As a traveling bartender, there will be instances where the event you’re working for is poorly equipped with the things you need. It’s essential always to come prepared in situations like that to impress your employers and gain a good reputation among the traveling bartender world.
Things You Need in Your Bartending Bag
Muddler. These are tall and thick metal or wooden pestles that you use to express the oils and flavor of ingredients. If you don’t bring one with you, you can always use alternatives like wooden spoons or the end of a bar spoon.
Grater. This a kitchen tool that can shred hard and solid ingredients to fine pieces. You have to be careful with how you store this in your bag, as you could end up cutting yourself when you take it out.
Chef’s Knife. This is a large cutting knife, be sure to store this with a protector, or you could seriously hurt yourself and destroy your bag.
Wine Key. Having a bottle opener ready for action is essential for any bartender. Keep it in an easy-to-reach area of your bag for fast access.
Channel Knife. If you’re looking for a precise way to create your dainty orange spirals, this tool will get that job done. It can peel thin pieces of orange rind.
Shakers. The best shaker to travel with is the two-tin Boston shaker. It’s sturdy and easy to use compared to other shakers.
Mixing Glasses. Some cocktail recipes require a more gentle and calmer approach which can only be achieved by mixing glasses. For traveling, materials like Pyrex or metal may be suitable since they’re durable enough for rough journeys.
Coffee Press. When a party is starting to die down, guests tend to ask for coffee. The caffeine usually helps people sober up and remain alert for their drive home. A regular coffee press may be too large for your bar bag. Luckily, travel presses are a thing you can use.
Measuring Cups. Some cocktails are made with a blender, and you need the correct measurements to create a delicious cocktail.
Jigger. This can be used for tricks and measuring liquor correctly. The standard jigger should measure 1.5ml and 3ml, but you can also pick a jigger with measuring lines.
Cutting Board. Keeping a small cutting board is helpful; this will protect your assigned table or booth from your sharp blade.
Bitters Bottles. Novices are not aware of what goes in a cocktail. Most people assume that it’s just liquor and fruit. They’re not aware of the intricacies of what syrups and bitters can do to enhance the cocktail’s flavor.
Ice Scoop. Drinks require ice to be refreshing, but it’s not a guarantee that the event will equip you with ice scoops. Ice tongs are okay, but if a recipe requires a considerable amount of ice, the scoop is the way to go.
Pour Spouts. Events may equip you with liquor, but they do not come with pour spouts. To make cocktails clean and smooth, you’ll need to attach a pour spout for a steady stream of liquor. There is also a trick to measure alcohol by counting your pours.