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Truck drivers spend downtime with entertainment, communication, personal enrichment, and exercise
. The specific items they carry often depend on their interests and how long they will be away from home.
Electronics and entertainment
- Power inverter: Many drivers install a power inverter to run standard household electronics, including TVs, gaming consoles, and slow cookers.
- TV and satellite: Some drivers carry a small TV or subscribe to satellite TV services designed for trucks to watch shows and movies.
- Gaming system: A gaming system can be a good way to pass the time and connect with other people online during long waits.
- Streaming services: Services like Spotify and YouTube can provide music and videos for downtime.
- Mobile hotspot: This can provide reliable internet access in places without Wi-Fi.
- E-reader: For those who enjoy reading, an e-reader is a compact way to carry a large library of books.
- Headset: A headset enables hands-free calls and communication while driving.
- CB radio: This device allows for real-time communication with other drivers about traffic and road conditions.
- Laptop or tablet: These devices can be used for streaming, staying in touch with family, or pursuing creative projects.
- Portable hobbies:
- Crafts: Many drivers take up creative hobbies like knitting, sewing, drawing, or painting.
- Writing: Journaling or writing stories can be a good way to process the experience of life on the road.
- Music: Some drivers bring a guitar or other instrument to practice while parked.
- Photography: Exploring and photographing unique places is a popular hobby.
- Language learning apps: With an abundance of free time, some drivers use apps like Duolingo or Rosetta Stone to learn a new language.
- Audiobooks and podcasts: These are excellent ways to occupy the mind during long stretches of driving or to wind down during rest breaks.
- Electric cooler or mini-fridge: This allows drivers to bring healthier food and beverages, reducing reliance on expensive truck stop food.
- Portable cooking appliances: Microwaves, slow cookers, and coffee makers are common for preparing meals in the cab.
- Quality bedding: A comfortable sleeping bag, blankets, and pillows are important for restful sleep in the sleeper cab.
- Toiletries and supplies: Personal hygiene items, towels, and hand wipes are essential for staying fresh.
- Workout equipment: Resistance bands, dumbbells, or even a skateboard or scooter can be used for exercise during breaks.
- Outdoor gear: Hikers and campers might carry hiking boots and equipment to explore trails near truck stops.
- Good footwear: A comfortable, sturdy pair of walking shoes is essential for exploring new areas.
- First-aid kit: Always carry a well-stocked first-aid kit for minor injuries.
- Toolkit: A basic set of hand tools, zip ties, and duct tape can help with minor repairs.
- Flashlight: Essential for safety checks and emergencies at night.
- Non-perishable food and water: Keep an emergency supply in case of extended delays or being stranded.
We haul boats and many times we get to our pick up and have to either wait for the marina to get time to load us, or after loading, they have to finish tying things down on the boat, adding more things inside the cabin of the boat, or doing some finishing touches. Then we have to wait for permits and escorts, depending on the size of boat we are hauling. This may take several days alone.