Life on the road takes preparation and planning. You will spend days on your own, and while you are driving for most of the day, there is downtime. Planning ahead will help you make the most of the experience of being an over-the-road truck driver. From supper to showers to sleep, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive list of what you need for life on the road.
Office Supplies:
You might not think of life as a truck driver being remotely related to office work, but there is a component to it. Whether completing your paper copy of a pre-trip inspection, other trip log related paperwork, or signing off on shipping and receiving bills, you will at least need pens. Here are a few other items to consider taking with you:
- Box of pens
- Note pads
- Pocket folders
- Dry-erase marker
- Duct tape
- Super glue
Paperwork:
This paperwork should always be carried on board with you. You’ll need this information if you’re stopped by law enforcement or checking in at a weigh station. Documentation should include the following:
- CDL license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle registration
- All shipping and receiving bills
- ACE and ACI if applicable
- State permits
- Logs
- Long-form physical
- Alcohol and drug testing records
- Special certifications (such as transporting hazardous materials, liquid tankers, or triple trailers)
Personal and Safety Items:
You’ll pack your daily clothing for the duration of your run, but there are some personal and safety items that will usually stay in your truck, largely out of convenience.
- First aid kit
- Sunglasses
- Change container for laundry money
- Waterproof boots
- Safety boots
- Hard hat
- Safety glasses
- High-visibility jacket
- Plastic knee pads
- Work gloves
Meal Supplies:
You can eat all your meals at truck stops and travel centers but that soon eats away at the bottom line. With the right equipment, you can have a homemade meal right in the bunk of your truck.
- Canned food
- Instant or dehydrated foods
- Bottled water
- Toaster
- Microwave
- Small crockpot
- Electric kettle
- Refrigerator
- Fresh food
- To-Go snacks
Hygiene Supplies:
You’ll feel better after a long day by having a hot shower. Fortunately, many of today’s travel centers offer incentive plans that include free showers with a minimum fuel purchase. Stay clean on the road with the following items:
- Toiletries – including soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, nail clippers, and bath towel
- Laundry bag
- Laundry detergent
- Toilet paper
- Baby wipes
Cleaning Supplies:
Keeping your truck clean is a simple way to love your job. When your surroundings make you feel good, you’ll enjoy being there. Keep a stash of cleaning supplies on hand and take the time each day to do a simple tidy and stay on track.
- One-gallon wet/dry vacuum
- Hand broom and dustpan
- Microfiber cloth(s)
- Cleaning solution (water, vinegar, alcohol mix is recommended)
- Small squeegee
- Clorox wipes
- Dish soap
- Heavy-duty trash bags
Electronics:
Know where you’re going, stay connected, and be entertained during life on the road with the right equipment.
- GPS
- Tablet with cellular connectivity (Netflix, Hulu, etc)
- Power inverter
- Phone charger
- Extra 12-volt chargers and cords for backup
- CB radio
- Flashlight
- Headset or headphones
- 12-volt cooler
- DC fan to keep cool on warm nights without running your truck all night
Helpful Tools:
You never know what you’re going to encounter. You’ll soon learn how to be handy with basic tools to correct minor problems when they occur. Whether a jammed-up load strap or a frozen brake, a light bulb replacement, or just cleaning out your trailer, you’ll be covered with these helpful tools:
- Screwdriver (flat and Phillips)
- Crowbar
- Claw hammer
- Hand-held sledgehammer
- Tape measure
- Vice grips
- Pliers (standard and needle-nosed)
- Wire cutters
- Crescent wrench
- Utility knife
- Torque wrenches
- 5th wheel pin puller
- Chains for tires (situational and seasonal)
- Push broom
- Flat-end shovel
It’s a long list, but many items are essential to a smoother life on the highway. After a few weeks, you’ll know what you need and you can add to the list making sure you, and your truck, are equipped for your next journey.
