For truck drivers, long-haul assignments and late-night drives are inevitable, if not the norm. It can be difficult to stay active and entertained in these circumstances, so you may be searching for ways to stave off fatigue on the roads. Here are some tips to help you stay alert while traveling for miles and hours on end.

How to Stay Awake on Long Drives

1. Keep a Cat Nap Kit

Store a blanket and pillow in your cab and pull over at a rest stop to take a quick power nap. Even 20 to 30 minutes of sleep improves mood, alertness, and performance, which can help truck drivers stay on schedule without compromising delivery time. Sleepiness and fatigue on the road involve risks such as impaired reaction time, judgment, vision, and vigilance.

2. Eat Healthy & Stay Hydrated

While fast food is cheap, accessible, and convenient for the road, it’s likely to make you more tired. The carbohydrates and added sugars cause a surge in insulin, leading to lower blood sugar and fatigue that’s worsened as with cravings. Pack up foods like eggs, spinach, and almonds for the trip, as they’re filled with protein and vitamins that keep you alert and active. Stay adequately hydrated, as you may lose fluids due to heat inside the truck or find it difficult to nap when it’s time.

3. Take Vitamins

Instead of reaching for a large cup of iced coffee, reach for vitamin bottles. Truck drivers can benefit more from organic energy-boosters instead of sugary ones. Vitamin B12 transports oxygen in the blood throughout the body and regulates neurological functions to keep your mind and body energized and active. Iron also circulates oxygen throughout the body, creating energy from nutrients in food.

4. Turn Up the Music

Music can play a critical role in regulating mood, whether to get energized before exercising or relaxed for a stress-relieving session. Loud, upbeat music can get your heart pumping, improving circulation of nutrients and oxygen in your body. You’ll also forget about your fatigue when you’re focused on the lyrics and rhythms of your favorite tunes.

Put these tips into action and kickstart your truck driving career, by visiting Great Lakes Truck Driving School in Columbia Station, OH. From ample acreage to designated courses, they provide soon-to-be truck drivers with quality training programs and instruction to keep them safe and knowledgeable on the roads. They offer day, evening, and weekend classes for student convenience, along with job placement assistance and on-site recruiters to hire them straight into the field. Visit their website for more information about their programs or call (440) 236-3436 for inquiries about enrollment.