As a trucker, you never know how long you may be on the road, a few days, weeks, or months. Being away from friends and family is a given in this profession, coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been even more challenging as truckers have been working tirelessly to keep the essential supply chains moving.
Regardless of the length of your trip, being prepared with everything you need to take care of yourself and your vehicle on the road is essential. But what exactly should you pack? Some things may be obvious, while others could be easily overlooked like
reasons commercial truckers should have a dashcam and insurance.
Let’s look at the essential items for a truck driver supply kit and learn more about semi-truck insurance.
What is a Truck Driver Supply Kit?
A truck driver supply kit includes the essential items truck drivers need when on a road trip to their destination and back home.
They include:
1. Duty/Off-Duty Clothes
While truckers may not have to wear a uniform, you should look professional and feel comfortable on the job.
You should pack these items:
Jeans
T-shirts
Shorts
Jogging pants
Button-up or polo shirts
Off-duty clothes should also be comfortable, breathable, nonrestrictive, and appropriate for the season and the areas you'll be traveling through.
Other clothing items to consider are:
Jacket: Even if you're not going to be in a cold climate, an unexpected change in altitude can quickly change your comfort level.
Shoes: Most drivers have a preferred driving shoe, so pack jogging shoes, shower shoes, and sneakers for off-duty to keep your feet protected and comfortable.
2. An Emergency Trucker’s Kit
As a truck driver, you should be ready for any emergency. While most trucking companies require semi truck insurance Iowa and other states, emergency supplies in the truck are always a good idea.
Here are some items you should consider having in your emergency kit:
Road cones or flares
An emergency triangle kit
Tire chains for unexpected ice/snow
Dashcams for truckers
Thermal underwear, rain jacket, and other items to keep you shielded in all weather conditions
First aid kit
Remember, safety should always be your top priority on the road.
3. Hygiene Trucker’s Kit
Don't just settle for throwing a beard trimmer and a toothbrush in your cup holder before hitting the road. You should prioritize your health and hygiene, so consider putting together a few kits.
They include:
Shower Kit: You never know where you'll end up taking a shower, so stock up on bar soap, body wash, shampoo, and anything else you need to wash off the stink of being on the road all day.
Grooming Kit: Keep yourself looking and feeling your best with brushes, combs, nail clippers, and of course, that beard trimmer we mentioned before.
Overnight Kit: Include basics like toothpaste, toothbrush, mouthwash, floss, body spray, deodorant, or your favorite cologne.
4. Drinks, Food, and Snacks
When you're on the road and truck stops and restaurants are closed or have restrictions, you should have a good supply of drinks, food, and snacks to eat better and minimize stops during the trip. One option is to prepare make-ahead meals like sandwiches and soups or take-and-make options if you have a slow cooker on board.
This way, you can bring a little taste of home and have a hot meal ready. Non-refrigeration foods and snacks are also great because truck refrigerators are only so big. Bananas, apples, trail mix, beef jerky, peanut butter, bread, and other protein snacks can fill you up without taking up too much space.
Finally, stay hydrated with water. While energy drinks and coffee can help you stay alert, it's important to remember that your body needs water. So make sure to pack plenty of water bottles for your trip.
5. Electronics for Play and Work
When you're on the road, your smartphone and CB radio are essential for staying connected with loved ones and the rest of the world. But that shouldn’t stop you from having a little fun! One great way to enjoy your drive is by listening to music. When relying on the radio only, you can miss out on great road tunes.
Consider investing in a system with a CD/MP3 player, a remote control, and the volume controls you need to crank up your favorite songs and sing along as loud as you please.
Aside from music, it's crucial to have reliable communication tools like dashcams.
With your trusty GPS device, maps, and atlas, consider upgrading your CB radio to handle all your communication needs with your company and the rest of the trucking community. This way, you can stay connected and informed while on the road.
While many things make an essential truck driver supply kit, it’s paramount to have commercial truck insurance.
Where Can I Get the Best Commercial Truck Insurance?
When looking for commercial truck insurance in the United States, look at We Shop 10. We shop for you and get the best price at affordable rates combined with auto and home insurance if you want a package deal. You should always have the best essential items for a truck driver supply kit with semi-truck insurance.
To find your new commercial truck insurance policy, call or contact We Shop 10 today and unlock a new world.