The 17 Best Travel Guitars in 2024 (Acoustic & Electric)

Last Updated on December 16, 2023 by AG

The best travel guitar is the ideal instrument for musicians who are constantly on the move and require an instrument that can keep up with their fast-paced lifestyle.

With options ranging from electric to acoustic and even hybrid electro-acoustic models, there is a travel guitar for every musician, whether it’s for practice, warm-up sessions, or full-blown gigs and recording sessions.

The 11 Best Travel Guitars

Traveling guitarists often search for a compact, portable guitar that still offers excellent playability and sound quality. Today, there are several options available for both acoustic and electric players, including a range of traditional, steel-string, and hybrid models.

Taylor Baby Taylor

The Baby Taylor series is a classic choice for beginners and experienced players alike. Its slim neck and range of top wood options, including the option of built-in electronics, make it a versatile choice for travel or practice.

If you prefer a more traditional design for your travel guitar, the Baby Taylor may be just what you’re looking for. This three-quarter-sized dreadnought delivers the superior quality and projection that you would expect from one of the leading names in the acoustic guitar world, but in a compact size that makes it ideal for travel.

Not only is the Baby Taylor portable, but it is also budget-friendly, making it the perfect choice as a secondary or even third guitar in your collection. It comes with a gig bag, ready to be taken with you wherever you go. While players with larger hands may find the 22.75-inch scale length a bit cramped, the Baby Taylor is still an excellent option for most people.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Acoustic (Steel String)
• Scale length: 22.75”
• Body: Sitka Spruce top or Tropical American Mahogany, Layered Sapele or Walnut back and sides (Available in )
• Neck: Sapele
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Frets: 19
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Excellent Tone
• High-quality Build

CONS

• Not suitable for players with larger hands.

Martin Backpacker

This steel-string acoustic guitar is a standout option for travelers, thanks to its unique body shape and 15 frets with a 24″ scale length. The Martin Backpacker is a one-of-a-kind travel guitar that stands out visually with its unique body shape. Despite its compact size, this guitar packs a punch with its impressive volume and projection, all thanks to its solid mahogany body. Launched in 1992, the Martin Backpacker has established itself as a go-to choice for travelers, and its exceptional construction quality ensures it will withstand the test of time. It is designed with portability in mind and is perfect for anyone who prioritizes convenience.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Acoustic (Steel String)
• Scale length: 24”
• Body: Solid Spruce top, Solid Mahogany back and sides
• Neck: Select Hardwood
• Fingerboard: Select Hardwood
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Loud sound
• Portable design
• Excellent tone

CONS

• Unusual shape may not appeal to all players

Voyage Air VAOM-02G2

The Voyage Air VAOM-02G2 is the ultimate solution for guitar players who want to travel with their instrument without compromising on size or sound quality. Its innovative design features a patented neck hinge that allows the guitar to fold in half, making it much easier to transport.

Say goodbye to the awkward shape of traditional guitars that makes them difficult to travel with. The Voyage Air VAOM-02G2 offers a unique and simple solution to an age-old problem, so you can take your full-sized dreadnought acoustic with you wherever you go.

The guitar itself is of high quality and the neck hinge has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its reliability. Though it may feel strange at first, with a little practice, you’ll quickly get the hang of folding and unfolding the guitar with ease. Just remember to loosen the strings before folding them up.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Acoustic in Traditional ‘OM-Style’ Body Shape- 000 (Steel String)
• Scale length: 25.5”
• Body: Single ply laminate Spruce Top w/ bracing, Mahogany back and sides
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Laurel
• Bridge: Laurel
• Bag included: Yes
• Weight: 13 lbs

PROS

• Proper projection from a travel guitar
• Packs down nicely

CONS

• May feel strange folding up your guitar at first
• More expensive compared to others here

Martin LX1E Little Martin

The Martin LX1E Little Martin is renowned as one of the most popular travel guitars in the market. It has earned its reputation as a top-performing instrument, known for its exceptional build quality and amplified sound. Although Ed Sheeran has recently switched to Lowden, the Martin LX1E was once his go-to guitar.

Built with a solid Sitka spruce top and high-pressure laminate back and sides, the Martin LX1E is designed to withstand the toughest of conditions. Its composite neck adds to its strength, making it nearly indestructible. While it may not have the elegant appearance of the D-28 or HD-35, the Martin LX1E is a formidable instrument that delivers sound and durability.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Electro-acoustic (Steel String)
• Scale Length: 23” 
• Top: Solid Sitka Spruce 
• Back and Sides: Mahogany Pattern HPL Textured Finish 
• Neck: Rust Birch Laminate 
• Fingerboard: Richlite 
• Frets: 20 
• Electronics: Fishman Sonitone 
• Finish: Natural 
• Bag Included: Yes

PROS

• Affordable for a Martin brand
• Good pickup system with Fishman Sonitone

CONS

• Some players may not like the composite neck material.

