It wasn’t always the case that when you bought a guitar that you would get something to carry it in. That’s what happened with my first guitar. I was quite young, and when my father asked if they had something to carry it in, they wrapped it up in brown paper.
Looking for the best acoustic guitar gig bags was not necessary in those days. Very few places had them. As time went on, a very cheap plastic option arrived that would tear very easily. All it did was keep it dry if it rained. Just.
Protecting the guitar against knocks and potential damage hadn’t been thought of. Of course, they have got better and better as time went on. They had to.
Contents
- Top 7 Best Acoustic Guitar Gig Bags for All Budgets in 2023 Reviews
- 1 MONO M80 Acoustic Guitar Case – Best Gig Bag for Archtop Guitars
- 2 Gator Cases Transit Series Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag – Best Adjustable Padding Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
- 3 Reunion Blues Continental Voyager Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Case – Best Premium Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
- 4 Gruv Gear GigBlade 2 for Acoustic Guitar – Best Over the Shoulder Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
- 5 Fender Performance Plus Series Dreadnought Guitar Bag – Best Budget Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
- 6 CAHAYA Guitar Bag – Best Cheap Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
- 7 CAHAYA Reinforced Acoustic Guitar Bag – Best Value for the M0ney Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
- Best Acoustic Guitar Gig Bags – Buying Guide
- Looking for Great Guitar Gear?
- What are the Best Acoustic Guitar Gig Bags?
The Top Acoustic Guitar Manufacturers
These made cases for their instruments, especially companies like Gibson, Epiphone, Martin, etc. Those cases were five times as much to buy as my little acoustic cost, even in those days. Not many could afford those.
But decent bags began to appear as it was recognized they were desperately needed. Now there are some excellent acoustic guitar bags on offer. So, let’s take a look at the very best that are currently available, starting with the…
Top 7 Best Acoustic Guitar Gig Bags for All Budgets in 2023 Reviews
1 MONO M80 Acoustic Guitar Case – Best Gig Bag for Archtop Guitars
Let’s start with this bag, which in many ways, is more like a case in the way it is designed. The design and size are important to note. It will fit a standard dreadnought size instrument and the majority of archtop guitars.
The Measurements
Interior size is important, and this bag has an overall length of 42 inches. You can fit guitars with a body length of 22 inches that are up to 5 inches deep.
When you are measuring up the size, you do need to take into account the curves of the upper body and the lower body. These are referred to as the upper and lower “bout” width. On this bag, the upper width is 13.5 inches, and the lower is 16 inches.
The Design
As I mentioned earlier, it is like a cross between a bag and a soft case. It has an interesting design that incorporates panels made from ABS that give the bag strength. That will offer some good protection if you are traveling.
Internally it is well-padded, and there is a compartment for your accessories that gives you some storage space. Externally the body of the bag has been reinforced to provide some extra security, and it is weatherproof. There are some rubber bumpers fitted for when you stand the bag up vertically with the guitar inside.
Top-Loading
The design is that of a top-loader which makes it easier to put the guitar in and get it out. Sitting halfway between bag and case, you get that extra protection but at a much lighter weight than a case would be.
Protection For the Neck
That most vulnerable part of the guitar, the neck, has been given some extra internal protection. There is a head locking and securing design inside that prevents the guitar from moving around in transit.
It is not the cheapest option you will find. But it is built to withstand a little more than the usual wear and tear. Making it one of the most durable acoustic guitar gig bags you can buy. If you don’t want a case because of the weight, then this bag is a good option.
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- Tough design inside and out.
- Top-loader with some extra internal support for the neck when traveling
Cons
- It is not the cheapest of bags.
2 Gator Cases Transit Series Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag – Best Adjustable Padding Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
To those familiar with guitar bags and cases, Gator will need little introduction. Founded in Florida in 2000, in a very short time, they have created a respected brand of cases, flight cases, and bags for the guitar. This is a good example.
