Packing List for Students

Spent enough years chaining up firetrucks that i know the challenges and limitations. Eyes and ears open, mouth closed, just like being a Probie again.

 

The Force is strong with this one.

Are you looking to run flatbded, perchance?

 

I keep a tote of summer clothes and one of winter clothes at home and trade as seasons change. Wet weather gear is a must year round, for summer months, I carry a "kewlvest" (I can provide a link if interested in a source) that when soaked in water, will keep you cool for hours in triple degree heat.

I also keep 2 flashlights with a flood feature, I use these to mark my lane when I need to back into a spot without adequate lighting. Other drivers have seen me put them to use and actually asked me about it, I have even helped a few by placing them when I see another driver get frustrated by over thinking it... we've all been there right? Best $20 walmart investment ever....

 

can we bring a laptop?will we be allowed to wear shorts or do we have to wear pants all the time,and steel tip boots? just how much room does the trainer have in his truck for a student?

 

oops.never mind i just saw advice on the laptop and to pack lightly until you go solo. thanks

 

I saw you found some of your answers.

Regarding steel toed boots: if you plan to pull a dry van they aren't necessary. I think in the two plus years I pulled a dry van I only used them once because a warehouse required them (kind of a dumb requirement IMHO).

If you plan to pull a flatbed or bulk, then steel toed boots are a requirement pretty much everywhere at a customer. You will also need a hard hat, safety vest, etc.

Dry van you see drivers walking around in flip flops. Don't be that guy. Wear something comfortable, but professional.

 

Thread revival.......this may sound dumb, but why are sleeping bags on the checklist for alot of companies? The only thing I'm thinking of is just throw that on the mattress and slide in instead of taking a sheet and blanket. Unless I'm missing something here?

 

Two reasons. First, if you are team driving as the trainee, rather than "sharing cooties in the sheets" you have your own sleeping cover for your own use.

Second, have a sleeping bag as backup insulation, even if you are running solo with sheets, blankets, and a comforter, is a good idea. If the temperatures drop below zero and your truck shuts down because water content in the fuel has created ice on your paper fuel filters, you are now in a survival situation. Always keep a sleeping bag in the truck.

 

work shoes with plenty of padding inside of them

God bless every American and their families! God bless the U.S.A.!

 

Pack one large duffel bag. You will have to stow it on the top bunk. I packed a sleeping bag, a week of underwear and socks, gloves, 4 shirts, two pants, and my coat I just wore separate. Also shower sandals and a bathroom bag with all needed toiletries and one towel. That’s really it except for my phone and wallet. Haven’t needed anything else so far.

I wish I had a laptop that would be really nice about right now. My only entertainment is my phone. If you have a tablet, that would easily fit in your bag.