Cheap travel guitars

 For musicians on the move, travel guitars have become an essential tool for those who want to continue playing while on the road. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler, a business professional who enjoys unwinding with some strumming, or simply someone who likes to have a compact guitar handy, travel guitars are the perfect solution. In this article, we’ll explore the best travel guitars on the market, what to look for when buying a travel guitar in the UK, and some budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank.

What is a Travel Guitar?

A travel guitar is designed to be portable and easy to transport without sacrificing sound quality or playability. They are typically more compact and lightweight than standard guitars, making them ideal for trips, camping, or even for quick practice sessions in small spaces. Despite their smaller size, many travel guitars still offer full-sized fretboards, meaning that they feel quite similar to regular guitars in terms of playing experience.

There are several types of travel guitars: acoustic, electric, and hybrid models that allow for both electric and acoustic playing. Each has its pros and cons depending on your travel needs and playing style.

Best Travel Guitars in 2024

When it comes to the best travel guitars on the market, these models stand out for their sound quality, portability, and durability.

Martin Backpacker Travel Guitar The Martin Backpacker is a well-known choice in the travel guitar market. Known for its unique, minimalist design, it is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for hiking trips or long travels. Its slim body may not provide the same resonance as a full-sized acoustic, but it offers impressive sound for its size. It’s compact enough to fit easily into overhead compartments on planes, making it one of the most convenient travel guitars available.

Taylor GS Mini The Taylor GS Mini is one of the best-sounding travel guitars, offering a rich, full-bodied tone in a smaller package. With its high-quality craftsmanship, this guitar maintains a classic acoustic feel while being compact enough for easy travel. The shorter scale length makes it easier to play, and it comes with a gig bag for protection while on the move. Although it is slightly larger than other travel guitars, it’s still portable and offers unparalleled sound quality.

Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light If you’re looking for a super-compact electric travel guitar, the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light is a top contender. Weighing in at just three pounds, this guitar is incredibly light and can be packed into most backpacks. It features a full-scale fretboard, so you won’t have to adjust your playing technique, and it comes with a detachable lap rest for added comfort. This guitar is perfect for electric guitar players who want to practice while traveling.

Yamaha APXT2 For a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on sound, the Yamaha APXT2 is a fantastic choice. This ¾-sized acoustic-electric guitar is a smaller version of Yamaha’s highly-regarded APX500, providing clear tones and excellent playability. It’s easy to carry around, and the built-in pickup allows for amplification, which is a plus for buskers or performers.

Travel Guitars in the UK

If you’re based in the UK or traveling to the UK and looking for a travel guitar, several music retailers offer a wide range of options both online and in stores. Popular UK-based retailers like Gear4music, Andertons, and Dawsons Music stock travel guitars from well-known brands such as Martin, Taylor, and Yamaha.

Cheap travel guitars

You can also explore smaller, boutique music shops across the country, many of which offer specialized advice and more unique guitar options. Buying a guitar from a local store has the added benefit of trying the instrument before purchasing it, ensuring that it fits your needs perfectly. If you prefer online shopping, websites like Thomann UK provide detailed reviews and specs to help you make an informed decision.

Cheap Travel Guitars: Affordable Options

Not all travel guitars come with a hefty price tag. If you’re on a budget, there are several affordable travel guitars that still offer good sound quality and playability.

Harley Benton GS Travel-E This budget-friendly model is one of the most affordable travel guitars available in the UK. Despite its low price, the Harley Benton GS Travel-E offers decent sound quality and is a great option for beginners or those looking for a secondary guitar. It’s a mini dreadnought-style guitar, which means it’s small and easy to carry around, yet still produces a warm acoustic sound.

Donner DAG-1M Donner is known for producing quality guitars at lower price points, and the DAG-1M is no exception. This mini guitar is lightweight, making it an excellent choice for travelers. Though it’s inexpensive, the DAG-1M offers a solid sound, and its compact size ensures that it’s easy to transport, whether you’re on a train, plane, or road trip.

Cordoba Mini II The Cordoba Mini II is a well-crafted, affordable travel guitar that offers a blend of portability and sound quality. It’s a nylon-string guitar, which gives it a classical, warm tone. The compact size and lightweight build make it easy to take on trips, while the solid construction ensures durability.

What to Look for When Buying a Travel Guitar

When selecting a travel guitar, here are a few key factors to consider:

Size and Weight: Make sure the guitar is small and light enough to carry around, but still comfortable to play.

Sound Quality: While travel guitars are compact, they should still offer good tonal quality.

Durability: Consider guitars made from robust materials that can withstand the wear and tear of travel.

Playability: Opt for a guitar that offers a full-scale fretboard, as this will feel more like a traditional guitar and make it easier to transition between guitars.

Conclusion

Travel guitars are a great investment for musicians who want to keep playing no matter where they are. From premium models like the Taylor GS Mini to budget-friendly options like the Harley Benton GS Travel-E, there’s a travel guitar for every budget and playing style. Whether you’re looking to purchase a travel guitar in the UK or are searching for an affordable option, these compact instruments provide the perfect blend of portability, durability, and sound quality.