Beta State – TOUR TIPS

This set of Tour Tips was written by Adrian Robison of the alternative/rock band, Beta State. You can check out his tips for being on the road, after the break.

1. The single most important tip you must know: Starbucks ALWAYS has a clean bathroom, and it’s usually a onesie. They have to clean it multiple times a day, so you can always count on them when you need it most. Plus, they serve coffee there. Double whammy.

2. Start every tour with a bulk pack of brand new fresh socks. Shows = sweat, and old sweaty socks will create a funk in your shoes that won’t go away. Spare the air and re-up on socks every tour. They are cheap! No excuses…

3. Pack light. Bring a few outfits and do laundry as a band on the road. It allows more room in the common areas of your van or bus. If everyone follows this rule you will be surprised how much more breathing room everyone has. Essential when you are living in a tin can.

4. Bring a portable means of transportation. Folding bike, electric scooter, skateboard… you name it. One of the best parts of touring is getting out and visiting new cities. The only problem is that you only get usually a day or two in each city so having a means to get around and explore really comes in handy. I’ve been able to see the better parts of cities that I would have never seen had I only been walking.

5. HUSTLE YOUR MERCH! (and make sure you have the right sizes in stock…) With gas prices as high as they are and the overall cost of touring being as expensive as it is, merch is KEY to your survival. You would be surprised how much merch you can sell just talking to fans and engaging with them. What we used to do as an opening band was hustle our CDs outside the venue right after the headliner played their last song. You would not believe how many people are willing to buy if you just get out there and talk to people. You cannot be shy about it. You know what they say: “A closed mouth doesn’t get fed.”

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Do you think these tips would be useful on the road? What tips would you recommend for touring? Let us know in the comments below!