The Top 5 ‘On the Road’ Essentials for Every HGV Driver

So, you’ve passed your LGV and HGV training and now you’re ready to hit the road. Wherever it is you’re off to, one thing’s for certain, you’ll be needing some decent supplies to see you through. Leaving home unprepared could result in a rather miserable journey. So before you set off, make sure you’ve read through this list of top five ‘on the road’ essentials. It’ll be the difference between an average journey and a great one…

Entertainment

If you’re in for the long haul, you’d be a food to leave without any form of entertainment in your bag. Things to keep you occupied when you’re resting could include –

•    An e-reader
•    Portable DVD player
•    iPod or mp3 player
•    A good old fashioned selection of books
•    A pack of cards

It’s best not to take your most expensive gear on the road with you, due to the possibility of theft. However, make sure you pack a few items that you can fall back on if you’re really in need of a little light distraction.

Clean Up

If you can’t access a shower, or haven’t the time to make a detour to one, make sure you bring some freshening up essentials. Baby wipes have a multitude of uses – from cleaning your hands to wiping the dashboard! They’re also great to give your face a quick wipe down which could help you feel more alert. Dry shampoo is another good one – especially if you’re on a long journey where you might want to head out for a night. A quick spray of dry shampoo will ‘de-grease’ your hair and give it a new lease of life – which is just what it will need after being stuck inside for so long.

Clothing

Like we mentioned above, if you’re on a journey where you’ll be staying over before heading back home, and fancy a night out – fresh clothing is vital. Hitting a pub or two in your driving gear never feels great, so make sure you’ve packed a fresh change of clothes which you’ll feel comfortable in, heading out to try the local pubs.

Emergency Food Supplies

Throughout your LGV and HGV training, you’ll have covered how vital it is for you to stay alert and awake at the wheel. If that means resorting to snacks then so be it. Pack snacks that will give you sustained energy if you can – they’re much better than quick sugary fixes. Opt for cereal bars, bags of nuts (almonds are really good, and bananas. They may not be super-exciting but they’ll stand you in good stead for a long drive ahead.

Painkillers

Paracetamol. Ibuprofen. Aspirin – whatever works for you. Make sure you’ve got a pack handy just in case a headache hits… driving with a headache just doesn’t work.

We hope these handy hints will help you get the most out of life on the road. Every HGV driver has his or her own list of essentials so figure out what works for you and get out there!