From first aid kits to food and drink there are many essentials you need to make a long drive more comfortable, and for a driver spending their working hours on the road it’s hugely important to be prepared.

The number of HGV driving tests is increasing again, as the country emerges from the pandemic, as well as the widely reported driver shortage being less acute than it previously was, as more people join the industry. Yet with high demand for new drivers remaining across the board, transport, and logistics recruitment agency, Driver Hire Training, have compiled the must have essentials for new HGV drivers just joining the industry, in their latest guide.

“With more people joining or returning to the logistics industry now, it’s important to examine what HGV drivers actually need whilst out on the road. As essential workers, HGV drivers need to be prepared to make their journey as comfortable and safe as possible.” Richard Owen-Hughes, Marketing Director for Driver Hire Training had to say.

“Whilst the sector continues to work hard to attract the people needed to meet demand in 2022, bringing some of these items on the road, will make the transition into HGV driving a smooth process” added Owen-Hughes.

Road Safety Equipment

It’s part of driver essentials to have the right road safety kit to ensure you are prepared for different eventualities on the road. The safety kit should contain equipment such as cones or reflective triangles, high-vis jacket and a torch which all prove useful should a breakdown occur. Appropriate PPE is also vital for safe working, including items such as goggles, a hard hat, boots, and gloves.

First Aid Kit

A first-aid kit is a requirement for any HGV driver and is extremely important to have on hand should the worst happen, and you sustain an injury. The kit should include large dressings, scissors, painkillers, sterile wipes, and medical disposable gloves at a minimum.

Comforts

Your cab will become a home from home as you spend more time there, and it’s important to bring things along that make the journey as comfortable as possible. These could include a blanket or quilt and a pillow for any rest you need to take on your trips.

Hygiene

Create a mini personal hygiene kit you can use on the road in between rest stops. This can include things such as hand sanitiser, nail clippers, baby wipes, and a comb, along with dental care items and shower gel for stops at service stations or truck stops. You will also want to consider the cleanliness of the cab itself, so pack some dashboard wipes, a duster, and a small handheld vacuum to keep it fresh and clean on long journeys.

Maps

Using Satnavs or even maps on a phone has become commonplace, however for those drivers whose routes take them off grid, it can be important to have a physical map on hand just in case signal drops out.

Food and Drink

Invest in an insulated lunch bag or cool box so you can keep food fresh on longer journeys. You may also even want to consider getting a portable cooking appliance to make meals on overnight journeys, or a kettle for rest breaks.

Entertainment

HGV driving can involve working varied hours and sometimes being away from home for longer periods. And of course, regular rest breaks are a legal requirement for any professional driver. Taking entertainment such as books, magazines or a tablet or smartphone will provide easy ways to relax when not driving.

For many drivers, their cab becomes a home away from home. As an essential worker, taking care of your wellbeing is important so that you can carry out your job successfully. By following these tips and ensuring you have not just the essentials, but also comforts with you, you’re sure to make your job easier.