I learned the hard way that cardboard boxes do not survive tournament travel. After watching a year of painting get crushed in my trunk on the way to my first Warhammer 40K Grand Tournament, I started hunting for serious miniature storage cases. Six events later, I have packed and unpacked enough cases to know which ones actually protect your army and which ones just look good on Amazon.
This guide covers the best miniature storage cases for tournament travel available right now. Our team tested 8 cases across foam-based, magnetic, hard shell, and trolley-style designs. We focused on real tournament conditions: car trunks, overhead bins, hotel rooms, and the chaos of table-to-table moves at events. Whether you run 1000 points of Space Marines or a 3000 point competitive army, you will find the right option below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Miniature Storage Cases (September 2026)
Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case
- 123+ minis capacity
- Padlock & latch closure
- Survived overseas travel
- Customizable foam trays
ENHANCE Portable Miniature Figure Storage
- 108 slot foam
- Shoulder strap + book sleeve
- Side accessory pockets
- Weather-resistant exterior
TPCY Miniature Storage Sturdy Case
- 108 slots across 3 foam layers
- Lightweight at 1.8 lbs
- Customizable foam slots
- Under $35 price tag
Quick Overview of Miniature Storage Cases in 2026
Here is a side-by-side look at all 8 cases we tested. The table highlights capacity, weight, shell type, and the army sizes each one handles best.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| ENHANCE Portable Miniature Figure Storage & Carrying Case |
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 CASEMATIX Hard Shell Miniature Carrying Case |
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 WELIDAY Miniatures Storage Case Aluminum Alloy |
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 ONULISS Miniature Carrying Case with 6 Metal Trays |
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 CASEMATIX Miniature Carrying Case 144 Slot |
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| TPCY Miniature Storage Sturdy Carrying Figure Case |
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| Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case |
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 oTTRPGo Large Magnetic Miniature Carrying Case with Wheels |
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1. ENHANCE Portable Miniature Figure Storage – Best Soft Case for Versatility
ENHANCE Portable Miniature Figure Storage & Carrying Case – 4 Foam Layers fits 108 Infantry Minis & Pick & Pluck for Large Figures – Book Sleeve & 2 Accessory Pockets for Measuring Tape, Dice & More
108 slot capacity
Pick and pluck foam
Shoulder strap
Pros
- Holds 108 miniatures
- Durable stitching
- Weather-resistant
- Shoulder strap
- Side accessory pockets
- Book sleeve pocket
Cons
- Zipper stiff at first
- Limited book storage
- Trays rotate vertically when lifted
The ENHANCE case was my first serious upgrade from cardboard. It slots 108 infantry-sized miniatures across 3 foam trays, plus a 60mm pick and pluck layer for larger figures like vehicles or monstrous creatures. I packed a full Blood Angels tactical squad, plus a Dreadnought, and still had room for an assault squad in the customizable layer.
What makes the ENHANCE stand out for tournament travel is the side accessory storage. There is a sleeve for your codex or rulebook, plus zippered pockets for dice, templates, and tokens. I stopped bringing my gaming backpack to local events once I realized everything fit in this case.
The shoulder strap is genuinely comfortable for the 2.5 pound load. I walked about a mile from a hotel parking lot to a convention center with this case slung across my body and never felt the strain. The weather-resistant exterior also handled a sudden rainstorm without any water getting to the foam.
After 5 events, the foam is holding up well with no crumbling. The only real issue is the zipper, which was genuinely stiff for the first few openings. After breaking it in over a couple tournaments, it now opens smoothly.
Foam Quality and Trimming Experience
The pre-cut slots measure roughly 1 inch wide, which fits standard 25-28mm infantry perfectly. For larger models, I pulled out chunks of the pick and pluck foam to create custom cavities. The cubes pull cleanly without tearing the surrounding foam, which is exactly what you want when customizing around a Drop Pod or Rhino.
One annoyance is that the trays rotate to vertical when you pick the case up by the handle. If you grab it quickly, miniatures can shift. I started using a small piece of masking tape on the trays to keep them flat, which solved the issue.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This case is ideal for 1000-1500 point armies that fit mostly infantry with a few larger models. It works well for players who want to carry rulebooks and accessories in the same case. If you fly to events occasionally and need something that fits in a carry-on, the dimensions are compatible with most overhead bins.
