One of the ukulele's greatest charms is its portability. Unlike larger instruments, the ukulele can accompany you almost anywhere—on road trips, camping adventures, international holidays, and everyday commutes. There's something magical about playing music in new places, whether you're strumming on a beach at sunset, entertaining fellow travellers in a hostel common room, or simply practising in a hotel room to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.
However, traveling with an instrument requires some planning to ensure your ukulele arrives safely and stays in good condition despite the stresses of transit. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about taking your ukulele on the road, with special attention to air travel and climate considerations.
Choosing the Right Case for Travel
Your choice of case is the single most important factor in protecting your ukulele during travel. Different situations call for different levels of protection.
Hardshell Cases
For air travel or any situation where your ukulele might be handled roughly, a hardshell case is essential. These cases have rigid outer shells (typically ABS plastic or fibreglass) that protect against impacts, crushing, and punctures. Quality hardshell cases also include plush interior lining that cushions the instrument and prevents movement. While heavier and bulkier than soft cases, the protection they offer is unmatched.
Hybrid Cases
Hybrid cases combine a semi-rigid foam core with a fabric exterior, offering a middle ground between protection and portability. They're lighter than hardshell cases and often include backpack straps for hands-free carrying. Hybrid cases work well for road trips and situations where you'll be handling your own luggage but want more protection than a gig bag provides.
Gig Bags
Padded gig bags are lightweight and convenient for everyday use but offer limited protection for serious travel. They're fine for walking to a friend's house or taking the bus to a jam session, but not recommended for air travel or any situation involving checked luggage.
If you plan to travel frequently with your ukulele, invest in a quality hardshell case even if your instrument is relatively inexpensive. The case may cost more than a budget ukulele, but it will protect every instrument you own for years to come.
Flying with Your Ukulele
Air travel is where most musicians get nervous, and rightly so. Checked luggage is handled roughly, and cabin baggage policies vary between airlines. Here's how to navigate flying with your ukulele.
Carry-On vs. Checked
Whenever possible, carry your ukulele onto the aircraft. The compact size of soprano and concert ukuleles typically allows them to fit in overhead bins alongside a small carry-on bag. Tenor ukuleles usually fit as well, though they may need to go in first to claim space. Baritone ukuleles are larger and may face more scrutiny.
Know the Regulations
Australian airlines (Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar) generally allow small musical instruments as carry-on items within size and weight limits. International carriers vary widely in their policies. Before booking, check the airline's musical instrument policy on their website or call customer service. Get any permissions in writing or screenshot the policy page.
- Arrive early to board first and claim overhead space
- Be polite and explain your instrument is fragile if staff have questions
- Have the airline's policy ready to show if challenged
- Consider purchasing an extra seat for valuable instruments on full flights
If You Must Check It
If you're forced to check your ukulele, take these precautions:
- Use a quality hardshell case—this is non-negotiable for checked instruments
- Loosen the strings to reduce tension on the neck
- Pack soft materials (clothing, bubble wrap) around the ukulele inside the case
- Mark the case as "FRAGILE" on multiple sides
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers musical instruments
- Take photos of your ukulele before travel in case you need to document damage
Aircraft cargo holds can reach extreme temperatures and low humidity. If your ukulele must be checked, include a humidifier packet in the case. Never leave a checked instrument in baggage claim longer than necessary—retrieve it immediately upon arrival.
Road Trip Considerations
Traveling by car offers more control over your instrument's environment, but hot vehicles pose a significant risk.
Never Leave Your Ukulele in a Hot Car
Car interiors can reach 60°C or higher on Australian summer days. This extreme heat can crack wood, melt glue joints, warp necks, and destroy finishes. If you must leave your ukulele in a vehicle, park in the shade, crack windows if safe to do so, and keep the instrument in a light-coloured case to reflect heat. Better yet, take it with you whenever possible.
Secure Your Ukulele While Driving
Don't leave your ukulele loose in the car where it can slide around and get damaged. Place it in a footwell, secure it with a seatbelt, or put it in a case in the boot. Sudden stops can send an unsecured ukulele flying.
Climate and Humidity Considerations
Moving between different climates can stress your ukulele. Wood expands and contracts with humidity changes, which can affect playability and even cause damage.
Dry Climates
If you're traveling from humid coastal Australia to a dry inland area or overseas destination, your ukulele may lose moisture. Watch for sharp fret ends protruding from the fretboard edge—a sign of wood shrinkage. Use a case humidifier to maintain moisture levels.
Humid Climates
Traveling from dry areas to tropical humidity can cause wood to swell. The action (string height) may increase, making playing more difficult. Allow your instrument to acclimatise gradually, and it should adjust naturally. Avoid storing the ukulele in enclosed spaces without air circulation.
Temperature Transitions
When moving between temperature extremes (such as a cold aircraft cabin to tropical heat), give your ukulele time to acclimatise before playing. Keep it in its case for 15-20 minutes to allow gradual temperature adjustment. Opening a case immediately exposes the instrument to sudden temperature change, which can cause cracking.
Choosing a Travel Ukulele
Some players purchase a dedicated travel ukulele to avoid risking their main instrument. Consider:
- Plastic/Composite Ukuleles: Instruments like the Flight TUS or Outdoor Ukulele are weatherproof and nearly indestructible, perfect for beach trips and camping.
- Carbon Fibre Ukuleles: Brands like Enya offer carbon fibre ukuleles that resist humidity and temperature changes while still sounding excellent.
- Budget Solid-Wood Ukuleles: A quality inexpensive ukulele that you wouldn't be heartbroken to lose or damage provides worry-free travel.
International Travel Considerations
When traveling internationally, be aware of customs regulations regarding wood products. Some countries restrict certain tonewoods (particularly rosewood) due to CITES regulations. Research your destination's requirements before traveling with valuable wooden instruments.
Keep receipts or proof of purchase for your ukulele. When returning to Australia, you may need to demonstrate the instrument was purchased domestically to avoid import duties.
Making the Most of Musical Travel
Beyond the logistics, traveling with your ukulele opens wonderful opportunities:
- Connect with local musicians at open mics and jam sessions
- Practice during downtime that would otherwise be wasted
- Create unique memories by playing in special locations
- Use music as a universal language to connect with people who don't share your spoken language
With proper preparation, your ukulele can be the perfect travel companion, bringing joy to your adventures and helping you maintain your practice routine no matter where life takes you.