At Ohio Peterbilt, we understand that success on the road starts with the right tools. These truck driver essentials keep you safe, comfortable, and ready for anything, whether you’re running regional routes or hauling cross-country.
Trucking-Specific GPS
A commercial truck GPS is built for your world: it accounts for low bridges, axle/weight limits, and truck-approved routes. Look for real-time traffic, weather overlays, and points of interest for truck stops and service.
CB Radio for Real-Time Road Intelligence
Smartphones don’t replace the driver-to-driver network. A quality CB radio keeps you in the loop about accidents, speed traps, closures, and hazards. It can be a lifeline where cell coverage drops. Pair it with a reliable antenna for range.
Ergonomic Seat Support
Long hours demand lumbar support, adjustable armrests, and proper cushioning. Small upgrades like a memory-foam cushion or lumbar bolster can help reduce fatigue, improve posture, and help you stay sharp.
Our recommendation: Seat Inc. Legacy
• High-Back Dura Leather Seat: Premium comfort and durability.
• Integrated Air Suspension: Smooth ride across all road conditions.
• Ergonomic Support: Minimizes driver fatigue for long-haul and vocational use.
Sleep Setup
Quality rest is non-negotiable. A compact sleeping bag, warm blanket, and supportive pillow make sleeper berths more comfortable and keep you fresh for the next shift. Even if your truck isn’t equipped with a sleeper, having these essentials on hand ensures comfort during unexpected delays or layovers.
Hygiene Kit
Pack travel-size essentials such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap, along with hand sanitizer and wet wipes. Staying clean isn’t just about health; it’s about looking professional at pickups, scales, and delivery points.
Roadside Emergency Kit
Breakdowns can happen even to well-maintained equipment. Keep a kit with:
• Reflective triangles or LED flares
• First-aid supplies
• Fire extinguisher
• Heavy-duty flashlight + spare batteries
• Jumper cables
• Tire pressure & tread-depth gauges
• Multi-tool, spare fuses
• Warm blanket, hand warmers
• Zip ties, electrical tape, duct tape
Bad-Weather Gear
Your cab should always have waterproof outerwear, sturdy, non-slip boots, thermal layers, and a hat or beanie. The correct gear will keep you safe and comfortable in storms, snow, or high winds.
Dash-Mounted Phone Holder
Hands-free is the law in Ohio. A stable, adjustable phone mount keeps your navigation clearly visible, minimizes distractions, and ensures your hands stay on the wheel where they belong. Investing in the right mount helps you drive smarter, safer, and stress-free.
Food & Hydration
Stock a cooler or compact fridge with protein snacks, fruits, veggies, and water. Add nutritional bars, nuts, jerky, instant oats, and a thermos for coffee or tea. Hydration fuels focus, and smart snacks stretch your budget and your energy.
Personal Safety Gear
Safety starts with the right gear. Reflective vests, safety glasses, and hard hats are critical for staying visible and protected during roadside work or in accident situations
Choose the right gloves:
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Insulated gloves: keep your hands warm and functional during cold-weather hauls.
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Cut-resistant and impact gloves: ideal for securing loads and handling chains, tarps, and binders.
Organized Documents
Keep an easy-access binder or cab organizer with your registration and insurance, permits, delivery paperwork, plus emergency contacts and company procedures. Quick access saves time at scales, inspections, and gates.
Drive Prepared. Deliver with Confidence.
When drivers carry the right gear, uptime increases, safety improves, and stress drops. A well-equipped cab empowers drivers to handle the unexpected and keep freight moving on schedule.