Life on the road brings its share of unpredictability, and for many truck drivers, carrying a good luck charm or following a personal tradition offers a sense of comfort and connection. We asked our Truck Drivers USA community if they carried anything for luck, and their responses reveal a fascinating array of tokens and philosophies. Here’s a look at the meaningful items that keep drivers rolling with confidence.
Family Keepsakes: A Link to Loved Ones
For some drivers, carrying a keepsake from family provides a powerful connection to home, helping them feel closer to their loved ones during long journeys:
- Tami Winther keeps her dad’s keychain from the last trucking company he worked for. Her father drove over-the-road (OTR) for 30 years before he passed away 25 years ago. This cherished token reminds her of his presence and dedication.
- Jim Kent relies on photos of his wife and three sons as his constant reminder of what he’s driving toward. “That’s why I make it home,” he says, emphasizing the role of family in his journey.
- Jordan Joswick carries a piece of his late dog with him, taking along the collar and ashes of his dog Diesel as a way to honor their bond.
Unique Personal Charms: Quirky Superstitions and Rituals
While some drivers carry conventional lucky charms, others have found more unique items to bring along on the road for a bit of fortune or comfort:
- Vivian Wheeler packs a bit of salt, traditionally used for protection and purification, as her personal charm.
- Dean Sander keeps hot peppers and taco sauce with him—a quirky addition that brings his personality and perhaps a bit of spice to his travels.
- El Pelon has a humorous driving superstition: “Never, never pass a SWIFT on the left!” For him, it’s a rule that might just avoid any unexpected surprises on the highway.
A Skeptical Approach: Humor and Practicality
Not every driver believes in carrying lucky charms, and some prefer a more grounded approach to the road.
- Rob Rudeen humorously shares, “It’s bad luck to be superstitious!” bringing a light-hearted perspective to the idea of lucky tokens.
- Bryan Blaser and James Hutchinson both mention that they don’t believe in luck, saying they’re “grounded in reality” and rely on their skills and experience instead.
From family mementos and unique charms to humor and common sense, each driver’s approach to the road is as individual as their journey. Whether it’s a simple keychain, a bit of taco sauce, or a photograph of loved ones, these tokens showcase the variety of ways truckers find comfort and motivation on the open road. These small traditions reflect the resilience, personality, and dedication of drivers who make their own luck with every mile.
