural sound projection for informal settings.
Choose an Electric Travel Guitar if:
- You need a compact instrument for silent practice.
- You want to keep the feel of a full-sized electric guitar.
- You have access to amplifying equipment and want to use effects.
What string gauge should you use for a travel guitar?
Choosing the right string gauge for a travel guitar boils down to the guitar's design, your playing style, and the sound you're after.
Guitar Design: Travel guitars often have shorter scale lengths, which affects string tension. A shorter scale usually means lower string tension, so using slightly heavier strings can help maintain proper tension and intonation.
Playing Style/Lead Guitar and Solos: If you’re playing lead or doing a lot of string bending, lighter gauges like .010 or .011 are easier on the fingers and allow for more expressive playing.
Rhythm and Strumming: If you're more into rhythm and strumming, medium gauges like .012 offer a balanced tone and volume, providing more resistance and durability.
Sound Quality:
Thicker Strings: Heavier strings give you a fuller, louder sound, which is great if you need more projection from your travel guitar.
Lighter Strings: Lighter strings are quieter but easier to play, making them more comfortable for long practice sessions or quieter playing.
Specific string gauge Recommendations:
- For standard travel guitars, like 3/4 size acoustics, I usually go with light to medium gauges (.011 to .012). They strike a good balance between playability and sound quality.
- For more unique travel guitar designs, especially those with folding necks, it's essential to stick to the manufacturer's recommendations. Using heavier strings than specified can damage the guitar and void the warranty.
Example Gauges:
- Light Gauge: .010 - .047 (Extra Light)
- Medium Gauge: .011 - .052 (Custom Light)
- Heavier Gauge: .012 - .053 (Medium)
Ultimately, experimentation is key. Start with a medium gauge and see how it feels. Adjust based on your comfort and the guitar’s performance. If you’ve got a specialized travel guitar, always consider the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid any potential issues.
The 10 Best Travel Guitars
1. Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric
Extremely lightweight and compact, perfect for travel. It has a full-scale neck and a detachable frame, plus a humbucker pickup for versatile sound options.
2. Martin Backpacker
Unique body shape and lightweight design, crafted from solid mahogany. It delivers surprising volume and projection, making it ideal for hikers and travelers.
3. Taylor GS Mini-e
With a solid top and an excellent pickup system, this guitar provides a full-bodied tone in a scaled-down size. It's highly regarded for its playability and sound quality.
4. Cordoba Mini M
Featuring a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides, it offers the feel of a full-size guitar in a compact form. Lightweight and easy to transport.
5. Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe
The headless design and compact body make it highly portable. It has a full 25.5” scale length with neck-thru body construction, offering versatile sound for various styles.
6. Journey Instruments OF660M Carbon Fiber
Foldable design for easy storage and transport, made from carbon fiber for durability and consistent sound. Ideal for professional musicians on the go.
7. Martin LX1E Little Martin
Compact size with solid build quality, featuring Fishman pickups for amplified performance. Known for its rich sound and durability.
8. Fender Sonoran Mini Acoustics Guitar
Modified body shape for enhanced portability, with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides. Affordable yet delivers great sound quality.
9. Composite Acoustics Cargo Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber body ensures resilience and great tone. Compact and lightweight, it produces a full, rich sound similar to larger guitars.
10. Hofner Shorty Travel Guitar
A compact solid-body electric guitar that comes with a gig bag for easy transport. Lightweight and perfect for electric guitar enthusiasts.
The Best Guitars (by categories)
Here's my take on some of the best travel guitars for 2024:
Best Acoustic Traveler
- Martin Steel-String Backpacker: This guitar stands out with its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, giving it a unique sound and exceptional portability. With a 24-inch scale length and a 15-fret neck, it’s compact yet playable. It’s durable and delivers clear, loud projection despite its small size.
Best with Larger Body
- Taylor GS Mini: The Taylor GS Mini is a gem, known for its rich tone and top-notch build quality. With a 23.5-inch scale length, a solid mahogany top, and layered sapele back and sides, it offers a full-size sound in a compact package. Perfect for those who want the feel of a larger body travel guitar.
Best Foldable Traveler
- Journey Instruments OF660M: This carbon fiber guitar is a traveler’s dream with its detachable neck, making it a breeze to pack and carry. It doesn’t compromise on sound quality or durability, making it perfect for those of us always on the move.
Best for Small Hands
- Yamaha APXT2: The Yamaha APXT2, a 3/4-size acoustic-electric guitar, is incredibly portable and perfect for those with smaller hands. With a built-in tuner and pickup system, it’s a versatile choice for both practice and performance.
