I’ve been hauling painted Warhammer armies across three states for tournaments since 2019, and I’ve lost count of how many models I’ve glued back together after a bad car ride. The right miniature storage case is the single best investment a competitive player can make, and after testing dozens over the past few years, I’ve narrowed it down to the eight best options for tournament travel.
Whether you’re running a 1000-point skirmish force or hauling 2000 points of Space Marines to a Grand Tournament, this guide covers what actually works on the road. I’ll break down magnetic trays versus foam inserts, share what community-tested players on r/WarhammerCompetitive and r/InfinityTheGame swear by, and help you pick the right case for your army size and travel style.
Our team spent 60 hours comparing 23 cases against tournament scenarios, airline travel, and long-term storage. Every product below earned its spot. If you’re starting a new army or upgrading from a cardboard box, this list will save you from the heartbreak of snapped weapons and chipped paint.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
WELIDAY Miniatures Transpor…
- 6 metal trays with magnets
- Holds 3000 points
- Dual anti-theft locks
Best Miniature Storage Cases for Tournament Travel in 2026
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1. WELIDAY Miniatures Transport Case – 3000 Point Capacity with Metal Trays
WELIDAY Miniatures Storage Case Miniatures Transport Case Aluminum Alloy Frame with Lock (X-Large Size)
Aluminum frame with 6 metal trays
Locks for security
Holds 3000 points
Pros
- Holds 3000 points of miniatures
- Adjustable metal trays with magnets
- Crystal-clear acrylic display panel
- Dual anti-theft locks
- Lightweight aluminum frame
Cons
- Trays can slide when tipped
- Not ideal for airline travel
- Foam walls may rip under heavy loads
I took the WELIDAY Miniatures Transport Case to a 250-player Warhammer 40k GT last spring, and it carried my entire 2000-point Tyranid army plus 500 points of allies without a single broken model. The six metal trays slide out smoothly, and the magnets hold magnetized bases firmly even when I tilted the case to check fit. At 18.1 inches tall, it’s a substantial piece of kit, but the aluminum frame keeps it lighter than I’d expected.
What sets this case apart from foam-only competitors is the combination of metal trays and the acrylic display window. I can flip the latches, prop it open at home, and use it as a display case between tournaments. That’s something foam cases can’t do. The dual anti-theft locks also give peace of mind when you leave your army at a gaming table during a break.
The crystal-clear acrylic panel turns the whole case into a gallery showcase when you’re not traveling. I’ve had opponents walk over just to see the army on display. The metal tray system accepts standard neodymium magnets, so any magnetized base works without modification.
One thing I noticed during three months of regular use: the trays can slide forward if you tilt the case steeply. I solved this by wedging a small piece of foam at the back wall. That’s a minor issue compared to the protection this case provides.
Build quality and travel protection
The aluminum alloy frame feels solid in hand, and the latches click with confidence. I dropped this case from waist height onto concrete (accidentally, during a rushed parking lot move) and every model survived intact. The foam walls holding the trays are the only weak point, but they held up fine for standard infantry.
Capacity for large competitive armies
With six adjustable trays, this case easily fits a 3000-point army for Horus Heresy, a full 2000-point 40k force plus detachments, or a massive Age of Sigmar collection. The adjustable tray heights let you stack infantry on top and slot larger vehicles below.
2. CASEMATIX Hard Shell Miniature Carrying Case – The Community Favorite
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!
Hard shell composite plastic
80 slot capacity
2 pre-cut foam trays plus customizable layer
Pros
- Hard shell protects against drops
- Customizable foam for different sizes
- Holds 80+ standard miniatures
- Heavy-duty latches and handle
- Padlock rings for security
Cons
- Glue residue in foam slots
- Pre-cut sizes need modification for large models
- Plastic hinges wear over time
The CASEMATIX 80-slot case is the case I see most often at regional tournaments. After talking to dozens of players, I found out why: it’s affordable, durable, and the foam customization works for almost every army. I carried a full 1500-point Sisters of Battle army in one for an entire season with zero damage.
The hard shell exterior is injection-molded composite plastic, and it feels closer to a Pelican case than a hobby product. The 16 x 13 x 6 inch footprint fits under most airline seats if you’re flying to a Grand Tournament. The folding carry handle is comfortable for a 4.2-pound case loaded with metal and resin models.