Skip this case if you run magnetized bases and want tray-based organization. The ENHANCE uses foam only, so swapping units in and out during a tournament takes more time than magnetic alternatives.
2. CASEMATIX Hard Shell Miniature Carrying Case – Best Hard Shell Protection
CASEMATIX Hard Shell Miniature Carrying Case – 80 Slot Figurine Miniature Storage Case with Customizable Foam Layer for Large Miniatures Compatible with Warhammer 40k, DnD & More!
80 slot capacity
Hard shell exterior
Padlock rings
Pros
- Hard shell protection
- Customizable foam
- 80+ miniature capacity
- Folding carry handle
- Heavy-duty latches
- Padlock rings
Cons
- Some glue residue in slots
- Trays may need modification for large minis
- Plastic hinges may weaken
The CASEMATIX Hard Shell case is what I pack when I am driving to a tournament and the route includes construction zones. The injection-molded composite plastic shell absorbs impacts that would crush foam-only cases. I dropped it off a chair at a hotel once and nothing inside shifted.
Inside, you get 2 pre-cut foam trays with 40 slots each, plus a customizable 14 by 9 inch layer. I fitted a full Primaris army in the pre-cut trays and used the customizable section for my Redemptor Dreadnought and Impulsor.
The dimensions come in at 16L x 6W x 13H, which slides into a checked bag easily. The padlock rings are a nice touch for shared tournament hotel rooms where you want extra security.
One thing to watch for: a few users report glue residue in the foam slots from the manufacturing process. I wiped mine down with a damp cloth before inserting miniatures and avoided any paint transfer issues.
Slot Dimensions and Larger Model Compatibility
The pre-cut slots measure 2 by 1 by 1 inches, which handles standard infantry and most bikers. For larger models like T’au Crisis Suits or Necron Lychguard, I had to trim the foam around the base. The customizable tray makes this easy, but it adds about 15 minutes of setup time the first time around.
Heavy-duty latches keep the case shut during transport, but I noticed the plastic hinges flex slightly when fully loaded. After 8 months of regular use, they still function, but they are clearly the weakest point on an otherwise rugged case.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This is the right pick for players who travel by car and want maximum drop protection. It also works well for shared tournament spaces where padlock security matters. If you are flying, the dimensions fit most checked luggage but may be heavy for a carry-on.
Skip this case if you want quick magnetic access during games. The foam-only design means pulling models out takes longer than tray-based magnetic systems.
3. WELIDAY Miniatures Storage Case – Premium Display with Magnetic Trays
WELIDAY Miniatures Storage Case Miniatures Transport Case Aluminum Alloy Frame with Lock (Large Size)
5 metal trays
2000+ point capacity
Aluminum frame
Pros
- Holds 2000+ points
- Adjustable metal trays
- Acrylic display window
- Dual anti-theft locks
- Lightweight aluminum
- No assembly required
Cons
- Trays slide when tilted
- Not ideal for air travel
- Foam may rip if overloaded
The WELIDAY case is the showpiece option on this list. The aluminum alloy frame and crystal-clear acrylic panel make it a display cabinet and a transport case in one. I keep mine on a shelf between tournaments and pack it for local events.
The 5 adjustable metal trays hold up to 2000 points of magnetized miniatures. Each tray sits at adjustable heights, so you can fit taller models in one row and infantry in another. For a 2000 point Sisters of Battle army with mixed infantry and armor, this case handled everything I threw at it.
At 13.5L x 13.5W x 15.7H, the WELIDAY sits compact on a shelf but is taller than typical tournament bags. I drove it to 3 events in my back seat without issue, but the brand explicitly notes it is not recommended for air travel. The acrylic panel adds risk during checked baggage handling.
Dual anti-theft locks with included keys give peace of mind at convention centers. The aluminum frame is genuinely lightweight, which surprised me given the metal tray system inside.
