Eating Right on the Road: Musicians' Touring Diets and Choices

When traveling as a musician, the diet can vary widely based on several factors, including availability, personal preferences, and dietary restrictions. However, maintaining a balanced diet despite the challenges of life on the road is crucial for both physical and mental performance. In this article, we explore the common food choices and how musicians manage their nutrition while touring.

Quick and Easy Options

On tour, time is often limited, and access to cuisine can be unpredictable. As a result, quick and easy food options are popular among musicians. Some of the common choices include:

Sandwiches and Wraps: These are easy to prepare and enjoy on the go, making them a favorite among busy bands. Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, trail mix, and protein bars are popular for quick energy boosts. These items are convenient and can be consumed in between rehearsals or performances.

Healthy Choices

Despite the need for convenience, many musicians prioritize their health by including nutritious options in their diet:

Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh fruits, baby carrots, and hummus are commonly packed for healthy snacking. These items provide essential nutrients and can help maintain energy levels during long hours on the road. Salads: When available, many musicians opt for salads to maintain a lighter meal. They are refreshing and satisfying, especially after long performances.

Local Cuisine and Comfort Food

Touring often allows musicians to try local foods, which can vary widely based on regional specialties. Some groups incorporate these dishes into their diet, as they offer a welcome change from standard fare. Meanwhile, comfort foods like pizza and burgers are frequently consumed, possibly as a reward after long shows:

Local Cuisine: Musicians often seek out local foods when stopping in different cities, exploring regional specialties. Comfort Food: After long performances, pizza, burgers, and other comfort foods are frequently consumed for a treat.

Meal Preparation and Hydration

Meal preparation plays a significant role in maintaining a balanced diet while touring. Many bands hire a tour chef or prepare meals in advance to ensure they have nutritious options available:

Meal Prep: Hiring a tour chef or preparing meals in advance ensures that the band has access to fresh and healthy food. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial during long tours. Water, sports drinks, and sometimes coffee or energy drinks are staples on the road.

Challenges and Adjustments

While the aforementioned options can be helpful, touring musicians often face challenges related to navigation and budget. Here are some common issues:

Promoter-Determined Backstage Options: Promoters often decide what food is available backstage, frequently resulting in pizza or sandwiches. For vegan or allergy-conscious members, these options may not suffice. Frugality and Indulgence: Some bands manage costs by minimizing food expenses, while others, especially those with a regular income from touring, allocate funds for better food options.

Younger musicians, particularly those in their early 20s, may live off a diet of beer and convenience store food, but this becomes unsustainable as they age. The allure of quick and cheap options fades quickly, and maintaining nutrition becomes a priority.

Strategies for Success

To ensure that the band stays healthy and performs at their best, several strategies can be employed:

Pre-Pack Coolers: Packing fresh veggies and healthy snacks in a cooler for the road can help maintain a balanced diet when fast food is not an option. Occasional Splurges: Finding decent food once in a while, even if it stretches the budget, can be a morale booster for the band. A change of scenery and a taste of local cuisine can also be a refreshing break from routine. Meal Timing: Avoiding big meals within three hours of a show is essential. Opting for light snacks or no food at all can help prevent gastrointestinal discomfort during performances. Minimizing Spicy Dishes: While some foods may be loved for their flavor, spiciness should be avoided before a show to ensure comfort and performance.

In conclusion, touring musicians must navigate the challenges of varied diets, strict dietary restrictions, and budget constraints to maintain their health and performance. By implementing strategies such as pre-packaged meals, meal prep, and occasional splurges, musicians can enjoy the joys of touring without compromising their health.