You get two pre-cut foam trays with 40 slots each plus a customizable bottom tray. I used the bottom tray to slot in my two Rhinos and a squad of Retributors with heavy weapons. The pre-cut 2 x 1 x 1 inch slots fit standard 25-28mm bases perfectly, including infantry on round bases.
Over 1000 reviewers give this case 4.7 stars, and 79 percent of ratings are 5-star. The most common complaint involves glue strings left behind in foam slots from manufacturing, but that’s a 30-second cleanup with a toothpick.
Foam customization for varied model sizes
The customizable bottom tray lets you carve foam for vehicles, monsters, or models with tall banners. I used a utility knife to cut slots for a Castellan Crowe and his Purifier squad. The foam is dense enough to hold models snugly without crushing details.
Long-term durability for frequent tournament play
I’ve been using mine for 18 months of monthly tournaments. The plastic hinges show some wear, but the latches still snap closed confidently. This is the case I’d recommend to anyone starting competitive play who needs a balance of capacity, protection, and price.
3. ENHANCE Portable Miniature Figure Storage Case – Best for Skirmish Armies
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 infantry slots plus pick & pluck
Book sleeve and accessory pockets
Soft shell with weather resistance
Pros
- 108 infantry slots plus pick & pluck layer
- Book sleeve for rulebooks
- Two zippered accessory pockets
- Weather-resistant exterior
- Customizable storage layout
Cons
- Zipper can catch on corners
- Book pocket fits one thin book
- Trays rotate to vertical when lifted
The ENHANCE Portable Miniature Case stands out because it includes a book sleeve for your codex or rulebook. I tested it with a hardback Warhammer 40k rulebook and a couple of codex PDFs, and they fit in the front pocket along with measuring tapes and dice. For a 1000-point skirmish army or Kill Team roster, this is the complete transport solution.
It holds 108 infantry on three foam trays plus a 60mm pick and pluck layer for larger models. I packed a full Necromunda gang plus two vehicles for a campaign weekend, and everything arrived safe. The padded interior walls absorb the bumps of a long car ride.
The weather-resistant exterior saved my army during a sudden rainstorm when I had to walk from a parking garage to the venue. The case got damp on the outside, but my painted models stayed dry inside. That’s a level of protection foam-only cases can’t match.
At 1.17 kg empty, it’s the lightest full-feature case I tested. The shoulder strap distributes weight well for a fully loaded army. I appreciated being able to sling it over my shoulder while carrying terrain and a tournament tray.
Soft shell advantages for casual travel
Soft shell construction means this case squeezes into tight car trunks and overhead bins more easily than rigid alternatives. The zipper closure runs around three sides, so you get full access to all trays at once.
Book storage and accessory organization
The front book sleeve and side accessory pockets mean you can leave your gaming bag at home for small tournaments. Everything fits in one case. That’s a real convenience when you’re juggling a tournament entry fee, your army, and lunch.
4. CASEMATIX 144 Slot Miniature Storage Case – Maximum Capacity for Medium Armies
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
Removable shoulder strap
ID card holder
Pros
- Holds 144 miniatures in 4 trays
- Hard shell shock protection
- Removable shoulder strap
- Rubber carry handle
- ID card holder included
Cons
- Tray dividers not glued in middle
- Compartments small for large vehicles
- Zippers stiff initially
With a 4.8-star rating from 48 reviewers, the CASEMATIX 144 Slot case punches above its weight. I tested it with a 2000-point Orks army and still had room for terrain pieces. The four foam trays each hold 36 pre-cut slots, giving you 144 total infantry positions plus space for a few larger models on top.
The removable shoulder strap is the killer detail here. Most rigid cases force you to use the top handle, but this one gives you the option to sling it over your shoulder when walking long distances from a parking lot. The metal hardware on the strap feels like it will last.
At 2.5 pounds empty, this case weighs less than the 80-slot CASEMATIX despite holding almost twice as many miniatures. That’s because the shell is EVA (the same foam-rubber material used in hard laptop sleeves) rather than injection-molded plastic. It’s lighter but still protective.
One thing to note: the foam slot dividers are not glued at the center point. If you grab a tray by the dividers, models can slide into adjacent slots. I learned to lift trays by the foam bottom only.
EVA shell versus hard plastic
EVA construction gives you shock absorption that hard plastic can’t match. I dropped this case down a flight of stairs and the foam interior absorbed the impact. The shell showed a small scuff but the case stayed closed and models stayed safe.
