How to keep your gear safe at gigs and on the road
Learn how to keep your music gear safe during gigs and tours with practical tips, from using locks and tracking devices to smart packing and unloading strategies.
For any artist or musician, having your gear stolen is one of the most devastating things that can happen. To help you avoid this nightmare, here are some practical tips to ensure your equipment stays safe while you’re on the road or at gigs.
Stick with your gear
Just like at the airport, never leave your gear unattended. Most thefts are opportunistic and often happen during vulnerable moments like loading in and out of venues. (This has happened to me, we had an acoustic guitar stolen from our car loading into a venue)It’s worth making a habit of always having someone stay with the gear. If you’re transporting things into a venue, assign a bandmate or friend to stay with the vehicle until everything is safely inside.
Use locks
Deterrents are your best defense against theft. Invest in sturdy combination locks for your cases to avoid the hassle of misplaced keys. A locked case immediately makes your equipment less appealing to would-be thieves.
Keep your equipment hidden
If possible, store your equipment in a part of your vehicle that isn’t visible, like the covered boot of a car or the back of a van without windows. If that’s not feasible, use blankets or sheets to cover your gear. This serves a dual purpose: it cushions your equipment during transit and keeps valuables out of sight.
Pack smart and concisely
Loose, unorganized equipment is not only a hassle to transport but also vulnerable to accidental damage. Streamline your gear by bringing only what’s necessary and investing in efficient storage solutions, like double gig bags for guitars or durable cases like Pelican cases. Compact packing reduces the number of trips you need to make, minimizing the time your gear is exposed.
Use tracking devices
Devices like AirTags can be invaluable if your gear is lost or stolen. Hide the tags in inconspicuous compartments of your cases or secure them directly to your equipment to prevent them from falling out. A tracking device can assist in recovering your gear especially if an airline misplaces your bag.
Unload your gear overnight
This is non-negotiable. Never leave your gear in a vehicle overnight, no matter how tired you are after a gig or a long drive. Vehicles are prime targets for theft, and gear left unattended is especially vulnerable. I would say this is the most common case when gear is stolen so don’t let it happen to you.
Be inconspicuous
As tempting as it might be to decorate your van with band logos or stickers, this can make your vehicle an easy target. Flashy luggage or branded cases can also signal to potential thieves that expensive gear is inside. Keep your vehicle and equipment as nondescript as possible. This doesn’t mean you can’t customize your cases with ribbons or luggage tags so to make it easily identifiable to you.
Photograph your gear and document serial numbers
If the worst happens, having detailed photographs of your gear—including any unique modifications—and keeping a record of serial numbers could help make recovery much easier. It’s also helpful for insurance claims if needed.
By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft and ensure that your gear remains safe. A little preparation goes a long way – remember it’s all about prevention – in protecting the tools of your craft, so stay vigilant and take these precautions seriously.