17 Must-Have Items for Semi-Truck Drivers

Your well-being is of the utmost importance. Taking care of yourself and packing items that will keep you comfortable and prepared will improve your job performance, safety and efficiency on the road.

Personal Necessities

• First aid kit: It’s essential to have emergency supplies like band-aids, gauze, antiseptic wipes, eyewash, tweezers and scissors, plus pain relief and antihistamine medication on hand at all times.
• Toiletry bag: Keep these products organized and secure so you can grab what you need without the items rolling around the cab.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays and road glare with a pair of sunglasses. Wearing shades can lower your risk for eye fatigue and headaches too.
• Reflective vest: High-visibility vests help to keep you safe whenever you exit your vehicle.
• Work gloves: A pair of quality work gloves will help you grip the steering wheel and protect your hands from cuts and germs.
• Seat cushion: Whether you sit in the driver’s seat for a short or extended time, you need enough cushioning to support your back and posture.
• Mattress: Getting a good night’s sleep – and even a cat nap when necessary – is essential for safe driving. Invest in a decent mattress so you can relax in the sleeper berth.
• Organizer: An organizational tote keeps your papers, work orders and receipts tucked away, so you can find what you need in a snap.

Electronics and Appliances

• Windshield phone mount: A window mount will keep your phone in your line of sight, so you don’t have to look away from the road to take calls and check directions.
• Outlet charger: Keeping a charger in your cab ensures all your electronic devices have power for the entirety of your trip.
• Slow cooker: These appliances are very useful because you can set up your meal and let it cook while you drive. It also eliminates the need to buy fast food.
• Mini fridge: You’ll need a place to store your leftovers and other perishable items like dairy, fruit and vegetables. Mini fridges come in lots of different sizes to suit your needs.
• Portable vacuum: A clean cab is more sanitary and comfortable. Some smalls vacuums can even plug into the lighter outlet.

Tools and Gadgets

• Truck gauges: Staying on top of your truck’s maintenance improves your long-term efficiency. Tracking your fuel economy, battery voltage and coolant temperature can also prevent a breakdown on the road.
• Tire monitoring system: Maintaining proper tire inflation is a must. Tire monitoring systems take the guesswork out of regulating your air pressure and provide you with updates in real-time.
• Multi-tool: You’ll have several tools in a single gadget, including a knife, screwdriver, file, saw, can opener and pliers.
• Box cutter: You can cut through plastic, tape and other packing materials quickly and safely.

Let Bauer Built Tire & Service address your maintenance needs from bumper to bumper. Schedule commercial service online.