Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (50)
$299.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (48)
$299.00
Amazon
4.6 (692)
$349.00
Reverb
4.0 (52)
$374.52 New
$257.53 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (110)
$299.00
zZounds
5.0 (35)
$299.00
Thomann
4.4 (5)
$369.00
Gear4Music
£325.00

Average Price: $318

Standard/Professional

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Introducing the Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar - the quintessential travel companion for musicians. This lightweight and compact guitar doesn't compromise on quality, delivering the rich, resonant tone that Martin guitars are globally renowned for. Weighing less than 2.5 lb, it's robustly built with solid sapele mahogany, perfect for those impromptu jam sessions wherever life takes you.

Its unique shape is not only eye-catching but also functional, designed to take up minimal space and fit comfortably in a backpack. Yet, don't be fooled by its size - the 15-fret full-size fretboard ensures seamless playability, making transitions between this and any other guitar effortless.

Constructed with solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, it provides articulate highs and mids, while adding warmth and depth for a balanced sound. Sporting rust-resistant chrome tuners, the Backpacker stays in tune and intonated even with changes in humidity and temperature.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight and compact for easy portability
  • Solid sapele mahogany construction for durability and rich tone
  • Full-size fretboard with 15 frets for comfortable playability
  • Solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides for a balanced sound
  • Chrome-enclosed tuners for reliable tuning stability
  • Comes with padded carrying bag for protection during travel

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Backpacker, 15-fret
Back & Sides Wood Sapele
Top Wood Sapele
Top Finish Matte
Body Bracing Backpacker
Neck Wood Select Hardwood
Neck Shape Backpacker
Fingerboard Inlay Dots (5th and 12th fret only)
Number of Frets 15
Scale Length 24"
Nut Width 1.6875''
Nut/Saddle Material Corian/Micarta
Bridge Material Select Hardwood
Tuning Machines Chrome with Small Knobs
Strings Authentic Acoustic 80/20 Bronze, .010-.047
Case/Gig Bag Gig Bag

FAQs

Is the Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar suitable for travel?

Yes, the Martin Backpacker is designed specifically for travel, featuring a compact and lightweight body that makes it easy to carry and fit into tight spaces.

What materials are used in the construction of the Martin Backpacker guitar?

The Martin Backpacker is constructed with solid tonewoods, including a sapele top, back, and sides, which contribute to its durability and resonant sound.

How many frets does the Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar have?

The Martin Backpacker features 15 frets, allowing for a range of playability while maintaining its compact size.

Does the Martin Backpacker guitar include a gig bag?

Yes, the Martin Backpacker comes with a gig bag, providing protection and convenience for travel and storage.

What type of strings are used on the Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar?

The guitar is equipped with Authentic Acoustic 80/20 Bronze strings, gauged .010-.047, which offer a bright and balanced tone.

Sawlon

Sawlon

Sawlon "Martin Backpacker Demo"

Video thumbnail for Sawlon "Martin Backpacker Demo" by Sawlon

Sawlon "Martin Backpacker Demo"

Sawlon

Sawlon

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker Steelstring - Played by Andreas Schulz by LeftoverVISUALS

Martin Backpacker Steelstring - Played by Andreas Schulz

LeftoverVISUALS

LeftoverVISUALS

Video thumbnail for Martin The Backpacker Guitar review - Pros and Cons by G.A.S.

Martin The Backpacker Guitar review - Pros and Cons

G.A.S.

G.A.S.

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker Acoustic Guitar Demo by Ian Meadows

Martin Backpacker Acoustic Guitar Demo

Ian Meadows

Ian Meadows

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker Steel String Acoustic Travel Guitar by 2kool4skool.com

Martin Backpacker Steel String Acoustic Travel Guitar

2kool4skool.com

2kool4skool.com

Video thumbnail for Is The Martin Backpacker Worth Buying?! by Alamo Music Center

Is The Martin Backpacker Worth Buying?!

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Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker – Can It Actual Sound Good!? by Acoustic Letter

Martin Backpacker – Can It Actual Sound Good!?

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Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for MARTIN BACKPACKER - Travel Guitar Demo/Review - What can you do with it? How does it sound? by Robert Cassard

MARTIN BACKPACKER - Travel Guitar Demo/Review - What can you do with it? How does it sound?