The Guild Jumbo Junior

Guild, a renowned maker of acoustic guitars, has scaled down its iconic jumbo model to create a compact and portable instrument. The Jumbo Junior boasts a solid Sitka spruce top and flamed maple back and sides, with an arched top for enhanced resonance and projection.

In addition, the JJ is equipped with a Fishman AP-1 system, allowing you to easily plug in for performances and recording sessions. Tonally, it packs a punch and boasts classic, timeless aesthetics from one of the most respected names in the guitar-making industry.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Electro-acoustic (Steel String)
• Scale Length: 23.75”
• Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
• Back and Sides: Flamed Maple
• Neck: Mahogany
• Neck Shape: Slim C
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Frets: 19
• Electronics: Guild/Fishman AP1 with Sonicore pickup
• Finish: Natural
• Bag Included: No

PROs

• Comfortable to play
• Great Tone
• Versatile sound

CONS

• Limited projection compared to a full-sized jumbo

Traveler Escape Mark III

With familiar electric guitar-style playability and active electronics, the Traveler Escape Mark III is an excellent choice for acoustic players looking for a portable option. It features 22 medium frets with a 25.5″ scale length and has volume, bass, treble adjustments, aux input, and headphone output.

The Traveler Escape Mark III – A High-Quality Electro-Acoustic Solution for On-the-Go. Whether you’re an acoustic musician looking for a portable option, or simply want a guitar that’s both convenient and equipped with the latest features, the Traveler Escape Mark III is a top choice. With a compact design that’s 26% shorter and 10% lighter than a standard dreadnought, this electro-acoustic guitar is packed with features to make your travels more musical.

The innovative design features built-in tuning pegs within the body, eliminating the need for a traditional headstock and resulting in a reversed stringing configuration. Additionally, the Escape Mark III is equipped with advanced electronics, including an under-saddle Shadow NanoFlex piezo system, a tuner, aux-in, and studio headphone out, providing an all-in-one setup for players on the move.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Type: Electro-acoustic (Steel String)
• Scale length: 25.5”
• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Black Walnut
• Bag included: Yes
• Electronics: Shadow Nanoflex pickup with Active Electronics, 2-band EQ, volume/tone control, phase switch

PROS

• Great electronics
• Quality materials
• Rich amplified sound

CONS

• Expensive

Taylor GS Mini-e Koa

This mid-range travel guitar is a great choice for serious players, with a big voice and built-in pickup for electro-acoustic playability. Despite its compact size, the Taylor GS Mini-e Koa is a versatile all-around acoustic-electric guitar. 

The GS Mini boasts a sound that surpasses its compact size, thanks to the subtle arch in its back.

The Koa version of the GS Mini is a visual stunner, with its eye-catching figuring, and provides a rich tonal experience with its solid top, layered back and sides, Sapele neck, and ebony fingerboard. The Expression System preamp, which includes a convenient tuner, and the high-quality gig bag make this one of Taylor’s most valuable models.

For left-handed players, the GS Mini-e Koa is also available, providing even more options for those seeking a top-performing travel guitar.

SPECIFICATIONS 

• Type: Electro-acoustic (Steel String)
• Scale Length: 23.5” 
• Top: Solid Koa (There are also models with Laminate Koa)
• Back and Sides: Koa Laminate 
• Neck: Sapele 
• Fingerboard: Ebony 
• Frets: 20 
• Electronics: ES-B preamp with built-in tuner
• Finish: Varnish 
• Bag Included: Yes

PROS

• Small yet powerful sound 
• Exceptional build quality from Taylor 
• Superior pickup system and well-equipped gig bag

CONS

• Quite expensive in comparison to other travel guitars
• May be difficult to find in some areas

The Yamaha APXT2

The Yamaha APXT2 is the mini version of the popular APX acoustic guitar, designed for travelers and those who want a small but powerful instrument. With a length of only 34 inches, this 3/4-sized guitar is easy to carry and will fit in most travel situations.

