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.
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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.
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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.