Best Electric Traveler
- Traveler Guitar Travelcaster Deluxe: Modeled after the classic Stratocaster, the Traveler Guitar Travelcaster Deluxe features a 25.5-inch scale length but is 35% lighter and 14% shorter than a standard Strat. It delivers that familiar playability and tone, all in a more portable package.
Blackstar Carry On Travel Guitar
- The Blackstar Carry On Travel Guitar: Compact, portable electric designed for travel without sacrificing playability. It pairs perfectly with portable amps like the Blackstar Fly.
Best with Full Scale Length
- Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom: The Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom boasts a full 24.75-inch scale length and a solid alder body. With its built-in headphone amp and various effects, it’s a fantastic travel companion that doesn’t compromise on scale.
Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra Light
- This model is one of the most compact travel guitars, featuring a full 24.75-inch scale length, a minimalist design, and a piezo pickup for silent practice.
Best Traveling Offset
- Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe: Perfect for Stratocaster enthusiasts, this model offers a travel-friendly option without sacrificing that classic Strat look and feel.
Best for Strat Fans
- Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe: For Stratocaster enthusiasts, this model is ideal. It’s travel-friendly but doesn’t sacrifice the classic Strat look and feel.
Yamaha SLG200N Silent Guitar
- This guitar is perfect for practice and travel, with its collapsible body and headphone jack for silent playing. It’s designed to deliver a natural acoustic sound through its electronics, making it a versatile travel companion.
Best for Metal
- Traveler Guitar LTD EC: Inspired by ESP’s Eclipse model, the Traveler Guitar LTD EC features a full 24.75-inch scale, EMG pickups, and a built-in headphone amp. It’s perfect for metal players on the go.
Best for Kids
- Yamaha JR1 FG Junior: The Yamaha JR1 FG Junior, a 3/4-size acoustic guitar with a 21.25-inch scale length, is perfect for young players. It offers solid build quality and sound, making it an excellent starter instrument.
Best Nylon String for Guitars
Here’s my take on some of the best nylon guitar strings for various playing styles and preferences in 2024:
Best Overall Nylon Strings
D'Addario Pro-Arte EJ45: These strings are top-notch for their consistent quality and balanced tone. With clear nylon trebles and silver-plated copper wound bass strings, they offer a warm, dynamic sound. Ideal for both beginners and professional classical guitarists, thanks to their excellent intonation and durability.
Best Coated Nylon Strings
D'Addario XT Classical (XTC45): These strings boast an extended lifespan due to their revolutionary coating technology that keeps dirt and sweat at bay without sacrificing the natural feel and sound. They combine composite bass strings with Pro-Arte nylon trebles for a bold, projecting tone.
Best for a Big Budget
Hannabach 725 Goldin: These strings are exceptional, featuring gold-plated bass strings and super carbon trebles. They deliver a rich, powerful tone and are a favorite among professional classical guitarists for their clarity and projection.
Best for Flamenco
La Bella 820 Elite: Designed specifically for flamenco players, these strings have red nylon trebles and silver-plated basses. They produce brilliant tones with a strong percussive attack, perfect for the quick finger movements and vibrant sound required in flamenco.
Best Faux-Gut Strings
Aquila 19C Alabastro: Mimicking traditional gut strings with a Super Nylgut polymer, these strings offer a bright frequency profile and fast attack. They provide a historical tone with modern durability and intonation, ideal for classical guitarists seeking a vintage sound.
Best Affordable Nylon Ball-End Set
Ernie Ball Ernesto Palla 2409: Easy to install and providing a warm tone, these strings are great for beginners and folk guitarists. They feature clear nylon trebles and silver-plated copper wound basses, ensuring a balanced, pleasant sound.
Best Student Strings
D'Addario EJ27N 3/4: Designed for smaller, student-sized guitars, these strings offer excellent sound quality and durability at an affordable price. They provide a balanced tone, perfect for entry-level players.
Editor’s Choice for High Tension
Augustine Classic Blue: Known for their bright, clear trebles paired with rich, full basses, these high-tension strings are consistent in quality and excellent in intonation, making them suitable for various playing styles.
This review was written for Savoring Italy by Alejandro Santiago: California's Guitar Virtuoso
Alejandro Santiago, the virtuoso with a guitar and a heart of gold, has been the melodic maestro of California for three decades. Trained at the illustrious Berklee College of Music, Alejandro traded snowy winters for sunny days, infusing his teaching with warmth and flair. His students, from toddlers to retirees, rave about his knack for turning scales into symphonies and finger exercises into fiestas. When he's not teaching, Alejandro dazzles local venues with performances that blend passion and precision. A community hero, he offers free lessons to underprivileged kids, proving that his strings are not just attached to a guitar but also to the heart of his community.
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