An Illustrated Guide to Mastering Tour Life

ON THE ROAD

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

EXERCISE ROUTINE Find a way to sweat on tour, whether it’s hotel room yoga, amp curls, or jump rope sessions with a microphone cord.

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

PLAN AHEAD Food is fuel, and bad fuel will just slow you down. Remember to take care of your body and nutrition on tour.

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

KEEP A LIST Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. Keep a checklist of your most important items handy so you don’t forget them pre or post-gig.

AT THE AIRPORT

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

GET ORGANIZED Pack your effects, cables, smaller instruments, and accessories in a simple, easy-to-remember layout so you can make airport security a breeze.

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

KNOW BEFORE YOU BOARD Ask to pre-board if you have a big instrument. Also, remember to ask about storing your gear in a plane’s coat closet to avoid checking it.

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

GRIND FROM 30,000 FEET Catch up on overdue emails, prep your backing tracks, arrange your recording files, even write scratch tracks in the air.

AT THE SHOW

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

BE COURTEOUS, BE KIND Get to soundcheck early and be courteous (read: quiet) when others are soundchecking. Also be nice to your sound person and address them by name.

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

BE FAST The faster you load on and off the stage, the faster you'll get to feel confident, like a well-oiled machine. Plus, you get to maximize you time on-stage performing.

Illustration by Lindsay Mound

DON'T WEAR OUT YOUR WELCOME Your performance is just as important as your graceful exit. Load out quickly, don't interrupt other artists' set, and don't be rude.

—Spotify for Artists