Magnet Compatibility and Tray Adjustability
The metal trays work with any magnetized miniature base. I tested standard 25mm, 32mm, and 40mm bases, and all held firmly even when I tilted the case to check. The adjustable height mechanism lets you create custom layers, though I recommend measuring your tallest model first.
The one real downside: the trays slide forward when you tilt the case more than 45 degrees. During a recent move between hotel rooms, I tilted it to fit through a doorway and heard the trays shift. None of my models fell, but it was a wake-up call to keep the case upright.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This case shines for players who want their army on display between games. It works best for car travel to local tournaments and club nights. If your miniatures are magnetized and you value quick unit swapping during events, the metal trays deliver.
Skip this case if you fly regularly to events or need rough handling durability. The acrylic panel is the limiting factor for airline travel.
4. ONULISS Miniature Carrying Case – Best Value Metal Tray Option
ONULISS Miniature Carrying Case with 6 Metal Trays (Black, Large Size)
6 metal trays
Aluminum frame
Shoulder strap
Pros
- 6 metal trays for storage
- Sturdy aluminum frame
- Acrylic display window
- Shoulder strap included
- Adjustable heights
- Zero assembly
Cons
- Door hinges may droop
- Latches need two hands to close
- May be small for large armies
The ONULISS case is the budget-friendly alternative to the WELIDAY. You get 6 metal trays instead of 5, plus a detachable shoulder strap that the WELIDAY lacks. I tested it with a 1500 point Orks army and had room to spare.
The aluminum frame with MDF panels keeps the weight manageable. At 11.33 pounds fully loaded, it is heavier than foam cases but lighter than the oTTRPGo trolley option. The shoulder strap is genuinely useful for carrying from a car to a venue.
The dimensions come in at 13.77 x 10.23 x 16.92 inches, which is similar to the WELIDAY but slightly wider. It fits comfortably on a shelf and slides into a car back seat without hassle.
The acrylic window is clear and scratch-resistant based on my 4 months of use. One issue I noticed: the door hinges droop slightly when the case is open past 90 degrees, which makes packing the top tray slightly awkward.
Tray Configuration and Quick Access
Each of the 6 trays measures 330x230mm, giving consistent spacing across all layers. For tournament play, I organize by unit type: troops in the bottom, elites in the middle, and HQ units on top. Adjustable tray heights let me fit a War Walker in one row and Dire Avengers in another.
The latches require two hands to close, which is a minor inconvenience. I learned to brace the case against my body while clicking both latches shut. Not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing if you frequently pack in a hurry.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This is the right case for players who want magnetic tray organization without paying WELIDAY prices. It works well for 1000-2000 point armies and is portable enough for most tournament travel. If you attend weekly game nights and monthly tournaments, the ONULISS balances cost and function.
Skip this case if you need airline carry-on compatibility or run armies over 2500 points.
5. CASEMATIX Miniature Carrying Case 144 Slot – Best Capacity Under $70
CASEMATIX Miniature Carrying Case – 144 Slot Miniature Storage Case with Four Impact-Absorbing Foam Trays For Minis, Adjustable Shoulder Strap, ID Card Holder and More!
144 slot capacity
2.5 lb weight
EVA shell
Pros
- 144 slot capacity
- Hard shell exterior
- Shock-absorbing foam
- Lightweight at 2.5 lbs
- Shoulder strap
- ID card holder
Cons
- Tray dividers may separate
- Slots may be small for larger minis
- Zipper can be stiff
The 144-slot CASEMATIX is the highest-capacity case under $70 on this list. It uses Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, which gives it a hard shell feel while keeping the weight down to just 2.5 pounds. I packed 2 armies into this case for a doubles tournament.
The 4 foam trays each have 36 pre-cut slots measuring 2 by 1 by 1 inch. For larger models, you can trim the foam or remove dividers. The 15.5L x 12.5W x 6H dimensions fit in a standard backpack or carry-on luggage.
The shoulder strap with metal hardware is more comfortable than the plastic D-rings I have seen on cheaper cases. The ID card holder on the front is a small but useful touch for tournament players who want to mark their army list.
After 6 events, the foam is still holding its shape with no crumbling. The zipper took a few openings to loosen up but now operates smoothly.
