What To Take On the Road As An Owner Operator: Personal Hygiene and Clothing (and Extras)

It can be hard to figure out what you should and shouldn’t take out on the road. Even if you just go for a short drive, something can happen that delays your trip. Then, there are the long-term trips. You may spend weeks on the road, with only a small amount of space to store things. Lucky for you, there are plenty of stops along the way so that you can restock up on your favorite snacks and beverages. 

So, what should you take along with you? 

Extra clothing. You are going to want to have plenty of extra clothing along, including socks and underwear. Extra shoes can also be helpful. You also need to think about the weather where you are going. You may need to pack some jackets, raincoats, and even winter boots, depending on your destination. You may want to grab thermal clothing that can go under your regular clothing to keep you as warm as possible. Sunglasses are also necessary when the sun gets in your eyes. 

A bag for when you can take a shower. You should never forget to bring along shampoo, conditioner (if needed), and soap so that you can stay clean when you are on the road. Don’t forget towels so that you can take a proper shower! 

Even if you aren’t able to shower, you may want to pack some baby wipes to help keep certain parts of your body as clean and good smelling as possible. You don’t want to forget your deodorant, either. If you like to shave regularly, you can’t forget your razor and shaving cream. 

Don’t forget your toothbrush and toothpaste. Just because you are on the road doesn’t mean that your dental health suffers. Make sure that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, like you would if you were home. 

You may also want to keep a First Aid Kit handy. If you cut yourself, you are going to want to be able to clean it and put a bandage on it before you have blood all over your truck. You may also want to keep some medications handy, for whatever may happen. Medications for headaches and stomachaches are necessary to keep you on the road as long as possible. 

Some truckers like to keep some canned food as spares, just in case you get stranded somewhere. A few cans of fruit or beans will fill you up if you find yourself stuck on the side of the road for an extended period of time. 

Chargers are also commonly forgotten. If you want to keep your cell phone charged, as well as some other things (like a rechargeable flashlight), you are going to need to bring the chargers along! Another thing to remember is that you shouldn’t let the power get too low in them, just in case. You should make sure that they are at least half full most of the time, just in case you lose power in your truck 

You should also keep a written list of the important phone numbers. This should include your house number, your spouse’s number, along with other family members that should be contacted if something happens to you. If you have a medical condition, your doctor should also be on the list. 

It can be hard to pack when you are first heading on the road. You don’t have a lot of space, so you have to pack lightly. You should have extra clothing, and you need to consider where you are going. You may need a winter or raincoat, along with proper shoes. It helps to pack supplies to take a shower or even just wipes to keep yourself clean. Don’t forget your charger! 

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David Ott

David Ott