Save Money, Stay Prepared, and Avoid Overpriced Pit Stops
As an over-the-road (OTR) driver, every stop can turn into a spending trap if you’re not prepared. Truck stops are convenient—but that convenience comes with a hefty price tag.
Smart drivers know: Pack what you can, buy only what you must.
Here’s a breakdown of what you should always bring from home to save money, stay comfortable, and be ready for anything.
? Why Packing Saves Serious Cash
Bringing items from home can easily save you $50–$100+ a week, especially on food, drinks, and everyday essentials.
| Item | Truck Stop Price | Home/Bulk Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bottled water (per) | $2.00–$2.50 | $0.25 (or free!) |
| Sandwich/salad | $6.99–$12.99 | $2–$4 (homemade) |
| Phone cable | $15–$25 | $5–$10 (online) |
| Batteries (4-pack) | $6–$10 | $1–$3 (bulk) |
Truck stops thrive on last-minute needs. Be the driver who’s already prepared.
? What You Should Always Bring From Home
? 1. Food and Snacks
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Prepped meals (grilled chicken, sandwiches, hard-boiled eggs, burritos, etc.)
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Non-perishables: jerky, tuna packs, trail mix, nuts, granola bars
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Spices, condiments, seasonings (no more bland meals!)
? 2. Drinks
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Refillable water bottle
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Bulk water jugs or gallons
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Instant coffee, tea, or electrolyte drink mixes
? 3. Toiletries and Personal Care
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Soap, shampoo, toothbrush/paste
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Razors, nail clippers, wipes, deodorant
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Toilet paper, tissues (you’d be surprised…)
? 4. Clothing and Backups
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Extra socks and underwear
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Work gloves and weather gear
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Shower sandals and a clean towel
? 5. Tools and Truck Supplies
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Flashlight, batteries, fuses, and extra bulbs
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Phone chargers and backup cables
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Bungee cords, ratchet straps, tire gauge, duct tape
? 6. Paperwork and Admin Items
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Trip sheets, pens, envelopes, logbooks
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Copies of permits, insurance, and registration
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Notebook for jotting down load info or expenses
?️ What to Buy as Needed (or Replace on the Road)
Some things you can’t always pack—or may want fresh:
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Fresh produce or refrigerated items for 2–3 day refills
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Ice or ice packs for your cooler
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Emergency repairs (tires, lights, fluids—just try not to need them!)
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Laundry tokens and detergent packets for the road
? What to Avoid Buying at Truck Stops (Unless It’s an Emergency)
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Electronics (chargers, cords, headsets—usually overpriced)
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OTC medicine (way more expensive than dollar stores or Walmart)
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Tools (buy name brands at hardware stores or online)
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Meal kits or microwave sandwiches—they cost more and taste worse
Final Thought: Smart Packing = More Profit
Truck stops aren’t out to rob you—but they’re not built for budget-conscious drivers either. A few minutes packing at home can save you hundreds over the course of a month.
Control what you spend by controlling what you bring.
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