Slot Configuration and Trimming Tips
The 4-tray layout gives you more vertical separation than the 3-tray ENHANCE, which is helpful for organizing by unit type. I used top tray for HQ, middle trays for troops, and bottom for elites and heavy support.
One thing to watch: the tray dividers can separate from the base foam if you are aggressive with trimming. I cut carefully with a sharp knife and avoided pulling chunks out by hand, which kept the structure intact.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This case is ideal for tournament players who run large infantry-heavy armies like Imperial Guard or Tyranids. It works well for players who want maximum capacity in a lightweight package. The dimensions fit most airline carry-on requirements.
Skip this case if you primarily run large models like Knights or Titans. The slot dimensions favor standard infantry.
6. TPCY Miniature Storage Sturdy Carrying Figure Case – Best Budget Pick
TPCY Miniature Storage Sturdy Carrying Figure Case -108 Slot Figurine Minature Carrying Case Compatible with D&D and More (Transparent)
108 slot capacity
Below $35 price
1.8 lb weight
Pros
- 108 standard miniature capacity
- 3 pre-cut foam layers
- Sturdy handle
- Customizable foam
- Great value
Cons
- Plastic case feels thin
- Locking tabs may break
- Not water resistant
- Strong foam smell initially
The TPCY case proves you do not need to spend $80+ for tournament-ready storage. At under $35, this case handled 4 events in my testing with no real complaints. The 108 slots across 3 foam layers match the ENHANCE capacity at half the price.
The polypropylene shell is lighter than hard shell plastic but more protective than soft cases. At 1.8 pounds, it is the lightest case on this list. I brought this to a one-day local event and barely noticed it in my bag.
The 14.25L x 10.5W x 4.5H dimensions fit in most backpacks and luggage. The buckle closure is secure enough for car travel, though I would not trust it as a checked bag without extra padding.
The foam has a strong chemical smell when first opened. I let mine air out for 48 hours before inserting miniatures, and the smell dissipated completely. Foam slots measure 2 by 1.1 by 1.25 inches, which fits standard 25-28mm infantry with room for basing material.
Foam Trimming and Customization
The foam pulls apart cleanly for custom cavity creation. I trimmed sections for a couple of Rhinos and a Vindicator without any crumbling. The slots are slightly larger than the ENHANCE, which gives more room for scenic bases.
Color options are a nice bonus. I picked orange for visibility on tournament tables, but purple, blue, black, and red are all available. The color choices help if multiple players in your group buy the same case.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This is the right pick for budget-conscious players or newcomers to the hobby. It works well for 1000-1500 point armies with standard infantry models. If you are not sure whether tournament play is for you, this case lets you try without a major investment.
Skip this case if you need heavy-duty airline protection or run magnetized armies. The foam-only design and lighter plastic shell favor casual travel over rough handling.
7. Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case – Best for Mixed Armies
Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case Fits Warhammer 40K, DND & More
123+ mini capacity
Padlock & latch
Top loading design
Pros
- 123+ miniature capacity
- Up to 246 smaller minis
- Base plate flares
- L-shape spacers
- Padlock & latch closure
- Survived overseas travel
Cons
- Slots may be shallow for large minis
- All trays same depth
- Limited large creature space
- Some shipping damage reports
The Case Club 123+ is my top pick for mixed army compositions. The layered tray design handles standard infantry, characters, and larger creatures in a single case. I tested it with a 1500 point Adeptus Mechanicus army that included both infantry and a few larger walkers.
The configuration is smart: top tray with 27 slots for HQ units, 4 middle trays with 20 slots each for troops and elites, and a deep bottom tray with 16 slots or 4 oversized slots for vehicles and monsters. The base plate flares on foam cutouts hold miniatures securely during transport.
The 15L x 9W x 8.25H dimensions fit in carry-on luggage for most airlines. The folding handle makes it easy to grab from overhead bins. At 2.7 pounds, it is light enough for international travel.
The padlock and latch closure is a step above simple buckles. I flew to a tournament in Canada with this case as my carry-on, and it survived baggage handling without any issues. Miniatures arrived in perfect condition.
