Life as a new truck driver can seem a little daunting, but it's the perfect time to soak up all the advice you're given from veteran drivers, as well as start new good habits to make your new over-the-road life a positive experience.

Trip plan

When you get your pickup or delivery information, start planning your route. Think about where you can fuel up and where you will be sleeping. Look at alternate routes in case there is an emergency or huge backup. Make sure you are packed with essentials for your trip; consider making a packing list so you don’t forget anything. And always complete your pre-trip inspection.

Make food in your cab

Relying solely on eating out for your meals and snacks is not healthy, (or budget-friendly,) especially when you are going to be sedentary for long stretches of time. Invest in equipment like a RoadPro 12-Volt Portable Stove, Roaster, or Frying Pan, and plan your meals before your trip. Alternatively, consider a power inverter that will allow you to use household appliances with AC power. Meal-prepping and opting to cook your own food can save you time and money.

Listen to advice

There are many truckers with years of experience who would be happy to share advice. Ask questions when you need help and introduce yourself to others in the industry when you have the chance. If you’re able to, find a mentor you will know you can always turn to. Consider joining Facebook Groups (like our RoadPro Driver’s Lounge) and attending truck shows to meet others.

Consider how you will pass the time

The road can get boring quickly if you don’t plan how you will pass the time. Obviously, your focus needs to be on the road, but there are secondary things you can do to help yourself stay awake and engaged.

If you like reading, invest in a subscription, like Audible, that will give you access to audiobooks. If you like listening to music, create playlists ahead of your drive that will keep you pumped. If listening to people talk is better for your awareness, find podcasts and download multiple episodes before your drive in case you lose signal.

Learn your truck

Take the time to get familiar with your truck inside and out. Always do your pre-checks and take that as an opportunity to further learn your vehicle. The more you become familiar with it, the quicker you will be able to recognize when something isn’t right.

Practice backing up

Backing up is an essential part of the job, and it takes practice to master this skill. Whenever you can try backing up, do it, even if it might be easier not to. Practice in multiple scenarios so you will be ready for any parking situation.

Stay active

It’s hard to find the time and energy to exercise on the road, but your body will thank you in the long run if you make movement a priority now. Make the most of your rest periods and take even just five minutes to be active. Walk around your truck a few times, do some basic stretches, or do a small jog to get your blood pumping.

Consider getting a membership at a gym like Planet Fitness. They have locations across the country, and you can utilize their showers, massage chairs, and other facilities to recharge.

There are also stretches and movements you can do in your cab to keep your body feeling good. Visit Mother Trucker Yoga for movement ideas that fit easily into a trucker's lifestyle.

Take care of your mental health

Your physical health isn’t the only thing that matters. Trucking can feel isolating and stressful at times, and it’s important to have a plan to help you combat those feelings when they arise.

Practice meditation. It doesn’t have to be long, but taking a few moments a day to breathe and clear your head can change everything. Stay connected with those you love while you’re on the road by regularly checking in when you can.

Find hobbies you can do in your cab when you’re not driving that bring you joy, like journaling, playing video games, reading, or coloring – don’t just doom scroll on your phone.

Properly load and unload

Trucks that are loaded poorly cause more vibrations, create unbalanced riding conditions, and create driver fatigue for long distances. For a safe and improved cab experience, the loads need to be balanced and secure.

Make sure the weight is evenly distributed across the trailer and properly secured. Loading with the unloading process in mind will also make the entire process easier later. It will make your time at the docks and delivery sites quicker.

Invest in a CB

You need a CB. It’s the best way to stay connected to other truckers driving the same paths as you and keep informed on what’s happening in real time on the road. You can get updates about backups, accidents, road closures, weather conditions, and more that will not appear on any GPS systems or your cell phone. There are many different types of CB microphones available. We recommend a RoadPro, RoadKing, or Astatic 4-Pin CB Microphone. CB radios and accessories are available in many travel centers including mics, antennas, cables, and more.

The most important thing to remember is to enjoy the ride. If you take a positive approach to your new career and are willing to learn and work hard, you will go far.