Tour Bus Living: A Rolling Home On The Road

Living on a tour bus is an experience that many people find exciting and unique. It can be a great way to travel and perform in different locations without having to worry about accommodation. Tour buses can vary in terms of layout and amenities, but they generally include a front lounge, kitchen or kitchenette, bunk area, and a back lounge. While it can be a fun and convenient way to travel, it's important to be mindful of personal space and privacy, as well as maintaining good hygiene and cleanliness.

Sleeping arrangements: sleep with your head towards the back of the bus, in case of accidents

Sleeping on a tour bus can be challenging, but there are some tips and tricks to help you sleep comfortably and safely. One of the most important rules to follow is to always sleep with your head towards the back of the bus. This is important for your safety in case of an accident. If the bus stops short, having your head towards the back can help prevent serious neck injuries. It's better to risk a broken ankle than a broken neck!

Sleeping arrangements on a tour bus can be quite cramped and tight. Most buses have bunks stacked three high on either side, with little room to sit up or roll over. It can take a few nights to get used to the confined space and learn how to adjust your body to fall asleep. You may also experience swaying or hammock-like movements, especially in the top bunks, depending on the driving style.

To make the most of your sleeping arrangement, bring your own bedding for comfort and peace of mind. Decorating your bunk can also help make the small space feel more like home. A small space humidifier can also help combat the dry air and keep your nostrils fresh.

In addition to sleeping with your head towards the back, there are a few other safety precautions to keep in mind. Always keep your bunk clear of socks and shoes to avoid any unwanted odours. Good earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can help block out the sound of the bus and fellow passengers. Finally, if you're prone to motion sickness, keep a bag in the sink or toilet, just in case.

Bunk alley etiquette: keep quiet, don't knock on closed curtains, and don't touch the thermostat

Living on a tour bus is not a glamorous, constant party on the road. It's more like camping or living in a tiny home with your coworkers. It can be fun, but it's important to establish some ground rules and etiquette for getting along in close quarters.

One of the most important areas of etiquette is the "bunk alley", where people sleep. Here are some tips for maintaining peace and harmony in the bunk alley:

• Keep quiet: Respect your bunk mates' sleep. Avoid loud conversations or playing music or movies out loud. Use Bluetooth headphones instead.
• Closed curtains mean do not disturb: If you see a closed curtain on a bunk, assume that someone is sleeping and proceed with caution. Keep your voice down and avoid knocking unless it's an emergency.
• Don't touch the thermostat: This is a contentious issue. Some people prefer to keep the bunk alley cold to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses. Others may find it too chilly. Instead of adjusting the thermostat, adjust your bedding or clothing to stay warm.
• Keep your bunk tidy: Don't leave your belongings scattered around the bunk alley. Keep your shoes and socks out of the bunk to prevent odours.
• Sleep with your head towards the back of the bus: In the event of an accident, this is the safest position.
• Be considerate: Try to be respectful of your bunk mates' space and privacy. Remember that everyone has different schedules, so keep noise to a minimum when others are sleeping, regardless of the time of day.

Front lounge expectations: share the space, be considerate, and clean up after yourself

The front lounge is the main living space on a tour bus. It's a social space, great for bonding with band members and entourages or hosting friends and family. It's important to be considerate of your fellow bus-mates when using this shared space. If you're alone, go ahead and make phone calls or watch TV. But if your coworkers are with you, hang up the phone and share the TV or stereo.

The front lounge should be kept clean and tidy. Help put things away, wipe things down, and make a note when things need replenishing. Most importantly, clean up after yourself! The bus driver, production coordinator, and your bus mates are not your maids.

The front lounge can be a breeding ground for serious bonding, decompressing together after work, and letting off steam. It's a space to create fond memories with your coworkers, so be considerate and keep the space pleasant and welcoming for everyone.

Additionally, the front lounge is often the designated quiet lounge, while the back lounge is the party lounge. So, be mindful of the volume and keep the front lounge relatively peaceful. Remember, you're sharing a very tight space with your coworkers, so normal roommate etiquette applies, but amplified. Respect each other's space, privacy, and belongings, and always clean up after yourself.

Bathroom rules: no number twos, don't put paper in the toilet, and ask the driver to stop if you need to go

Living on a tour bus is like camping with your coworkers. It's fun, but it's not glamorous. There are some important rules to follow when it comes to using the bathroom on a tour bus.

Firstly, no number twos. The septic maintenance on chemical toilets is costly and frequent, and there's no mains sewage system. If the sewage tank isn't regularly cleaned out, the bus will start to smell unpleasant. It's also a small space, and the movement of the bus can make it difficult to use the toilet.

Secondly, no paper in the toilet. Toilet paper and other waste products should be disposed of in a bin. The septic tank is only for liquid waste.

Finally, if you need to go number one or two, ask the driver to stop at the next available opportunity. Take advantage of truck stops and always be on the lookout for a chance to use a proper bathroom.

If there's no stop in sight, you may have to resort to "hot bagging". This involves using a bag to do your business and then disposing of it in the trash. It's not glamorous, but it's sometimes necessary.

So, if you're living on a tour bus, remember these bathroom rules: no number twos, no paper in the toilet, and ask the driver to stop if you need to go. It's all about respecting your fellow passengers and keeping the bus a pleasant place to live and work.

Packing and storage: bring a small bag for your bunk, and store large luggage under the bus

Packing and storing your belongings efficiently is crucial when living on a tour bus. Here are some tips to maximise space and ensure a comfortable journey:

Packing Strategy:

Firstly, it is essential to pack light and only bring the essentials. The bunk space in a tour bus is limited, so opt for a small bag that can fit in your bunk or under your seat. This bag should contain items you may need easy access to during the trip, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, electronic devices, and chargers. If possible, try to keep this bag under 25 pounds for easier handling and storage.

Additionally, it is recommended to have a separate bag for your bedding and any decorations you may want for your bunk. This helps keep your space comfortable and personal.

Storage Solutions:

For your larger luggage, utilise the storage compartments beneath the bus. These compartments can accommodate bulky items like suitcases and duffel bags. To make unloading easier, consider placing luggage that will be needed first towards the back of the storage area. Clearly labelling your bags is also beneficial, especially if they are generic in design, to avoid mix-ups with your fellow passengers.

Furthermore, if you are travelling with multiple pairs of shoes, it is courteous to store all but one pair under the bus. This helps maintain a tidy and odour-free living space.

Additional Considerations:

When packing, it is beneficial to use compression bags or creative packing techniques to maximise space. Additionally, always be mindful of your fellow passengers and avoid bringing smelly or messy foods on board.

Lastly, remember to be respectful of others' space and keep your personal belongings organised and tidy. Living on a tour bus requires sharing limited space, so maintaining a clean and harmonious environment is essential for everyone's comfort and enjoyment.

Frequently asked questions