Travelling Around with the Double Bass
- mydoublebass
- Dec 23, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 27
Transporting a double bass is one of the practical challenges that comes with learning or playing the instrument.
Unlike smaller string instruments, the double bass is not something that can be carried around casually for long distances. Even with a proper soft case, moving the instrument from one location to another can be tiring, especially when the day involves rehearsals, performances, school venues, car parks, lifts, corridors, or uneven surfaces.
One accessory that can make this much easier is the Bass Buggie by KC Strings.
I briefly mentioned the Bass Buggie in a previous post, but it is useful enough to be discussed on its own.
The main benefit of the Bass Buggie is that it reduces the amount of physical effort needed when moving the double bass around. Instead of carrying the full weight of the instrument for extended distances, the bass can be wheeled along more comfortably. This can be especially helpful when there is a long day of playing ahead, or when the instrument needs to be moved across a large venue.
The video above, by K.C. Strings Violin Shop, shows how the Bass Buggie is attached to the double bass and how it can be manoeuvred.
As shown in the video, the Bass Buggie is relatively simple to strap on and remove. For players who need to move their bass regularly, this kind of accessory can make transport much less physically demanding.
Another option that has been seen in Singapore is the Eastman Presto Soft Case with Wheels, model CB60.
Pictures taken from Linda West:
From the pictures, the Eastman CB60 appears to be a soft case with built-in wheels. I have not personally had the chance to use this case, so the comments here are based only on observation.
One possible concern is that the wheels appear quite small. Smaller wheels may not handle thick carpet, rough flooring, kerbs, or uneven ground as well as a separate transport accessory such as the Bass Buggie.
There may also be a higher chance of wear and tear near the bottom of the gig bag if the case is frequently dragged over rough surfaces. This is something worth considering, especially for students or players who need to move the bass through schools, concert venues, car parks, and outdoor walkways.
That said, the case itself appears to have decent padding and may still be useful depending on the player’s transport needs.
At the time of writing, I could not find many detailed user reviews of the Eastman CB60 apart from sales listings. If you have used this case before, it would be helpful to hear how it holds up in actual use, especially in Singapore’s school and venue settings.
Here is another review of the Bass Buggie by Animato Strings:
For more information, the Bass Buggie can be found through KC Strings.
In Singapore, it has been available through Synwin.
For students and parents, the main takeaway is this: double bass transport should be planned properly. A suitable case, trolley, or wheel system can make a big difference, not only for convenience, but also for protecting the instrument and reducing unnecessary physical strain.
Do check the options carefully and choose what best fits the student’s height, strength, travel route, and how often the bass needs to be moved.
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