8 Best Martin Backpacker Guitars

Hey there! Looking for a travel guitar that is compact, portable, and perfect for those on-the-go jam sessions? Well, you’re in luck! In this review, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the top options on the market, comparing their features, benefits, and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, these guitars are designed to make traveling with your instrument a breeze. So let’s dive in and find the perfect travel guitar for you!

Travel guitars have been around for quite some time, offering musicians the convenience of practicing and performing wherever they go. These guitars are specifically designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport. They are perfect for musicians who are constantly on the move, whether you’re a touring musician, a frequent traveler, or simply someone who loves playing music on the road.

One of the major benefits of owning a travel guitar is the ability to take your music with you wherever you go. No longer do you have to worry about missing out on practice or performances just because you’re away from home. Additionally, these guitars are built to withstand the rigors of travel, often featuring durable materials and innovative designs that make them resistant to damage.

In this article, we’ll be comparing several popular travel guitars, including the Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar, Martin Guitar Steel String Portable Backpack Acoustic Guitar, Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar, Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar, SX Portable Travel Guitar, KLOS Travel Deluxe Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar, Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar, and the Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar. Each of these guitars has its own unique features and advantages, so you can find the one that best suits your needs and preferences. So without further ado, let’s jump right into the reviews!

Martin Backpacker Guitar with Bag

The Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag is designed for musicians who are always on the go. Whether you’re traveling, camping, or simply looking for a compact guitar to play at home, this instrument is perfect for any situation.

We love the Martin Steel String Backpacker Guitar because of its exceptional portability and durability. It is specifically designed to withstand the rigors of travel, making it an ideal companion for any adventurer or music enthusiast.

The Martin Steel String Backpacker Guitar is crafted with a solid spruce top and solid tonewood back and sides, ensuring excellent sound quality and resonance. The unique contour neck shape provides enhanced comfort and playability, making it a joy to strum and pick.

With its 24-inch scale length and 15 frets, this guitar offers versatile playability, allowing you to explore a wide range of musical styles. It also includes a padded gig bag, providing extra protection during transit.

Martin is renowned for producing high-quality instruments, and the Steel String Backpacker Guitar is no exception. The craftsmanship and attention to detail can be seen and felt, making this guitar truly exceptional. It delivers a rich and vibrant tone that exceeds expectations for a travel-sized instrument.

Pros:

• Portability: Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to bring anywhere.
• Durability: It is built to withstand the demands of travel and outdoor adventures.
• Sound Quality: The solid spruce top and tonewood back and sides contribute to a rich and balanced sound.
• Comfort: The unique contour neck shape provides a comfortable playing experience.

Cons:

• Limited Tonal Range: Due to its smaller size, it may not have the same tonal range as a full-sized guitar.
• Requires Adjustment: Some users may need to adjust to the shorter scale length and fewer frets.

The Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag is an excellent choice for those seeking a portable and reliable instrument. Its outstanding craftsmanship and exceptional sound quality set it apart from other travel guitars on the market. Whether you’re a professional musician or a casual player, this guitar is sure to impress with its compact design and impressive performance.

Martin Portable Backpack Acoustic Guitar with Soft Gig Bag, Sustainable Wood Certified Natural Parts

The Martin Steel String Portable Backpack Acoustic Guitar is designed for traveling guitarists who want a high-quality, compact, and portable instrument. It is perfect for musicians who frequently travel and cannot bring their full-sized acoustic guitars along.

We appreciate the professional sound that the Martin Backpacker Guitar offers despite its compact body style. This guitar delivers authentic Martin tone, allowing players to enjoy great-sounding campfire jams, backpacking trips, or wherever their travels may take them.

The primary purpose of the Martin Backpacker Guitar is to provide guitarists with a portable and durable instrument that does not compromise on sound quality. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport, ensuring that musicians can play their favorite tunes wherever they go.

Key features of this guitar include its solid tonewoods construction, sustainable wood certified parts, and a hand-rubbed finish. The top is made from Sitka spruce, which contributes to its exceptional sound. Additionally, this portable guitar comes with a soft gig bag for added convenience.

