If you ask six different truck drivers what they like to pack while out on the road, you may get a few random answers. Maybe one likes to travel with a portable grill and another with a crockpot. However, there are a few essential items that all truck drivers should pack before heading out on the road.
Here is Hirschbach’s Recommended Packing List:
It’s not enough just to have a t-shirt or two, you should make sure you are ready to go for the whole trip and a little extra. Clothing includes: shirts, pants, undergarments, socks, jacket, sweatshirt or hoodie, and a winter hat.
This one may seem self-explanatory, but you want the right kind of footwear for your route. Whatever you choose should be appropriate for walking on docks and factoring in the weather.
Have you ever tried to do anything without necessary eyewear? I don’t even like to walk down the stairs without my glasses on or my contacts in. Imagine how unsafe it would be if a trucker driver was stranded without glasses or contacts. It could lead to significant safety issues. Pack an extra pair of glasses or contacts to save yourself from this potential predicament.
When it’s cold outside, your hands need protection from the weather.
If you get stranded at night, a flashlight can be great protection.
One of the most important things to do on the road is to stay safe. Having a Reflective Safety Vest can keep you identifiable in the dark. Additionally, it’s required at some shippers and receivers, so you do not want to be caught not able to deliver the load.
Communication is important. Even if you’re on a route, you’ll want to stay connected to your family and friends at home. Beyond that, there are many apps for cell phones that can be extremely useful for truck drivers, such at CAT scale locators and trucking weather and traffic apps.
Proper sleep helps keep us alert during waking hours. Not having proper bedding may make for some uncomfortable sleep.
At the very least, carry some bandages. Even if it’s just for a papercut, you’ll be glad you have them!
No one wants anything bad to happen, but it’s good to be prepared just in case it does. You can create a list of emergency contacts to keep in your truck in case of an emergency where first responders are called. Include allergies, medical conditions and medications so professionals have all the information they need right away. You can laminate the list and keep it in the door pock on the driver’s side!
Conclusion
There are many items that a truck driver can pack when he or she heads out, but some are recommended for everyone, no matter the route. Ensuring you are packing the above items will keep you prepared while on the road. Note, for Hirschbach drivers, you can purchase shirts, jackets, sweatshirts and hoodies, hats, gloves, Reflective Safety Vests and bedding in the company store.