20 Gadgets and Accessories Every Truck Needs
Having the right gadgets and accessories can make a lot of difference for professional truckers. Take long-haul operations, for instance; these truckers spend over ten hours consecutively driving. Yet, with the right combo of accessories and gadgets, time in the truck could pass quickly and become more enjoyable.
However, with so many options, it becomes challenging to identify which of them is required. Thankfully, we’ve put together some 20 gadgets and accessories every truck needs for both short and long hauls. This article incorporates other accessories that provide safety, comfort, and other features that make a trip more enjoyable.
Trucker Gadgets
Trucking is by no means an easy profession. From spending long hours isolated on the road to maintaining rapt concentration, a lot could go wrong. Thankfully, technology has stepped in to make our trucks as comfortable and helpful as possible.
A trucker driver’s gadgets are close to what you would need at home or even in your car. If you spend a lot of time in your truck, you will need to maintain a high level of safety and comfort to have a very smooth ride, and the following gadgets have been found extremely helpful for this. Below are some of the things every driver would need.
- GPS Device
A GPS is essential in every truck. These devices easily install and transmit important information regarding trucking operations when connected to a cellular or satellite network. The prevalent use of a GPS unit is for navigation purposes; however, modern brands now incorporate new functions such as fleet management.
If your truck doesn’t have a GPS on board, then there is a need to get a suitable navigation device. While most of them work with a cell or satellite signal, some also function independently and offer accurate directions; however, these systems are much more limited in terms of functionality.
- Dash Cam
Truck dash cams have increased in popularity over the years and have become essential gadgets that every truck driver needs. These devices can record every detail inside and outside a truck while driving, making them useful in various situations.
Firstly and most importantly, they provide drivers with video evidence in the case of an accident. They also document the driver’s every move, thereby saving them from liability claims and mitigating the chances of insurance fraud. Other necessary functions include reporting undisciplined drivers and training new drivers.
- Truck Gauges
Truck gauges are diagnostic tools the truck uses to display various information about its components. This information is displayed on the truck’s dashboard, and truckers can identify potential issues before they become significant problems.
Truck gauges are essential in helping every driver know the truck’s condition, especially with maintenance being a critical aspect of safe driving. Hence, if your vehicle is missing critical gauges such as the oil temperature, fuel level, or even essential signals, you must put some in and stay informed about your truck’s present condition.
This is our recommendation as an efficient and cost effective choice for Truck Drivers. The 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor delivers unmatched speed and intelligence, enabling impressive creating and productivity with Turbo Boost Technology, get up to 4.1GHz for your high-demand applications
Electronic devices such as a laptop or tablets come to play for trucks without a GPS or with one that can’t connect to the internet. Being connected to the internet, even as a trucker, is essential, much more convenient now, and gives you real-time information for analysis and decision-making.
Aside from GPS functionalities, they work as an entertainment system. Their big screen sizes make them much more ideal than mobile phones. That said, truckers should employ these electronic devices carefully, as they could have adverse effects when used on the road.
This is our recommendation for a cellphone/tablet mount. With an easy, flexible, and tight suction design, this is a great way to keep your phone close safely while you’re on the road.
Engaging with your cell phone while driving has proven dangerous in time past. This could be trying to find your device or taking a call while operating the steering wheel. For this reason, truckers have been discouraged from using their handheld devices while driving a truck. However, if you must, have a mount where your cell phone can hang, making it easy to locate when needed.
Portable Charger With Built-in Charging Cables and Ports This USB C portable charger not only has a built-in micro cable, type C cable, and other data cables, but also is equipped with a USB input port, Type-C input, and output ports. Using the built-in cables to charge, the portable battery charger is compatible with iPhone, Android devices, and USB-C most mobile phones and smart devices. This external battery power bank can meet most of the charging needs of daily life.
All gadgets and devices have a battery life and usually get drained before reaching the destination. This holds mostly for truckers that engage in long-haul trips. As a result, it is vital to have a power station or outlet charger to keep all devices powered throughout the journey. Most devices require a 12 Volt charger with USB and USB-C ports; hence, this should be the minimum requirement in an outlet charger.
The 5th wheel pin puller is designed to release the 5th wheel lock easily, no need to climb under the trailer. The multi- function hook design can move objects more convenient. The 5th wheel puller hook is made of premium solid steel, very strong for a long lifetime use. The silver finish is plated chrome, and the orange finish is paint coated, very easy to keep clean.
A wheel pin puller is a perfect tool employed by truckers to release a truck’s kingpin without going under the trailer. It is also used to conveniently grab the door latch that usually is out of reach. A heavy-duty wheel pin puller is essential and comes in handy when you want to release the door pull and the locking pins. You will not regret picking one.
Uniden BEARCAT 880 CB Radio with 40 Channels
- Drive with confidence and stay connected with the Uniden Bearcat 880 CB radio, Powerful rugged design with advanced features and settings to suit any CB user.
