I Like to take the Music with Me
When I travel for work, visit family, or go on vacation, I like to bring musical instruments. I know that there are things I must do to transport them safely. The best way to travel with instruments is by car. However, even in the car, I must by mindful of the temperatures. High temperatures and sudden, substantial changes in temperature are bad for instruments. The trunk of the car is no better than baggage storage in a bus, train, or plane.
If there is no space in the passenger cabin of a plane, bus, or train, the transportation company could put the instruments in the baggage hold that can get very cold or hot. In a train, there is enough space, and I probably can keep instruments with me without too many problems. A bus has les space and may put large instruments like guitars or cellos in the space under the passenger cabin.
While it has less space, a plane presents fewer problems for travelers with instruments because there is a law that requires airlines to permit instruments in the passenger cabin without additional cost. (FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012). However, to take advantage of that law, I must enter the plane as early as possible because the airline can refuse an instrument if other passengers have used all of the storage space.
When I arrive at my destination, I get out my instruments and play them as soon as possible. Sometimes, the music is just for me, but when I travel with others or visit friends or family, I share the music. The rewards are worth the effort.
This article is part of Meadowood Music’s media archive, which includes dozens of articles about or by Meadowood, published in independent newspapers, magazines, journals, and websites.