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[GraemeC]

Ok, touring on a tight budget.
Transport is very important so stretch to a hire van if you can, if it doesnt have roadside breakdown cover invest in that, AA, RAC or Green Flag you'll be pleased you did (they can get you into a van youve locked the keys into)
If its this time of year then sleeping bags are essential for rear passengers (illegal by the way) and take a hat and gloves. Take a couple of unbreakable flasks, if the venue has tea and coffee facilities you can take some tea and coffee away with you.
Make a list of every possible thing you will need that makes you indipendant of the venue and other bands, leads, extensions, four ways, DI patch leads etc etc etc etc etc etc, and dont forget them at the end of each gig, mark 4ways with the bands name so there is no argument at pack up time, its an idea to mark leads with tape or a coloured cable tie as well.
Prepare in advance of a tour by taking vitamins and take while on the road also, there is nothing worse than a van load of poor sick musicians.
Remember that its false economy to live on supermarket sausage rolls, a decent meal every day or two makes good sense.
A box of baby wipes in your bag is a good idea, if you cant get a proper wash they are better than nothing and your band mates will love you for it, if a band member has very smelly feet, a wipe down every day with surgical spirit can keep the smell at bay, baby powder and fresh socks daily is a must.
If you have an hour or two to spare seek out the local swimming baths, its fun and keeps you clean.
Find the promoter and make yourselves known to him, if you have an arrangement with him regarding fuel money/food/fee get that confirmed as soon as possible, find out running order and stage times and be at the venue well before your due on.
Remember and be super nice to all concerned at the gig, sound guy, promoter, bar staff, toilet cleaner etc etc, they will remember you for being nice....not your music!!
Have fun, make friends, dont get sick, dont fall out...

G...

Sorry forgot....do an itinery and print off a copy for each band member, the driver, and one for the van, list the gig with full address and phone number, the promoter and his mobile number and note any fee and rider details, note also any special loading and parking instructions.

[soundian]

Most of the above posts plus:

One navigator at a time.
Always have one person awake in the front to keep an eye on the driver and stop them drifting off.
Have more than one driver if possible. Failing that, try and get a driver who has nothing more strenuous to do during the gig than man the merch stall.
Travel at night if it's viable.
Listen to traffic reports on the radio so you're aware of any trouble ahead.
Always check your oil,water tyres before you set off, and keep an eye on them.

[Sam L4]

Do drummonds still have the van they let bands use?