There are a few must-have items for truckers. Whether you have long routes that take a few days or you run the same one back and forth every day of the week, these things are handy to keep in the cab with you. 


Trucker Must-Have Item #1: Power Bank


Everyone relies on their cell phones these days. Most of the time it’s just for entertainment, like reading the news, hopping on social media, playing games or listening to music or an audiobook. However, every now and again you rely on your phone for important things like making an emergency call or receiving directions and traffic updates.


What happens if your truck breaks down and your phone is almost dead? Even if you have a charger you can plug into your truck, it may not work if you’re having issues with your rig. That’s where the power bank comes in. 


Since a power bank is essentially a battery, it lets you charge your phone without needing the truck to run. It’s a great thing to keep around in case you need to quickly give your phone more juice. 

Trucker Must-Have Item #2: Hygiene Products

Just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean you need to let your hygiene go out the window. Keep the essentials in your rig. Even if you don’t go on long trips often, it’s great to have around in case you forget to do something in the morning or end up extending your day trip longer than expected.


A few of these essentials to keep around are:


  • Toothbrush

  • Toothpaste

  • Floss

  • Deodorant

  • Toilet paper

  • Shower shoes

  • Clean towel


These are the types of things you may not need 90% of the time. But when you do need them, you’ll be glad you already have them readily available. 

Truck Driver Must-Have Item #3: Water and Non-perishable Snacks

We recommend always keeping a few bottles of water in your car. Even if you prefer utilizing reusable water bottles that are eco-friendly, it’s nice to have extra water bottles around for emergencies. 


As far as snacks go, keep foods that won’t spoil or melt. Things like crackers, non-chocolate protein bars, nuts or meat jerky are great choices. Again, you don’t need to be eating these all the time. In fact, truck drivers have to be careful they don’t eat too much junk food since they’re sitting most of the day, but these are great to have around for emergencies, or if you get stuck in an area without a restaurant close by. 

Trucker Must-Have Item #4: Clothes for Bad Weather

This is going to be more important in the wintertime but can apply in the summer as well. You don’t want to get stuck outside trying to work on your rig in the middle of a storm without some kind of jacket. 


The essentials we recommend are:


  • Umbrella

  • Rain jacket

  • Warm jacket

  • Hat

  • Gloves (2 pairs, warm and rubberized) 

  • Warm socks

  • Extra set of clothes

Trucker Must-Have Item #5: Small Tools and Gadgets

Some truck drivers recommend these items more than anything else. Things happen on the road, so having a few (or all) of these handy can help you get out of a tight spot. 


  • Flashlight (your phone should not be your primary flashlight)

  • WD 40

  • Electrical tape

  • Duct tape

  • Tire gauge

  • Jumper cables

  • Emergency repairs kit


Over time you’ll get a feel for what you need to keep around vs. what is just never needed. While every truck driver's needs are a little different, this short list will help you be prepared for most problems you will face on the road!


Have any questions about trucking essentials? Feel free to contact us!

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