The Martin Backpacker Guitar is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and quality. Martin is a renowned brand that has been trusted by musicians around the world for decades. This guitar is handmade to ensure top-notch construction and outstanding tone. It is built to withstand the rigors of travel while delivering exceptional sound performance.

Pros:

• Professional sound in a compact body style
• Lightweight and portable design
• Constructed with quality tonewoods
• Enhanced playability for all skill levels
• Comes with a soft gig bag for easy transportation

Cons:

• Some users may find the compact size challenging for certain playing styles

The Martin Steel String Portable Backpack Acoustic Guitar is a fantastic option for travelers who want a high-quality instrument with a professional sound. Its compact and lightweight design, combined with its exceptional craftsmanship, make it an excellent choice for musicians on the go. Whether playing rock, country, folk, bluegrass, or jazz, this guitar delivers a natural playing experience that musicians will love.

Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar – OF660 Traveling Acoustic Guitar with Collapsible System – Portable Backpack Case (Black, High Gloss)

The Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar – OF660 Traveling Acoustic Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (High Gloss Black) is designed specifically for traveling musicians who need a full-size guitar that is easy to take with them on the go.

One of the standout features of this guitar is its patented collapsible neck system, which allows users to quickly assemble and disassemble the guitar in around 20 seconds. This means that musicians can easily carry the guitar with them at all times, making it perfect for those who need to perform on the road or during their travels.

This carbon fiber travel guitar is built using high-quality pre-impregnated carbon fiber fabrics on all core components, ensuring stability and durability. This not only provides peace of mind for musicians, but it also allows for a superior transfer of energy and significantly longer sustain.

The included premium TSA compliant carry-on backpack is designed to fit on most airplanes in the overhead bin, making it a backpacker’s dream. The ballistic nylon case ensures that the guitar stays safe during transportation, while the small size of the backpack allows for easy storage during travel.

Journey Instruments is a company specializing in travel guitars, and this product is a testament to their dedication to providing the best overall travel experience for musicians on the go. Created with the feedback and needs of traveling musicians in mind, this guitar offers a tailored experience that is unmatched in the industry.

With its sturdy carbon fiber construction and innovative collapsible neck system, the Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar – OF660 Traveling Acoustic Guitar is a high-quality instrument that is built to last. The attention to detail in both design and craftsmanship is evident, making this a reliable and impressive option for musicians on the move.

Pros:

• Patented collapsible neck system for easy assembly and disassembly
• Stable and durable carbon fiber construction
• Premium TSA compliant carry-on backpack for easy transportation
• Designed specifically for traveling musicians
• Lifetime warranty on the stainless steel neck locking system

Cons:

• May be slightly more expensive compared to other travel guitars
• Limited color options available

Johnson Travel Guitar

The Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar is known for its suitability for traveling musicians. It is designed to provide convenience and portability without compromising on sound quality. Whether you are a professional musician on tour or simply a hobbyist who enjoys playing wherever you go, this guitar is an excellent choice for jam sessions on the road.

What sets the Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar apart is its exceptionally slim profile. This feature makes it incredibly easy to carry around, fitting comfortably into the smallest of spaces. Its lightweight design allows you to effortlessly take it on your journeys without feeling burdened. Despite its compact size, the guitar offers a full-scale 24-3/4″ length, ensuring that you get a genuine playing experience wherever you are.

The Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar emphasizes portability and convenience. Its slim profile and full-scale length make it an ideal choice for musicians who are constantly on the move. The guitar comes with 21 frets, providing a wide range of notes for versatile playing. Additionally, it includes a bag, ensuring that you can easily carry and protect your instrument wherever you go.

When it comes to overall quality, the Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar does not disappoint. It is designed with durability in mind, crafted from high-quality materials that ensure longevity. The guitar’s sound is rich and full, offering clear tones that are perfect for practice, recording, or performance purposes. Although it is a travel guitar, it does not compromise on sound quality.

