The internet might have changed the music industry — both for better and for worse — but no digital delivery system will replace the kind of fierce energy that comes from touring the country with your band. What is the best vehicle for taking your band on tour? This post will answer your questions.

Things to Look For

First, you need to have some idea of what to look for in a touring vehicle. Ideally, you’ll want something that: 

• Can comfortably haul your band and all your gear.

• Gets decent gas mileage so you’re not spending all your hard-earned cash on fuel.

• Is reliable enough to carry you to your destination and won’t leave you stranded. 

• Is easily securable, both to protect the vehicle and your gear. 

• Offers an affordable cost, because new bands aren’t made of money. 

Now that you know what you’re looking for, read on to find some of the best options for touring vehicles.

Below, we’ll classify your options for touring vehicles into four categories — SUVs, cargo vans, conversion vans and hybrids:

When it comes to touring vehicles, SUVs are often the easiest to get your hands on and will do the least amount of damage to your image. Look for something that will comfortably fit your entire crew and your gear. You might even want to consider investing in a cargo container for the roof if you can’t make everything fit in the cargo area. 

Cargo vans are a popular choice these days because they’ve got a ton of room and are pretty comfortable. You can customize them to meet your needs, and you can usually find them for affordable prices. They’re a popular choice for commercial fleets, meaning you can find used options in optimal condition for a fraction of the cost of buying something new. 

They might look a little goofy, but conversion vans are another great option for touring vehicles. Try not to get one that’s older than you are, or you could end up spending just as much money on repairs as you did on the van. Again, space and comfort will be your primary concerns. These vehicles don’t get great fuel economy, though, so prepare to stop often to refill your tank. 

If fuel economy is your primary concern, then opting for a hybrid will be your best choice. On average, a hybrid like the Toyota Prius can travel more than 50 miles per gallon. You might end up paying a bit more initially, but if you’ll spend a lot of time driving from coast to coast, you’ll make your money back in no time.

Whether you’re investing in a cargo van or cramming as many people into your old Toyota Camry as possible, the most important thing to remember is to stay safe while you’re on the road. And of course, rock on!

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