The APXT2 is equipped with an impressive pickup system that delivers a sound quality far superior to its unplugged sound. The guitar’s preamp also features a built-in tuner, eliminating the need for extra gear. The smooth satin finish and familiar neck make playing the APXT2 a comfortable and enjoyable experience, especially for those familiar with Yamaha guitars.

This travel-friendly guitar comes in a variety of colors and offers a unique look, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a small guitar that can keep up with their big sound. If you are a fan of the APX series or are searching for a high-quality travel guitar, the Yamaha APXT2 is worth considering.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Electro-acoustic
• Scale length: 22 13/16″
• Top: Spruce or Meranti with Mango Veneer
• Back and sides: Locally sourced tonewood
• Neck: Locally sourced tonewood
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Frets: 20
• Electronics: System 68 with ART 1-way Contact Pickup
• Finish: Dark Red Burst, Natural, Black, Old Violin Sunburst
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Plays like an APX
• Nice range of colors

CONS

• Feels a little cheap.

The Sheeran By Lowden S03 

Ed Sheeran and luthier George Lowden have a close friendship that resulted in a full line of guitars in 2019, including the S03 model. This guitar was updated in 2021 with a smaller body, featuring a 24.8-inch scale and a solid cedar top. The back and sides are made of a combination of rosewood and mahogany, which give it a rich and full sound. The cutaway design and LR Baggs VTC system allow for effortless playability and excellent amplified tones, making it a great choice for live performances.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Cutaway Electro-Acoustic
• Scale Length: 24.8”
• Top: Solid Cedar
• Back & Sides: Layered Rosewood/Mahogany/Rosewood/Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Frets: 20
• Electronics: LR Baggs Element VTC
• Finish: Satin
• Bag Included: Yes

PROS

•  High-quality Lowden build from Northern Ireland
•  Comfortable to play
•  Great sound

CONS

• Quite expensive in comparison
• May be difficult to find in some areas

Yamaha CSF3M

This traditional parlor-style acoustic guitar is similar to those played by traveling guitarists in the early 1900s. The Yamaha CSF3M is more compact than a full dreadnought-style acoustic but still offers excellent sound and playability. 

It is a top-notch solid wood acoustic-electric travel guitar with a built-in passive under-saddle pickup for amplification.

Although Yamaha does not specifically market it as a travel guitar, the company has produced a remarkable short-scale folk electro-acoustic guitar. What sets this model apart from many others is its solid wood construction and compact 105mm body depth.

When playing the Yamaha CSF3M, you’ll experience a rich tonal quality and impressive projection, thanks to its 16-inch radius neck that accommodates both fingerstyle playing and chord work. The Yamaha passive piezo pickup provides a great representation of the guitar’s strengths without the need for an onboard preamp.

To ensure the guitar’s protection during travel, Yamaha includes a sturdy hard case with the purchase of the CSF3M. This instrument is sure to provide years of musical inspiration, whether you’re at home or on the road.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Electro-acoustic
• Scale length: 23.6”
• Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
• Back and sides: Solid mahogany
• Neck: Nato
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Frets: 20
• Electronics: Yamaha passive SRT piezo
• Finish: Vintage Natural, Tobacco Sunburst (pictured)
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Impressive build quality with solid woods
• Easy to play – Great neck for chords and fingerstyle playing
• warm and rich tone

CONS

• Limited Versatility

The Yamaha SLG200S Silent Guitar

The Yamaha SLG200S Silent Guitar is perfect for those who want to practice in silence and also perform live.

With its detachable frame, this guitar can be easily folded down for convenience and can be plugged into an amplifier or headphones, producing little to no acoustic sound. The SRT and pickup blend system allow for a surprisingly organic live sound and the option for headphone practice.

Players who are used to electric guitars will appreciate the low action, 43mm nut width, and slim neck of the SLG200S. And to add to its versatility, it also features onboard chorus and reverb effects, making it the perfect traveling companion.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Electro-acoustic Collapsible Travel Acoustic
• Scale Length: 23.75”
• Back and Sides: Mahogany body with Rosewood/Maple frame
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
• Frets: 19
• Electronics: Fishman AP-1
• Finish: Natural
• Bag Included: No

PROS

• Solid Top
• Great Tone
• Classy Styling

CONS

• Not the best choice for purely acoustic use

Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe

The Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe – A Unique Twist on a Classic Design. The Traveler Travelcaster Deluxe is a unique take on the classic Stratocaster design, blending familiarity with innovation. From the recognizable pickguard and single coil pickups to the control knobs, the Travelcaster Deluxe is sure to catch the eye of any guitar enthusiast. However, a closer look reveals a surprising difference – the body has been streamlined, with everything not covered by the pickguard removed, resulting in a guitar that is 35% lighter and 14% shorter than a typical Strat.

