Packing For Tour
When bands first start touring, it’s usually accepted that they won’t be able to afford a motel every night. I just went on a short tour, and was shocked to find that the drummer hadn’t brought a sleeping bag, pillow, or even a small blanket. Where was he expecting to sleep?
Well, it turns out that he loves the feeling of being on tour, and not knowing where you’re going to stay. Apparently he was counting on staying in people’s homes who could provide him with a blanket. It was odd logic, and backfired when we were offered a restaurant to spend the night in. The rest of the band thought it was awesome. There was plenty of couches, a fooseball table, and even a 7-11 next door. The drummer complained about not having a blanket for half an hour, before finally passing out in the van (and it was colder outside.)
Don’t be like our drummer; Here is a list of things that you should think about bringing on tour:
Sleeping bag
Pillow
Small Flashlight
Toothbrush
Deodorant (Please!)
Disposable razor
Towel (that you don’t mind losing)
Bag for dirty clothes.
Painkillers / medications / vitamins
Car and normal chargers for your cellphone
Some sort of personal music device, or DVD player
Extra headphones and a splitter (so you can share with the drummer.)
Swimming trunks (It’s warm in Vegas any time of year.)
Hoodie or jacket (It’ll rain in Seattle any time of year.)
Air Matress
Ok, so I get picked on for bringing an air matress. It’s not very rock and roll. But most people don’t have five couches in their house, and it’s not healthy to drink until the floor is comfortable (every night.) So I bring an air matress, and sleep on it every night of tour. I get a consistantly good night’s rest. It doesnt even take up much room when packed.
Some bands have one or two comfy Places to sleep in the van, which can greatly increase the security of your gear. I think the best situation would be to put the loudest snorer in the van, plan on two couches, and bring air mattesses for the rest of the group.
Or you can bring money and pay for Motel 6 every night. I’d be ok with that too.
