Working full-time as a truck driver, it might sometimes feel like you are living in your truck. Because you are frequently spending an extended period of time in your truck far from home, the list of items to take with you can get quite long. To help your trips be as comfortable and safe for you as possible, we have developed a packing guide of ‘must-have’ items for truck drivers. With this guide, we hope that you feel prepared and have peace of mind as you hit the road..

• Window     Cleaner Wipes – Keep a box of window cleaner wipes to clean dirt and     smudges off of your windows and windshield.
• Baby     Wipes/Adult Bath Wipes – With these handy pre-moistened wipes, you can     conveniently wipe your hands and face, or even clean sticky spills or     dirty surfaces in the cab.
• Gloves –     Bring an extra pair of gloves with you to protect your hands. You will     find them helpful when driving or working with your truck, especially     during the cold months.
• Water     Bottle and plenty of water – When you are sitting down and driving for     long hours, it is important to stay hydrated. Although drinking more water     might require more frequent bathroom stops, water is what keeps your body     functioning. It relieves fatigue, improves mood, prevents headaches from     dehydration, and even improves blood circulation.
• Snacks and     Food – pack healthy and balanced snacks to avoid a sugar crash. Protein     bars, fruits (fresh and dried), nuts, canned food, and peanut butter are     some good options.
• Cell     phone, Bluetooth headsets, and charger – Don’t forget the charger!
• Bag of     Shower Supplies and Towels – Bring some of your own as some truck stops     might not have any shower supplies you need. A backpack with straps or a     hanging loop makes showering more convenient.
• Flashlight     – In case you have to go outside of your truck when it’s dark, pack a     working flashlight and extra batteries.
• Medication     / First Aid Kit – Along with a first aid kit, don’t forget to bring your     own medication that you take regularly.
• Toolbox –     Keep a small kit with hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, duct tape, utility     knife, and adjustable wrenches, etc.
• Garbage     Bags – Collect your trash and keep your cab clean and tidy.
• Ice     Cleats/Spikes – For your safety when walking around outside your truck     during winter.
• All     required credentials and documents – Copy of your CDL, proper license with     endorsements, etc. Make sure to check the requirements with your employer.
• Picture of     Your Family – Remember that your family is always thinking of you and     cheering you on!

Consider putting together an organized box of items that always stays in the truck or is easy to grab before each trip.  That will make leaving for each route a little faster and less stressful.

Some of these items might be for your convenience, but many of them are for your safety. Even if your route is short, it is still a good idea to pack all the essentials because unpredictable emergencies and weather conditions happen. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared!

Click here to download and/or print the packing list.