Thanks for being kind to us when we have to stop. I went oklahoma to Jacksonville NC to visit my son. I didn't have hotel money and I felt safer with you guys. Thanks .
@@luismangiaterra1031 You're not too bright are you. Remember the bit where Luis wrote " I felt safer with you guys. " Apart from having all necessary conveniences and even meals cooked for them, why the hell shouldn't they?
@@lorditsprobingtime6668 truck drivers are there because it's their job. You can only do one thing there and that's to waste important business and rest time. Time is money. Lack of rest can cause an accident. Why don't you just get a motel room, that's what they're there for or are you a complete moron?
A million years ago - I was a very young 20-something. . . and two truckers safely escorted me through foggy Tennessee mountains in the late night. I'm pushing 70 now - and never forgot it. . . respect truckers. Glad to see their perspective. . .
I am forever grateful and in debt to the many truck drivers that helped keep me and my 2 young teenagers safe at night, when driving in our beat up Chevy van cross country to my parents in Oregon. After about 3/4th of the road trip cross country, money was getting very low and I could no longer afford to check into camp grounds. This was not a holiday trip but a necessary trip to get to my parents house and away from a not so good situation. First truck stop i pulled into I will admit I was scared but, I was more scared of just parking overnight along side the road, all alone and risk something bad happening to my children. I drove up to where the truckers were parked, got out, walked up to the first truck and knocked on the drivers door, The trucker opened the door and I told him about our situation and asked if I could please park next to him, so I would feel more safe during the night. He looked down at my kids and his answer was immediate. Yes, of course hun, as long as you don't mind my engine running... I could have kissed him! He also told me that most truckers have no problem keeping an eye on someone that asks them for help, especially when you have children with you. Next trucker that came in, "our" trucker got out of his truck and stopped the new truck, talked briefly with him and next thing, that trucker parked on the other side of our Van. First night in a long time I was able to sleep comfortably feeling safe between the big rigs, going to sleep listening to the soft rumbling of their big engines! More or less the same situation at the following 6 truck stops we slept at until we finally reached my parents house in Albany Oregon. I was also given some do's and don'ts when driving on the road alone. Lessons I still to this day remember. As well as what signs to look for when trying to decide if it is safe to ask a driver or anyone on the road for help. I love you truckers!! And yes, I am now married to a long haul retired truck driver! Not one of the guys that I met on the road, just a coincidence or synchronicity of life. I know I'll never be able to thank the drivers that helped us on the road, even if I did make sure I made them their morning coffee and sandwich. Many thanks from a mother that really needed your help and you gave it and more freely.
What a great story, thanks for sharing. My husband used to drive for a moving company, and my daughter and I rode with him a few times. I always felt pretty safe at truck stops.
Shortly after Christmas, I was pulling my Travel Trailer down to Florida (for obvious reasons) and the day turned windy. I pulled into a Truck Stop to fuel up and to put on my friction sway bar. A truck driver thought I was having trouble with my pulling it out of its hold and came over to help and see if I needed any of his tools. No sooner had he come over and another driver observed and joined him. A third driver did the same. That friction sway bar did not have a chance of not cooperating with six experienced truck drivers determined to get the job done correctly! I asked them about RVs taking up space in a Truck Stop. They said, as long as I pulled in to be back as I did, and as long as I didn't block anybody in, and as long as I did not block access to the CAT scales, and as long as I was courteous and not disrespectful, and as long as I am not taking up the last truck sized parking space, I was more than welcome. It was an amazingly positive experience!! I know that there is supposed to be a bad apple in every barrel, but somehow there were no bad apples in that barrel!!
I'm a criminologist and do a lot of work on the sex trafficking problem. As part of that, I've talked with hundreds of truckers over the years, and the vast majority of them are beyond decent, caring folks (in fact, one of the coolest anti-trafficking groups out there is a Truckers Against Trafficking group--they've aided law enforcement in breaking up many rings, and have saved many victims). I never had a negative opinion of truckers, and was surprised to learn that some (ill-informed) folks do. Both as an RVer, and professionally, I've had nothing but positive interactions. Thanks for this thoughtful video--these folks have a tough job, and I think this effort to educate RVers about the stresses and realities of the trucking profession is admirable, and will likely engender more understanding and courtesy from both ends. Bravo!
