Advice for Traveling Musicians

Whether you’re  a musician touring your local bar scene or a band playing the festival circuit, use these tips to make your musical travels go smoothly.

Insuring Your Instrument

Your instrument is probably the most important thing you are packing and the means by which you live, so insuring it might be a good idea. A lot of travel insurance policies will cover lost and damaged baggage and there are companies like MusicPro Insurance that specialize in musical instruments and touring bands. Be careful about what is and isn’t covered, like vintage equipment and computer hardware.

Know Your Airline

According to the TSA, you are allowed one small musical instrument in addition to one carry-on, but that will only get you through security. Every airline has different rules about the size and dimensions of the instrument you bring. Some companies will insist you check your instrument in, so investing in a good flight case might be your safest option.

Pick Your Destinations Wisely

Playing in a small city with a good music scene and walk-in crowd is going to be infinitely better than being overshadowed in a big city. Furthermore, expenses will go up the bigger the town, so consider services like AirBNB, where you can lodge with a potential new fan! Burnout can be a risk factor when playing long tours, so limit yourself to one show per day, maybe two if logistically sound. Just be sure every stop is within a reasonable distance from the next.

Utilize Your Smartphone

These days your smartphone is a Swiss-Army knife of apps that can do the job of five band members. When its time for sound check, be sure to load up Cleartune, one of the most precise tuning apps available. HootSuite can automate your bands social media presence so you don’t have to update your status every tour stop. Finally, iRig is an audio-interface accessory for iOS that includes a four-track recorder, letting you get your ideas down while away from the studio.