Instrument cases: how to choose between gig bags, hard cases and flight cases

Cases are one of those things many players postpone: first comes the instrument, “I’ll get a case later”. In reality, a good case is insurance for your gear.

In this guide we’ll cover:

• the differences between soft gig bags, hard cases and flight cases,
• how to pick the right case for guitars, basses, keyboards and more,
• when it makes sense to spend more,
• ready-made searches on Muviber to find new and used cases.

If you want to jump straight to listings, start with instrument cases on Muviber.

Why a good case matters more than you think

A decent case will:

• protect against bumps, scratches and temperature changes,
• make transport safer and more comfortable (shoulder straps, backpack style, wheels),
• keep your instrument in better shape over time (which also helps resale value).

If you move around the city, go to rehearsals or play live, the case is not an accessory: it’s part of the instrument.

Types of cases: gig bag, hard case and flight case

Soft gig bag

These are the classic padded fabric cases.

Best for:

• city commutes, public transport, quick car rides,
• music school, rehearsals, jam sessions,
• players who need something light with pockets for cables and accessories.

To start browsing you can check:

• electric guitar gig bags
• bass guitar gig bags

Pay attention to padding thickness (ideally 10–20 mm or more), straps and zippers.

Hard case

A hard case is the classic wooden or ABS “box” with a shaped interior.

Pros:

• better shock protection,
• more neck stability,
• often better against temperature changes.

It’s a great choice if:

• your instrument stays in a rehearsal room, van or less-than-ideal environment,
• you play live and the case travels with other heavy gear.

You can search for:

• hard cases for electric guitar
• hard cases for acoustic guitar

Flight case

Flight cases are built for touring and the toughest transport situations (planes, vans, freight).

Typical features:

• plywood and aluminum construction,
• metal corners and strong latches,
• high-density foam inside.

They make sense if you:

• frequently fly with your instrument checked in,
• tour with vans and backline,
• move high-value gear (custom instruments, flagship keyboards).

To see what’s around, you can search:

• flight cases for guitar
• flight cases for keyboard

Guitar and bass cases: how to choose

For guitars and basses, options are endless. A simple approach:

1. Start from the instrument shape (Strat-style, single cut, offset, 4/5 string bass).
2. Decide whether you want a gig bag or a hard case.
3. Always check the internal dimensions (overall length, body width, depth).

Useful searches on Muviber:

• cases for Strat-style guitars
• cases for dreadnought acoustic guitars
• cases for 5-string bass

For more unusual shapes (offsets, big hollow-bodies), look for universal cases with generous space or model-specific solutions.

Keyboard and synth cases

Keyboards are big and fragile: keys, knobs, faders. Here the case really matters.

Key parameters:

• Number of keys (49, 61, 73, 88…),
• length, depth and height of the instrument,
• whether you need wheels if you move it often.

You can explore:

• keyboard and digital piano cases

If the keyboard leaves home regularly, at least get a padded gig bag; for bands and touring, a flight case can quickly go from “nice to have” to “must-have”.

Other instruments: horns, strings, drums

• Wind instruments: often come with a manufacturer case. When upgrading, look at padding, latches and pockets for mouthpieces, reeds, oils.
• String instruments (violins, cellos, etc.): neck stability and bow storage are crucial.
• Drums: usually a set of separate cases for kick, snare, toms plus a dedicated cymbal bag or case.

Cases are “long-life consumables”: they don’t lose value as fast as instruments and can be a smart used purchase.

New or used?

For cases, the used market makes even more sense than for instruments.

Used pros:

• big savings on hard and flight cases,
• cosmetic wear doesn’t necessarily affect protection.

But always check:

• hinges and latches (no cracks or missing parts),
• handles and straps (not about to tear),
• internal foam (not crumbling or broken).

You can search used hard cases and compare the condition described by sellers.

Details that really matter

When comparing cases, don’t look at price alone:

• Padding: how thick is it? Is it just fabric or proper foam?
• Comfort: backpack straps, chest strap, well-secured handles.
• Weather resistance: water-resistant fabrics, protected zippers.
• Storage: enough pockets for cables, pedals, charts, tablet.
• Weight: a bomb-proof flight case is useless if you can’t lift it.

A simple rule for choosing the right case

If you want a quick rule of thumb:

1. If your instrument rarely leaves home → a decent padded gig bag is fine.
2. If you rehearse and gig regularly → step up to a hard case or a serious, higher-end gig bag.
3. If you travel by plane or tour a lot → get a dedicated flight case.

And if in doubt, start with a broad search for cases for your instrument on Muviber and let photos, descriptions and dimensions guide you.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about instrument cases

Do I really need a case if I mostly play at home?

Yes, it’s still a good idea. Even if you mainly play at home, a case protects your instrument from occasional bumps, dust and room changes. And if you ever go to a rehearsal, gig or tech, you’re already covered.

Is a gig bag or a hard case better for beginners?

For most beginners who move around the city, a well-padded gig bag is perfect: light, easy to carry and with pockets for cables and accessories. If your instrument travels in a car with other gear or lives in a rehearsal room, a hard case offers safer protection.

When is it worth investing in a flight case?

It’s worth it when the instrument is valuable and travels in harsh conditions: tours, vans, flights. For a complete beginner it’s usually overkill, but for frequent gigs, festivals or international shows, a flight case quickly becomes essential.

Can one case fit different instruments?

Sometimes. Some “universal” cases can safely fit several similar instruments (for example multiple Strat-style guitars). But for unusual shapes or very different body sizes, separate cases are safer to avoid excessive movement inside or dangerous pressure points.