Robert Cassard

Robert Cassard

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker Travel Acoustic Guitar Unboxing by Peter von Panda

Martin Backpacker Travel Acoustic Guitar Unboxing

Peter von Panda

Peter von Panda

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker Acoustic Guitar by ArionTV_2

Martin Backpacker Acoustic Guitar

ArionTV_2

ArionTV_2

Video thumbnail for Pat the Dog [DADGAD, Martin Backpacker] by GlueGuitar

Pat the Dog [DADGAD, Martin Backpacker]

GlueGuitar

GlueGuitar

Video thumbnail for Canyons, Campfires, and Chords: A Martin Backpacker Adventure by Martin Guitar

Canyons, Campfires, and Chords: A Martin Backpacker Adventure

Martin Guitar

Martin Guitar

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker Travel Guitar #martinguitar by Johnny Guitarist

Martin Backpacker Travel Guitar #martinguitar

Johnny Guitarist

Johnny Guitarist

Video thumbnail for Martin Backpacker Steel String | TV Guitar Center by TVGuitarCenter

Martin Backpacker Steel String | TV Guitar Center

TVGuitarCenter

TVGuitarCenter

Video thumbnail for 2025 Martin Backpacker: quick ’n’ dirty sound test by Glenn Sadin

2025 Martin Backpacker: quick ’n’ dirty sound test

Glenn Sadin

Glenn Sadin

Video thumbnail for Shape of My Heart | Sting/ Dominic Miller Solo Guitar Cover | Martin Backpacker by Jopetto

Shape of My Heart | Sting/ Dominic Miller Solo Guitar Cover | Martin Backpacker

Jopetto

Jopetto

Reviews

PROS

  • Durable and withstands rough handling during travel

  • Compact size, ideal for backpacking and travel

  • Unique cigar-box-like sound, especially with bass strings

  • Easy to transport, fits in tight spaces like airplane closets

  • Comfortable neck profile for both large and small hands

  • Excellent build quality, typical of Martin craftsmanship

  • Good playability with extra light strings

  • Can be used for fingerstyle picking for better tone

  • Comes with a padded gig bag and strap

  • Holds tune well even in changing weather conditions

CONS

  • High action can be uncomfortable for some players

  • Top-heavy design requires a strap for comfortable play

  • Limited volume and projection compared to full-sized guitars

  • Thin sound, especially when strummed with a pick

  • Some tuners may require extra effort to turn

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Martin Backpacker (Steel-String).

Build quality

  • The neck is reportedly uncomfortable, suggesting it may be better tuned open and played with a slide as a lap-guitar.

    Source
  • The guitar features a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, enhancing durability and contributing to its bright tone.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Backpacker is considered more suitable for niche practice or travel rather than as a primary instrument.

    Source
  • It's versatile for travel, easily fitting in overhead airplane bins and allowing for convenient play during long trips, like in a truck.

    Source
  • It's noted that the Backpacker shines in a live folk or bluegrass performance context but lacks versatility for broader genres.

    Source
  • The 15-fret design and 24-inch scale length are ideal for travel but may feel restrictive for advanced players used to full-sized guitars.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have noted difficulty in holding the guitar steady without using a strap.

    Source
  • Owners often keep the guitar tuned to alternate tunings like CFCFCC for a unique baritone-like sound, which complements the guitar's natural tonal qualities.

    Source
  • The guitar's neck-heavy design necessitates using the included strap for stability, especially during seated play.

    Source

Other

  • The guitar produces a trebly sound, similar to a cross between a ukulele and a banjo, with little bottom end.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Yamaha FG-700/800 series is frequently recommended as a superior beginner option due to better playability and price.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The guitar is highly resistant to humidity-related issues, even in high-humidity environments like Florida, with no warping or rust reported over the years.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Backpacker tunes well and maintains tuning stability, performing better in this regard than some full-size electric guitars.

    Source
  • A fixed bridge system and bronze strings are used, ensuring consistent sound and durability.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 18 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
tuftt

Great Practice Guitar

This is great acoustic guitar to practice on that has a very unique sound to it.

