Handpan Case

The right case combines a sturdy exterior with dense interior padding. It should also offer good water resistance, handles, and a carrying strap. The outer fabric is typically durable nylon, and some soft cases offer about 0.59 in (1.5 cm) of padding, but approximately 1.18 in (3 cm) of dense foam is recommended for a travel case.

The foam should also surround the shell evenly to prevent pressure points on the notes. Some soft nylon cases even feature a firmer panel that protects the top of the instrument.

Yes, a handpan can usually travel in the cabin inside its case and be stowed in the overhead bin when space permits. However, this is allowed at the airline’s discretion rather than guaranteed. Standard carry-on dimensions are 22 × 14 × 8 in (55 × 35 × 20 cm), while some low-cost airlines limit under-seat baggage to 16 × 12 × 8 in (40 × 30 × 20 cm). This means a 22 in (55 cm) handpan exceeds the width limit. The permitted weight generally ranges from 15.4 to 26.5 lb (7 to 12 kg), and each airline sets its own rules, so check both limits before booking. Similarly, a flight case adds 8.8 to 13.2 lb (4 to 6 kg) to the instrument and may push it over the carry-on weight limit.

On a full flight, the last passengers’ carry-on bags may be checked, so it’s best to arrive at the boarding gate early. Also keep in mind that small regional aircraft may have overhead bins that are too narrow.

If your handpan must travel in the cargo hold, a hard-shell case is essential. You can also place the case in a cardboard box labeled “fragile” with your name and phone number. Impact remains the primary danger, so inspect the case and play a few notes as soon as you retrieve your instrument. Report any damage to the airline immediately and provide photos. For more information, read our guide to the best ways to travel with and transport your handpan.

It’s best to take your handpan out of its case as soon as you arrive, since the case is primarily intended for transportation. In a closed case, air remains trapped and moisture builds up until rust forms on the steel. This is why most manufacturers recommend leaving the instrument out in the open on a stand or soft surface.

Before a trip, wipe it with a soft cloth, then place it in the case. After playing outdoors in damp weather, let it air out for 15 to 20 minutes before closing the case. When moving from a cold environment to a warm one, moisture in the air may also condense invisibly on the cold handpan.

Quick tip: You can place a silica gel packet in the case to absorb moisture. Replace it regularly; some packets can even be recharged in the oven. If you live by the ocean, where the air is salty and humid, you can instead store the instrument in its closed case with a desiccant once it is completely dry.

Most soft cases feature water-repellent fabric, so water runs off the surface without soaking through. Want to play outdoors in any weather? If so, choose waterproof materials and watertight zippers. Be sure to check your case’s water resistance before traveling in the rain, as this is commonly overlooked.

Your handpan can withstand getting wet briefly, but it should not remain wet. Wipe it down promptly with a soft cloth, including the inside, then let it air-dry in a dry room before packing it away again. By the ocean, the case padding will also absorb moisture. Both the case and the instrument must be dry during transportation. At the beach, close the case as soon as you remove the instrument.

To care for your handpan case, simply keep it clean and dry. Both the case and the instrument must be completely dry before your next trip, as sweat and moisture wear down the foam over time. A case with a stain-resistant finish can be cleaned with a damp sponge, such as after an outdoor concert. Take care of the case’s zippers as well by never forcing a stuck zipper.

The price of a handpan case depends on its rigidity: the more protection it provides, the more it costs. A soft case is therefore significantly less expensive than a hard-shell case. The same applies to our selection, where the soft nylon version costs significantly less than the ABS plastic hard-shell case.

Optional features also affect the price, and some cases can be ordered with a custom design for an additional charge. If you travel frequently, especially by plane, invest in more robust protection. And if your budget also has to cover the instrument, see our selection of affordable handpans.

The first mistake to avoid is placing anything on top of your handpan case. In a car trunk, watch out for objects that could fall on it during the trip. On public transportation, it’s best to keep the case between your legs or on your lap rather than in an overhead luggage rack, where it could fall.

The second mistake involves heat. In summer, never leave your handpan in the car: the interior can exceed 158°F (70°C) on a hot day, which may cause your handpan’s tuning to shift. An unsecured handpan on the passenger seat can also be damaged during braking. Avoid direct sunlight as well, since heat expands the metal and raises the notes, while cold lowers them. Once the instrument returns to room temperature, it will generally return to its original tuning. Simply let it acclimate before playing.

Finally, avoid placing the handpan on its top, as this could put it out of tune.