Getting enough sleep is important for health and wellbeing regardless of your career. As a long-haul truck driver, there are some unique considerations to keep in mind. Sleeping in a semi-truck can take some getting used to. However, the tips included in this article can help make it a little easier for you.
Block Out Light And Noise in Your Sleeper Berth
Light coming in from outside of your truck can make it harder to fall and stay asleep. There are several ways you can keep your sleeper berth dark. When possible, try to park away from bright lights, although this can often be a challenge at busy truck stops. Another option is to get black-out curtains or otherwise cover the windows of your semi-truck sleeper. A sleep mask may also be helpful.
Similar to light, excess noise from outside of your truck can be distracting and can disrupt your sleep. A white noise machine can be helpful and if you can’t fit one in your sleeping area, there are many smartphone applications that serve the same purpose. A pair of well-made earplugs is another possibility, although you should make sure you will still be able to wake up when you need to. Test out different alarm options before you have to rely on them.
Make Your Semi-Truck Sleeper More Comfortable
Making your sleeping area more comfortable can do wonders for the quality of your sleep. Consider getting a mattress topper or upgrading your whole mattress if you are able. Many companies make mattresses designed specifically for semi-trucks. You can also invest in high-quality pillows, sheets, and/or comforters.
Temperature control is another big part of getting the best sleep in your semi-truck, so make sure you are ready for all types of weather. Keep in mind that when you are traveling across the country, the temperature where you sleep can differ quite a bit, so it’s best to be prepared. Blankets and warm clothing are good to have on hand for the winter and a small portable fan can help you stay cool during the warmer months.
Create a Sleep Routine
Over-the-road (OTR) drivers will usually have variable schedules, so the time you go to sleep may change. This being said, you may still be able to benefit from having a routine that you complete every time you go to bed, regardless of when this occurs. In many cases, this can help you fall asleep more easily even if your schedule changes. A bedtime routine can be as simple as brushing your teeth, meditating, reading for a few minutes, or anything else that helps you unwind and get ready for rest.
Sleeping for Truck Driving Teams
For trucking teams, sleeping may look a little different since one of you will typically be in the sleeper berth while the other is driving. As a result, you will need to get used to sleeping while the truck is moving. This is usually easier if you are able to fully trust your driving partner and can communicate with them in case of any issues.
Looking for a Truck Driving Job?
If you are interested in driving for a company that cares about you and works to give you the best experience possible, you should consider a job with DSW. We are currently hiring OTR truck drivers.