- The Bearcat 880 boasts 4 Watts of transmit power with full 40 channels, NOAA weather channels, and instant channel 9 for emergency channel access.
A citizens band radio is a land mobile radio system that allows short-distance, bidirectional voice communication among many people. The CB radio is employed in numerous countries and operates on about 40 channels.
As a truck driver, you can communicate quickly regardless of cell phone or internet signal, which comes in handy in traffic and critical emergency scenarios. Be one of the few drivers using a CB Radio for daily operations. It is practical, free of data caps, and eliminates the need for a mobile phone.
Hisense A4 Series 40-Inch Class FHD Smart Android TV
Full High Definition Resolution: Along with its 1080p high definition LCD screen, you’ll find a powerful full array LED backlight at work creating a sharper, more colorful picture..Wall Mount : VESA 100 x 200. Display aspect ratio 16:9
As with other electronic devices, a trucker should not use a TV set while driving; that said, having one in your truck is okay. Overall, truck TVs offer a wide range of functions for truckers, from keeping them entertained when resting at night to helping them stay informed on current events that could potentially affect their operation.
Appliances for Truckers
Truckers spend long hours and sometimes days on the road. However, staying so long away from home should not severely impact how truckers live their lives. Today, some electronic appliances offer truckers the opportunity to engage in everyday activities, from preparing meals to cleaning up.
These appliances are essential for long trips and recreate your home on wheels. Hence, here are some necessary devices you should consider incorporating into your truck.
Coleman 40 Quart Portable Thermoelectric Cooler
- Versatile hot/cold thermoelectric cooler keeps food items at an optimal temperature
- Keeps contents up to 40 degrees colder or warmer than the surroundings
- 8-foot power cord allows you to the power the cooler with a car or boat outlet
- Door opens from either the left or right side to offer added placement flexibility
Many offices have a portable fridge, so why should your truck not have one? Portable fridges serve as a way to transport fresh foods that would last for days. The size is quite important; it should be able to house your essential beverages, fruits, and vegetables. Either way, you won’t regret investing in one.
Car Food Warmer Portable 12V Personal Oven for Truck
Portable Oven Upgraded Designs: No timer, no settings, plug-n-play. enough storage space for all your favorite to-go dishes, Two side pockets provide extra space for phone keys, and other small items. A comfy shoulder strap and a soft carry handle make carrying this Lunch cooler super-easy. dual zippers ensure you’ll easy to open and close the bag.
Factoring in the expense of take-out foods during long-haul operations may seem negligible. However, summing it up over an extended period adds significantly to the operational costs.
Thankfully, a slow cooker can address this issue. Slow cookers offer truckers the opportunity to cook tasty meals in the truck, ensuring they save money and live a healthy lifestyle while on the road. Truckers can choose from a wide range of slow cookers, from instant pots to crock pots and even air fryers.
Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker, Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer
- FITS ANYWHERE: Less than 5 inches wide, perfect for small spaces
- YOUR PERFECT AMOUNT: Brew any cup size between 6-12oz with Keurig K-Cup pods
- ONE CUP RESERVOIR: Just add fresh water for each brew
- FAST & FRESH BREWED: Coffee made in minutes
- CORD STORAGE: For easy transport and tidy countertops
- TRAVEL MUG FRIENDLY: Removable drip tray accommodates travel mugs up to 7.0 inches tall and holds a full accidental brew for easy cleanup
While caffeine might be the first thing that comes to mind regarding coffee, nutritionists have identified coffee as an effective drink with antioxidants that protects against diseases. Furthermore, about 64% of American adults consume coffee daily. Hence, investing in a coffee maker might be best if you’re part of that statistic. A coffee maker would satisfy your daily cravings and save money and time.
SR-160 XL Crossover Overland Roller Cargo Case
- Dimensions External: 37.8″ x 22.83″ x 19.1″ Inner: 33.22″ x 18.34″ x 16.61″ Weight: 36 Lbs, 160 liters.
- Meets TSA Requirements, easy to close lock down latches and quarter inch pad-lock fittings allowing for secure storage at home or on the go.
- Stackable design allows models of the same size to stack on top of each other. Holds up to 220 pounds easily with padded side handles and is heat resistant up to 212 degrees.
Every truck has space to keep your valuables locked and safe. However, in instances where these dedicated spaces are insufficient, truckers can employ cargo boxes. These are typically meant to complement existing storage spaces in your truck. Cargo boxes are a great place to keep your valuables, especially if they are lighter, quite awkward items.
Comfort
Following a study by the National Library of Medicine on back pain prevalence and risk factors among truckers, about 59% of all truck drivers evaluated had back pain. The significant risk factor for this issue was the number of working hours. This study further highlights the importance of comfort for truckers, especially those driving long hours. Therefore, here are some comfort and personal accessories every truck should have.