Despite its compact size, the Travelcaster Deluxe still boasts a full 25.5” scale length, providing familiar playability, and its tonal versatility remains intact thanks to its three single coil pickups. Weighing in at just 5 lbs, this may take some getting used to, but once you do, the Travelcaster Deluxe may just be the perfect travel guitar for you. Embrace the cognitive dissonance and experience the classic Stratocaster feel in a new and innovative way.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Electric guitar
• Scale length: 25.5”
• Body: Made of Poplar
• Neck: Made of Maple
• Fingerboard: Catalpa Hardwood
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Easy to play
• Portable and lightweight
• Good sound

CONS

• Can’t think of one, but taste is subjective

Blackstar Carry-On ST Travel Guitar JB

Breaking away from tradition, the Blackstar Carry-On ST Travel Guitar JB is a portable and innovative instrument designed for mobility. It features 18 frets on a 20.7-inch scale, a single mini-humbucker with coil-split, and 12-54 gauge strings for a standard scale tension on a compact instrument.

This portable powerhouse was created through a collaboration between Blackstar, the renowned guitar amp company, and Gordon Smith Guitars, a fellow British brand. With a compact 20.7-inch scale and a ukulele-sized body, this electric guitar is perfect for traveling musicians.

Designed for optimal resonance, the Blackstar Carry-On features a one-piece body and neck design. The unique tortoiseshell-like plastic binding and matte finish on the neck, sides, and back provide maximum comfort for players. Additionally, the humbucker pickup with coil-splitting capability offers versatility in tone, allowing you to explore different sound options through an amp.

For even more convenience, the Blackstar Carry-On can be purchased as a package with the Fly3 mini amp, giving you everything you need for your next musical adventure.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Singlecut Travel Electric
• Scale Length: 20.7”
• Body: Poplar
• Neck: Okoume
• Fingerboard: Laurel
• Frets: 19
• Electronics: Mini Humbucker
• Finish: Gloss Black or White Top
• Bag Included: Yes

PROS

• Excellent One-Piece Design
• Very Portable
• Good Tones for Practice
• Very affordable

CONS

• Reduced sustain compared to a big one

The Traveler Guitar LTD EC-1

The LTD EC-1 is the result of a collaboration between two of the most well-known guitar brands, Traveler and ESP. Traveler has a solid reputation for crafting top-notch electric travel guitars, and ESP is renowned for its exceptional heavy rock and metal guitars in the EC series.

First introduced in 2016, this full-scale single-cut model is now available in a stylish Vintage Black with gold hardware. A hallmark of Traveler’s design is the placement of locking tuners within the body, which helps to reduce the overall length of the guitar. The active humbucker pickup, designed by ESP, is perfect for delivering high-gain tones and facilitating sharp lead work. Plus, the included headphone amp allows you to practice without disturbing anyone. The beveled cutaway also provides easy access to higher frets, making this guitar a must-have for metal players on the go.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Travel-size electric with built-in headphone amp
• Scale length: 24.75”
• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Black walnut
• Frets: 22 jumbo
• Electronics: ESP-designed active humbucker, four-channel headphone amp
• Finish: Vintage Black or Snow White
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Acclaimed ESP design in a compact form
• Full-scale length
• Onboard headphone amp

CONS

• No built-in tuner
• The price

Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe

First introduced in 1979, Steinberger headless guitars are unique and highly playable instruments. The Steinberger Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe is a unique and charming electric guitar that can easily serve as a travel guitar. With its distinctive size and shape, the classic Steinberger “headless” design is sure to make a bold visual statement. 

The use of wood instead of composite materials makes this guitar more budget-friendly and suitable for travel.

Despite its smaller body, the Spirit GT-Pro Deluxe boasts 24 frets, a scale length of 25.5″, an HSH pickup configuration, and a tremolo system, making it one of the most versatile small guitars on the market and offering a larger playing area than a standard Les Paul.

The inclusion of a neck-thru-body is also a rarity at this price point, making this instrument a great value, whether you use it as a travel guitar or not.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: Electric Guitar
• Scale length: 25.5 inches
• Body: Maple
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Unique and eye-catching design
• Versatile sound options
• superior tuning stability

CONS

• Unfamiliar design

Hofner Shorty Travel Guitar

Hofner Shorties were designed in the 1980s for musicians who never wanted to miss a moment of practice.

