Truck drivers work hard to keep the supply chain moving and our stores full – they deserve to be reminded that they are appreciated! Whether you’re a friend, family member, or colleague of a trucker, here are twenty gift ideas for affordable items truck drivers will enjoy (and actually use!)
Something to Keep in Mind
If you’re thinking of buying tools or appliances, remember that any item that requires a power supply (like a mini-fridge) will likely need an inverter. Double check if the truck driver’s company has regulations for these types of gadgets, or if they supply company-approved equipment already.
Gift Card
Customizable Doordash gift card
You can’t go wrong with buying gift cards for a truck driver. Their long hours on the road mean they can always use extra money for their favorite restaurant, truck stop, or coffee shop.
If you’re not sure where they like to eat, consider purchasing gift cards for food delivery services such as DoorDash, GrubHub, or UberEats – or even ride services like Uber or Lyft. Drivers who work for trucking companies have restrictions on how many miles they can clock in a day. Once they’ve hit that limit, they have to stop where they are! Your gift card can help make sure they still get food or a ride wherever they have to stop.
Media Subscription
Audible gift options – membership or individual audiobook
Music, radio, audiobooks, and other forms of entertainment and education are greatly appreciated by truckers who have many quiet hours to fill during long-distance hauls. Purchase a subscription to Audible, Sirius XM, Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music/Podcasts, or any other media platform you think they’ll love. These platforms usually offer a variety of subscription plans, so you can pick the right one for your budget. Or, if you know the driver’s favorite author or artist, go ahead and purchase the individual audiobook or album they’re sure to enjoy.
Yeti Tumbler
Customizable Yeti tumblers in 10 oz, 16 oz, and 30 oz sizes
Whether used as a coffee mug or a water bottle, a quality insulated tumbler from Yeti is a gift truck drivers can use every day to keep drinks hot or cold. Yeti tumblers are a high-quality product available in a wide range of sizes and colors. They also come with customization options for a more unique gift.
Polarized Sunglasses
Three polarized sunglass options from Oakley
Polarized sunglasses from quality brands like Oakley or Ray Bans are sure to be appreciated by any driver. Even if a trucker has a pair of sunglasses they use, the lenses will inevitably get scratched or the pair will end up lost. It never hurts to give them another to have on hand. A high-quality pair of sunglasses will range in price, but you can find a good deal between selecting simpler styles and regular sales.
Rechargeable Flashlight or Headlamp
H04 RC USB Magnetic Rechargeable LED Headlamp from Skilhunt
A strong light is an extremely useful tool for a truck driver that is bound to come in handy in all types of scenarios. Choose a simple, high-powered flashlight or give them a bright headlamp for situations where they need a hands-free light. Truckers usually prefer rechargeable flashlights and headlamps so they don’t have to keep batteries on hand.
Personalized Keychain
Personalized stainless-steel trucker keychain & box from Teals Prairie & Co.
Since truck drivers spend so much time away from home, it can be a very meaningful gift to give them a small, personalized token they can keep with them at all times. Remind them to drive safe and think of family and friends who love them with a customized keychain or trucker keychain.
Engraved Wallet
Snapshot of personalized wallets on Etsy
Whether a gift for Father’s Day or a stocking stuffer on Christmas, a customized wallet is a practical but meaningful gift truck drivers can use wherever they go. Engrave the wallet with initials, names, or a favorite quote they’ll enjoy having with them. If you shop for personalized wallets on Etsy, you can choose from a wide selection of options and support a small business owner through your purchase.
Air Freshener
Customizable air freshener sold on Amazon
Air fresheners make fun stocking stuffers or care package add-ons for truck drivers. You can even customize air fresheners with photos, so your loved one can have a reminder of family and friends that they’ll see every day.
Trucker T-Shirt
Overview of trucker t-shirts & shirts from Zazzle
Order a custom t-shirt that shows off a driver’s love for the trucking industry – and have it personalized by including their name or the name of their business if they’re an independent owner-operator. The trucker t-shirt collection from Zazzle has tons of options for designs, quotes, and styles so you can find the perfect fit.