- Mattress or bedding
Mattresses are by far the most crucial comfort accessory for every truck. There is nothing like quality sleep and rest after a long day, and quality mattresses offer truckers much-needed, quality sleep. Aside from quality sleep, some of these beddings also help to correct musculoskeletal conditions.
Today, novel technologies and materials are introduced in making highly efficient mattresses, from memory foam to spring beds and other hybrid variants. All truck beds offer different sizes and unique functionalities, and truckers can opt for any based on their preferences and truck size.
Bedsure Heated Blanket Electric Throw – Soft Fleece Electric Blanket
- Warmth & Relief: The larger area of heating wire covers your whole body, 104°F in 35 minutes, up to 113°F at heating level 6. Our heated throw blankets promote blood circulation while relaxing. For optimal experience, set the heating level at 3-6 when turning on it.
Cold evenings are non-avoidable, and when such evenings come, hardly any accessory does a better job of keeping you warm and cozy than an electric blanket. Electric blankets pose no significant health and safety risks when used appropriately. However, drivers should take caution to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Bedsure Heated Blanket Electric Throw – Soft Fleece Electric Blanket
- This TEMPUR-Pedic pillow is formed with two zones of support for finding the perfect sleeping positions for you.
- A specially curved shape to offer high and low profile edges, designed with firmer sides to support your neck and a softer center to cradle your head.
- Expertly engineered to relieve pressure and provide personalized support throughout the night, and return to shape in the morning.
Pillows are necessary for all trips as they improve the quality of rest and make a journey more manageable and better. Truckers can select from various cushions, including the side, back, or body pillows. Whatever you need, they are essential no matter where you find yourself sleeping.
BOACAY Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag
While other Toiletry Bags have cheap zippers made of plastic, smell like chemicals out of the box, or just simply their handles/seams rip off after a few uses, our Exclusive Toiletry Bag features Metal Zippers which glide smoothly even when the bag is Full, and it’s made of only Quality materials with no smell or chemicals. Moreover, the handle & seams are Double-Sewn for extra durability & safety, and we ensure a 5-Year Warranty.
Even as a trucker, getting yourself a bag to throw in the shower and toiletry items would not be a big deal. For a space as limited as a truck, a toiletry bag helps create extra counter space, improve organization, maximize the dry potential, and save time.
- Sunglasses
As a trucker, you need to be able to spot different dangerous conditions on the road as soon as they occur. And while this might seem easy enough with good concentration, light from the sun can get so bright and create a glare. For this reason, a good pair of sunglasses is essential.
Quality sunglasses feature non-warped lenses and allow you to see in all directions without obstruction. They also protect you from harmful UV rays. For truckers, polarized sunglasses serve as the most effective option.
HANDLANDY Mens Work Gloves Wear Resistant , Breathable & Flexible Driving Gloves
- Durability gloves for men work： PVC & synthetic leather palm provides excellent abrasion, puncture, and tear resistance, nice warehouse gloves for truck drivers.
- Touch Screen Work Gloves with Terry Cloth : Easy to use your phone without having to remove your gloves. And terry cloth sweat wipe design located on the back of the thumb allows you to stay focused on the job at hand.
Even the littlest things matter when it comes to driving. Take gloves, for instance; there are numerous benefits to having this accessory, from improving grip and proper steering handling to reducing hand fatigue, preserving your steering wheel, and offering better comfort in extreme climates.
Everlasting Comfort Office Chair Seat Cushion Pillow
- Simple Solution to Your Uncomfortable Chair Problem: Made with pure memory foam, our pressure relief seat cushion uses your own body heat to adapt to your curves, giving you the support your current office chair lacks
- Stays Fresh and Clean: If you want to freshen up your office chair cushion , we’ve made it easy to do. Simply remove the plush cover and toss in the washing machine, then tumble dry
- Will Never Lose Its Shape: Sit on our memory foam cushion day in and day out and never worry about it flattening. The chair pad’s premium memory foam is slow rebounding, always regaining its shape after each use
Even though there have been significant improvements in a truck’s seat design, a seat cushion is still vital. They offer quality lumbar support, reduce back pain, and improve posture and circulation. So pick up a memory foam seat and back cushion to keep you comfortable as you journey.
Conclusion
Aside from musculoskeletal conditions, truck drivers are also prone to several conditions due to their jobs. Some other prevalent physical conditions include truckers’ arms and drivers’ knees. Additionally, most truckers live very unhealthy lifestyles while on the road, from smoking to lousy eating habits. Evidently, these also result in medical conditions in the long run.
Hence, as a trucker, you shouldn’t only invest in gadgets that foster safe driving. While that is important, you should also look out for yourself and invest in these 20 gadgets and accessories every truck needs for a healthy and comfortable drive, regardless of how long you spend on the road.