Long-haul truck drivers typically remain out on the road for upwards of six weeks at a time. While the financial benefits and perks prove rewarding, OTR truckers miss their loved ones, particularly during the holidays.
With the supply chain crunch and pressure on the women and men who haul more than 70 percent of the country’s goods and materials, it’s increasingly likely more truckers will be spending the holidays on the road. But being physically away from home does not necessarily mean truckers drivers need to miss out. There are wide-reaching ways to stay connected that include the following.
1: Video Conferencing Is Like Being There
The shift to remote workforces during the pandemic resulted in enhanced video conferencing applications. These days, options such as Google Meets, FaceTime, Skype, and many others come standard with cell phones. Users also have the option of downloading video chat apps their family members prefer. By setting up a series of online get-togethers, professional drivers see the expressions on people’s faces and enjoy a more in-person experience. Truckers can also hear the laughter and see the beautiful smiles of youngsters opening gifts.
2: Consider Playing Online Games Together
Older CDL holders may not necessarily be as enthusiastic about online gaming as Millennials and Gen Zers who grew up with it. But a great deal of interaction is possible that includes competing and carrying on a conversation at the same time. Truckers often have a significant amount of downtime once their hours of service end each day. With reasonable internet service and a laptop, you could be playing and chatting with friends, family members, and even grandchildren from the road.
3: Share A Holiday Meal Together
Building on the creative uses of video chat platforms, OTR truckers have the opportunity to eat meals with loved ones. Whether you are in the rig, a quiet public park, motel room, or restaurant, your phone can be propped up across the table. The family dinner table can be brought into focus on the other end and a hard-working truck driver can experience all the sights and sounds. You can also participate in the family discussion as if you are sitting at the table yourself. There is one word of caution for truck drivers who want to enjoy a pleasant meal. Steer clear of discussing politics. It usually doesn’t end well.
4: Play A Board Game Together
It may come as something of a surprise, but a wide range of in-person board games have an online footprint. Chess, checkers, Monopoly, Battleship, and many others can be played electronically. Drivers have the option of texting moves, using video feeds, or talking on speaker while playing classic games. It’s fun for the whole family and helps everyone feel a little closer.
Source: truckingtruth.com
Video chat is nice but doesn’t even come close to holding your loved ones. I’ve got a 3 yr old and a 1 yr old at home. She doesn’t understand why I can’t be home in a few minutes. Sometimes the video chat upsets her because it makes her miss me more.