I am a truck driver Robin and thanks for this video. We have a computer mounted in our truck that I call the "Gossiper". It will tell EVERYTHING we do to our boss and DOT. We have 14 to work daily using 11 to drive, fuel, fix truck, scale inspection and the other 3 to take rest breaks. We also can only work (using the 11 hours daily) 70 hous of a week. We get paid by the mile, so if we are not driving we are not making money. We don't have overtime, pay for load and unload etc. So as soon as we start the clock our 14 hous start. We have to do a 30 minimum pre trip. So I have 13.5 hours left but also takes from my 11 hours. We can not drive more then 8 hours without a 30 minutes break. So what I do. I drive 4 hours straight, then I take my 30 min break by law (I will use this time to shower and I will stay 45 minutes). I would use 15 min for fuel. So by now I used 5 hours total of 14 hours and 4h 45 of my 11 hours. Then I would drive 3 more hours and stop to use a restroom for 15 minutes. By now I would have used 8h 15m of my 14 and 7h 45m of my 11 hours. I would have 3h 15m to drive but here is where the stress begins because I would have to start look for parking. Sometimes we arrive on places in our rout and they are all full and that is when you see us parked in illigal and weird places, because we run out of hours. Many Walmarts don't accept us anymore, only for shopping. The states knows the regulations but don't have enough parking spaces on their rest areas. The cities don't want our trucks parked there either ( Hayward, CA said because we make their city ugly.😒). Truck stops has to buy land, so they won't increase size. I love my job, but it is very frustrating and we fell discriminated all the time. REMEMBER, THE ONLY THING WE DON'T DELIVER TO YOU IS YOUR BABIES. THE REST IS ON US. 😉😘🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛
Ana Paula: Thank you for your timeline breakdown. Helps me understand your work life better. Here's a question for you. Years ago (actually decades ago) I was told that when a load carrying rig passed me on highways, it was appreciated by the driver if I flashed my headlights to indicate to him/her that he/she had at least 50' clearance between the front end of my vehicle and their back end. I noticed that some drivers would flash their 4-ways as a thank you. I still do that (flash headlights) but am not getting a response. Is this practice still applicable or am I pissing them off?
@@cruisinconnie3491 There is too many new drivers out there. I was trained at Scheneider Company 18 years ago and they trained us to be polite on the road. Many drivers today pay for trucking schools that are cramped with people on the same rig taking their money and not caring about others or a friend teach them, and if they are not polite they don't teach that. Thanks for caring, and continue being nice to us. 😘
@@cruisinconnie3491 I am old school, and I appreciate it when you are courteous and flash me over. This new breed of drivers, cars and trucks, just don't care. Blink blink thank you 😉
I generally will flash trucks over and they usually acknowledge. After they see that I flash them over, they will do the same for me. Like you said, many new truckers out there don't acknowledge and I can generally know by company which ones will or won't. I'm closing in on 53' including my truck so I'm as long as a box trailer on a semi. It's an awesome responsibility which I take seriously on the road and try to be as courteous as possible with the truckers out there.
@Ana Paula Moraes, Interesting break down of your day. And imo, truck drivers should be "thanked for their service" to Americans. You are the fluid that runs through the main artery of our lives. I grew up in the 70s..when we all had CB radios in our cars (yup, this teenager had a handle). My stepdad covered 3 states in his job so my parents had a base radio at home as well so that dinner was on time. He taught me about being courteous on the road with the truckers, as this was very important to him. I still flash my lights to this day and give a wide berth when passing and I NEVER take chances around your rig. I detest seeing so many 4 wheelers on the road being rude and zooming around the trucks, cutting them off, etc. It really angers me, endangering everyone...all for the sake of ego. Safe travels.
i am alive because of a trucker. years ago i was driving from arizona to california in a tiny vw beetle...the old style...like me. it was at night...i was falling asleep and veering of the road. a trucker sounded his/her horn over and over again...enough to get my attention and save my life. now i am an old lady rv'er and forever grateful to truckers.
Bravo! I was 25 years a commercial driver and am getting ready to start the next phase of life as a full time RVer and I must say the fact that you are taking the time to try and understand is a major step in the right direction! Good job and be safe!
