keeping cool in hot climate traffic

Posted on: 10 September 2015

Spending a lot of time in the cab of an 18-wheeler can make you long for home. Since the cab of your truck, particularly for over-the-road drivers, serves as both office and sleeping space, it's important that it is comfortable. If you're in the market for a used semi-truck to start your career as an owner-operator, one of the first things you'll want to do with that truck is to make it feel like your space. Here are some tips to help you add personal touches and make your cab feel like your home away from home.

Don't Be Ruled by Interior Color Preferences

If you are shopping for a used truck, you're going to find that it's more challenging to find a truck that has ALL of the features you're looking for in one package, from the engine size to the interior. Don't let interior colors rule your decision. If you find the perfect truck mechanically, but the interior colors aren't really 'you,' don't sweat it. It's easy to pull carpeting and replace it or cover it with removable carpets. You might actually find that you prefer to use removable carpets. They are easy to pull out to clean, which is great if you spend a lot of time in dirt-covered or muddy areas.

As for the seat colors, those are just as easy to change. Not only could you purchase some high-quality seat covers to match your new carpet, but you could also work with an upholsterer who can reupholster them completely. The goal is to create a cohesive look from the front of the cab to the sleeping area so that the space is more comfortable.

Don't Rule Out Creature Comforts

As you're evaluating trucks, consider the available capacity for adding creature comforts and conveniences. Think about the amount of time you're likely to spend on the road and what types of things might make it easier for you. For example, if you don't want your diet to depend on how far it is to the nearest truck stop diner, look for a rig that has room for a small refrigerator, microwave and travel-sized electric skillet. You'll also need to have a power inverter installed if there isn't one already. This makes it easier for you to eat on the road.

Once you've addressed your ability to eat healthier while you're on your runs, you should also think about entertainment. After all, you are likely to find yourself on mandatory rest periods, which means that you'll need something to do. You can mount a television, DVD player or stereo system in the cab that will plug into the power inverter. Add satellite internet and you'll be able to get to movie streaming, surf the web and watch your favorite shows no matter where you happen to stop.

Don't Settle for Marginal Sleep

It's hard to find a bed in a truck sleeper that's truly comfortable without any added support. If you find a great truck with a not-so-great bed, that doesn't mean you're left facing less-than-stellar nights. Upgrade the bedding by investing in a softer mattress, adding a mattress pad and opting for high-quality sheets. Sometimes a feather mattress topper is just what you need to let you sink into comfort and get the rest your body needs.

While you might not be able to find used Mack trucks for sale that include all of these features in one truck, with the tips here, you can bring the features you want to the truck you choose. There are many different ways to make your new tractor trailer feel like home, so take your time and make sure that it fits your style before you roll out on that first run. Check out a site like http://www.arrowtruck.com/ for more information on used trucks that might suit your needs.