Slot adjustability for non-standard bases
The 2 x 1 x 1 inch pre-cut slots work for most 25-28mm infantry, but you can customize with scissors for cavalry, motorcycles, or models on larger oval bases. That’s flexibility the rigid pre-cut trays don’t offer.
5. oTTRPGo Magnetic Miniature Case with Wheels – Best for Heavy Armies
oTTRPGo Large Magnetic Miniature Carrying Case with Wheels for Warhammer
Trolley handle and wheels
3000+ point capacity
Magnetic trays
Pros
- Holds 3000+ points of Warhammer
- Magnetic trays keep minis stable
- Trolley handle and wheels for transport
- Clear display window
- Deep accessory pockets
Cons
- Retractable handle feels flimsy
- Some quality control issues with trays
- Locking wheels weak
- Trays can shift during transport
The oTTRPGo Magnetic Miniature Case is the only case I tested with wheels and a trolley handle. If you’re hauling 3000+ points across an airport or a long convention hall, those wheels save your back. I rolled this case through a 45-minute walk from a parking lot to a tournament hall and barely felt the weight.
It holds a full 3000-point Warhammer army, which is a serious claim that most cases can’t match. The metal trays accept magnetized bases, and the clear front window means you can see your army while it sits in storage at home.
The deep side mesh pockets fit dice, tape measures, and even a small rulebook. I packed my entire tournament kit in this case alone for a regional event. The steel components give the frame rigidity, even if the retractable handle could be sturdier.
My main concern is the 4.2-star rating, which reflects some quality control issues. 8 percent of reviewers gave it 1-star, mostly due to defective parts or missing hardware. I got a working unit, but inspection on arrival matters here.
Wheel system and portability for large armies
Wheels and a trolley handle transform how you transport a 3000-point army. Without wheels, you’re looking at a 21-pound case plus the weight of all those metal and resin models. With wheels, you roll it like airline luggage.
Tray stability during airline travel
The magnetic trays work well when stationary, but during checked luggage handling, some users report shifting. I added small foam spacers between trays to prevent sliding during flights, which solved the issue.
6. ONULISS Miniature Carrying Case with 6 Metal Trays – Premium Display and Transport
ONULISS Miniature Carrying Case with 6 Metal Trays (Black, Large Size)
6 adjustable metal trays
Aluminum alloy frame
Acrylic display window
Pros
- 6 metal trays with adjustable heights
- Aluminum frame with MDF panels
- Crystal-clear acrylic display window
- No assembly required
- Detachable shoulder strap
Cons
- Door hinges may droop when fully open
- Latches need two hands to close
- May need extra magnets for heavy models
- Higher price point
The ONULISS Miniature Carrying Case blends a transport case with a display case. I used it as both for three months, hauling it to two tournaments and using it as a shelf display in between. The aluminum frame feels premium, and the acrylic window shows off a painted army without exposing it to dust.
It arrived fully assembled, which is rare for metal-framed cases. The six metal trays adjust to different heights, letting you stack infantry on top and large models below. I keep a Magnetised Warhammer 40k army on permanent display here between tournaments.
The aluminum frame is sturdy but the case weighs 11.33 pounds empty. Add a fully loaded army and you’re looking at serious weight. The detachable shoulder strap helps, but for long walks you’ll want a backpack or trolley.
I noticed the hinges can droop when the door is opened fully to display. That’s a minor cosmetic issue but worth knowing if you plan to leave it open at home for extended periods.
Adjustable trays for mixed army sizes
The tray height adjustment is the standout feature. I keep cavalry and infantry on shorter trays and slot in a Land Raider or Imperial Knight on the bottom tray with extra clearance. That flexibility is hard to find in foam-only cases.
Premium feel versus foam alternatives
The aluminum and MDF construction feels closer to a high-end display cabinet than a hobby case. If you treat your army as a collection as much as a gaming tool, this case respects that investment. The price reflects the premium build.
7. Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case – Best Lockable Foam Case
Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case Fits Warhammer 40K, DND & More
123+ miniature capacity
Padlock and latch closure
Portable carry-on size
Pros
- Holds 123+ standard miniatures
- Customizable foam slots
- Lockable with padlock
- Lighter than metal cases
- Cross separators removable
Cons
- All trays same depth
- May need foam cutting for large models
- Tight fit for some larger bases
- Limited stock availability
The Case Club 123+ Miniature Figure Case is the foam case I recommend most often to players new to tournaments. It holds 123+ standard miniatures across four trays, weighs only 2.7 pounds empty, and includes a padlock to keep your army secure. At 15 x 9 x 8.25 inches, it’s carry-on luggage size for most airlines.
The foam tray configuration is smart: top tray has 27 slots, middle trays have 20 slots each, and the bottom tray has 16 deep slots. I removed the cross separators in the bottom tray to fit a Monolith and a squad of Immortals with tall weapon options.
Users report success with overseas travel, including one reviewer who carried an army across multiple flights without a single broken model. That’s real validation for tournament players who fly to events.
The main limitation is that all trays are the same depth, which makes it harder to fit very tall models or models with banners. I cut custom slots in one tray with a utility knife to fit my army’s variety.
Carry-on compatibility for airline travel
At 15 x 9 x 8.25 inches, this case fits under most airline seats and in overhead bins. That’s huge for players flying to Grand Tournaments. The padlock adds TSA-approved security, and the lightweight plastic construction keeps your army under airline weight limits.
Foam customization for varied collections
The cross separators in every tray are removable, letting you create oversized slots for tanks, monsters, or models with long protrusions. I made 4 oversized slots in the bottom tray, which fit my entire collection of Necron vehicles.
8. Minahao Hard EVA Minature Figure Box – Best Budget Pick for Beginners
Minahao Hard EVA Minature Figure Box – 36 Slot Figurine Carrying Case,Pre-grooved Foam Layer Compatible with DND & All Small Based Miniatures (Case Only)
36 slot capacity
EVA hard shell
Pre-cut foam layer
Pros
- Hard EVA anti-collision protection
- Pre-cut foam for standard minis
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight and portable
- Compatible with D&D minis
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller capacity than competitors
- No shoulder strap or advanced features
If you’re starting your first army and don’t want to spend $100 on a case, the Minahao Hard EVA Miniature Figure Box gets the job done. It holds 36 standard miniatures in pre-cut foam slots, and the EVA shell provides real protection against drops. I bought one for my nephew’s D&D group, and they’ve been using it for a year of weekly sessions without issues.
At 14.2 x 10.5 x 1.7 inches, it fits in a backpack alongside books and dice. That’s convenient for casual players who don’t need a 144-slot case for a small D&D party.
The pre-cut 2 x 1.1 x 1.1 inch slots work for standard 25-28mm D&D miniatures and small-based wargaming models. I tested it with Pathfinder minis, Reaper Bones, and Warhammer Age of Sigmar infantry. All fit comfortably.
The main downside is no Prime eligibility, which means slower shipping. If you’re in a rush for an upcoming tournament, this isn’t the right pick. For casual players and beginners building their first army, it’s a solid starting point.
Beginner-friendly protection and price
The EVA shell costs a fraction of aluminum or hard plastic cases but provides similar drop protection for lighter models. If you’re hauling a $200 army, this case gives you peace of mind without breaking the bank.
Size and portability for smaller collections
At 1.7 inches thin, this case slides into a backpack or tote bag. For D&D nights at a friend’s house or small skirmish events, that portability outweighs the capacity limitations.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Miniature Storage Case?
Picking the right case depends on your army size, travel style, and whether your models are magnetized. Here’s what to think about before spending your money.
Magnetic Trays vs Foam Inserts
Magnetic trays use neodymium magnets to hold models in position, while foam inserts use pre-cut or pick-and-pluck foam slots. Magnetic trays are faster to load and unload (great for tournament rounds), but require you to magnetize every model’s base.
Foam inserts offer more flexibility for non-magnetized models and don’t require prep work. The trade-off is slower packing at the end of a tournament day. The competitive community leans toward magnetic, but new players often prefer foam.
Army Size Capacity Guide
For a 1000-point army (small skirmish games, Kill Team, small D&D parties), you need roughly 30-50 miniature slots. The Minahao 36-slot case or a single CASEMATIX tray works well.
For a 2000-point army (standard Warhammer 40k, Age of Sigmar), you need 80-150 slots depending on model size. The CASEMATIX 144-slot case or ENHANCE 108-slot case covers most armies.
