travelling with several guitars?

[rocket]

Just hoping to get some info or ideas here!
Having been invited to do a guitar show in Western Australia i'm just trying to grapple with the logistics of traveling from Melbourne with two or maybe three guitars, flying is the most convenient mode of transport but i have heard so many nightmare stories of baggage staff damaging instruments through rough handling, driving is safer but it is a very long drive, what is the best option? take a chance or stay home?
Glad to hear any ideas.

Rod.

[Trevor Gore]

Rod, I've traveled all over (US, Europe, Asia) with guitars in Hiscox cases, including numerous times with United, all with guitars as checked baggage. No problems so far. However, flying with multiple guitars on a single passenger ticket will likely cost a lot in baggage charges, so check that out. Not so bad, of course, if you have a travel partner that you can load up, too.

[rocket]

Thanks Trevor, that is very reassuring, do you take any other precautions re the packing of the instrument? extra padding, detuning strings?

Thanks

Rod.

[Trevor Gore]

Just de-tuning. Don't chock the guitar so tight it won't move in the case, otherwise it decelerates at the same rate the case decelerates at, if it's dropped. The Hiscox cases have huge crush strength, so that's never a problem, but deceleration damage possibly could be.

[jeffhigh]

On an Archtop, I'd be taping the bridge in position and padding under the tailpiece

[rocket]

All good advice gents,, I will take heed when the time comes!

Cheers
Rod.

[Crafty Fox]

Where and when is the WA guitar show?

[kiwigeo]

Buy your own airline