The Design
It has a fabric covering that is weather-resistant with a thick protective base made from rubber. A good design feature that gives the bag protection from wear and the elements when standing in an upright position. It is built to hold a Dreadnought size acoustic, and the case has an overall length of 44 inches.
To carry accessories with you, it has a decent size zipper pocket that has a flap. It has various points for securing the contents allowing you to pack in as much as possible. It has carrying straps so you can wear the bag on your back. However, these aren’t the strongest I have ever seen.
Inside
There is a heavily padded interior using foam padding that is 20mm thick covered with a plush micro-fleece. There are internal padding features that are adjustable.
This allows you to alter the way the padding fits your instrument to accommodate various guitar sizes. And also to provide maximum protection for the neck and the body. As a result, it is one of the most versatile acoustic guitar gig bags on the market.
Interior measurements
It can accommodate a guitar with body dimensions of twenty-one inches by six inches deep. There are three “bout” widths. The upper bout width is 13 inches, the middle bout width is 13 inches, and finally, a lower bout width of 16.5 inches.
At under five pounds, it is a lightweight bag despite the padding and protection it offers. Set at a very attractive price point, this is one of the best acoustic guitar gig bags around for the money.
(4.8 / 5)Pros
- Weather-resistant with plenty of accessory space.
- Plenty of internal adjustable padding at a good price point.
Cons
- Back carrying straps are not the strongest.
3 Reunion Blues Continental Voyager Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Case – Best Premium Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
This is a case that has been built to ensure your guitar is kept safe while you are on the move. You will find it isn’t the cheapest bag around, but very few offer the kind of protection this bag offers.
The Size
It is designed to fit a Dreadnought size acoustic. In total, the exterior measurements are 47 by 10 by 20 inches. Internally it is 42 inches long and five inches deep.
The internal upper bout is 15 inches, and the upper and lower bouts are 15 inches and 17 inches, respectively. The bag itself weighs 9.2 pounds.
Upgraded Version
This bag was first launched in 2008 and was proven very quickly to be a popular acoustic guitar gig bag amongst both pros and amateurs. There have been some improvements made since then, which make it even better.
On The Inside
It has been fitted with extra shock absorbing capability and utilizes a Flexoskeleton internal impact-resistant structure. It will therefore be able to take a few knocks and still keep the guitar inside safe. As a result, it’s one of the most secure acoustic guitar gig bags around.
Adjustable internals
The bracing system inside has seen some improvements that include a neck cradle block that is adjustable. There have also been some pads for extra protection at the endpin, which you can also configure to your requirements.
The Cushioning
This is where this guitar bag scores some points over its rivals. This bag has cushioning that is one inch thick. This is given extra reinforcement by the inclusion of impact panels to absorb any sudden shocks. In other words, it’s one of the best impact resistant acoustic guitar gig bags you can find.
On The Outside
The exterior has been improved in its styling using a Quadraweave finish. This not only looks good, but it is a texture that is also very hard-wearing. It is fully water-resistant and is fitted with heavy-duty zippers. The pocket for accessories has foam padding and is big enough to allow you to carry a tablet easily.
There is no doubt this is a quality guitar bag, and it should easily be considered as one of the best gig bags around. But the price point might put some off.
(4.8 / 5)Pros
- Plenty of adjustments and a tough build that protects the guitar from impact.
- Adjustable internals and waterproof exterior.
Cons
- Some may find it expensive.
4 Gruv Gear GigBlade 2 for Acoustic Guitar – Best Over the Shoulder Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
Here is a bag that bucks the design trend somewhat. It is going to suit some people, but for those that like to wear a guitar bag “backpack-style,” it might not. This is much more of an “over the shoulder” design.
The Design
This is a different design from most other bags you will find. The center of gravity is made to be at a very low level which in some ways makes it easier to carry. Although it is designed like this, there is the optional extra for an extra strap so you could use it backpack-style.
