Can I bring a musical instrument (guitar) as a carry-on?

Yes. US airlines must allow small musical instruments (violin, guitar, flute) as carry-on if space is available at boarding and the instrument fits in an overhead bin or under a seat.

  • Guitars and violins qualify as "small musical instruments" under US federal regulation

  • Airlines cannot charge an additional fee beyond standard carry-on fees

  • You must board early to secure overhead bin space

  • If the instrument does not fit in overhead bin, you may need to gate-check it (purchase a seat for larger instruments)

  • Some airlines sell a second seat for large instruments (cello, double bass) at 50% of fare

  • String instruments are sensitive to temperature changes, avoid checking them in cargo

You may also like: Can I bring a yoga mat as carry-on?

Official resource: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/section-251.3

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