Must Have Guitar Accessories Every Player Needs In Their Kit

As a passionate guitarist, I’ve learned that the right accessories can transform your playing experience from ordinary to extraordinary. My journey began with a beat-up old acoustic guitar and a handful of basic tools, but I quickly discovered how useful guitar accessories can elevate your sound and performance.

Whether you play any type of guitar, investing in good equipment makes all the difference. The best gadgets for guitar players aren’t just add-ons; they’re game-changers that unlock new techniques, improve comfort and enhance your musical expression.

From my first clumsy attempts at changing strings to discovering precision picks that improved my playing, I realized there are certain things every guitarist needs to truly shine on stage or in the practice room.

Most Essential Guitar Gear

These are items every guitarist, regardless of skill level or type of guitar, should have in their toolkit:

1. Guitar Tuners

When it comes to essential guitar stuff, a reliable tuner is a must-have. I personally prefer a clip on tuner like the affordable Snark ST-8 Chromatic Tuner for its ease of use. Just attach it to your guitar’s headstock and observe the note displayed on its screen accurately within a few seconds.

Electric guitar players who are more into pedal boards, playing live or recording should invest in a stompbox (pedal) tuner. Just step on the pedal to mute the signal to the amp or mixer for silent tuning on stage or in the studio.

Both options ensure your guitar always sounds perfect, making your practice and performances seamless.

2. Guitar Strings

Strings are one of those must have guitar things every player should have on hand. I learned the importance of keeping a spare set of strings the hard way when I broke a string during a jam session.

Whether you use electric guitar strings or play acoustic, fresh strings can dramatically improve tone and playability. Brands like D’Addario and Ernie Ball strings offer plenty of options to suit different styles.

Regularly changing your guitar strings keeps your sound crisp and avoids unnecessary wear on the frets. Experimenting with various string materials like nickel, bronze, or phosphor bronze helps discover your ideal tone.

Whether you prefer bright, warm or balanced tones, there’s a set out there for you.

3. Guitar Strap

A good guitar strap can make or break your playing experience, especially during long sessions. Whether practicing standing up or just wanting to keep your guitar secure while sitting, a guitar strap is essential.

A padded or ergonomic strap saves your shoulder during long gigs or practice sessions. Investing in a durable leather strap is necessary if you play heavy guitars like Les Pauls. It keeps your guitar secure and distributes weight evenly.

Considering both comfort and style, upgrading to a padded leather strap was a game-changer for me. I’ve found that high-quality straps like the Levy’s Leathers 3″ Wide Amped Leather Strap feel great and keep those guitar-related aches at bay.

Check out the article about putting a strap on your acoustic guitar.

4. Additional Guitar Picks

The humble guitar pick plays a surprisingly significant role in shaping your tone and playing style. Unless you’re going fingerstyle only, picks are a must-have for strumming and plucking.

Picks come in various materials, thicknesses and shapes, each offering a unique feel and sound. If you’re a beginner, grab a variety pack so you can test out different styles until you find a pick that feels comfortable and suits your playing.

Thinner and Lighter picks are suitable for smoother, more delicate strumming; preferred for acoustic guitar playing. On the other hand, electric guitarists might opt for thicker and heavier picks which are great for aggressive lead playing and shred solos.

5. Guitar Stand

A sturdy guitar stand provides a safe and convenient place to store your guitar when you’re not playing. It makes your guitar easily accessible and encourages you to pick it up more often.

You won’t realize the importance of a guitar stand until your guitar takes a fall that could have been avoided. I learned this the hard way when my favorite acoustic toppled over during a quick break.

Whether it’s a foldable stand for gigs or a wall-mounted one for home, it’s a must-have for every guitarist. Protect your investment and avoid heart-stopping accidents by keeping your guitar securely stored!

6. String Winder and Cutter

Changing strings is a breeze with the D’Addario Accessories Pro-Winder, my go-to tool for the job. It combines a string winder, cutter and bridge pin puller, making it one of the cool accessories for guitar players.

