After 15 years, it will finally happen

[s1mp13m4n]

Hello everyone. I am finally going to be able to go on the road with my uncle in a tractor trailer. My aunt and uncle are truck drivers for a living and we have been trying to find a way for me to go with them on a trip for 15 years. I will be heading out in 2 days to go on the road. It could be a short 2 day trip or a week, we do not know yet. It all depends on what loads he can get. I have always wondered what it is like. They live in that truck, so I will see what they do and deal with day in and day out. I am planning on taking a journal and digital camera. I am not sure if I will have access to a computer. I am wondering what to do about shaving. LOL My understanding is that you are limited to the amount of time you can spend on a shower in a truck stop...I hear it is 30 minites. I may have to modify my DE routine a bit....this is one of those times where a (crindge) electric shaver (gasp) would come in handy. I will have my mp3 player with me for music and audiobooks as well. I am looking forward to the trip....things might be different when I come back LOL .

 

[airplanedoc]

Sounds liek fun, Several years ago my dad got to make a run to Chicago (day trip) he still talks about it once and awhile. I have always thoguht it would be interesting for a few days.

 

[SmoovD]

Spent a few years on the road as a driver...life on the road is a tad different. Running team will really keep you moving along so you might not get to enjoy the all nuances of a weekend laid over at a truckstop. Enjoy your time in the jumpseat.

 

[Defend Tacoma]

That sounds like a lot of fun! If you are interested in sharing any stories, or pictures when you return I'd love to hear your impressions!

-J

 

[s1mp13m4n]

My aunt is off the truck taking a break so that leaves my uncle and myself of the truck. They are owner oporator so they have to pay for everything unlike a company driver. My aunt was showing me that with their living expenses, fuel, repair, etc it costs them $1 a mile just to run the truck, so they take no less than $1.50 a mile so they can pay bills and live. Here are some pics of the truck model (not their exact truck) that they own Classic XL. I will write in my journal and take pics of the trip. I am looking forward to it.

 

[Sullybob]

Have fun and enjoy yourself.

Spent a few years on the road as a driver...life on the road is a tad different. Running team will really keep you moving along so you might not get to enjoy the all nuances of a weekend laid over at a truckstop. Enjoy your time in the jumpseat.

It sounds like you've got some pretty interesting road stories .

 

[Andy]

Sounds excellent, please be sure to post pics when you can.

 

[SmoovD]

"Interesting" does not always equate to "good". Truckstops are their own little subculture- for good and bad. You can meet some wonderful, hard-working people just trying to stay afloat and you can meet some real jerks.

 

[FreezerBurns]

Should be a fun trip for you (probably good learning experience as well). What type of freight will you all be hauling?

 

[s1mp13m4n]

I will be heading out tomorrow morning. I am not sure what we are hauling. I know that I am going from eastern VA to somewhere in GA, then we get another load and go who knows where. I did fix my shaving issues, I am going to use my DE but use KMF brushless shave cream....to save time and hassle with a soap and brush on the road. I have my 160GB iPod Classic loaded with music, audiobooks, and the complete Harry Potter movie series. I went to the store and got me some healthy food choices rather than chips and snack cakes. I am all packed and will be living from a nylon duffle bag for a few days or a few weeks. weeee

 

[SmoovD]

I will be heading out tomorrow morning. I am not sure what we are hauling. I know that I am going from eastern VA to somewhere in GA, then we get another load and go who knows where. I did fix my shaving issues, I am going to use my DE but use KMF brushless shave cream....to save time and hassle with a soap and brush on the road. I have my 160GB iPod Classic loaded with music, audiobooks, and the complete Harry Potter movie series. I went to the store and got me some healthy food choices rather than chips and snack cakes. I am all packed and will be living from a nylon duffle bag for a few days or a few weeks. weeee

Don't forget the baby wipes. They come in very handy for quick clean-ups.

 

[jones2289]

Congratulations on finally getting this lined up! It sounds very interesting, and is definitely something to break the monotony, even though parts of it will take on a monotony of their own. I have always wanted to do something like this as well. Have fun on your journey, and I look forward to hearing about it and seeing pictures if you post them.

 

[Go West Young Man]

This sounds like a good time to let your stubble grow in a bit.

 

[DFrancis]

Have fun, be sure to have a report ready for the class when you return.

 

[airplanedoc]

have fun, be sure to have a report ready for the class when you return.

+1