As a musician, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of going on tour. The rush of performing for new audiences and exploring different cities can be both exhilarating and challenging at the same time. But to make your tour a success, preparation is key. Being organized and having all the necessary gear and equipment can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth touring experience.
From quality instruments to personal comfort items, every detail matters when it comes to hitting the road. Whether you’re embarking on your first tour or are an experienced road warrior, you need to have some basics covered before hitting the road. In this article, we will go over the essentials so you can have the tour of your dreams.
1 – Instruments and gear
Your instruments and gear are the backbone of your tour, making this section one of the most important when it comes to preparation. It’s not just about having quality instruments. You also need backups in case of unexpected breakdowns or malfunctions.
There are also all the accessories that help elevate your performance, Cables, strings, picks, tuners are small items but they can make a big difference in sound production. And if you use effects pedals during shows, a proper pedalboard will keep everything organized on stage.
Lastly, investing in cases, shown here, or bags specifically designed for transporting musical equipment is crucial for protecting your investment from potential damage while traveling between gigs. If you use the right types of cases, you will still have plenty of room in the camper or van for you to sleep.
2 – Sound equipment
Great sound is a critical element of any successful musician’s performance, and this starts with having the right equipment on hand during your tour.
Microphones are essential for capturing vocals or acoustic instruments during live shows, and having extra stands is always handy when performing in different venues that may not have their own.
In-ear monitors or headphones help you hear yourself and other band members more clearly while performing, ensuring that you can stay on beat without missing cues. This helps to provide a better flow of music between all members; even if there’s background noise from an enthusiastic crowd!
Mixers and sound interfaces let you control the levels of each instrument within the mix. It’s important that these are easy-to-use so adjustments can be made quickly if necessary since every venue has its own challenges.
3 – Personal comfort items
Touring can be grueling, and it’s important to take care of yourself while on the road so you can perform at your best every night. To do so, you’ll need some personal comfort items to pack along with your gear.
Travel-sized laundry supplies such as detergent packs or wipes are essential when access to washing machines isn’t readily available.
Sleep aids like earplugs or masks may even come in handy if noise levels in hotels or shared accommodations get too high.
