An Aussie’s Guide to the Ultimate Music Industry Adventure!

If you’re in the music industry, NAMM (the National Association of Music Merchants) isn’t just a trade show—it’s Disneyland for musicians, gearheads, and industry pros. It’s where you’ll rub shoulders with legends, discover the latest in music tech, and possibly walk away with an empty wallet but a full heart. As an Aussie, making the pilgrimage to the U.S. for NAMM takes planning, budgeting, and a solid sense of adventure, so let’s break it down!

A Quick NAMM History Lesson (Because Knowledge is Power)

Coffee cup from Focusrite stand NAMM 2025

NAMM has been the heartbeat of the music industry since 1901, but in 2025, it’s bigger and better than ever. Hosted in Anaheim, California (yes, right near Disneyland—coincidence? I think not), NAMM is where companies like Gibson, Fender, Yamaha, Roland, Shure, and Universal Audio show off their latest innovations. It’s also the place where unexpected collaborations happen, deals are made, and where you might casually bump into your music idols while waiting for coffee.

True story, when the coffee shop didn’t put my lid on properly on day one of the expo, walking through the floor and I went to take a sip from the cup only to have it pour coffee all down my cleavage and found two wonderful women who saved me with napkins and a new coffee cup from Focusrite Group, the very company who provides tools that allow me to run this podcast and work from my home studio as a singer-songwriter. Hannah helped me out and was the angel I needed, as she pointed out after the second spill, that the coffee cup was broken. I was grateful to know I hadn’t forgotten how to drink coffee. This is just one example of how kind the attendees and exhibitors were at this year's NAMM show.

I travelled there as a solo Australian singer-songwriter and podcast host of Songwriter Trysts to learn more about the conference, meet fellow friends and artists, and check out the latest trending ideas and equipment in the music industry.

Starting with a few days of expert panels and education seminars in the Hilton hotel—where a lot of the fun kicks off in the lobby—the conference comes alive when the expo doors swing open on Thursday. The hotels are packed, the Starbucks line is long, and everyone is on a mission to connect, share, and promote. Media hubs are buzzing with bloggers and journalists, capturing content, interviewing artists, and helping businesses and creatives collaborate and elevate the industry. Artists are scoring free microphones and guitar sponsorships just by striking up the right conversation with vendors. The energy is electric and overwhelmingly positive.

Of course, there are always the pushy networkers—the ones who shove a flyer in your face or demand a follow on Instagram before even saying hello—but then there are the golden moments. You could get invited to an exclusive rooftop party with an open bar, free food, and merch, all while rubbing shoulders with top industry players. Two extreme approaches to networking—and I know which one left a lasting impression on me! Shout out to Matt from Pantheon and the whole marketing team at NAMM who put on a great show.

Fellow podcast creators from NIW SPACE podcast were a great hang, we ran into each other a lot and plan to collaborate more in the future. Check out their podcast covering their experience at NAMM 2025 here.

Getting There – The Long-Haul Battle

Flying from Australia to L.A. is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a 13- to 15-hour flight from Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne. If you don’t already have a U.S. visa or ESTA, sort that out first because you won’t be boarding without it!

Flight Costs: Expect to pay anywhere from $1,200 to $2,500 return, depending on how early you book and how fancy you want to fly. If you’re a musician travelling with gear, check your airline’s policies on excess baggage—some are generous, and some will rob you blind. I travel with Qantas and have a club pass which allows for extra baggage allowance and club lounge entrance which saves on food and beverage costs while waiting around in airports, it saved me big on luggage costs for this trip so make sure to check out all your options.

Where to Stay – Budget vs. Ballin’

Anaheim hotels know NAMM is a big deal, and prices spike accordingly.

Budget Option: Airbnb or motels outside Anaheim ($100–$200 AUD per night)
Mid-Range: Chain hotels near the convention ($250–$400 AUD per night)
Luxury: Disney resorts or premium hotels ($500+ AUD per night)
I used points to stay at the Marriott hotel through my Qantas frequent flyer program too which helped cover some costs, I always recommend looking into loyalty programs especially if you are travelling frequently like I am.

Pro tip: If you’re rolling with a crew, split an Airbnb—more space, fewer costs, and you get a kitchen to avoid overpriced room service. Alternatively, some rooms have twin share however I did meet some people who’s roommates were loud snorers so make sure to have that conversation before choosing to bunk up with someone just to save some money.

Food & Drink – How to Avoid Going Broke on Burgers

Kitt Wakeley, Sharon Lia, Rick Jannotti, Rae Leigh & Relic Band at a mexican dive bar NAMM 2025

Convention food is notoriously expensive and average at best. Expect to pay $15–$30 AUD for a basic meal inside the venue. If you’re on a budget, grab supplies from a nearby supermarket or hit up In-N-Out Burger ($5 for a legendary burger—worth it). For something fancier, Anaheim has killer Mexican food and steakhouses, so treat yourself at least once! One night after a long day at NAMM my mate two time Grammy winner Kitt Wakeley said we were going out for dinner with Relic, a band from Orlando and Sharon and Rick from ‘Ladies Who Rock 4 A Cause’ and by the end of the night and a numb face from the spicy authentic Mexican food, we were singing as a group Tennessee Whiskey Karaoke while the locals watched on and Kitt hid under the table. A lot of love and great memories were had.

Surviving NAMM – The Essentials

Wear comfy shoes. The Anaheim Convention Center is HUGE, and your feet will hate you if you don’t.
Hydrate. Talking, networking, and running between booths is exhausting—bring a water bottle.
Business cards (yes, still a thing). QR codes and digital contacts are cool, but a card still leaves a lasting impression.
Plan your schedule. With so many performances, workshops, and networking events, you’ll get FOMO fast. Prioritize what you can’t miss!
Stay social. NAMM is as much about connections as it is about gear. The real magic happens at after-parties, hotel bars, and industry dinners. Make the most of it and sleep on the plane ride home.

The Australians even have a networking event at the Marriott during NAMM, so all Aussie attendees can come together to connect and support each other.

Final Thoughts – Is NAMM Worth It?

YES. If you’re serious about music, whether as an artist, songwriter, producer, or gear enthusiast, NAMM is a game-changer. It’s an investment, but the opportunities, inspiration, and connections make it 100% worth the effort.

NAMM is an environment of entrepreneurship and innovation, supporting the entertainment and music industry worldwide. Everyone wants to be successful, and we all want to see the industry thrive while finding our place in it. Yes, we all need money (and sometimes an $8 USD Starbucks coffee to function), but we don’t all need a bright green Lamborghini sitting in the driveway.

With a non-competitive, open, and supportive attitude towards teamwork and community, NAMM is a must for anyone in the music industry. Jump in, get involved, and let the positive vibes take you to the next level of your creative business journey!

See you in Anaheim!