10 quick tips when going on the road.

1. Try going on tour to different parts of the country, if your band isn't big enough to tour in the cities like San Francisco or New York.  Go to the cities right next to them. If you can't book a show in San Francisco, for example, then book one in San Jose because they have smaller venues and are more willing to book your band for a show.

2. Bring earplugs to save your hearing.

3. Take advantage of good, cheap places to eat while on the road. Get advice from other bands where they tend to eat on the road.

4.  Since you are going to be on the road for a long time, have a membership with the American Automobile Association (AAA). An AAA-plus subscription costs about $80 annually, and provides the member with free towing within 100 miles of the pick-up point.  Considering the vehicle you are driving can vary on its reliability. A couple perks is that you can save gas by calling AAA, they can tow your vehicle to the next destination, and they are there in thirty minutes to help you in your vehicle problems.

5. Make sure your companions are likable and low-maintenance. Traveling with people who complain constantly or just don't care about others can make life on the road even harder. Surround yourself with people who dream about the same aspirations you strive to achieve in your band and life.

6. Don't be selfish on the road since you are going to be surrounded by the same people for a long time. Also make sure you to create some solo time for yourself. Bring your laptop or whatever you need to get your mind off of tour.

7. Do be careful while touring during the danger months of winter; November through March. These months are dangerous because of the amount of accidents people get in because of snow and black ice on the roads. Dealing with car accidents and hospital bills can add up very quickly.

8.  While being on the road you are going to face hard times and good times. Just keep the main focus of why you wanted to start this career. Everyone has to go through some bad times to find the good times. Keeping a positive attitude on your situation will change the attitude of the band.

9. Make sure the stereo in your vehicle works. In order to survive a long drive during all hours of the night you need music to keep your self-awake and entertained.

10. Last but not least get a tour manager to make your life much easier. A tour manager handles tour routing, sleeping arrangements, club owners, your daily schedule, or anything else that needs to be done. When you have a tour manager your main focus is being able to be on the best show you can for you fans.

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