Bam Hightech Slim Violin Case Navy Blue

I have used a BAM oblong case since the early 2000's and switched to this when I began doing touring and international travel. The lightweight case combined with its durability and super comfortable backstraps make it a no-brainer for safe, easy travel. The combination locks work great and have never failed me. I love having the little handle at the top of the case so I can hold it upright if I am standing in a line and have something else on my back. Interior is great- I don't use a shoulder rest (just a small sponge) so it suits me fine. Violin is nice and snug.

It will fit in most overhead bins on airplanes, though it exceeds most airline regulations for carry-ons...Fortunately, most airlines are pretty understanding and have probably dealt with enough violinists to realize how clingy we are with our instruments so they let you take it on so long as your other bag goes under the seat in front of you, to spare other people the room in the overhead bin.

Airplane travel tip: talk to the people at the gate. Mention to them you'd like that your violin be stowed directly above you, so that you won't get separated from it. Ask politely if they mind if you board right after preboarding- just wait for all the people who need assistance or who have kids to board, and then slip in before they start boarding the rest of the plane. Nobody's given me any issues for it, and it was a gate agent that told me to do that to begin with.

As for durability, I typically baby it and keep it…