Watching What’s Going on Around You

Renate Caldwell said she just “watched the shenanigans all around me.” Mike Hennig enjoys the little moments at truck stops:
“Sit in the truck stop just before the sun sets and watch grown men play musical chairs vying for the last parking spots!!”

And Mike Young likes to “honk at the birds sleeping on the signs.”

Listening to Something Good

Podcasts and audiobooks were a popular choice. Patrick Barry and Ron Baker said they listen to podcasts all day. James Gravina, Robert Hunter, and Bill Hall shared that audiobooks help the time fly. Satellite radio is a favorite, too — James Hilliker listens to XM Radio, and Rosee Wii rarely misses something to enjoy.

Keeping an Eye on the Road and Other Drivers

Some drivers keep busy by watching traffic and staying alert. Billy Nealey counts white lines, Aaron Bard likes to watch others back into parking spots, and Larry Cornett reminds us to “watch out for other truck drivers.” Tim Wiebe says he “watches the road and traffic” carefully.

Music and Singing Along

Music helps a lot of drivers stay awake and in good spirits. Gary Maston says he “turns it up and dances in my seat.” Patrón Boichoko plays his favorite songs, and Kevin Hermansen likes to sing along. Dale Smith enjoys “lots of rock’ n roll.” Anita Krueger Rudolph listens to music, too.

Staying Connected with Family and Friends

Long drives can get lonely, but many drivers stay connected. Raina Wilson reads funny Facebook posts to her husband while he drives. April Terrebonne listens to audiobooks and talks to family. Merle Rea Stevens said her son calls family members during breaks.

Entertainment Off the Clock

When parked, drivers take advantage of streaming services. Kyle W Clontz watches Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, and Paramount, hoping for new shows to come back. Chris Rex watches movies on a tablet mounted safely in his cab.

Enjoying the Simple Things

Sometimes, drivers just appreciate the journey. Richard Cooper likes to “see some beautiful country,” and Corsetta Camper likes to start her day with a cheerful “Good morning, USA.”

What’s Your Favorite Way to Pass the Time on the Road?

Driving long hours isn’t easy, but it helps to have ways to keep your mind engaged and spirits up. Whether it’s a podcast, music, watching the road, or just taking in the scenery, there’s something for every driver.

Join our Truck Drivers USA Facebook community and share how you stay entertained while out on the road.

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Sleep Like the Dead

One of the most common answers? Catching up on much-needed rest. Long hours on the road take a toll, and for many drivers, an unexpected day off means turning off the alarm and getting some serious sleep. As Casey Sarginson put it, “SLEEP LIKE THE DEAD!!! Then shower, then feast. Then back to bed.” Sounds like a solid plan!

Shower and Refuel (Body and Truck)

After hours on the road, a hot shower and a good meal are musts. Many drivers take the chance to freshen up and enjoy a meal they don’t have to rush through. As Ted Logue put it, “Take a shower, get a decent meal.” It’s a simple routine, but it makes all the difference.

Clean and Organize

A day off the road is the perfect time to tidy up the truck. Many drivers take advantage of the downtime to do some deep cleaning. Jean Ann Powell shared her routine: “Clean truck real good, check all fluids and look under the truck and scope everything out. When finished with truck, go shower, do laundry, eat, and relax the rest of the time.” A clean truck is a happy truck, right?

Stretch Those Legs

Sitting for hours on end makes movement a priority when the wheels stop. Some drivers take the opportunity to get outside and get moving. Jason McElroy keeps it simple: “Get out of my truck and walk.” Others, like Clif Curtis, go the extra mile—literally—by bringing along an e-scooter to explore the area.

Find Some Entertainment

If the truck stop has a decent setup, drivers will find ways to pass the time. Tony Kirk hopes for a bit of fun: “Hopefully they have a nice arcade.” Others bring their own entertainment. Jeffrey LaPorte has a backup plan for everything: “Scan TV channels, very few? Hope the internet is solid. I’m good. If the above fail, I go to Blu-ray. Eat mindlessly, watch the flat screen & sleep.” Sounds like a solid strategy!

Explore the Area

If the location is right, some drivers take the chance to get out and explore. Frankie Stone Arango shared their ideal day: “Depending on the area, grab an Uber, hit the mall, go to a movie, go get something to eat, and then head back to the truck later in the evening. I’ll enjoy the day outside.” A mini vacation in the middle of a haul? Why not!

Hit the Gym and Relax

For those who like to stay active, a gym visit is a great way to spend a layover. Jamar Cannon shared their go-to routine: “Find a gym, go get something good to eat, get a massage, come back to my truck, and watch whatever series I’m currently watching.” Not a bad way to make the most of a day off!

Call Home

When the road keeps you away from loved ones, an unexpected break is the perfect time to check in. Jimmy Rockabilly keeps it simple: “Call home!” A little connection goes a long way during long hauls.

Make the Most of It

While no one loves being stuck, truckers know how to turn downtime into something productive (or at least enjoyable). Whether it’s getting extra rest, cleaning up, hitting a gym, or finding some good food, there’s always a way to make the most of the day.

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