As a professional truck driver with over two-million safe miles AND a 40' class A motorhome owner (diesel pusher, of course), I'd have to say you did a pretty good job here, Becky. 😉 Rarely have I felt too annoyed with RVers who park with us, but, when I have felt that way, it's usually because of things you've mentioned here: slides out, not centered in a parking space, parking in a "parking space" when a truck driver would recognize that it's obviously more of a buffer zone in order for someone else to use when they pull out in the morning, parking at the fuel islands, and a 30' RV in an 80' truck space when there's plenty of room up in the "regular people" area of the truck stop. The biggest tip I could offer the average RV operator - whether pickup & trailer (they're not REALLY trucks - haha) or motorhome - is to take a skills course and learn to SAFELY operate a larger vehicle; the Smith System is a GREAT course to take. It bothers me that Jeff thinks he's a good driver because he can drive his Prius from the 'burbs to work every day, then once per year he throws Becky and the kids in an RV and he doesn't have a clue about what he's doing. He THINKS he knows what he's doing, but he doesn't fully understand just how dangerously he's operating his RV. Anywho, good stuff, kiddo. Keep up the good work! P.S. I didn't understand half of what you were saying in the beginning. 😉😂
Ms Linda - Should I have spelled it Geoff, just to emphasize the upper-middle class aspect more? 😉 Thank you, both for your kind words and for understanding my warped, sarcastic view of reality.
What you didn't understand the "Trucker Slang"? Though to be perfectly honest "Trucker and the OTR trucking culture" really is a dying language and culture in north America. Not an old school driver personally but I was trained by one so I've always leaned towards the old school traditions and professional, and take care of others the way you would want to be taken care of if you found yourself in need of help. Traditions of the industry. Sadly trucking is just becoming another "job" in the eyes of newer drivers and those traditions like the headlight spotting for passing trucks is becoming lost.
I have taken the Smith System course to drive a 24' straight box years ago. to this day I use that info for my daily driving in both auto and motorcycle. Don't to and professional driving any more but that info should be mandatory for any driving.
Thanks Victory Midwest. I have driven almost everything except a large rig. I grew up in my parent's used car dealership in which my dad bought all types of vehicles to sell... I had to learn to drive some really different vehicles in my life, of all sizes, and this through downtown LA while maneuvering through the Interstates. Buying and operating a Motorhome, however, in which to travel and live in, is a new experience for me. Money will be tight and most of it will be going into the tank. I can't afford RV parks, so I'm glad to hear that truckers aren't going to throw rotten tomatoes at me if I find an out-of-the-way spot to park for the night. I'm sorry that there are inconsiderate people who open their slide outs or are being a nuance to truckers. For what it's worth most RV owners I've known, are not that way. At the truck stops, I'll mostly just gas up, sleep overnight and will head out to my next stop on my way to the home of family or friends where I'll stay for a bit. I appreciate you bringing up RV driving courses... I didn't know they existed. I will definitely find one and take it. I have test driven about five motorhomes and did quite well, but only for 10 miles or less each time. Hardly enough training for crisscrossing the United States! I want to tell you, and you can pass this on to other truckers: Most full time motorhome drivers really appreciate truckers. Watching you guys drive the highways in rigs much larger than ours, is encouraging. If you guys can do it, so can we... I always feel safer anyway with truckers on the road. Fortunately, my daddy made sure his daughters weren't weaklings. Before he handed us the keys to our first car, we had to be able to change the tire, check the fluids, install a battery, and a number of other maintenance things. Still, it's nice to know there's decent men traveling the same roads that we women are, and that we can park our rigs somewhere in the vicinity of at night. You'd be surprised at how many of us women are driving large motorhomes. Take care, Kathryn.
I am newly married and my father in law is a trucker, so I appreciate this episode. I have literally been on a marathon of your videos, my husband and I are fascinated with the RV life and are considering when to make the switch if we do so. The information you relate is so relevant and you answer so many good questions.
@@Vera-xu3xw My same reaction. Perhaps not his/her primary language? If that's the case, I can promise that they speak mine better than I speak theirs!
