When it comes to truck driving, one major challenge of the job is being able to stay alert while on the clock.
While it might sound easy, when you’re working through the nights, the lull of the truck can quickly tempt you to take a sneaky snooze.
From exercises and taking regular breaks to caffeinated beverages and sugar laden sweets,
we’ve come up with some tips so you can safely stay sharp while at the wheel.
Coffee/Tea
One easy way to stay awake and perhaps the obvious option, is to grab a cup of coffee.
Whether you like it hot or iced,
a strong black one with an extra shot of espresso will do just the job to keep you wide awake.
However, if you’re not that tired, and don’t need such a large amount of caffeine, tea is another good option – which has a much smaller caffeine count.
For those looking for a happy medium, green tea is a good option and as it’s packed full of antioxidants, it’s good for you too!
Energy Drinks
For a quick surge of energy, opt for an energy drink. However, if you’re in for a long-haul journey,
it’s probably better to pace yourself with the beverages mentioned above – which release caffeine into your system a little more gradually.
Chocolate
If you’re not thirsty or have a dodgy cup holder, you can avoid any potential spillage by opting for this cocoa-rich treat.
The higher the cocoa content, the greater the caffeine count – and to make it easy, the colour is an easy way to tell how much cocoa is in the creamy delicacy.
Dark chocolate has the most – while milk chocolate has lower amounts with white containing the least.
If you don’t have access to the rich stuff, a chocolate bar will work too – which has lots of sugar in it too.
One with nuts is even better – giving you more energy. But be careful how much sugar you consume, as the crash might give you a headache!
Caffeine Pills
If you just want the straight caffeine, try the pill form.
But if you’re going to go this route, make sure you read the recommended daily amount, and be sure that you do not exceed it!
Exercises
There are also plenty of natural ways for you to keep your concentration.
Take several breaks, and hop out of your lorry if you can.
If you don’t have time to go for a stroll, even just doing a few star jumps is enough to get your heart rate up and keep your circulation going – which is what helps keep you awake!
Power Naps
If you do end up succumbing to sleepiness – it’s best to pull over and give your eyes a rest.
15-minute snoozes are a great way to refresh, but be sure to not have any longer or you’ll wake up groggy!
Music
If all else fails, another guaranteed pick-me-up is to monitor your music.
Make sure the tunes you pick are upbeat and loud. Listening to the radio is also a good way to keep you entertained while at the wheel.
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Morven McCulloch has been writing about how truck drivers can stay alert at the wheel.
Check out HGV Express for more information on becoming a licensed lorry driver.