Touring as an independent artist is hard. To add to that, finances can be a huge puzzle with several pieces that may not fit nicely in your budget. In order to make a profit or at least break even, you have to start out with a budget and have some idea of how much your expenses will be ahead of time.
It’s no secret that a major pull on expenses is lodging. Where you will stay can make or break your budget. Making the right lodging choices will help minimize the financial load on your traveling.
When I start looking for places to stay I usually start with AirBnB (this is an affiliate link, click on it and you will receive $40 off your first trip from me). You can save over 50% in lodging costs just by using AirBnB instead of traditional hotels. If you’re trying to book an entire tour, this is one area that can make a huge difference.
My husband, Rob (who also does percussion) and I have stayed at many AirBnB places over the past few years and we have had some great experiences. The most eloquent one of all was when we stayed in D.C. We stayed at a very beautiful two story modernized home with a double head shower and best of all, it was really close to the monuments.
We have met so many friendly welcoming people during our travels. If it weren’t for AirBnB, we would have never had the pleasure of meeting these folks.
The cost of staying at an AirBnB is anywhere from $20 to somewhere in the thousands depending on where you stay. It can be very economical if you are just looking to crash on a couch or floor as a lot of traveling musicians do.
How to kill it at AirBnB?
Be sure to study the pictures of each listing you’re interested in. Pictures can tell you a lot. Don’t just look at what they’re showing, but pay attention to what they’re not showing. Does the bathroom look clean and modern enough to your liking? Is the sleeping area comfortable looking? Also, be sure to look at the reviews. Feedback from previous guests can tell you a lot about the space and you’ll get a pretty good feel if it’s compatible with what your needs are. I try to look for spaces that include a private bathroom because I’d rather not have to share a bathroom with other house guests or the host.
One caveat to staying at some of these places is that you never really know what you are going to get. Pictures can be deceiving and anybody can list their place on the website. This means that your host could be legit or could be 10 degrees less than scrupulous. Always be careful when booking. There is an option to contact the host on the site. Use it to introduce yourself, what you’re planning on doing and ask if their place is available. Usually, they will come back with a response. Use your discernment when interacting with them. Look up the part of town they are in. If you get any bad vibes choose another host. It can be the difference between a good experience and a really bad experience.
During your stay, pay attention to the house rules. They are often posted somewhere in the house or on your itinerary. Follow the rules as best you can. Be neat and courteous to your hosts. The great thing about AirBnB is that it is a community. In the same way, you can leave feedback about your hosts, they can also leave feedback about you. Be mindful of that during your stay.
All in all, AirBnB could be a great way to save money while traveling. Give it a shot!
Get $40 Off your first trip by clicking here.
Check Out Our Tour Series
Save Money on Tour with AirBnB
How to Break Even or Turn a Profit on Your Music Tour
The Fool-Proof Guide to Filling Empty Tour Dates
5 Benefits of Touring as an Independent Artist
A Tour Planning Checklist for Touring Artists
A Sample Tour Budgeting Spreadsheet: Free Download
How to Book a Music Tour with No Experience
Have you stayed with an AirBnB host? What was your experience like? Post in the comments section and share your tips with The Crafty Musician Community.