• Pros:

  • Slim profile for easy transport
  • Full-scale length for an authentic playing experience
  • Includes a bag for hassle-free carrying
  • Durable and long-lasting construction
  • Produces rich and clear tones

• Cons:

  • Some users may find the slim profile slightly uncomfortable to play for extended periods.

The Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar is a great choice for musicians seeking convenience and portability without sacrificing quality. Its slim profile and full-scale length make it perfect for traveling, while its rich and clear tones ensure a pleasant playing experience. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, this guitar is a reliable companion for your musical journeys.

SX Portable Travel Guitar 3/4 with Bag

The SX Portable Travel Guitar 3/4 size with Bag Trav 1 is designed for musicians on the go who need a compact and lightweight instrument for travel and outdoor performances. It is perfect for camping trips, backpacking adventures, and impromptu jam sessions.

We love the SX Portable Travel Guitar because it offers exceptional playability and impressive sound quality despite its compact size. It is the perfect companion for traveling musicians who need a reliable instrument that can withstand the rigors of life on the road.

The primary purpose of the SX Portable Travel Guitar is to provide musicians with a high-quality instrument that can be easily transported without compromising on sound and playability. It features a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which contribute to its professional sound and resonance.

The mahogany truss rod adjustable neck ensures superior stability and allows players to achieve their desired action and tension. The rosewood fretboard and bridge add a touch of elegance to the guitar’s overall appearance and enhance its tonal characteristics.

One of the standout features of this guitar is its Graphtech NuBone saddle and bone nut. These high-quality materials enhance the sustain and resonance of the instrument, resulting in a rich and vibrant sound.

The SX Portable Travel Guitar is crafted from top-quality materials, ensuring its durability and longevity. The solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides contribute to its overall sturdiness, while the mahogany neck provides added stability. The attention to detail and precision in its construction make it a reliable and trustworthy instrument.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design
• Impressive sound quality
• Durable construction
• Adjustable neck for personalized comfort
• Comes with a handy bag for easy transportation

Cons:

• The 3/4 size may not be suitable for players with larger hands or those accustomed to full-size guitars

With its impressive sound, durable construction, and convenient portability, the SX Portable Travel Guitar 3/4 size with Bag Trav 1 is an excellent choice for musicians who prioritize playability and sound quality on their travels. Whether you are strumming around a campfire or performing on a street corner, this guitar is a reliable companion that delivers exceptional performance every time.

KLOS Travel Deluxe Acoustic Electric Guitar – Black with Accessories

The KLOS Travel Deluxe, Durable Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar is designed for musicians who are constantly on the move. Whether you’re camping, hiking, backpacking, or simply taking a trip to the coffee shop, this lightweight guitar is the perfect companion for any musical adventure.

We love the KLOS Travel Deluxe because of its durability and versatility. Made from carbon fiber, this guitar is incredibly tough and resistant to warping or cracking, unlike traditional wooden instruments. It can withstand temperature and humidity changes, making it ideal for outdoor use. Additionally, the guitar produces a rich, loud, and resonant sound with a nice balanced tone, which can be amplified by plugging into any amplifier or PA system.

The purpose of the KLOS Travel Deluxe is to provide musicians with a portable and reliable instrument that they can take with them wherever they go. This guitar is not only lightweight, weighing just 3.32 lbs, but it also boasts a full scale length and easy access to the upper frets. This makes it suitable for both experts and beginners alike. With its comfortable fingerboard width and body size, the KLOS Travel Deluxe is a great guitar for adults and kids.

Key features of this guitar include the Fishman Sonitone Onboard Preamp System, which features a soundhole mounted preamp with controls for volume and tone. This allows for additional volume and versatility when playing the guitar. The KLOS Travel Deluxe also comes with a gig bag, strap, capo, and more, ensuring that you have everything you need to start playing right away.

