Behind every mile is a driver putting in the time to keep our industry moving. With long days on the road, it’s important to take care of yourself just as you do the truck that carries you through every mile.
For long-haul drivers, time on the road can also mean extended time away from family, friends and the routines of home. Staying connected, getting enough rest, and taking a moment to recharge are all simple ways to support your well-being during longer trips. No matter how many miles are ahead, taking care of yourself should always be part of the journey.
We’ve compiled a few practical tips for taking care of yourself on the road. A little attention to your daily routine can help you stay focused, refreshed and ready for what’s ahead.
Stay Connected
A lot of miles can separate you from home, but they don’t have to keep you disconnected. Make time to call family or friends when you’re parked or check in at the end of the day. A few minutes of conversation can be a welcome way to unwind after a long day behind the wheel.
Make Rest a Priority
When there's always another destination ahead, slowing down isn't always easy. But when it's time to call it a day, give yourself the opportunity to recharge. Find a routine that helps you wind down, make your sleeper comfortable and treat quality rest as an important part of getting ready for the next day's drive.
Get Moving When You Can
Long days behind the wheel mean plenty of time sitting, so look for small opportunities to move throughout the day. Take a quick walk during a stop, stretch before getting back in the cab or spend a few extra minutes on your feet. According to the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), physical activity can help improve sleep, reduce stress, and increase alertness.
A few easy ways to get moving:
• Take a 5 to 10-minute walk during a stop.
• Stretch your legs, back and shoulders.
• Use meal or fuel stops as an opportunity to spend a little extra time on your feet.
Fuel Yourself for the Miles Ahead
What keeps the driver running matters, too. A little planning can make it easier to stay fueled and hydrated throughout the day.
Keep water within reach and pack easy options like fruit, nuts, yogurt, sandwiches or other go-to snacks you enjoy. Planning a few meals or snacks before a longer trip can also give you more options when you’re between stops.
Find what works for you and make it part of your routine, so you’re fueled and ready for the miles ahead.
Make Your Cab Work for You
When your truck is your office and, for many drivers, a home away from home, the details matter. A comfortable, well-organized cab can make a difference during long days behind the wheel.
Start by making the space work for you. Adjust your seat and steering wheel for a comfortable driving position, keep frequently used items within easy reach and create a sleeper setup that gives you a comfortable place to recharge at the end of the day.
Peterbilt also offers a variety of sleeper configurations and comfort features, giving drivers more options to build and spec a truck around how they work and spend their time on the road.
Give Yourself Time to Reset
Long days on the road don’t always go according to plan. Traffic, weather, delays and changing schedules can all be part of the journey.
When you have the opportunity, take a moment to step away from the driver’s seat, clear your head and recharge before the next stretch of highway. A little time to reset can help you come back feeling refreshed and ready for what’s ahead.
And when something is weighing on you beyond a long day, remember that it’s okay to reach out to someone you trust or seek additional support. Taking care of yourself is part of staying ready for the road ahead.
Ready for Every Mile Ahead
Taking care of yourself is just as much a part of the journey as taking care of your truck. Getting enough rest, staying connected, moving when you can and creating a comfortable space behind the wheel are all simple ways to make your well-being part of the everyday routine.
At Ohio Peterbilt, we’re proud to support the drivers who keep our communities and our industry moving. Take care of yourself, enjoy the journey and keep moving forward.
Find the Right Fit for the Road
Ready to make your cab work better for you? Talk with your local Ohio Peterbilt team about available cab, sleeper and comfort options to help spec your next truck around the way you work and live on the road.
Looking for More Driver Health Resources?
The CDC offers additional information and recommendations specifically for long-haul truck drivers, covering topics including staying connected, stress, sleep, diet, exercise and overall health on the road.