It is an affordable choice for musicians in need of a travel-friendly instrument. With a design dating back so many years, it has become a go-to option for those seeking a compact electric guitar. 

The full-scale length (24 frets on a 24.75-inch scale length) offers familiar playing comfort, while the single humbucker bridge pickup provides ample power for riffs. The classic maple/rosewood neck and fingerboard further contribute to the ease of play.

While the tone may not be award-winning, the Hofner Shorty is a cost-effective way to add portability to your collection. It may not be seen on top albums, but it offers a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers.

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Type: Electric
• Scale length: 24.7”
• Body: Basswood
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Bag included: Yes

PROS

• Good Price
• Comfortable playing experience with full-scale-length familiarity
• Decent build quality for the price

CONS

• Limited tone quality

VOX SDC-1 Mini

Rounding out our list is the VOX SDC-1 Mini, a compact travel guitar that’s perfect for beginners, players with smaller hands, or anyone looking for a portable instrument. With 19 medium jumbo frets and an 18.75-inch scale, this mini guitar provides a great playing experience.

SPECIFICATIONS:

PROS

• Compact Size
• Affordability
• Versatile Sound
• Built-in Amp and Effects

CONS

• Limited Playability especially for musicians with larger hands.

What Makes a Guitar a “Travel Guitar”? 

The defining feature of a “travel guitar” is its portability, achieved through shorter scale lengths, compact body sizes, and lightweight design. While some travel guitars retain a full-scale length for a familiar playing feel, others are designed to be smaller for ease of transport. So in short travel guitars are compact, lightweight, and portable versions of the classic guitar. 

They offer a convenient solution for musicians who want to play music on the go. They allow you to have your instrument with you at all times, so you can play music wherever and whenever inspiration strikes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, a travel guitar can be a valuable tool for your musical journey.

With a travel guitar, you can practice, write songs, or play with friends even when you’re away from home. Additionally, travel guitars can be a great choice for camping trips, beach vacations, and other outdoor adventures, allowing you to bring the joy of music with you wherever you go.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Travel Guitar 

When selecting a travel guitar, it’s essential to consider the same factors you would when choosing a regular guitar, such as acoustic or electric design and compatibility with your playing style and needs. Some travel guitars also come equipped with unique features such as built-in headphone outputs for private practice. Ultimately, the best travel guitar for you will depend on your personal preferences and requirements.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Travel Guitar

When shopping for a travel guitar, there are several key factors to consider to find the best option for your needs and preferences. These include:

Size and weight

Size and weight are important considerations when choosing a travel guitar, as you’ll likely be carrying it with you on the go. Look for a guitar that is small and lightweight enough to be easily transportable, but still big enough to produce good sound quality.

Sound quality

Sound quality is just as important in a travel guitar as it is in a full-sized guitar. Look for a guitar that has a good balance of tone, projection, and clarity. Try to play several different travel guitars and listen to each one to find the one that sounds best to you.

Playability

Playability is another important factor to consider when choosing a travel guitar. Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck profile, low action, and well-positioned frets, as this will make it easier and more enjoyable to play.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the travel guitar you’re interested in. While you may want to invest in a high-quality option, it’s also important to choose a guitar that fits within your budget. Keep in mind that many affordable travel guitars still offer great sound quality and playability, so you don’t have to break the bank to find a great option.

Are travel guitars harder to play?

In general, travel guitars are not harder to play than full-sized guitars, but they may feel different due to their smaller size and lighter weight. Some players may need to adjust to the different feel of a travel guitar, but with a little practice, playing a travel guitar can become just as easy as playing a full-sized guitar.  

What Characterizes a Superior Travel Guitar?

The portability of a travel guitar is often achieved through its compact body, lightweight, and shorter scale length (the distance from the nut to the saddle). However, a travel guitar can still possess a full-scale length and be considered a great option for traveling musicians.

Acoustic travel guitars generally have shorter scales and smaller bodies for easy transport, yet they still play and sound like a regular guitar. The travel guitars featured in this guide offer excellent playability and tone, making them effortless to adjust to.

Electric travel guitars typically can connect to guitar amps or PA systems, while some even come equipped with built-in amps for headphone practice.

What Is the Best Travel Guitar for Me?

All travel guitars are portable and offer great playability, but they each excel in different ways. For instance, some are better suited for gigs, while others are ideal for practicing with headphones.

When choosing a travel guitar, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences, as well as the factors discussed above. 

It’s also a good idea to try out several different options to find the one that feels and sounds best to you. With so many great travel guitars on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs and style.