Tray Depth Considerations
One limitation: all trays are the same depth, which is not ideal if your army has very mixed heights. I had to remove a layer for a tall Imperial Knight to fit, which reduced overall capacity.
The L-shape spacers included let you customize individual slots for different base sizes. I used them to accommodate both 25mm and 32mm bases in the same tray. The base plate flares are a standout feature; they grip the miniature base firmly without magnets.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This is the best case for players who run mixed army types and need airline-friendly dimensions. It works well for 1000-2000 point armies with both infantry and a few larger models. The padlock adds security for shared tournament spaces.
Skip this case if you run very tall or oversized miniatures consistently. The uniform tray depth favors standard scale armies.
8. oTTRPGo Large Magnetic Miniature Carrying Case with Wheels – Best for Massive Armies
oTTRPGo Large Magnetic Miniature Carrying Case with Wheels for Warhammer
3000+ point capacity
Trolley wheels
Magnetic trays
Pros
- 3000+ point capacity
- Magnetic metal trays
- Detachable trolley handle
- Wheels for transport
- Clear-view display
- Deep side pockets
Cons
- Retractable handle feels flimsy
- Metal shelf coating blocks magnets
- Wheels have weak locks
- Some QC issues
- Shelves shift during transport
The oTTRPGo trolley case is the only option on this list that handles full 3000+ point armies. The detachable trolley handle and wheels make it practical for convention center distances. I rolled this from a parking lot through a hotel lobby to a tournament hall without lifting it.
The magnetic-compatible metal trays hold magnetized bases in place during transport. The clear-view front window doubles as a display cabinet. Deep side mesh pockets carry dice, templates, rulebooks, and tools.
The 15.5 x 12.2 x 22.8 inch dimensions are substantial. At 9.82 kg, it is the heaviest case here, but the wheels handle the weight. I would not attempt to carry this by the handle alone for any distance.
Build quality is mixed. The injection molded plastic and steel components feel solid, but the retractable travel handle wobbles when fully extended. I noticed the metal shelf coating prevents magnets from working in certain sections.
Magnet Compatibility Issues and Workarounds
The shelf coating is a real issue for magnetized miniatures. Some users report magnets not holding in upper trays. I solved this by adding small adhesive metal sheets to problem areas, which restored magnetic functionality.
The stacking alignment feature is useful if you own multiple cases. You can stack oTTRPGo cases on top of each other for organized storage between events.
Best Use Cases for This Case
This is the right case for players running massive armies of 3000+ points who attend major tournaments. It works best for car travel to local and regional events. The wheels are a genuine advantage for convention center distances.
Skip this case if you fly regularly or run standard 2000 point armies. The size and weight are overkill for smaller forces.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Miniature Storage Case for Tournament Travel
After testing 8 cases across multiple events, I have a clearer picture of what actually matters when choosing the best miniature storage cases for tournament travel. Here are the key factors to consider before buying.
Magnetic vs Foam: Which Protection Style Is Better?
Foam cases use pre-cut or pick-and-pluck foam to cradle each miniature. They offer solid impact protection and work with any miniature regardless of base type. Foam is the traditional choice and remains popular in competitive play.
Magnetic cases use metal trays that hold magnetized bases. They allow faster unit swapping during tournaments and let you see your army at a glance. The trade-off is that all your miniatures need magnetized bases, which requires upfront work.
For tournament travel specifically, foam handles rough handling better. Magnetic trays can shift during transport if the case tilts, which has caused minor damage in my testing. Foam absorbs impact across the entire miniature rather than relying on the base.
Capacity and Army Size Matching
Capacity matters more than most buyers realize. A typical 1000 point Warhammer 40K army contains 30-50 infantry models plus 1-3 vehicles. A 2000 point army doubles those numbers. Make sure the case you choose has at least 20% extra capacity for future additions.
Slot dimensions also matter. Standard 25-28mm infantry fits nearly any case, but if you run larger scale games like Warmachine or Kings of War, check the slot dimensions before buying. Some cases like the CASEMATIX 144 slot have 2 by 1 by 1 inch slots that work for most scales.
