When a band sets out on its first road tour (see Getting Bands Out of Their Own Back Yards and Advance Marketing for Touring), it may be solely focused on ensuring that it has all the necessary gear that it will need. There are, however, a few more items that a band should consider before heading down the highway.

Packing for a Tour

While it may cause some folks to feel as though they have taken a leap backwards to the days of Kindergarten, it is important to label everything that a band plans to take on the road. Every single cable, every mic, every small piece of gear needs to be labeled in such a way as to deter thieves and misunderstandings with other acts. Even when gear will be packed into travel cases, every component should bear a label.

If the band will be taking its merch table (see Merchandising for the Unsigned Band) the table itself and all accessories need to be labeled with the band's name.