Essential Items Every Truck Driver Needs On the Road

Aside from your commercial driver’s license (CDL), proof of insurance, and any other legally required paperwork, there are many items that truck drivers find imperative to living on the road. 

Toiletry items every trucker needs

Shower Shoes

If you’re like most truckers, you’ll want to be able to use the shower facilities that various truck stops offer. Keeping a pair of shower flip-flops in your toiletry bag will help you avoid athlete’s foot and other foot-specific fungal infections and diseases. 

Hygiene Basics

It may seem obvious, but if you’re truck driving, you’ll need to bring things like your toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, floss, and any other items you usually use at home when getting ready for the day.

Toilet Paper

You’ll be using truck stop and rest stop bathrooms, and unfortunately they won’t always be well-stocked with the essentials. You’ll be grateful to have extra toilet paper with you.

Safety gear truck drivers need

Work Gloves

Keep your hands protected while you’re on the road by keeping a pair of sturdy work gloves in your truck. Any time you’re working on your truck or handling freight, you should always wear protective gloves. 

High-Visibility Vest

Another important piece of protective equipment that you need to always have with you is a high-vis safety vest. If you’re out of your truck when it’s dark outside, you should always wear something to make sure other drivers can see you. This is especially true if you have to pull to the side of the road and stop in a non-designated parking area. 

Road Flares and Cones

If your big rig breaks down, or if you need to stop on the side of the road for any reason, road flares and cones will help keep you and other motorists safe. 

Other items semi truck drivers need to carry

Emergency Supplies

There are a variety of supplies you’ll want to carry in your truck in case of bad weather conditions or a mechanical issue that sidelines your route. In addition to an emergency kit, you’ll want to have a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, extra clothes, extra medications, and other items you would need if you get stuck on the road unexpectedly. 

Cleaning Supplies

You’ll want to carry any cleaning supplies you need to keep your cab clean and tidy. This is especially true if you’re traveling with a pet. Cleaning wipes, a handheld vacuum, trash bags, paper towels, microfiber cloths, and dish soap are all good cleaning items to have on hand in case of a sudden mess. 

Office Supplies

As a truck driver you will fill out lots of paperwork. It’s a good idea to have a stash of pens, note pads, pocket folders, paper clips, and any other office supplies you usually use. 

Electronics

You’ll need your cell phone, cell phone charger, and a mount for your phone (especially if you use it for navigation). If you want to watch TV or enjoy movies while driving OTR, a portable TV, tablet computer, or laptop will also be valuable to have with you. Many truck drivers also bring e-readers on the road to help them pass the time.