Congratulations! You’ve gotten your first truck driving job. You have a nice shiny new truck… but now what? Here is a list of must-haves every trucker should bring along for a smooth ride.
Personal Necessities
Clothing
From comfortable driving clothes to off duty clothes, it’s important to bring along plenty of options. You’ll also want to keep in mind that the temperature may rise or drop depending on your destination, so pack a jacket as well as a t-shirt to be ready. Having plenty of underwear can’t hurt either.
Weather Gear
Make sure to bring along a raincoat and some sturdy boots for inclement weather. Also, don’t forget to bring along a pair or two of sunglasses for when things get a little bright!
Personal Products
Since you’ll be living in your truck, you’ll want to have everything you need to get through the day. In your overnight bag, be sure to include your toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, deodorant, cologne, and whatever else you use each morning. If you wear glasses, be sure to pack them as well as their cleaning supplies, and contacts if you need them. Don’t forget your shower supplies like shampoo, conditioner, razors and shaving cream.
Cleaning Supplies
Messes are bound to happen, so be prepared with some wet wipes, air freshener, paper towels, laundry detergent, and maybe even a handheld vacuum cleaner.
Comfort Items
Making sure you’re comfortable on the road is crucial, so be sure to bring whatever it is that can make your truck more homey for you. We recommend bringing blankets and pillows you also have at home. Also, some truckers bring a portable toilet so they don’t have to worry about waiting for the next rest stop.
Document Envelopes
This seems like a small detail, but it will make all the difference on the road. Having envelopes to store your license and registration information will be convenient if you ever need them. Also, using manila folders for invoices, shipping information, and expense receipts can keep things organized.
Emergency Gear
Tools
Things are unpredictable on the road, so be sure to bring along your toolbox in case an issue arises. Things you can include are zip ties, pliers, brake cleaner, a hammer, a pocket knife, a flashlight, a screwdriver, a wrench, and a tire pressure gauge. Maybe even bring along chains for your tires when there’s a chance of ice on the road.
Safety Gear
If an emergency presents itself, you might have to step out of your truck at night or in inclement weather. Be sure to have a reflective vest on hand, flares, and cones to make sure other drivers won’t hit you.
Food
Try and avoid stopping at fast food restaurants along the road by packing healthy snacks. Chances are, you probably won’t have a refrigerator on the road, so be sure to bring foods that can last on their own like apples, crackers, peanut butter, meat jerky, and nuts. For meals, aim for easy to make recipes like sandwiches, soup, and salads.
Entertainment & Comfort
It might get boring out on the road, so be sure to bring along some fun items you can use in your spare time. Some options we recommend are books, laptops, tablets, crossword puzzles, activity books, magazines, and newspapers. You might also have a hobby like photography, art, or knitting, so bring along materials for these to keep you occupied.
Bringing these essentials will make the best of your trucking experience. We know there isn’t much room in your truck, so pack smart and bring what seems necessary for you. If you are looking for more tips for your first time, feel free to look around our website or contact us about a training program that would be right for you. Safe travels!