I used to dread restringing, but this all-in-one tool saves time and effort. Now, I always keep one in my gig bag and recommend it to anyone looking to make string changes easier and more efficient.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned guitarist, this accessory is a must-have for hassle-free maintenance.

7. Guitar Cables

Reliable guitar cables are crucial electric guitar accessories that ensure a clean and noise-free signal. I’ve used brands like Mogami and Ernie Ball, both known for durability and excellent sound quality. The twisted core design dramatically reduces interference for clean audio transmission.

Whether you play electric and bass, investing in high-quality cables protects your tone and prevents signal loss. Poor cables can ruin your setup, no matter how good your other guitar equipment is.

Consider experimenting with both straight and coiled cables, available in various lengths such as 6, 10, and 20 feet. Ensure that your guitar cable is long enough for the rehearsal room or the stage you’re performing on.

Accessories for Enhanced Technique and Sound

Now that you have the foundational accessories, let’s explore the tools that can help you expand your techniques, explore new sounds, and take your playing to the next level.

8. Guitar Amplifier

Amps are true guitar essentials, shaping your sound and volume to fit your playing style and needs. Unlike acoustic players who can rely on their guitar’s natural projection, electric players need an amp to bring their sound to life.

Consider the amp technology first. All-tube amps provide the richest vintage character, with each tube adding its own coloration. Transistor-driven solid-state amps boast reliability and affordability. Amp builders now offer hybrid designs, blending tube preamp warmth with solid-state power sections.

Next, consider power output. Bedroom practice requires only 10-30 watts, while loud band rehearsals and gigs demand at least 40w. High-gain metal needs 100w+ to output sufficient volume.

My personal fave: Boss Katana 50 MkII

Visit music stores and test various amps with your guitar to determine what sounds best to your ears.

9. Capos

A capo is a simple but versatile tool that allows you to quickly change the key of a song without changing your fingerings. Simply clamp it onto the fretboard, and it effectively acts as a movable nut, raising the pitch of the strings. This allows playing in different keys using familiar chord shapes.

It’s a lifesaver for singer-songwriters and anyone who wants to play along with songs in different keys by adjusting the song’s key to match their range.

My Fave Capo: G7th Performance 3 Capo

10. Stompboxes (Effect Pedals)

Stompboxes, commonly known as pedals, are some of the most exciting and fun guitar accessories for electric guitarists. From overdrive and distortion to delay and reverb, pedals allow you to shape and transform your guitar’s sound in endless ways.

For beginners, a classic distortion pedal like the Boss DS-1 paired with a simple reverb pedal can provide a great starting point for exploring different sonic landscapes.

A delay pedal is essential for those who want to create lush soundscapes. The MXR Carbon Copy Delay Pedal has been my go-to choice, producing ambient echoes that make riffs sound enormous.

And, if you love to experiment and layer multiple guitar parts live, a looper pedal is a game-changer. The Boss RC-1 Loop Station has been my trusted sidekick, allowing me to be my own backing band.

Whether you’re a beginner or experimenting with new styles, guitar pedals open up endless sonic possibilities and are must-haves for dynamic playing.

11. Pedal Board

If you’re serious about using effects pedals, a pedalboard keeps your pedals organized, powered, and easily transportable. When I started using multiple pedals, I realized how messy things got without one.

A good pedal board, like the Pedaltrain Classic 2, keeps everything secure and easy to access. Smaller boards, like the Pedaltrain Nano+, work perfectly for home setups.

I’d suggest placing pedals in order of your signal chain for easy activation: tuner first, then drives/fuzz, followed by time-based effects like delay and reverb. Keep a few extra power and patch cables on hand for quick pedal re-routing.

Take time to deliberately craft your pedal signal path for the best tones. You can also check the guide that I wrote about the Pedal Board Setup.

12. Guitar Patch Cables

Guitar patch cables are essential for connecting effects pedals in a clean, efficient way. They create flexible pedalboard routing compared to soldering or using daisy chains. So, take time to rewire your board with patches to craft the perfect effects sequence.

