The Woodsman’s Babe – TOUR TIPS

This set of Tour Tips was written by the indie/folk/jazz artist, Joe Lengson, also known as The Woodsman’s Babe. Previously, Joe was the bassist of MyChildren MyBride. You can check out his tips, after the break.

1. Pack light.
I used to always over pack clothes, because I always thought, I’d change my clothes everyday. The only thing I changed every day was my underwear, (sometimes I didn’t even get around to that to be honest.) You’ll get clothes on tour, either from a band you’re on tour with, or you’ll see something you like along the way. It’s a hassle having big luggage, not only does it take up room in the trailer, but you have to fly with it or lug it around when you stay somewhere. These days, when I fly, I take a guitar, and one carryon size suitcase, I only take two pairs of pants underwear, socks, and a couple shirts. A tip I learned, was to pack super light, then fly, then before you fly back home, send your dirty clothes back via snail mail. It will save you so much money rather than checking another luggage at the airport.

2. Make friends.
Don’t be an A-hole. Don’t be a rock star, when you set out on a following tour, you’ll be able to call a friend you made on the last tour, and go get coffee or something with them. They might even buy you food or goodies. Unless you’re already super rich and famous, then you can be an A-hole and a rock star all you want.

3. Save water bottles from venue.
If you’re touring in a van or car or something and a dude, you can just piss in a bottle, so you don’t have to; find a rest stop, park, turn the car off, go in, piss, get back to the car… etc… it saves time. (I guess this one everyone knows.)

4. Clean up after yourself.
If you’re touring with other people, be respectful that you are sharing living space. Don’t leave your dirty undies. I haaaaated finding dirty/sweaty clothes lying around the van. Just know that you’re in communal living.

5. Give yourself personal time.
Go off and do something to keep your sanity. Surrounding yourself with a bunch of people constantly for several months at a time is exasperating. I like to go find a cafe and read or write. Or I’ll go explore whatever city I was in, or something. It gave me time to think, and that really really is important. Give yourself time to call home or for the special someone in your life.

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