Hey y’all! I’m Jane, a truck driver with a love-hate relationship with my job. I’ve been crisscrossing the country in my 18-wheeler for over a decade, and while the back pains are no joke and driving isn’t exactly my passion, it is what it is. At least I get to see some pretty amazing sights along the way. Today, I want to share my adventures on the road, my favorite scenic highways, the best parking lots to sleep in, and my trusty self-care routine. Let’s roll!
Table of Contents
The Love-Hate Relationship with Trucking
Let’s get this out of the way: driving a truck is tough. The hours are long, the back pains are real, and sometimes the monotony can drive you nuts. But, hey, it’s a living. The silver lining? I get to travel across the country and see some of the most beautiful places, especially during the summer.
Scenic Highways: Summer Love, Winter Woes
One of my favorite routes is I-70 in Colorado. Driving through the Rockies in the summer is nothing short of spectacular. The mountains, the fresh air, the occasional wildlife sightings – it’s like a little slice of heaven. But come winter, I avoid it like the plague. Snow, ice, and treacherous mountain passes are not my idea of fun.
Another scenic highway I love in the summer is the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). The views of the ocean, cliffs, and beaches are breathtaking. It’s a refreshing change from the endless stretches of interstate. However, I steer clear of it in the winter due to the potential for landslides and heavy rain.
The Blue Ridge Parkway in the Appalachians is another gem. The rolling hills and lush forests are a treat for the eyes. But again, winter can turn it into a slippery, foggy nightmare.
Budget Travel: The Fast Food Chronicles
Being on the road means eating out a lot, and let’s face it, truck stops aren’t known for their gourmet cuisine. I’m on a budget, so I end up hitting fast food joints more often than I’d like to admit. McDonald’s is a staple – you can always count on finding one no matter where you are. Plus, their Wi-Fi is a lifesaver.
Taco Bell is another favorite. There’s something comforting about a Crunchwrap Supreme after a long day of driving. And don’t get me started on those Doritos Locos Tacos. Pure bliss.
Sleeping in Parking Lots: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Finding a good parking lot to sleep in can make or break a trip. Here are some of my favorites (and a few I avoid):
The Good:
- Walmart Parking Lots: Most Walmarts allow overnight parking, and they’re usually well-lit and relatively safe. Plus, you can stock up on supplies while you’re there.
- Rest Areas: Some rest areas are quite nice, with clean facilities and plenty of space. The ones in Iowa are particularly good.
The Bad:
- Sketchy Truck Stops: Some truck stops can be a bit dodgy. I’ve had a few run-ins with shady characters, so I tend to avoid the smaller, less reputable ones.
The Ugly:
- Abandoned Lots: I once made the mistake of parking in an abandoned lot. It was creepy, and I didn’t sleep a wink. Never again.
Friends and Foes on the Road
You meet all kinds of people on the road. Some become lifelong friends, others… not so much.
Friends:
- Marge: My trucker buddy from Texas. We met at a truck stop and hit it off immediately. She’s got the best stories and a heart of gold.
- Bill: Another regular on the same routes I take. We share tips on the best places to eat and park. He’s like an older brother to me.
Enemies:
- The Guy Who Cut Me Off in Kansas: Dude, seriously? We could have both been in a ditch.
- The Overzealous Parking Lot Attendant: I get it, you’re just doing your job, but do you have to be so grumpy?
Self-Care on the Road: Keeping It Together
Self-care is crucial when you’re living out of a truck. Here are my go-to products that keep me sane and somewhat presentable:
- Laundry Detergent Sheets: These are a godsend. No more lugging around bulky detergent jugs. They’re lightweight, eco-friendly, and get the job done.
- Lotion Bar: Perfect for keeping my skin hydrated without the mess of liquid lotions. Plus, it’s great for my back after a long day of driving.
- Shampoo Bar: Compact, effective, and plastic-free. My hair feels fantastic, and it’s one less bottle to worry about.
- Dry Shampoo: For those days when a shower just isn’t an option. A quick spritz and I’m good to go.
- Facial Wipes: These are a lifesaver for freshening up on the go. They’re also great for cleaning up small spills in the cab.
- Essential Oils: A few drops of lavender or peppermint oil can make a world of difference. They help me relax and make my truck smell nice.
My 18-Wheeler: The Beast
My truck, affectionately known as “The Beast,” is my home on wheels. It’s a 2018 Freightliner Cascadia with all the bells and whistles. It’s got a spacious sleeper cab, a mini-fridge, and even a microwave. I’ve personalized it with cozy blankets, pictures of my cats, and a mini herb garden on the dashboard. Yes, I have basil and mint growing in my truck. Don’t judge.
Retirement Dreams: What’s Next?
I’ve got a few more years on the road before I hang up my keys for good. When I retire, I plan to buy a small cabin in the mountains. I want a place where I can relax, enjoy nature, and finally have a real garden. I’ll still have my cats, of course, and maybe even adopt a dog. I’ll spend my days hiking, reading, and maybe even writing a book about my trucking adventures.
Final Thoughts
Life as a trucker isn’t always easy, but it’s never boring. I’ve seen incredible sights, met amazing people, and learned a lot about myself along the way. The back pains and long hours are tough, but the freedom of the open road makes it all worth it. Plus, I get to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, like a beautiful sunrise on I-70 or a hot cup of coffee in a cozy parking lot.
So, here’s to all my fellow truckers out there. Keep on rolling, stay safe, and don’t forget to take care of yourselves. And remember, even when the road gets rough, there’s always a Crunchwrap Supreme waiting at the next Taco Bell.
