Gary ... A number of years ago I was booked to play a wedding in North Carolina ... The people who hired me said I just needed to bring myself, but I convinced them I needed MY kb and mic ... They paid for the oversized luggage (kb) ... We spoke in advance about what I would need for a PA, kb stand etc. and everything I needed was set up when I got to the venue ...
Sometimes good things happen ...
Tony I agree and have done many a gig away from home with no problems gear wise as long as you make the proper calls and arrangements with the venue, client, music store, etc,....