Most of us know the importance of packing our own winter driving survival kit, but did you know it’s just as important to have one for the summer? Whether it’s dehydration, heat exhaustion, hunger, or even a sunburn, it’s important to be prepared while on the road. Here are some truck driving tips from Bay and Bay Transportation:
Make sure to hydrate properly.
Dehydration increases your risk of injuring yourself or other motorists, so make sure you hydrate. When you are thirsty, your body craves water. When choosing a beverage, why not drink exactly what your body wants most? Drink 5-7 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes, not just when you feel thirsty. Keep a cooler in your cab so you have cooled water. Your system will most easily absorb cool water over warm or cold water. Limit drinks with caffeine and sugar, as they are diuretics that will deplete your body of essential fluids. Never drink alcohol while you are working.
Eat right.
We give you permission to be a picky eater, as long as it’s good for you! Avoid hot and heavy foods as they will weigh you down and make you feel sluggish, or even tired. Limit salty and sugary snacks. Instead, reach for fruits and vegetables as much as you want. Fruits and veggies will help you feel fuller longer, and maintain your glucose levels so you don’t experience a crash after eating them.
Stay cool.
Fans are a glorious thing. Clip-on fans are even better. Fans can provide a gentle breeze to maintain a comfortable temp in the cab of your truck. You can also use damp towels on your neck to further regulate your body temperature on especially hot days. Make sure to rest when you need it. Pull over if you feel dizzy or sluggish, and find a way to rest in the shade. After a long drive, consider taking a cool shower or bath to gently lower your body temperature and prevent overheating.
Take care of your skin.
Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Sunscreen. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of using a sunscreen with a high SPF. Apply it to all exposed skin about 30 minutes before you will be out in the sun. Make sure you reapply to all areas every two hours before the sunscreen’s protection properties wear off. Limit the amount of heat trapped closed to your body by dressing in light-weight, light-colored, and loose-fitted clothing. Consider wearing a sun sleeve to protect your window-side arm.
Protect your eyes.
Let’s face it, you need your eyes in prime condition while out on the road. Sunglasses are more than a fashion accessory; they can be essential tools in safeguarding your eyes. Do your research to procure quality sunglasses designed to protect your eyes. When choosing sunglasses, look for a label or sticker that says the lenses block 99-100% of UVB and UVA rays, meet ANSI Z80.3 blocking requirements, or offer UV 400 protection. While polarized lenses reduce glare, they can also make it difficult to read GPS or dashboard devices. Stay up-to-date on your eye care, and invest in quality prescription lenses or contacts should a doctor recommend them to you. Lastly, there’s a reason the trucker hat is so popular. Find a hat that is comfortable enough for daily use and practical enough to provide an extra level of shading for your eyes.
Your Basic Summer Survival Kit:
- Water
- Towels
- Fans
- Healthy snacks
- Sunscreen
- Light-weight, light-colored, and loose fitted clothing
- Sun sleeve
- Tinted UV window film
- Sunglasses
- Hat
Is there anything that we missed? What summer truck driving tips would you add? Let us know by commenting below or emailing us at recruiting@bayandbay.com.
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Bay and Bay Transportation is hiring drivers! Visit our careers page or give us a call today at 888-801-3026 to learn more!