Updated September 2024
OTR (over-the-road) trucking consists of hauling loads across the country meaning drivers are away from their families for weeks or more at a time. While a career in trucking can provide remarkable stability and opportunities for your family, being away from your loved ones during long hauls can be incredibly challenging. It’s completely normal to feel loneliness and homesickness, as many truckers share these feelings, but embracing a positive mindset can help! Remember that the time spent apart makes your reunions even more special, allowing you to be more present and engaged with your family when you are home.
Consider Networking
With a community of 2 million professionals doing OTR trucking nationwide, you are not alone in this journey! You have an entire network of individuals who understand how you’re feeling. There are Discord communities and national organizations that connect truck drivers. Don’t hesitate to confide in one another and share tips on how to stay connected with your loved ones while on the road. Always remember, your friends and family are proud of you and appreciate the important work you do to keep the world moving.
Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Technology offers many ways to stay close, even when you feel far away.
Scheduled FaceTime/Video Calls: Choose a dedicated time each day, whether morning or night, to FaceTime your family. This routine helps avoid phone tag and creates anticipation for your catchups.
Family Texts: Prioritize sharing little moments throughout the day in your family group chat. Whether it’s a personal experience or a funny video, these small messages can help maintain connections.
Plan Visits: If possible, coordinate visits when you know you’ll be passing by interesting locations. Meeting up at national parks or other fun spots can create cherished memories and break the solitude of long drives. Don’t forget to reach out to old friends or family in towns you pass through!
Keepsakes/Pictures: Collect small trinkets, stuffed animals, or photos from your family to take on the road. Keeping these items in your cab can provide comfort during moments of loneliness, reminding you of the love waiting for you at home.
Online Activities: Utilize apps that allow you to stream movies and shows together or play text-based games. These shared experiences, even from a distance, can help strengthen your bond.
Send Postcards: Mail postcards from your stops along the way! Your family can collect them, serving as a reminder of the distance you travel and where you are passing through.
Connection is Key
Keeping a positive mindset is crucial; always remember who you’re working for and the goals you’re working towards. Reach out to your OTR trucking community and share your experiences with them. Staying connected is not only possible but will enhance the trucking experience while improving your relationships with friends and family. If the challenges of being away become overwhelming, remember that you can explore local or regional truck driving options as well.