The KLOS Travel Deluxe is a high-quality guitar that offers durability, versatility, and a great sound. The carbon fiber construction ensures that it will stand up to the rigors of travel, while the soundhole mounted preamp system provides additional amplification options. The inclusion of a gig bag, strap, and capo further enhances the overall quality of this product.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Durable carbon fiber construction
• Rich and resonant sound
• Versatile with amplification options
• Suitable for both adults and kids

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to traditional wooden guitars

Portable Backpack Case for Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar with Collapsible Patented System

The Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar – OF312 Traveling Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (Overhead) is designed for traveling musicians and artists who are constantly on the go.

We love this product because it offers a full-size guitar experience that is incredibly portable and easy to take with you anywhere. With its patented collapsible neck system, you can quickly assemble and disassemble the guitar in just 20 seconds, making it perfect for musicians on the move.

The Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar is specifically designed to cater to the needs of traveling musicians. Its portable and collapsible nature allows musicians to carry it with them at all times without sacrificing on sound quality. The traditional sound-hole incorporates forward-shifted, tapered X-bracing, which maximizes the resonance and volume of the soundboard.

One of the standout features of this guitar is its backpacker-friendly design. It comes with a premium TSA compliant carry-on backpack that fits in most airplane overhead bins. Additionally, the included ballistic nylon case ensures that the guitar remains safe during travel.

The Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar is constructed with high-quality materials and boasts excellent craftsmanship. The attention to detail in its design ensures a great playing experience for musicians of all skill levels. This guitar delivers exceptional sound quality, allowing musicians to confidently perform in any setting, from small crowds to large gigs.

• Portable and easy to assemble and disassemble

• Impressive sound quality and volume

• TSA compliant carry-on backpack included

• Lifetime warranty on the stainless steel neck locking system

• May be more expensive compared to other travel guitars

The Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar is a top choice for musicians who prioritize convenience without compromising on sound quality. Its portable design, excellent sound system, and durable construction make it a reliable companion for musicians on the go. With the inclusion of a lifetime warranty, this guitar ensures long-term satisfaction for its users.

Traveler Guitar Electro Acoustic-Electric Guitar, 6 String, Right-handed, Surfin USA (Blue Edition)

The Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Surfin USA (EDA BLU) is designed specifically for travel and on-the-go musicians. It is perfect for those who want to play their music while exploring new places, going on road trips, or simply for convenience during travels.

We love the Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar because it combines portability with great sound quality. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to travel with, fitting comfortably into any backpack or carry-on luggage. The built-in electronics allow for amplified sound, making it suitable for both acoustic and electric guitar players.

The purpose of the Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is to provide musicians with a guitar that is easy to take on their travels without sacrificing sound quality. Its key features include a full-scale length, a built-in headphone amp with aux-in for jamming along to tracks, and a shadow piezo pickup with custom preamp for clear and balanced sound output. The guitar also features a maple body with a vintage-style finish, adding to its aesthetic appeal.

The overall quality of the Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is exceptional. Despite its small size, it delivers a rich and full sound that rivals that of much larger guitars. The built-in electronics are reliable and provide clear and precise amplification. The construction of the guitar is top-notch, ensuring durability during travel and years of enjoyable playing.

Some pros of the Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar include its compact and lightweight design, which makes it incredibly convenient for travelers. The built-in headphone amp with aux-in is also a great feature for practice or jamming along with tracks. Additionally, the durable construction and overall sound quality are notable pros.

One possible con is that the small size of the guitar may take some getting used to for players who are accustomed to larger instruments. Additionally, the price may be higher compared to other similar travel guitars on the market. However, given its high-quality sound and convenience, many musicians find it worth the investment.