I’ve found that using quality cables like the Ernie Ball P06059 Patch Cables reduces signal loss and noise, ensuring a better tone. For compact setups, their right-angle plugs are a lifesaver. Stock up on 6-inch, 12-inch and 18-inch patch cables for versatile signal paths.

Whether you’re a beginner building a small pedalboard or an advanced player with a complex rig, reliable patch cables keep your sound consistent and your board organized. They’re a small investment that makes a big difference in your performance.

13. Guitar Slide

I love using slides to create expressive, singing tones in my guitar playing. Glass slides produce bright, crisp sounds perfect for blues and rock solos. Metal slides offer warmer tones and increased sustain, making them ideal for country and slide guitar classics.

I prefer brass slides for their balanced weight and smooth response. Ceramic slides deliver unique, vintage-style tones that work well in folk and Americana.

For beginners, I suggest starting with a lightweight glass slide on your pinky finger. The size matters too – a slide should fit comfortably without being too loose or tight on your playing finger.

14. Headphone Amps

Headphone amps are essential for playing electric guitar in apartments or shared spaces without disturbing others. These compact devices connect to your guitar and headphones, allowing high-volume practice in silence.

I’ve used the Vox AP2AC amPlug and Fender Mustang Micro for years and find both perfect for sampling guitars or testing them before buying.

If you want a wide range of tones and effects, the Fender Mustang Micro might be the better option. If you’re looking for a more affordable and straightforward solution, the Vox AP2AC Amplug could be a good fit.

15. Wireless Guitar System (Transmitter)

A wireless guitar transmitter system lets you play without being tethered by cables, giving you the freedom to move around on stage or in your practice area.

I use the LEKATO 5.8 Wireless Guitar Transmitter, and it’s been consistently reliable. It delivers clear sound with no dropouts or interference, even during extended sessions.

This system is a great option for players looking for dependable performance and hassle-free setup. Check out my full review of the LEKATO WS-50 here.

Essential for Practice and Timing

My biggest breakthroughs in guitar playing came after I equipped my practice space with timing and training tools that kept me focused and helped me track my progress.

16. Metronome

A metronome is an invaluable tool for developing solid timing and rhythm. It provides a steady beat that helps you stay in time while practicing, ensuring your playing is tight and precise. Beginners especially benefit from using a metronome to develop solid rhythm skills for practice and jamming.

Begin slowly at a comfortably attainable BPM. Gradually increase speed as your accuracy improves. Tap your foot and feel the pulse. Develop your rhythmic vocabulary across shifting divisions: whole notes, half notes, triplets, etc.

Besides electronic and mechanical metronomes, you can also explore metronome apps, wearable devices or pedal-style metronomes for convenience.

17. Headphone

Headphones are essential for electric guitarists who want to practice quietly without sacrificing sound quality. I use the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, which delivers clear, balanced tones perfect for hearing every note in detail.

Pairing headphones with a headphone amp like the Fender Mustang Micro enhances the experience, providing amp-like sound without disturbing others. This setup works well for practicing intricate techniques or exploring different tones.

Whether late-night sessions or focused practice, quality headphones ensure every detail of your playing comes through clearly.

18. Music Stand

A sturdy music stand keeps your sheet music organized and readable while playing. Use music stands during practice sessions to build sight reading skills too. Following written music and chord charts boosts proficiency across styles.

Look for stands around 48-66 inches tall for a good height relative to your seated position. Invest in a music stand with a wide, solid base to prevent tipping accidents. Also, check if music stands can collapse down neatly for portability.

Models like the ChromaCast CC-MSTAND have 3-tier height adjustments and extendable arms for positioning.

Essential for Guitar Care

Proper guitar care is crucial to maintaining the longevity and performance of your instrument, and using the right accessories makes this task much easier. Let’s explore some must-have items for keeping your guitar in top shape.

19. Gig Bag and Cases

Gig bags are easy to transport and offer affordable protection for your guitar. Their padded design shields against dust and minor bumps, while outer storage pockets keep small items handy.

