Being a musician often means finding ways to balance pursuing your passion and managing the practical aspects of life on the go. From squeezing your gear into tight spaces to making sure the bills are paid while you’re away, traveling as a musician requires a unique set of skills and solutions. So, if you’re ready to pack up your life in a suitcase and hit the road, here are some crucial tips that will keep the music alive and your journey smooth.
Find Ways to Make Money While Traveling
Traveling is expensive, and, as a musician, you’ll need funds for lodging, food, and any unexpected expenses that might pop up. One of the biggest challenges is to find ways to make money while traveling, so you’re not constantly worried about cash flow. There are several ways to keep the income stream steady while you’re away from home, some of which take advantage of your existing musical skills.
For example, many musicians find opportunities by busking in vibrant public spaces where it’s allowed, which can also help get your music out to new audiences. Plus, leveraging digital platforms for lessons or virtual performances lets you connect with fans, students, or fellow musicians, wherever you are. With platforms that allow you to connect with audiences online, it’s entirely possible to make some income even while exploring new places.
The Best Way to Travel With Your Instrument
The most important decision for any musician on the move is figuring out how to bring along the tools of their trade without hassle. For guitarists, this often means choosing reliable travel guitars. A travel guitar is specifically designed to be compact and portable, making it ideal for road trips, flights, and pretty much any journey where space and convenience are factors. You can think of it as a dependable sidekick that still packs the sound and feel of a full-size guitar but in a more manageable size. With a travel guitar, you can enjoy jamming at any stop along the way without sacrificing precious cargo space.
Protecting your instrument from damage is also essential when you’re constantly on the go. A sturdy travel case is crucial, as it can shield your gear from the bumps and bruises of travel. Look for options that offer lightweight portability while still providing maximum protection.
Stay Productive On the Road
One of the challenges musicians face while traveling is staying productive and keeping up with their musical goals. Being on the move can make it hard to keep up with practice schedules or creative work, but there are ways to stay on track even from the road. Start by carving out regular time slots for practice, whether that’s before you hit the road in the morning or after a long day exploring. Treat these practice sessions as a non-negotiable part of your routine, even if they only last 20 minutes. Keeping a small but consistent schedule helps you maintain progress.
For songwriters, travel can serve as an endless source of inspiration. With a small notebook or a songwriting app, you can jot down any ideas that strike you as you encounter new environments, people, and experiences.
The Best Way to Find Places to Play
As a traveling musician, one of the most rewarding experiences can be finding venues or opportunities to share your music in new places. If you’re visiting a city where you don’t already have contacts, look for open mic nights, local music forums, or social media groups that cater to live music enthusiasts.
Open mics are a great way to get your music heard and connect with local musicians who may introduce you to more gig opportunities. Many cities also have small venues that welcome guest performers, so don’t hesitate to reach out to smaller establishments to inquire about available slots.
What to Pack Beyond Your Gear
Packing for a music-centered journey requires more than just throwing in your guitar and going. For musicians on the road, it’s essential to bring along everything that keeps you performing at your best, both mentally and physically. Besides the obvious equipment, consider packing items that support your health and help keep your mind sharp, such as a good set of noise-canceling headphones, a journal for tracking your journey, and healthy snacks for sustenance during long stretches of travel.
If your journey involves various time zones or a busy schedule, a portable charger is an absolute must to keep all your devices powered up, especially if you’re using them for recording or music-related apps. Make sure to include a travel pillow for rest and a mini toolkit with essential repair items, such as a small screwdriver, extra cables, and any other small accessories your gear might need in case of emergencies.
