OK, so you and your band are ready to hit the road in true rock and roll fashion. You’ve packed your instruments, and the rest of your inventory reads like an off license stock sheet. And…that’s just about it. It’ll all work out, won’t it?
If you are planning your tour in a similar way to this, then you may not last the distance. Many bands that are just starting out are guilty of making this mistake! There are some dull things to take care of first, that you must do if you want your first tour to be a success. OK, so it ain’t rock and roll – but it will get you home in one piece, and hopefully get you a few more fans in the process.
Make a list
This is not a set list. While every song you play will be significant, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You’ll need to make a list of all the essentials that you need to bring with you. Think about wash bags, phones, instruments, clothing, and merchandise to sell at gigs. You’ll also need to take a few spare credit or debit cards to use if things go awry. You never know what might happen, especially as you are staying in towns and cities you have never been to before.
It’s not all rock and roll
Make sure you have the right protection in place. Any vehicles you bring with you are going to be full of the tools of your trade, so make sure you look into getting insurance. If you aren’t sure what you need, take a look at Insure Fleet – they have a lot of info and tips for getting the right policy to cover you for your needs. OK, so it’s dull – but if you aren’t insured and your van gets emptied one night, you won’t have anything to play. And the cost of buying replacements could be enormous.
Save up your pennies
Going on the road isn’t cheap. Assuming you are just starting out, it’s unlikely you are going to be earning much money from your appearances. And, unfortunately, you will have to allow for some occasions when you struggle to get your money from dodgy venues. Make sure you have saved up enough money between you to put into a tour fund. You can dip in when you need to, and if there’s any left by the time you get home you can invest it in new equipment.
Medicinal thinking
No, not that kind of medicinal. But they obviously will play their part. Life on the road is full of temptation, and you need to prepare for all health concerns. Take some vitamins with you to make sure your body is getting its daily quotient, and replacing everything you lose from late nights out. Pack some tinned food, too. You never know when your next meal will arrive, so it’s best to have a backup. Also, think about your sexual health. A good stock of prophylactics never harmed anyone, but having none to call upon at the right moment has, on frequent occasions.
OK, so there are your basics for going on tour for the very first time. It’s all about the planning – do it well and you will give yourself a chance of lasting a very demanding tour until the end. Enjoy!