For greater protection, especially during air travel, a hard guitar case is ideal. These hard cases feature tough outer shells with plush padding inside for secure transit.

Brands like Gator Cases, Mono, and Fender provide reliable options for any accessories list. Always measure your guitar before buying to ensure the case fits properly, as a quality case is essential for every guitarist.

20. Guitar Cleaning Kit

From beginner to pro, every guitarist has to take care of their instruments. The only way they can maintain their perfect condition is by using a guitar polish and cleaner.

The market is full of incredible guitar cleaning kits that will assist you in cleaning and protecting the guitar and its accessories.

I personally use Jim Dunlop System 65 which comes with everything I need in order to keep my guitar in the perfect shape. It contains five cleaners for the guitar’s body, neck, and strings.

21. Maintenance Tool Kit

A well-stocked tool kit can save every guitarist time, money and frustration. Assembling must-have tools in one place prepares you to handle minor guitar care and adjustments yourself.

Here are some essential tools to include:

• String cutter – cleanly remove string ends after restringing,
• String winder – quickly tune and wind new strings onto posts,
• Polishing cloth – keep guitars shining like new,
• Hex wrenches – tighten bridges, adjusting the truss rod and other parts,
• Screwdrivers – tighten pickups, pots, jacks, tuners, etc.

Now, here’s the deal: you can hunt these tools down individually, but I’ve got a game-changer for you. The Ernie Ball Musicians Tool Kit. It’s like a treasure chest for guitar players, with all the essentials neatly packed in one place.

22. Guitar Humidifier

Maintaining the humidity levels is vital for acoustic guitars to prevent cracking or warping caused by changes in moisture.

As part of my essential acoustic guitar accessories, I use the D’Addario Humidipack. It keeps the humidity at an ideal 45-55%. Simply place it in your guitar case or soundhole for consistent protection.

Pair it with a hygrometer for accurate monitoring. If you own multiple guitars, a room humidifier can protect your collection. A good humidifier ensures your guitar stays in excellent condition.

Essential for Safety and Comfort

Ensuring the safety and comfort of your guitar playing experience involves a variety of accessories that protect your instrument and enhance your playing. Let’s dive into the key items you should consider.

23. Strap Locks

Strap locks are essential for secure guitar playing, especially during live performances. With strap locks, you can perform confidently, knowing that your guitar will stay securely attached, ensuring the safety of everyone around you.

Brands like Schaller and D’Addario make reliable locking strap buttons that replace your standard guitar strap buttons securely. They’re easy to install – just screw them on.

For heavy guitars or energetic styles, these locks provide peace of mind. They fit most guitars and straps, making them a versatile choice for players of all levels.

24. Foot Stool or Footrest

A footstool or footrest is a great accessory for improving posture while playing, especially for classical guitarists or studio electric players.

Playing guitar while sitting for long sessions can be challenging. A footrest helps maintain a balanced posture and reduces strain on the back and legs during extended playing.

They offer different height settings. With their non-slip rubber surface, they provide stability and suit various playing styles. Additionally, they’re foldable, making it easy to carry them from place to place.

25. Earplugs

After years of playing loud gigs and practicing in small spaces, I learned the critical importance of protecting my hearing. The Alpine MusicSafe Pro High-Fidelity Earplugs are my top recommendation for guitarists.

These earplugs reduce sound volume evenly across frequencies, preserving sound quality while protecting your ears. They’re comfortable, discreet and come with multiple ear tip sizes for a perfect fit.

Whether you’re performing on stage, practicing in a loud room, or attending concerts, these earplugs help prevent long-term hearing damage without sacrificing audio clarity.

Final Thoughts

Start with essential items like strings and capos that directly improve your playing. Expand your accessory collection deliberately and strategically, ensuring each item contributes meaningfully to your performance.

When you select additional accessories, select them based on specific musical needs, not impulse purchases. Quality matters more than quantity in your guitar toolkit. Remember that accessories are personal investments that reflect your playing style and musical goals.