Touring is the ultimate ambition for many musicians. It offers the chance to broaden horizons, diversify audiences, experience new cultures, and revel in amazing experiences wherever you go.
However, the costs and red tape associated with touring make it more difficult for musicians to get on the road. Established acts and up-and-comers both face hurdles, but the challenges for newer musicians are more significant because of their lack of financial and management resources.
Fortunately, in this article we delve into some strategies to help musicians make touring more cost-effective, sustainable and, hopefully, profitable down the line.
Plan and budget wisely
Careful planning and preparation are needed to evaluate the financial viability of a tour before it happens. Thorough strategic planning and budgeting should take account of all costs involved in touring including travel, accommodation, equipment and promotional expenses.
With an estimation of your expenses, you can weigh up your income streams to consider if touring is worthwhile for you from a commercial perspective.
Explore sponsorship and partnership opportunities
Finding ways to offset costs is crucial to make touring more profitable. Identifying sponsorship and partnership opportunities could make a massive difference. Not only can it boost your tour finances, but you’ll create mutually beneficial relationships with partners and stakeholders.
Approach businesses, brands and organisations local to you, or in your touring destinations, to discuss opportunities that could benefit you both.
Leverage crowdfunding and fan support
Another way to raise funds is by crowdfunding. Platforms such as Indiegogo, Kickstarter and Patreon continue to grow in popularity and utilising these could make all the difference when it comes to your bottom line.
Loyal fans are always willing to support the acts they love, so you may be able to benefit from the generosity of your audience. You can repay them with memorable performances and experiences.
Travel, accommodation and transportation hacks
There are ways to save on the necessary costs of travel, accommodation and equipment transportation. Driving your own vehicle is usually the most convenient and cost-effective way if you’re touring domestically. You can take out short-term car insurance if you don’t drive all the time.
Alternatively, public transport is useful if you don’t need to move too much equipment. Ridesharing is also popular for musicians if you’re travelling with other performers. The cost of an iconic tour bus can be negotiated to cater to larger operations. If you’re booking flights, use fare comparison websites and try to be flexible with times and dates.
Accommodation is expensive, so finding cheaper lodging options can be vital. Staying with friends and family is always handy, but homestay platforms are a good option for the odd night here and there. You could go extreme and kit out your vehicle for sleeping if you want to try a more old-fashioned musician experience.
Promotion and merchandise
Maximising your touring income can be done through effective marketing and merchandising. Promoting your tour on social media, event listings and with influencers helps to spread the word and drive ticket sales.
Selling merchandise can generate additional income to bolster your tour finances, and give your fans a chance to take cherished memorabilia home. Use your style and personality to influence your merchandise and your loyal fans will go mad for it.
Making touring more cost-effective is important to ensure that you benefit from the experience, not just your fans. Financial sustainability is important for musicians to keep their operations running for as long as possible. Where are you thinking of touring next?
