It’s bound to happen eventually. Whether it’s due to weather, a breakdown, or hours-of-service limits, every trucker faces a day stuck at a truck stop at some point. So, what’s the first thing drivers do when they find themselves parked for an extended stay? We asked our trucking community, and the responses ranged from practical to downright creative.
Sleep Like the Dead
One of the most common answers? Catching up on much-needed rest. Long hours on the road take a toll, and for many drivers, an unexpected day off means turning off the alarm and getting some serious sleep. As Casey Sarginson put it, “SLEEP LIKE THE DEAD!!! Then shower, then feast. Then back to bed.” Sounds like a solid plan!
Shower and Refuel (Body and Truck)
After hours on the road, a hot shower and a good meal are musts. Many drivers take the chance to freshen up and enjoy a meal they don’t have to rush through. As Ted Logue put it, “Take a shower, get a decent meal.” It’s a simple routine, but it makes all the difference.
Clean and Organize
A day off the road is the perfect time to tidy up the truck. Many drivers take advantage of the downtime to do some deep cleaning. Jean Ann Powell shared her routine: “Clean truck real good, check all fluids and look under the truck and scope everything out. When finished with truck, go shower, do laundry, eat, and relax the rest of the time.” A clean truck is a happy truck, right?
Stretch Those Legs
Sitting for hours on end makes movement a priority when the wheels stop. Some drivers take the opportunity to get outside and get moving. Jason McElroy keeps it simple: “Get out of my truck and walk.” Others, like Clif Curtis, go the extra mile—literally—by bringing along an e-scooter to explore the area.
Find Some Entertainment
If the truck stop has a decent setup, drivers will find ways to pass the time. Tony Kirk hopes for a bit of fun: “Hopefully they have a nice arcade.” Others bring their own entertainment. Jeffrey LaPorte has a backup plan for everything: “Scan TV channels, very few? Hope the internet is solid. I’m good. If the above fail, I go to Blu-ray. Eat mindlessly, watch the flat screen & sleep.” Sounds like a solid strategy!
Explore the Area
If the location is right, some drivers take the chance to get out and explore. Frankie Stone Arango shared their ideal day: “Depending on the area, grab an Uber, hit the mall, go to a movie, go get something to eat, and then head back to the truck later in the evening. I’ll enjoy the day outside.” A mini vacation in the middle of a haul? Why not!
Hit the Gym and Relax
For those who like to stay active, a gym visit is a great way to spend a layover. Jamar Cannon shared their go-to routine: “Find a gym, go get something good to eat, get a massage, come back to my truck, and watch whatever series I’m currently watching.” Not a bad way to make the most of a day off!
Call Home
When the road keeps you away from loved ones, an unexpected break is the perfect time to check in. Jimmy Rockabilly keeps it simple: “Call home!” A little connection goes a long way during long hauls.
Make the Most of It
While no one loves being stuck, truckers know how to turn downtime into something productive (or at least enjoyable). Whether it’s getting extra rest, cleaning up, hitting a gym, or finding some good food, there’s always a way to make the most of the day.
Want to connect with more drivers who get it? Join the Truck Drivers USA community today! Click here to join.
