5 Tips for Staying Awake While You Are on the Road
We get it, staying awake during the long haul can be tedious
Staying awake during long drives can be incredibly boring and exhausting. You sit still for long periods of time, you don't have anyone to keep you company, and you never know if there will even be any scenic views.
Although it can be dull at times, there are ways to fight that fatigue. Whether you are a new driver or an experienced driver, check out these tips that can help you power through the long haul.
1. Take a Cat Nap
Do not try to fight fatigue just to save time. It might seem better to get there faster, but you will likely put others or yourself in danger. Instead, take a power nap before the drive or pull over while en route. Resting for at least 20 minutes can give you a big boost of energy, and will make you alert for a lot longer. Not only will you feel refreshed, but this can also help fight off sleepiness down the road.
2. Crank up the AC
When we go to sleep, we like it best when we are warm and comfortable. But did you know warmer temperatures can make you drowsy? A warm truck makes it easier for your body to relax and drift off to sleep, so dial down on the heat. Keep your truck cold, but just enough to make it slightly uncomfortable. The colder temperatures will make it harder to sleep and will keep you more alert.
Another tip: open your windows and smell the fresh air. Doing this can give you a little jolt to keep you awake.
3. Eat Something Healthy and Stay Hydrated
We all do it – binging on candy, fast food, energy drinks, etc. Although it is nice to treat yourself every once in a while, this won't help you stay awake while driving in the long haul. You may even start to feel sluggish and sick if you continue to eat unhealthy food. Make sure to eat meals that have protein and fiber, and you will have long-lasting stamina. Your body will thank you!
Getting that cup of coffee or some sort of caffeine can give you a nice boost every once in a while, but don't forget to keep drinking water. It is another way to fight off fatigue and keep your body in check. Have a water bottle nearby, and if you need a snack, try eating fruits and vegetables as they are full of water and natural sugars that can keep you awake.
4. Turn on the Radio
Pick something interesting and different to listen to every once in a while! Listening to different music stations and talk shows can help combat boredom and keep you entertained along the way. You can use the radio to catch up with current news and trends, or if you have a smartphone, use it to play podcasts and learn about anything that gets your attention.
5. Take Breaks or Get Some Exercise
Even if it is a five-minute walk, exercise will help to get your blood pumping after sitting. Sitting too long can create health concerns and decrease productivity, and will also make it harder to sleep at night. Some simple exercises to try daily are push-ups, sit-ups, jogging or running, jump rope, or simply taking a walk. Whatever it is, make sure to take those breaks and move around.
Thank you, truck drivers, for all your hard work
Although it can be difficult fighting that drowsiness, we thank you for all your hard work and dedication to delivering the goods we all depend on. We recognize that it is not an easy job, but we appreciate all that you do. Check out our previous blog post that covers a popular annual event celebrating truck drivers.
Watch USCC's video below that was shared last week for Truck Driver Appreciation Week!
