Tell me more ×
Travel Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for road warriors and seasoned travelers. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 6 down vote favorite
1

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?

share|improve this question

1 Answer

up vote 3 down vote

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.

share|improve this answer
Would vote this down as bad info if I had the rep. Even on Acela, the seats aren't nearly big enough. A double bass is big. About all you can do is try to get one of the Amtrak cars that have large open areas for ovrsized luggage. Ask the conductor before boarding, which car should I get on? Even then, a double bass is outside the size guidelines for Amtrak. However, I see people travel with huge suitcases all the time. You might be okay, you might not be. – neilfein Feb 14 '12 at 23:01
@neilfein Based on the case dimensions and business and first class seat dimensions. The double bass should be able to travel on its side on the seats. – Karlson Feb 15 '12 at 2:46
With all due respect, a double bass has particular concerns. Have a look at a hard case, the dimensions in particular. It's a bit larger than the soft case you link to, but not too much bigger. These cases are six feet tall! You'd need to balance the case upside-down on the seat for the entire train ride. And - like Jim Steinman said - that's no way to treat an expensive musical instrument! Still, I suppose people do it! – neilfein Feb 15 '12 at 5:05
A double bass will certainly not fit in an Acela seat. "I have no idea" seems to be the answer here. – raxacoricofallapatorius Mar 5 at 18:29

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.