Cheap Travel Guitars: Affordable Options for Musicians on the Move

Cheap Travel guitars are an excellent solution for musicians who want to practice, perform, or simply enjoy playing while on the go. While some travel guitars can be pricey, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that balance portability, sound quality, and playability without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to finding cheap travel guitars and some of the best models available today.

Why Choose a Travel Guitar?

Travel guitars are designed to be lightweight, compact, and easy to transport. Whether you're heading on holiday, backpacking, or just commuting, they’re perfect for practicing anywhere. Cheap travel guitars make this convenience accessible to beginners, hobbyists, or anyone on a budget.

Top Cheap Travel Guitars

Here are some great affordable options to consider:

1. Yamaha APXT2

Price Range: £200–£300
Why It’s Great: A scaled-down version of the popular APX500, the Yamaha APXT2 is an acoustic-electric hybrid that offers great versatility for the price. It features a built-in tuner and ART pickup system for amplified sound.
Pros:
- Plug-and-play capability
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good build quality for the price
Cons:
- Smaller scale might feel cramped for some players

2. Martin Backpacker

Price Range: £250–£350
Why It’s Great: Designed with portability in mind, the Martin Backpacker is slim, lightweight, and ideal for outdoor adventures or tight spaces.
Pros:
- Ultra-portable
- Durable design
- Recognizable Martin quality
Cons:
- Unique body shape may take some getting used to
- Tone is thinner compared to larger guitars

3. Donner HUSH-I Silent Guitar

Price Range: £150–£250
Why It’s Great: This compact, ultra-light guitar is perfect for quiet practice, featuring a headphone jack and piezo pickup system. Its detachable body frame makes it easy to pack and carry.
Pros:
- Silent design for private practice
- Affordable and lightweight
- Detachable frame for portability
Cons:
- Limited tonal versatility
- Requires headphones or an amp for sound

4. Traveler Guitar Redlands Mini

Price Range: £200–£300
Why It’s Great: A small acoustic guitar that delivers big sound, the Redlands Mini offers impressive tone and playability in a travel-friendly size.
Pros:
- Comfortable size and feel
- Well-built with a rich sound
- Good value for money
Cons:
- Slightly higher price compared to other budget options

5. Fender CT-60S

Price Range: £150–£250
Why It’s Great: Part of Fender’s Classic Design Series, the CT-60S is a compact acoustic guitar with a full-scale neck and great tonal quality for its size.
Pros:
- Full-size playability in a smaller body
- Good sound projection for the price
- Reliable Fender craftsmanship
Cons:
- Not as compact as other travel-specific guitars

What to Look for in a Cheap Travel Guitar

Portability: Ensure the guitar is light and compact enough to suit your travel needs.
Durability: Look for sturdy materials that can withstand knocks and temperature changes.
Sound Quality: While smaller guitars naturally produce less volume, some models are designed to deliver surprisingly rich tones.
Playability: A comfortable neck and action are essential, even for a travel-sized guitar.
Extras: Features like built-in pickups, tuners, or headphone jacks can add value without significantly increasing cost.

Where to Find Cheap Travel Guitars

Online Retailers:
- Websites like Amazon, Gear4Music, and Thomann often have budget-friendly travel guitars.
Second-Hand Options:
- Platforms like Reverb, eBay, and local classified ads are great for finding pre-owned guitars at discounted prices.
Music Stores:
- Check out sales or clearance sections in stores like Andertons Music Co., PMT Online, or GuitarGuitar.

Tips for Buying a Cheap Travel Guitar

Try Before You Buy: If possible, test the guitar in-store to ensure it meets your expectations for sound and comfort.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews and videos to see how a model performs in real-world conditions.
Check for Deals: Look out for seasonal sales or promotions to get the best price.
Consider Accessories: Ensure your purchase includes a gig bag or invest in one for safe transport.

Conclusion

A cheap travel guitar doesn’t mean compromising on quality or functionality. Models like the Yamaha APXT2, Martin Backpacker, and Fender CT-60S provide excellent value for money, combining portability, playability, and durability. By shopping smart and exploring your options, you can find an affordable travel guitar that suits your lifestyle and keeps your music alive wherever you go.