On The Outside
The outer covering is made from a strong 1680D Nylon. Whilst that is extremely tough and durable, it is also lightweight, and the case weighs only 6.8 pounds. However, the material itself is only water-repellent rather than waterproof. In the case of heavy rain, water could enter via the zippers.
There is a top pocket that is large enough to hold three standard size effects pedals, strings, etc. There is also a full-length storage pocket as well as an expandable accessory compartment. So plenty of storage space.
There is a covering for the full size of the bag that is available as an optional accessory. That acts as extra protection in the case of rain.
On The Inside
The inside has an imitation fur lining supported by polyester panels. These interior foam supports can be moved to create an exact fit for your instrument.
The Size
The internal measurements are 42 inches by 16 inches at the lower end. A good option with a different design idea that some will like. If you prefer a backpack style, there is a second strap available. As a bag, it is quite stiff though and not as soft to the touch as others. Again, not a cheap option.
(4.9 / 5)Pros
- Plenty of storage space.
- A different design that will suit some people.
Cons
- If you are on a bike or motorbike, it probably won’t suit you.
5 Fender Performance Plus Series Dreadnought Guitar Bag – Best Budget Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
Until now, the bags have not been the cheapest around. So let’s take a look at a few with a more cost-effective price point.
Fender is a name that doesn’t need much introduction. Not the company they were once were, of course, which is a shame. These days they also offer some decent budget range products to sit alongside their better-known items. This is a good example.
The Design
It is a simple basic design, but it has been given a midnight blue finish which makes it an attractive-looking bag.
On The Outside
It is made of two layers of 600 Denier Polyester, which is a material that doesn’t rip or tear easily. There are rubber protectors placed on the bottom for when the bag is standing upright on its end.
It has a carrying handle and two straps to carry the bag on your back. The straps are well-padded themselves and easily adjustable. The buckles on the straps are adjustable to get the right position for carrying. Carrying the guitar on your back will be comfortable.
The front pocket is always a useful addition, and on this bag, it is a decent size that includes a tool pouch. The pocket has a zipper.
Inside
It has 10mm of padding that has a soft lining of velour. The measurements inside are 41.75 inches long with a depth of 4.74 inches. At its widest point, it is 16.54 inches. The lower bout width is 15.5 inches, and the upper bout is 14.17 inches. Weighing only 2.05 pounds makes it one of the best lightweight acoustic guitar gig bags on the market.
As a cost-effective option for those who don’t want to spend too much. It is essentially designed for a dreadnought size guitar but may well accommodate smaller instruments.
(4 / 5)Pros
- A nice bag with a good size accessories pocket.
- Cost-effective price.
Cons
- Some will need a higher level of padding and protection inside and out.
6 CAHAYA Guitar Bag – Best Cheap Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
If you are really on a tight budget but desperately need a bag for your guitar, then you could do a lot worse than this one from Cahaya. They have taken a previously manufactured guitar bag and made some improvements, as well as also adding some useful features.
The Design
It is made for guitars that have an overall length of up to 42 inches. That will accommodate some dreadnought size instruments but possibly not all. It would be wise to check first. But anything 42 inches or less will be fine.
External Features
On the outside, it has a water-resistant cloth fabric that is quite smart-looking. There is a larger front pocket that will hold music, a smartphone, or other sizable objects. This is one of the improvements made from the previous version.
It also has a pocket on the neck that will hold pedals, tuners, or adapters. You can carry it backpack style, using the two straps, or if you prefer, it has a silicone handle. The zippers for the bag and the pockets are of reasonable quality. On the bottom of the bag is some rubber padding to protect against any sudden impacts.
Inside
Basic fittings include internal padding that is about half an inch thick. This is a slight improvement over the previous bag. As I mentioned earlier, it will take a guitar up to 42 inches in length from top to bottom. And with a body thickness not exceeding 4.7 inches. The width at the neck end of the case is 5.1 inches. The upper bout is 13.5 inches, and the lower is 18 inches.
