A Dancer’s Guide to Out-of-Town Auditions & How To Save Money

Traveling for auditions can be both exciting and overwhelming. Navigating a new city, sticking to a tight budget, and dealing with last-minute changes—all while staying focused on your performance—can add stress to an already high-pressure situation. The key? Smart, strategic planning.

Here’s a streamlined guide to help you prepare efficiently and confidently—so you can arrive calm, centered, and ready to dance your best.

1. Gather Key Audition Details

Start strong by collecting all the essential audition details first.

• Location: Venue, address, city
  
  
• Date & Time: Include registration and warm-up windows
  
  
• Dress Code & Materials: Dancewear, headshot, resume, dance photos
  
  

• Audition Schedule: Can you fit in multiple auditions at the same (or nearby) location in one day or weekend?

2. Set a Clear Budget

Audition travel adds up quickly. Estimate your expenses in these categories:

• Travel: Flights, train/bus tickets, gas
  
  
• Accommodations: Hotel, Airbnb, or staying with friends/family
  
  
• Food:  Easy meals, snacks, and coffee shops
  
  
• Local Transportation: Rideshare, public transit, walking
  
  
• Emergency Fund: Add 20% cushion for unexpected costs
  
  

3. Booking Transportation Smartly

Plan ahead to get the best deals and avoid last-minute stress.

Flights

• Domestic: Book 1–3 months ahead for best fares. 
• International: Book 3–5 months in advance for ideal pricing. 
• Avoid the myth of a “best day to buy”—monitor price alerts instead. 

Trains & Buses

• Reserve trains 4–8 weeks ahead, buses 3–6 weeks ahead.

Driving

• Plan rest, food, and toll stops along your route for comfort and timing.

4. Reserve Accommodations Near the Venue

Where you stay impacts your comfort, budget, and commute—book early for peace of mind.

Hotels

• Domestic: Book 2–4 weeks out.
• International: Book 8–16 weeks ahead.

Airbnb

• Great for longer stays or those wanting kitchen access.

Staying with Friends/Family

• A budget-friendly option—just coordinate early and respectfully.

5. Organize Local Transportation

Figure out your rides early to keep things smooth and stress-free.

• Rideshare: Pre-schedule pickups if available in your area.
  
  
• Public Transit: Research routes and schedules in advance.
  
  
• Walking: Best when staying close to the venue—saves money and adds flexibility.

6. Pack Your Audition Essentials 

Make sure you’re fully prepared by bringing the following:

• Audition Outfit + Backup: Choose something that fits the style of the audition and shows you at your best — and always have a spare, just in case.
  
  
• Dance Shoes: Bring all necessary footwear, including any specialty shoes (ballet, jazz, tap, heels, etc.).
  
  
• Warm-Up Clothes: Wear these before the audition to stay warm and ready, then remove them before stepping in front of the panel.
  
  
• Printed Materials: Include multiple copies of your résumé, headshot, and any required dance photos.
  
  
• Cash for Registration Fees: Some auditions don’t take cards or digital payments, so have some cash on hand just in case.
  
  
• Snacks + Water: Keep your energy up and stay hydrated throughout the day.
  
  

• Jet Glue: Make sure to keep it in a mason jar to prevent any accidents!

(For full packing guidance, check our “What to Wear to a Ballet Audition: Dress for Confidence and Clarity” post.)

7. Prepare for Cancellations or Changes

Expect the unexpected by staying informed and flexible with your travel and audition plans.

• Confirm cancellations directly with the audition organizer.
  
  
• Review cancellation policies when booking travel plans—and consider travel insurance.
  
  
• If still in town, turn it into a productive visit: attend classes, explore studios/theaters, or network with local dancers.

8. Cost Saving Measures

There are many ways to save money while doing a long audition season.

• Travel with a friend:  That way you can split hotel rooms and travel costs!
  
  

• Travel Credit Card: A travel card with rewards can be a great way to save a bit extra!
  
  

• Audition Schedule: Can you fit in multiple auditions at the same (or nearby) location in one day or weekend?
  
  

• Pre-Screening: Can you submit a video beforehand to see if they’re even interested?
  
  

• Group Auditions: There are several group auditions like the National Master Audition that allow you to audition for multiple companies in one day. 
  
  

Final Thoughts

A successful audition starts long before you step into the studio. By organizing your travel, budget, and accommodations well in advance—and having a Plan B for unexpected changes—you can walk into every audition confident, focused, and ready to dance your best.

Need help mapping out your season? Use BalletScout to track upcoming auditions, save favorites, and manage your travel checklist—all in one place.

Happy dancing—and safe travels!