Comparison of Specifications

Product	Material	Neck Type	Scale Length	Frets	Weight
Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag	Solid tonewood	Unique contour	24-inch	15	N/A
Martin Guitar Steel String Portable Backpack Acoustic Guitar with Soft Gig Bag, Made with Sustainable Wood Certified Parts Natural	Sitka spruce top	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar – OF660 Traveling Acoustic Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (High Gloss Black)	Carbon fiber	Collapsible	N/A	N/A	N/A
Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar	N/A	N/A	24-3/4″	21	N/A
SX Portable Travel Guitar 3/4 size with Bag Trav 1	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
KLOS Travel Deluxe, Durable Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar – Black with Gig Bag, Strap, Capo, and more	Carbon fiber	N/A	N/A	N/A	3.32 lbs
Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar – OF312 Traveling Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (Overhead)	N/A	Collapsible	N/A	N/A	N/A
Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Surfin USA (EDA BLU)	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

Comparison of Features

Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag

• Professional sound in a compact body style
• Constructed using solid tonewoods
• Lightweight and durable
• Easy to play and tune
• Comes with a soft gig bag

Martin Guitar Steel String Portable Backpack Acoustic Guitar with Soft Gig Bag, Made with Sustainable Wood Certified Parts Natural

• Made with sustainable wood certified parts
• Hand-rubbed finish
• Chrome-enclosed gear tuners
• Includes a soft gig bag

Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar – OF660 Traveling Acoustic Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (High Gloss Black)

• Collapsible neck system for easy assembly and disassembly
• Stable and durable carbon fiber construction
• TSA compliant carry-on backpack
• Lifetime warranty on neck locking system

Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar

• Slim profile design
• 21 frets
• 24-3/4″ scale length
• Includes a bag

SX Portable Travel Guitar 3/4 size with Bag Trav 1

• Portable travel guitar
• Impressive sound quality
• Solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides
• Adjustable neck
• Includes a bag

KLOS Travel Deluxe, Durable Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar – Black with Gig Bag, Strap, Capo, and more

• Lightweight and durable carbon fiber construction
• Rich, loud, and resonant sound
• Full scale length with easy access to upper frets
• Includes Fishman Sonitone Onboard Preamp System
• Weighs 3.32 lbs

Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar – OF312 Traveling Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (Overhead)

• Collapsible neck system for easy assembly and disassembly
• Traditional sound-hole design
• TSA compliant carry-on backpack
• Lifetime warranty on neck locking system

Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Surfin USA (EDA BLU)

• N/A

Conclusion

After reviewing the features and specifications of the eight travel guitars mentioned, it is clear that each has its own unique qualities and drawbacks.

Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag & Martin Guitar Steel String Portable Backpack Acoustic Guitar with Soft Gig Bag

Both Martin guitars offer portability and a high-quality sound. However, some users may find them to be lacking in terms of comfort and may prefer a fuller body guitar.

Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar – OF660 Traveling Acoustic Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (High Gloss Black)

The Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber guitar stands out for its collapsible design and durability. It offers a balanced sound and versatility, making it a great choice for all types of players.

Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer Travel Guitar & SX Portable Travel Guitar 3/4 size with Bag Trav 1

These guitars are affordable options for beginners or casual players. While they may not have the same level of sound quality as higher-end models, they are lightweight and easy to carry around.

KLOS Travel Deluxe, Durable Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar – Black with Gig Bag, Strap, Capo, and more

The KLOS Travel Deluxe guitar impresses with its carbon fiber construction and included accessories. Its sound quality and playability make it suitable for both beginner and experienced players.

Journey Instruments Solid Sitka Travel Guitar – OF312 Traveling Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Collapsible Patented System – Portable Backpack Case (Overhead)

The Journey Instruments Solid Sitka guitar offers the advantages of an acoustic-electric hybrid and a collapsible design. Its rich sound and versatility make it a great choice for stage performers.

Traveler Guitar Electro 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Surfin USA (EDA BLU)

This guitar offers the convenience of being both electric and acoustic, making it suitable for a wide range of genres. However, some users may find it lacking in terms of traditional acoustic sound.

Based on these reviews, it is recommended that the Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar, Journey Instruments Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar – OF660, or KLOS Travel Deluxe guitar would be suitable options for those looking for portability without compromising on sound quality. Beginners or casual players may find the Johnson JG-TR3 Trailblazer or SX Portable Travel Guitar more budget-friendly options.

Ultimately, the ideal travel guitar depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual player. It is advisable to consider factors such as sound quality, portability, price, and personal preferences before making a final decision.