A decent case and very good value for money.
(4.7 / 5)Pros
- Plenty of accessory storage space.
- Well made at a very cost-effective price.
Cons
- Some will need more instrument protection.
7 CAHAYA Reinforced Acoustic Guitar Bag – Best Value for the M0ney Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
To close our look at some of the best acoustic guitar gig bags, we will stay with Cahaya. This model, though, offers a little more protection than the previous offering.
There are times when if you want a bag that protects to a high level, the materials needed can make it heavy. On the other hand, a lightweight bag often offers less protection. This bag strikes a nice balance. It offers good protection but weighs less than five pounds.
On The Outside
It has an attractive grey cloth finish and a very sleek style. There are two large zipper pockets, one of which is large enough to carry a folding music stand. Inside the main pocket on the body are extra internal pockets. These are for your phone, tablet, tuners, strings, picks, etc.
On the back are the shoulder straps for carrying and some breathable mesh that allows air to circulate around your back. There is a looped handle by the shoulder straps and a fixing buckle that stores the straps away when not in use.
On the bottom of the bag are rubber fittings. These protect the bag cloth material when it is standing up and offer an added level of protection from impacts. There is also a traditional carrying handle if you prefer that carrying method. The zips are strong and durable.
Inside
The internals are covered with 0.7 inches of high-density foam padding that offers a good level of protection. There are padded sidewalls and a cradle for the neck, which is adjustable to fit.
The Size
It measures 42.5 by 18.5 by 4.9 inches. The upper bout is 13 inches, and the lower is 18.5 inches. It is 6.3 inches wide at the neck. It is ideally suited to guitars with a length of either 39, 40, or 41 inches.
This is a very nice bag and represents excellent value for money if you have the right size guitar. It has good features, plenty of space for accessories, and must be considered as one of the best acoustic gig bags.
(4.8 / 5)Pros
- Nice design with good materials and a good level of protection built-in.
- Plenty of storage space at a cost-effective price.
Cons
- At this price, nothing at all.
Best Acoustic Guitar Gig Bags – Buying Guide
There are some things to consider when buying a gig bag for an acoustic guitar. You will want it to provide a high level of protection. Most will do that, but, understandably, the better they are at providing protection, the more expensive they become.
Some of the things you should consider include:
- The material used for external construction.
- The amount of padding inside.
- Whether it has rubber support at the bottom.
- Is it waterproof?
- Is it carried by a handle, backpacker style, or does it have both options?
- How much storage and accessory space does it have?
- Will your guitar fit?
- Does it have adjustable internal padding to secure the guitar firmly in place?
- How much does it cost?
To a certain extent, it will depend on the amount of usage that is required. A gigging musician who is traveling around a lot will probably need a bit of added protection. The occasional user will be satisfied with a bit less.
Looking for Great Guitar Gear?
We have you covered. Check out our in-depth reviews of the Best Guitar Pedalboard, the Best Guitar Cables, the Best Electric Guitar Strings, the Best Grover Tuners, the Best Locking Tuners for Stratocasters, the Best Clip-On Guitar Tuners, and the Best Guitar Tuners you can buy in 2023.
Also, have a look at our detailed reviews of the Best Guitar Strap Lock, the Best Guitar Amplifiers Under $200, the Best Portable Guitar Amplifiers, the Best Wireless Guitar Systems, the Best Guitar Speaker Cabinets, the Best Guitar Tool Kits, and the Best Finger Picks currently on the market.
What are the Best Acoustic Guitar Gig Bags?
For me, it would be more for occasional use. I wouldn’t be traveling the country, gigging with it. Therefore, I would choose a bag that has a good all-around level of features and security at a reasonable cost.
So, I would go for the last bag on the list we looked at, the …
CAHAYA Reinforced Acoustic Guitar Bag
A well-designed bag with a good level of protection at a very attractive price. What more could you want for the money?
Until next time, let your music play.