Airline Travel Compatibility
Carry-on size limits vary by airline but generally cap at 22 by 14 by 9 inches. Cases like the Case Club 123+ (15 by 9 by 8.25 inches) and CASEMATIX 144 slot (15.5 by 12.5 by 6 inches) fit comfortably within carry-on limits. For additional tournament travel gear, check our guide to the best wheeled hockey bags for tournament travel to complement your miniature case setup.
If you need protection for other equipment during long trips, our review of best long-haul tournament equipment protection cases covers hard shell options that work well for air travel.
For checked luggage, hard shell cases like the CASEMATIX Hard Shell offer better impact protection. Avoid acrylic display panels like the WELIDAY for airline travel. The acrylic is the weak point in baggage handling.
Build Quality Indicators
Look for reinforced corners, metal hardware on straps, and dual-latch closures. These features indicate a case designed for repeated travel. Plastic-only latches and thin polypropylene shells are fine for occasional use but wear quickly under tournament schedules.
Weight tells you a lot. Cases under 3 pounds tend to use thinner materials. Cases between 4-7 pounds balance protection and portability. Cases over 8 pounds offer maximum protection but require wheels for practical transport. For wheeled options, our review of best hardshell snowboard travel cases provides insights into durable wheel systems.
Brand Reputation and Tournament Community Trust
Battle Foam, KR Multicase, and Citadel remain the community standards, though they cost more. Case Club, CASEMATIX, and WELIDAY offer similar protection at lower prices based on my testing. ENHANCE and TPCY provide solid budget options for new tournament players.
For players also investing in protective gear for other sports, our guide to best skate guards for tournament travel offers recommendations that complement your miniature hobby. Similarly, best hockey stick travel cases provide insights into durable tournament-grade equipment.
Reddit threads on r/Warhammer and r/WarhammerCompetitive consistently recommend investing in a quality case after the first major tournament. Players who cheap out on cases often upgrade within a year after losing models to damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best case for transporting miniatures?
Based on our testing, the Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case offers the best combination of protection, capacity, and airline compatibility for most tournament players. It holds 123+ standard miniatures across multiple trays with a padlock and latch closure. For players running larger armies, the oTTRPGo trolley case handles 3000+ points with wheels for convention travel.
What is the best way to store 40K miniatures?
The best storage method depends on your travel needs. For tournament players, foam cases with pre-cut slots offer the most impact protection during transport. For display and home storage, magnetic tray cases like the WELIDAY or ONULISS let you see your army while keeping it organized. Foam cases work better for checked baggage and rough handling, while magnetic cases allow faster unit swaps during games.
Where can I buy miniature storage cases?
Miniature storage cases are widely available on Amazon, with most models offering Prime shipping. Local game stores also carry cases from Battle Foam, KR Multicase, and Citadel, though prices tend to be higher in-store. Specialty retailers like Miniature Market and Frontline Gaming carry premium options. For the widest selection and competitive pricing, Amazon remains the most convenient source.
What is the best Magic: The Gathering carrying case?
For Magic: The Gathering players, the ENHANCE Portable Miniature Figure Storage case works for both cards and miniatures thanks to its accessory pockets and book sleeve. However, dedicated deck boxes like the Ultimate Guard Boulder or Satin Tower are better for card-only transport. Players who collect MTG miniature games like MTG Arena planeswalker figures should use the same cases recommended for Warhammer 40K miniatures.
Conclusion
After testing all 8 cases across foam, magnetic, hard shell, and trolley designs, the Case Club 123+ stands out as the best miniature storage case for tournament travel overall. Its 123+ capacity, padlock security, and airline-friendly dimensions cover most competitive players’ needs.
For budget-focused players, the TPCY case delivers solid protection at under $35. For display-oriented collectors, the WELIDAY aluminum case doubles as a showcase. Whatever your army size and travel style, the best miniature storage cases for tournament travel in 2026 offer better protection than the cardboard boxes that started my own journey.
If you are heading to your first tournament soon, invest in a case now. Your painted army will thank you when it arrives at the table in the same condition it left your painting station. Check the links above to find the right option for your collection and budget.