Great Video! A few additional tips 1-Plan, plan, plan your trip and do as much research about your route and stopping points as possible. This will help you to figure out the best place to stop. 2-When stopping for a few hours at a Flying J or any major truck stop check with the on site manager...he or she may tell you exactly where to park in their lot or somewhere else close by. Ultimately they want to accommodate everyone . 3-We in the RV community need to treat these places as a way to get a few hours of sleep in between destinations and NOT camping locations. If we use these places for a few hours and move on then there is another open spot for a professional driver.
Thank you Robin. We truckers are usually put in a bad light....careless murders running down the highways. I am glad you brought to light that it is not just truckers who are getting a bad rap, but rv'ers as well. I have heard...(by other nomads), truckers are losing places to park because of piss jugs and trash, when I have set and watched rv'ers doing the same. If you are filthy and nasty, you are filthy and nasty, no matter where you are. Remember your sticks and bricks life...that nasty filthy neighbor. I watch other nomads on RUclips, and a few of them complained about trucks idling. Well, most of us do not have solar, on board generators, etc to stay comfortable while we rest. If we do not get our rest, we are not safe rolling down the highways. The only option we have is to idle. I cook in my truck, and you have to idle to use the inverter when you use a heating element. One huge misconception I have been seeing more frequently by the general public, on both truckers and rv'ers, we are out there to get in their way and to piss them off. And let's be real, it is because of the general public that we are losing our spots to park, they do not like our element in their neighborhood. This is more common in larger towns and cities (suburbia). We (trucks and rv's) trash up their town, is what has been explained to me by the locals. (We aren't sticks and bricks (comfort zone)). We, truckers and rv'ers, need to get along, we are all nomads. The only difference is, one is heavily regulated, the other one is not. Again, thank you for brining this to light! 10 10 on the side 😉
As a full-time RVer I agree. Everyone has to give a little, take care of their own crap and hope for larger truck stops to separate the different sizes.
I work with a lot of truckers (Fedex, DHL, UPS - the works) and have found them to be pleasant, professional and great to be around. 😊 We owe you guys so much, and I just want you to know you’re appreciated. Thank you!
I can't tell you how pleased I am that someone finally asked us truckers what we think! After a stressful day of driving, with my legal hours fast running out, I find it frustrating to find half the parking taken up by smaller campers that could park in the car section. We are VERY regulated and options are few. Thanks for helping people understand each other's situation 😊
I'm 61 ft long with RV and tow car, and I have a 110 gallon diesel tank, but I don't feel entitled like some RVers have expressed below. I'll stay at a truck stop as a last resort, I'll pull ahead in the fuel line after filling and before going back in to pay, and I appreciate the courtesy I've always been shown by truck drivers on the road and off. :)
Thank you so much for this video 😊 My ex Is an OTR Truck driver and has been for over 30+ yrs. He now at this moment has my son(25) riding along learning what his dad loves to do and I want them both safe 😊 So Thanks again. P.s. I'm getting pretty sick and tired of hearing about all these ignorant ppl that are putting out their slides, setting up lounge chairs, grilling outdoors, etc..... at Wal-Mart, Truck Stops, and anywhere else inappropriate to do this. It's ruining the image for us RV-ERS that have respect for business owners and just other ppl period!!!! I don't have a clue why these ppl think they are so privileged to do anything they please with no care or respect to anyone but themselves! !! Lol!!! I had to add this and get it off my chest lol!! Stay safe and Happy trails to you. 😊
Well said on the ps.When we were in Portugal we drove into a lovely little village ,went to park round the back on a car park.Full of rv.s /vans ...chairs out /washing hung off trees/bbqs going, we turned around and left.That little village lost out on us spending our money there so over time their going to stop people parking overnight.We spent a month going through France,Spain and Portugal without staying on campsites, being respectful of our surroundings and meeting people from all over the world,its just a few that spoil it for the many.In 7 years i have never had a knock on my van,watch .. i will get one now, lol sod's law. Oh PS. its a big nato green van with a stove pipe out of the top !!
HAHAHA omg! People always have to ruin a perfectly good thing. We're new to RVing and were even afraid to park at Walmart when we had no other options-but here there are people who go all out and grill and set up lounge chairs! Sounds like cousin Eddie to me (from National Lampoon's:Christmas Vacation).
