How can I travel with a double bass?
I need to travel among several eastern US cities to auditions and must bring along my instrument: a (huge) double bass.
What is the best way to travel, given that I do not drive, but that most of the cities on my itinerary are connected by rail, bus services, and, of course air. For example, does anyone have experiences taking a double base on the Acela, or in a Manhattan cab?
Best Answer
I would suggest that on Acela you book another seat as Acela as far as I can tell doesn't have a baggage car.
As far as Manhattan is concerned there are minivan, SUV, and those new Ford Transit cabs that you might be able to fit in. Other cities on the East coast I have no idea.
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How do you transport a double bass in a car?
Even if you are under 100 pounds, you will still end up paying extra in oversize/overweight fees, usually between $50 to $100 each way. In the future, this weight limit will likely be lower, and travel be more difficult for basses as baggage.How much does it cost to fly with a double bass?
Most basses will not fit in overhead compartments in airplanes. Get a case with TSA locks, lower the tension on the strings, and take your sturdiest bass. I always try to carry my instrument to the gate and take it on the plane.Can you travel with a bass?
In general, bringing an electric bass guitar with you on a plane is of no issue. Airlines are used to accommodating musicians and cannot legally withhold you from bringing your bass onboard unless there is a lack of space or it cannot be stored safely. So yes, you can bring your bass with you on a plane.Flying with a Double Bass - Yuri Goloubev Interview \u0026 Performance
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Answer 2
This is obviously too late for the OP, but it may be useful to others:
On Acela, there is room in the café car for a double bass to stand upright since the Acela café car has no overhead storage and compact, bar-stool-style seating. You'll have to board early if you want one of those bar stools, though, since there are only 7 available; otherwise you may have to stand for the trip (which is fine; the conductor will still scan your ticket).
You can also take regular Northeast Regional trains. Each car has a narrow but full-height compartment at one end intended for luggage. If you are lucky enough to find an empty one, a double bass might be able to fit. At the end of each car there is usually a set of chairs facing each other that can (uncomfortably) seat four people. If the train is not full, you can probably place the double bass in this type of seat, perhaps with enough space for you to sit there too. There is also often an open area, usually by the lavatory, that I think is intended for passengers in wheelchairs. I often see people store large pieces of luggage there. If you are able to snag one of those seats, you could potentially prop the double bass on an angle against the wall. There is also a similar open area in the cafe cars. You will of course have to give up that area if a handicapped person needs it, though.
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