Before cell phones, laptops, and XM we used to read paperbacks. Google it if you don't know what those are. And no, it didn't suck. Most driver lounges used to have a book exchange. Leave one - take one
Hey-For me cell phone and netbook are pretty much needs any more.I do a dedicated run so i pretty much know someone wherever i stop.Made some pretty good friends that way. When i did 48 states i looked for baseball/football games to go to and find local stuff when i was stopped with an oversize load.Found ways to do things and/or have fun in places others might not.Plus learning how to be alone and not lonely makes time pass a lot better.I tell people this job can be a blessing or a curse.However you want to make it.Lots of time to think so miles go fairly fast or way too slow.However you want to make it. Getting to see friends and relatives without paying for it was always fun.Especially ones i hadn't seen in ten years and they had no idea i was walking through their door.Take care.Brian
So far, after 2 solid months under my belt here are my must have(s)... Rand McNally GPS & Map Android Phone - Comes in handy for numerous reasons. Google Maps/Satelitte view,(Satellite view on Google maps has saved me a lot of time)notes, voice to call/text/email, and so on Internet connection - T-mobile for me/ If you habe an Android phone, you can root it, and use your data plan as your internet connection. 5gigs 30 bucks. PC - with Microsoft Streets & Trips installed, and a bunch of downloaded movies/shows (mobilism.org) Plastic Bags, or Grocery Bags and a small 4gal trash can. 19 inch LCD flat screen - Make sure it has a USB hook up, and plays movies. Digital antenna. I've yet to find a place where I can't pick up channels. Over 50 in NYC/Jersey. I watched Football yesterday on my 34 thanks to the digital antenna my ProStar has Carpet - So when you wake up, your feet can land on something better than cold rubber. An inverter, and an extra in case the first one breaks. Hand Sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes - It's not always feasible to take a shower everyday, and comes in handy. Tools - I learned the hard way, and had to pay truck stop prices for a few tools I needed on the spot. You'll feel like your getting raped. Air line that hooks to your seat, for blowing out truck. XM Radio - Especially if you're a sports fan. You can listen to EVERY NFl game, MLB games, NBA, and so on. Also good for late at night. As someone mentioned earlier, a spare key.