What would it be like to be an over-the-road (OTR) truck driver? Living on the road, driving for hours, experiencing other parts of the country—it’s exciting and challenging at the same time. Get a look at the daily life of a of an OTR truck driver to see how to make the road home. We break down everything from truck driver essentials to how to keep a healthy lifestyle.
Truck driver essentials
Your truck is your second home, so you want your truck to feel comfortable and homey. Here’s what to bring for your life on the road:
- Cooking supplies. If you don’t want to eat out every night, bring a camping grill (or maybe your truck even has a microwave). Don’t forget plates, utensils, spatulas, etc.
- Hygiene supplies. Shower flip-flops are a must if you don’t want to go barefoot in truck stop showers! Soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste…anything you use at home, you’ll want in your truck.
- Homey supplies. Got a homemade quilt like our driver Robin does? Love your pillow? Bring anything that will help you feel relaxed and at home. Even pictures of your family or a favorite piece of artwork.
Life of an OTR truck driver
The life of an OTR truck driver has unique opportunities. Truck drivers see everything from moose to the wienermobile®.
Over-the-road (OTR) drivers see lots of different scenery—from mountains to cities to coastlands.
Your route may change, but if you work for a good trucking company, they’ll do everything they can to accommodate you for any inconvenience the change has caused. Many OTR drivers are gone for weeks at a time, but some companies (like us!) make sure you’re home every week, if thats what you prefer.
Truck driver stress
It can feel stressful driving a truck. You have highways to navigate, deadlines to meet, loads to deliver and other drivers to share the road with. But there are countless things you can do to minimize truck driver stress and make your trips fun and comfortable. Like:
- Get plenty of sleep—it’s amazing how refreshed you’ll feel with a good night’s rest.
- Eat healthy. Try to skip the fast food and opt for things like eggs, fruits, whole grains, veggies and real meat. Many truck stops and restaurants carry healthy options. Plus, you can cook in your truck.
- Listen to music or podcasts. They’re entertaining, educational—or both!
- Add enough padding in your day to park at Plan B (or C or D) if all parking spots are full at Plan A.
Ready to Drive for Midwest?
Contact our Driver Employment Specialists today or call 920-462-5037!
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