Prepare painted miniatures for air travel with a measured, airline-specific checklist. Compare current baggage limits, loaded weight and external dimensions before leaving - and plan for security inspection without making unsupported cabin-baggage promises.
A good transport system should protect paintwork, make setup faster and adapt when the army changes. A-Case uses adjustable steel trays and a rigid aluminium frame, so magnetised bases can travel upright without being pressed into pre-cut foam.
Prepare painted miniatures for air travel with a measured, airline-specific checklist. Compare current baggage limits, loaded weight and external dimensions before leaving - and plan for security inspection without making unsupported cabin-baggage promises.
A predictable loading routine and a final weight check matter as much as the empty case dimensions.
Thin weapons, cables and aerials benefit from contact-free space around the upper model.
Large resin, metal or multipart pieces need adequate magnetic hold and conservative handling.
Dice, cards, tokens and measuring tools need a separate plan so they cannot strike painted models.
Use the airline’s current rules as the source of truth. Measure the packed case at its widest points, weigh the complete load and keep a plan for presenting the contents at security without loose components moving through the model area.
Check the exact fare and route, not a generic airline summary
Measure wheels, handles and exterior pockets where applicable
Weigh the case with models and accessories inside
Allow extra time for a possible security inspection
Never assume cabin acceptance from product dimensions alone
Foam protects by touching the miniature. A magnetic system holds the base instead. That distinction matters for raised weapons, banners, wings, aerials and other details that are easy to catch when a model is pushed into a slot. Tray height can also be changed between games instead of committing the collection to one fixed layout.
Separate infantry, cavalry, vehicles and tall models before choosing tray spacing.
Leave useful clearance above the tallest part of each group without wasting the whole case.
The magnet should hold the model during a gentle tilt test; add or reposition it if the base slides.
Close, lift and carry the packed case at home before taking it to an event or airport.
Start with the tallest model and the footprint of the full army - not only the model count. The recommendations below are a starting point; exact capacity depends on base size, pose and tray spacing.
Compact format for skirmish forces, selected teams and smaller collections.
Balanced everyday format for events, local games and carefully planned travel.
Hands-free backpack format for mobile players and larger mixed forces.
The largest format for substantial armies, tall models, vehicles and display pieces.
A modular two-case setup for separating forces, accessories or travel loads.
Check the specific airline, route and fare for current size and weight limits. Then compare them with the case at its widest external points and at its actual loaded weight.
Pack so the case can be opened without loose items falling across the miniatures. Allow extra time, follow staff instructions and be ready to explain that the contents are painted gaming models.
Baggage limits differ by airline, fare and route and can change. Compare the current external dimensions and loaded weight of your case with your carrier’s rules before every flight; final acceptance remains the airline’s decision.
It can be very effective when each base has a correctly fitted magnet and the case is packed with suitable clearance. Test every model before travel. No transport method prevents every possible impact, so carry and secure the case with care.
Measure the army, choose the case format and build a tray layout that can change with your collection.
A-Case is an independent manufacturer and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the publishers or rights holders of the games mentioned on this page. Game and product names belong to their respective owners.