Truck Driver Training

I’m sure there are many things that you’d like to take with you during your over-the-road training. The truth is, there’s not much room in those trucks when you try to stuff two people in there. But you can make it work. I’ve listed the things you should bring with you for OTR training…just the necessities. And remember, once you become a solo driver, you can put anything you want in your own truck!

• Clothes – I would pack jeans, shirts (long & short sleeves), socks, underwear, and a sturdy pair of tennis shoes. Make sure to bring enough clothes to last you 7 to 10 days. And if you’re out longer than that, remember, you can always hit up a Laundromat. Plus, you’ll probably wear a pair of jeans more than just one day while you’re out there. Also, you’ll want to bring a jacket with a hood. It’s always nice to have one for when it’s raining or suddenly gets cold. Oh yeah, and sunglasses are a good idea…never know when you’ll be drivin’ into the sunset.
• Toiletries – All of them! Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, comb, towel, make-up for women, etc. When you get a chance to shower, you’ll want to make it count…you’re never sure when you’ll shower next. That’s just the way of the road! Also, it’s a good idea to take along some baby wipes. They’re always nice to have around, just in case.
• Sleeping Materials – Here’s the easy way to do it…if you don’t have one already, get yourself an indoor sleeping bag. Don’t mess with trying to get the right size sheets to fit those beds in the truck. This way, which ever bunk you’re sleeping on that day/night, you can just move your sleeping bag and hit the hay! Oh, and don’t forget to bring your pillow!
• Shower & Laundry Bags – If you just have a couple of small bags to keep these things separate, you’ll be good. Just put all your toiletries in one, and make sure there’s enough room to still fit in a clean change of clothes. And the other’s where you’ll keep you’re dirty clothes. See, so organized.
• Electronics – Cell phone with a charger & headset – better safe than sorry!, a laptop with an air card, if you have one – it’s an easy way to stay in touch with friends and family while you’re away, and any other electronic device you’d like, as long as it’s compact, doesn’t take up too much space, and is easy to store.

So, now you know what you’ll need for your OTR training. But try to pack as light as you can. Once you get in your own truck, you’ll be able to bring along anything you can fit!