There are many, many ways to save $ when on the road as a professional trucker.
Here are 5 simple (common sense) ways for truck drivers to keep as much of your earnings in YOUR pocket as you possibly can!
1. Avoid Buying Supplies When on the Road.
Take the time to be organized and plan what you need to carry with you on the road in order to avoid having to buy supplies when on the road. There’s always a big markup on goods in a truck stop. That’s how they make their money!
2. Bring Eats From Home.
Take the time to make some easy pre-prepared meals at home to take when on the road.
The Benefits
Saves Money.
Truck-stop and restaurant meals on a regular basis will eat a big chunk out of your pay check! (And won’t be as healthy either)
It’s so much easier to control your spending if you don’t have that ongoing expense of eating at restaurants.
That’s money out of your net earnings that you are spending.
If you don’t have the time to prep food at home, grab a salad or a ready made meal from a grocery store or a Walmart on your travels. It will save you lots.:)
Avoid Food Poisoning.
Bringing your own food from home, will not only save you some money, but it will drastically cut down on the chances of getting sick when on the road from bad food when on the road, eating out!
Convenience.
If you’re stuck waiting to load or unload somewhere and hunger hits, it’s pretty nice to have some food handy.
Saves Time.
Having your own food and drink supply in your truck can be a real time saver too. No need to go into the travel center, wait for your food to arrive and then back to the truck.
3. Take Advantage of Reward/Points Programs.
Many of the big chain stops have reward programs. Saving points on your reward card can get you free showers etc., so be sure you are taking advantage of these.
If your company has a fuel card, be sure YOU are able to reap the benefits such as free showers etc.
4. Use WiFi.
Save money on your cell phone plan by taking advantage of WiFi wherever it’s available. Calls and texts aren’t so pricey, but data costs on a phone can be very expensive.
WiFi is very commonly available at most restaurants and truck stops.
Don’t be shy about asking for the password!
5. Stay Away From Cash Advances.
Don’t get cash advances if you can possibly avoid them! When it comes time to be paid, you may find there isn’t much left!
