Hard case for checking GS Mini on a flight?
 

I might have to do some traveling soon and I was looking for a case that would fit the GS Mini that I could check.

I see a couple options:
1) Use the Taylor foam case (probably not sturdy enough)

2) SKB foam case

3) Oklahoma guitar case - I've seen these ads, but isn't this just a classical guitar hardshell case? It seems kind of expensive. Why shouldn't I just get a SKB classical hardshell case?

4) Saga Travelite TL-60: Ran across a thread here: http://www.unofficialtaylorguitarfor...p?topic=3137.0 that suggested the owner was going to use it for flights.

Anyone have any experience with any of these?

Thanks!

I haven't tried any of these, but there was another thread on this topic and someone posted a link to a hard SKB case that looked good.

I thought the whole point of the Mini was to put it in the overhead locker ? :)

Carry on & Stow Underneath
 

This is the main reason I bought the GS Mini, so I travel a lot with it. I don't like checking in any guitars and don't. So, or the GSM, I will carry it to gate in the very sturdy soft bag, loosen the strings and let them stow it on top, where I give them instructions -- someone also has to hand it back to me, so there are accountable people at both ends.

I actually do this occasionally with full size because most airlines had a one instrument carry on allowance. Of course the beauty of the GSM is that it actually fit in the overhead bin onboard. So, even if I had a GSM hard case I would do it this way too.

I like the foam cases, but they are a bit bulky....let us know what you do.

The SKB case is a good one...I use it. But most airlines in the U.S. will let you put the GS Mini in the overhead, as long as it's a full size jet.

I know you can put it up in the overhead, but in the chance that I have to gate check it, I'd rather it be in a hardshell case so I don't have to spend the whole flight wondering if someone stacked it under a slightly heavy piece of luggage.

It also sounds like if you put it in the overhead, it's going to take up the space for a few passengers, and with everyone carrying stuff on these days I'd rather not do that.

The SKB is a hard foam case, right? Would you feel comfortable checking it on a flight?

My expereince
 

I just traveled with an Art and Lutherie AMI in a TRIC case with no problems. I really think the key is to check it at the boarding gait rather than at initial check in/ticketing. Less handling by gorilla baggage handlers.

John

I almost wish I had gotten a Little Martin or a Baby Taylor instead of the GS Mini since then I'd have a hardshell case for it! http://www.amazon.com/SKB-Taylor-Mar.../dp/B0002F79CU

Pretty sure SKB makes one for the mini too...

EDIT: oops. Wasn't SKB. Must be someone else I was thinking of.