If you're flying... 3 tips from a guy with 31 years in the airline business...

1. Ask to take it on board. If they say "no," cry and ask again saying the magic word, "please." Very often you will hear, "I'll let you take it to the gate but the flight attendant is just going to take it away from you." This is the check-in agent's way of saying, "Ok, hell, I don't care!" without backing down.

2. If you still hear "no," ask to take the guitar to the gate. If the attendant says "no," wait with the instrument outside the door. A baggage handler will take it from you and give you a claim check.

3. Wrap the case in large size bubble wrap secured with duct tape.

I have always heard one should slacken the strings and pack the peghead with paper.

All the best,
Dan