Ergonomic Seat Cushion
Gel Enhanced Seat Cushion from ComfiLife, sold on Amazon
Every truck driver needs a good seat cushion to prevent back pain from long hours of sitting at a steering wheel, like the Gel Enhanced Seat Cushion from ComfiLife. Give this trucker gift to a driver who just got their CDL, so they can be comfortable from day one. Or replace a veteran truck driver’s worn-out cushion with a new, ergonomic model they’ll love.
Comfortable Pillow
Shredded Memory Foam Pillow from SnugglePedic, sold on Amazon
A new pillow is a wonderful gift for making a big rig feel more like home – not to mention improving sleep patterns. Quality foam mattresses are usually high-ticket items that truckers have strong opinions on, and sometimes they’re already provided by trucking companies. Instead, order a highly-rated pillow like this memory foam pillow that any truck driver can incorporate into their sleeping arrangements.
Toiletry Care Package
Large toiletry bag from L.L. Bean
A care package with toiletries is certain to be used by any long-haul truck driver. Hygiene items truck drivers swear by include mini cologne/perfume, body wipes, a shower bag, laundry bags, and shower shoes.
Quick-Drying Towel
Examples of Nomadix towels sold through Amazon
Truck-stop showers often provide towels and washcloths, but it’s a good idea for truckers to bring a clean towel of their own. Quick-drying, compact towels like Nomadix towels are great truck driver gifts that are easy to store and come in a variety of great designs.
Compression Socks
Black, high-compression socks by Go2Socks
Compression socks are a must-have for workers, such as over-the-road truck drivers, who are in a sitting position for most of the day. Lack of regular movement can create long-term health problems, and high-compression socks are crucial for improving circulation, reducing swelling, and preventing leg cramps. Truck drivers will undoubtedly appreciate having multiple pairs of nice quality compression socks on hand!
Work Gloves
Pack of twelve large Galeton Viper gloves sold by Amazon
Durable, water-proof work gloves are a practical gift truck drivers will definitely use. Be sure to buy a pack with multiple pairs of gloves, as the manual labor involved in many types of truck driving will wear out a pair of gloves quickly. And, since truckers stop at so many different locations, gloves are easy to lose and leave behind. They’ll need a stockpile of backup pairs that you can help supply.
Leatherman Multitool
Leatherman Wingman Multitool sold on Amazon
A high-quality multitool like the classic Leatherman Wingman Multitool is a staple for semi-truck drivers. Its compact design makes it easy to carry around, and this fun, practical gift will inevitably come in handy in all types of situations.
Instant Pot
3-Quart Instant Pot Duo sold by Amazon
Good meals are hard to come by when you’re traveling. A small Instant Pot is a must-have for truckers who want to save money on eating out, cook healthier meals, and who like making their own food. For an even more personalized gift, give them the mini slow cooker along with a list of recipes you know they’ll enjoy.
Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
18-volt Ryobi handheld vacuum cleaner sold on Amazon
Keeping the cab and front seat clean is an important way to make workdays more enjoyable and to maintain a healthier lifestyle. A powerful handheld vacuum cleaner from top brands like Ryobi or Milwaukee is a great gift that will be appreciated on a daily basis!
High-Performance Radio Antenna
Magnetic Mount CB Radio Antenna from Stryker Radios
Many truckers enjoy the hands-free communication and entertainment of a mobile CB or ham radio in their truck cab. But if they’ve been using cheap radio equipment and never seem to get good reception, give them the gift of a quality trucker antenna from Stryker Radios. This magnet mount antenna improves radio performance and is built to last on the road.
Fund their Off-Hours Hobbies
Three mobile 10-meter radio models from Stryker Radios
Truckers need a good break from work just like anyone else. If you’re shopping for the perfect Christmas gift or birthday gift, don’t forget about their at-home or on-the-road hobbies! Make their time off even more enjoyable with new cooking or grilling supplies, music equipment, add-ons to their home or mobile gym, gaming equipment, or any other contributions to their favorite activities.
For truckers who are radio enthusiasts on the road and at home, Stryker is your brand for all things amateur radio. We provide truckers and amateur radio operators with top-of-the-line radio equipment – from powerful mobile ham radios to CB radio microphones and CB antennas.
We hope this gift guide helped you find the perfect gift for your favorite trucker!