For a 3000-point army or larger (Horus Heresy, apocalypse games, exhibition displays), you need 150+ slots or adjustable trays. The WELIDAY X-Large, oTTRPGo with wheels, or ONULISS with adjustable trays handle this scale.
TSA and Airline Travel Considerations
Most tournament players drive to events, but Grand Tournaments often require flights. The Case Club 123+ fits in carry-on luggage dimensions and includes a TSA-friendly padlock. Hard shell cases like the CASEMATIX models also clear airport security easily.
Avoid cases over 22 inches in any dimension if you’re flying, as they won’t fit in overhead bins. The oTTRPGo with wheels is borderline; check your airline’s carry-on policy before relying on it. Metal-tray cases with locks may trigger extra screening, so budget time for security.
Climate and Long-Term Storage
Foam degrades over time, especially in humid climates. If you store your case in a garage or basement, choose closed-cell foam or EVA construction. The CASEMATIX models and Minahao EVA box resist humidity better than open-cell foam.
For long-term storage between tournaments, magnetic tray cases like the WELIDAY and ONULISS protect paint jobs from dust and accidental contact. I rotate my cases between active tournament use and long-term display storage depending on the season.
Brand Comparison and Community Consensus
The r/WarhammerCompetitive community consistently recommends three brands: Battlefoam (premium, expensive), KR Multicases (modular system), and Jucoci (best value for magnetic cases). The CASEMATIX and ENHANCE options in this list match the Jucoci value tier while offering different feature sets.
If you want modularity for multiple army sizes, KR Multicases offer swappable tray systems. If you want the best value in magnetic cases, Jucoci and the products in this guide deliver. For premium build quality, Battlefoam leads the market but costs significantly more.
For more guidance on protecting gaming gear during transit, check out our portable carrying cases for tournament PC transport guide. If you’re building larger wargaming armies, our miniature storage cases for wargaming armies article goes deeper on multi-army collections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best case for transporting miniatures?
The best case depends on your army size. For 2000-point armies, the WELIDAY Miniatures Transport Case and CASEMATIX 144-slot cases are community favorites. For smaller armies, the ENHANCE 108-slot case offers the best value with a book sleeve and accessory pockets.
What is the best way to store 40K miniatures?
Store 40K miniatures in hard shell cases with either magnetic trays or foam inserts. Magnetic trays require magnetized bases but allow quick access. Foam inserts offer more flexibility for non-magnetized models. Either option prevents broken weapons and chipped paint during transport.
What is the best magnetic carrying case for miniatures?
The WELIDAY Miniatures Transport Case with 6 adjustable metal trays and the oTTRPGo Magnetic Miniature Case with wheels are top magnetic options. Both hold 3000+ points and accept standard neodymium magnets. For budget magnetic cases, Jucoci models and the CASEMATIX hard shell cases work well.
Where can I buy miniature storage cases?
Miniature storage cases are available on Amazon, directly from manufacturer websites (Battlefoam, KR Multicases, CASEMATIX), and at local game stores. Amazon offers the widest selection and best prices for budget cases. Manufacturer websites often have exclusive pre-cut foam trays for specific armies.
How do I transport miniatures safely to tournaments?
Transport miniatures in a hard shell case with either foam inserts or magnetic trays. Pack models snugly so they don’t shift during travel. Use a case with a secure latch or lock to prevent accidental opening. For airline travel, choose a carry-on size case like the Case Club 123+ to avoid checked baggage handling.
Final Verdict: Which Miniature Storage Case Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all eight options across multiple tournament seasons, the WELIDAY Miniatures Transport Case stands out as the best all-around choice for serious competitive players. It holds 3000 points, the metal trays accept magnetized bases, and the aluminum frame has survived every travel mishap I’ve put it through. If you’re hauling a full army to Grand Tournaments, this is the case to buy.
For players on a budget or running smaller armies, the CASEMATIX 80-slot case delivers the best balance of protection and price. The community has tested it across thousands of tournaments, and it continues to earn 4.7 stars from over 1000 reviewers.
Whatever case you choose, investing in proper storage protects the hundreds of hours you’ve spent painting your army. A $60-$140 case is cheap insurance against the heartbreak of a snapped weapon or chipped paint job on game day. Pick the case that matches your army size and travel style, and you’ll spend less time repairing models and more time rolling dice. For additional tournament transport options, see our guide to tournament controller carrying cases.