A

Great guitar

Super good traveler guitar, loud and projective! Could use a bit more sustain. Overall great guitar!

fiachra_gohery

actual guitar

x2'a these bad boys ones a esp super special blue guitar ones a grey spray painted second hand tangle wood with a phoenix decal and some white lines

jaypuppington

Great guitar

Sounds amazing, plays amazing, feels amazing. Light, portable and great for when you want to bring a guitar on the go. Definitely recommend.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ed Sheeran uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Ed Sheeran

Singer, Guitarist

Band Aid 30

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo shared by Ed Sheeran September 2013, he shows a collection of Martin guitars which he has toured with over seven years. The left-most guitar is a Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar. He captions the photo, "7 years of touring"

See how Taylor York uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Taylor York

Guitarist

Paramore

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, one can see Taylor playing a Martin Steel-String Backpacker guitar.

See how Guy Berryman uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Guy Berryman

Bassist, Music Producer

Coldplay

...
Verified via Photo

Guy Berryman's Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar can be seen in Coldplay's End of Decade Sale catalogue. The details of the item are the following:

"This Martin travel guitar has been widely used by Guy, on the road and in hotel rooms. This item comes with a certificate of authenticity, signed by the entire band."

See how Robin Finck uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Robin Finck

Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Guitar

According to Guitar Geek's rig diagram, Finck uses the Martin Backpacker, which is tuned to DADGBE.

See how Robert DeLeo uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Robert DeLeo

Guitarist, Bassist

Stone Temple Pilots

...
Verified via Instagram

In this Instagram post, Robert DeLeo can be seen very clearly playing a Martin Backpacker, easily distinguished by its unique body shape. He also mentions it in the caption.

See how Justin Hawkins uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Justin Hawkins

Guitarist, Singer

The Darkness

...
Verified via YouTube

In his YouTube channel Justin rages against the state of music, the lack of guitar solos and how some hipster in a £600 gucci jumper isn't rock because there's no guitar solos, while demonstrating why on his Martin Backpacker.

See how Álvaro Henriquez uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Álvaro Henriquez

Singer, Guitarist

Los Tres

...
Verified via Instagram

In a video on Instagram posted by Álvaro Henriquez, he is seen playing a Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar while performing with his nephew. The video is captioned: "Cantando Beatles con mi sobrino querido @nicanoorr. Una alegría tocar y cantar juntos. Les quiero mandar un gran saludo, que tengan un excelente Sábado y agradecerles los comentarios."

See how Buck Dharma uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Buck Dharma

Singer, Guitarist

Blue Öyster Cult

...
Verified via Blueoystercult

In this live gear list, one of the things that was mentioned in his rig is the Martin Backpacker.

See how Chuck Ragan uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Chuck Ragan

Singer

Hot Water Music

...
Verified via Photo

Chuck Ragan mentions on his Instagram that the Martin Steel-String Backpacker Acoustic Guitar is his preferred travel companion, highlighting its suitability for playing on the road.

See how Jon Anderson uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Jon Anderson

Guitarist, Singer

Yes

...
Verified via Guitarplayer

GuitarPlayer.com states: "Armed with a MIDI-equipped Martin Backpacker guitar, two Roland GR-30 guitar synthesizers, Yamaha EX5 and ES Motif synthesizers, and a Kurzweil K2600 keyboard, Anderson is criss-crossing the globe, performing Yes and solo works in Ray Davies’ Storyteller format, and enjoying the freedom and flexibility of his one-man performance so much that he plans on making it a core component of his career in the future."

See how Richard Coleman uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Richard Coleman

Guitarist, Composer

Fricción

...
Verified via Facebook

Hashtagged and visible in this April 13, 2020 Facebook post.

#guitarist #gibsonl6s #martinbackpacker #misintimosamigos Oscar Fernandez Roho Esunico Audio Fotografía Germán Saez

See how Zayn uses Martin Backpacker (Steel-String)

Zayn

Singer

One Direction

...
Verified via Rolling Stone

Zayn states in an excerpt from his self titled book: "Back in the city, we were hanging out one day, shopping for musical instruments, and I told Malay that I wanted to play a lot more guitar. That’s when he told me about the Martin Backpacker. "It's a little travel-sized thing," he said. "You can take it anywhere, it's the size of a backpack. It's like a mini-guitar." When we found a shop that had one, I bought it, and I loved it from the minute I started playing it."

Album Usage

The Martin Backpacker (Steel-String) has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Martin Backpacker (Steel-String), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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lyric_kayden

lyric_kayden

Gear IQ 1118

1 alternative for Martin Backpacker (Steel-String), curated by the Equipboard community.

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