I was really impressed how you handled your self in the trucking forum. As a trucker myself I frequent them and see numerous post of bashing, complaining, personal attacks, and insults that would make a lot lizard blush. But you actually got control of the conversation and got a lot of good info from them. Your video was spot on and I hope more of both sides will see it. Good job.
Robin you are a hoot! Your opening is very entertaining. I am not in an RV currently and when I am, it is not full time. But, your message here is incredibly helpful for so many. Safety on the road should be everyone's #1 concern. Good job bringing two communities of travellers together in a peaceful and informative manner. You taught me much! 🚚🚛🚐
Me too and about to buy a motorhome so I'm glad it seems truckers for the most part don't mind. Obviously you take their situation into consideration and certainly don't go squeezing yourself into a parking area that's very full and all other logical considerations it SHOULDN'T be a problem either. Already used to the noises around truck stops so that's no issue to me.
I also have a soft spot for truckers. One took the time to stop on a busy interstate and help me change a flat tire when my jack was broken. He was incredible!❤️
Great info. Thank you for covering such an important issue. I have a 60 year old lady friend who drives a truck. Because of joint issues, she has a handicap tag & parks in the designated handycap parking spots. She actually had an RV driver knock on her door at 9pm to tell her she had to move, so he could have that spot. I guess because he is handycap AND retired? She dumped her water bottle at his feet, rolled the window up & went back to bed. Driving a truck IS our job. It's a 24/7 job.
You are Aw some!! My husband is a trucker and we also have a motor home and I've never thought of this. But truckers do have limited areas where they can park and now are on a timed clock. Love how you put love in between all and courtesy toward others!!!
Bless your heart! Thank you, thank you, thank you, for asking the truckers! They are hard-working folks and deserve every consideration. They have very limited areas in which to park and sometimes the law will ticket them just because. EVERY commodity we use in life is delivered by a trucker. They deserve the utmost respect by ALL other drivers. (And yes, my husband is a retired trucker. I've heard the horror stories.) Thank you so much for your channel. I enjoy it very much and look forward to more. Happy Trails!
I have been wondering for quite some time on the etiquette of staying at truck stops. Thank you for the thorough information and also giving us the feedback from truckers on ways we can help them.
I am retired and off the road now (and sometimes really miss it,but not the daily headaches) so I watched with interest to see what you had to say. It was all good but when you told your viewers to be considerate of the times truckers needed to use showers and laundry I said YES! because there were times I was on a very tight schedule and may need to run all night but really needed a shower. A shower was a luxury and valuable time off the road. Civilians on vacation used to fry my mind hogging the showers. A shower would refresh me for hours so in some cases it was almost essential. So thank you for all the guys and gals still out there bringing all the goods you enjoy. Good for you!
While I'm nor a professional trucker, (I'm a musician) but I learned to drive a large vehicle starting with a Greyhound 4104 and have driven may different types since then and have a million accident-free miles under my belt. I learned most of these things first hand, but that is an excellent video that all drivers should see/learn. They don't know the stress drivers are under when a 4 wheeler passes them and cuts in too close ( takes more than a few feet for them to stop, That's 16+tons of metal behind them), or what can happen if a truck tire has a blowout while they're riding carefree next to it. Pass it or follow it, but give them some room. At the end of the day, those truckers are worn out and need some rest. Very good advice, though. Thanks
Most RVers will try to get past a truck if they are going faster than them. It is not always easy as some of the RVs are older and do not have the power of the newer ones. I agree that a person should pass as quickly as possible, but sometimes it is not possible to be fast and then there are the older rigs that are gas and go slow even when they are trying hard to keep out of the way. If they have a C B they should let the trucker know when they see one coming up in their rear view mirrors. It makes it easier for the trucker and the RVer.
Robin.. Great video! My brother was a trucker for 30+years. He certainly had his share of stupid 4- wheelers/rv'ers stories. But the one that won the TOP PRIZE... a couple decided to park their old station wagon at the ENTRANCE TO A TRUCK ESCAPE RAMP!!! They had the tailgate down, sitting there oblivious having a picnic enjoying the view! DO NOT BLOCK A TRUCK ESCAPE RAMP!!!
C O M M U N I C A T I O N !! What a beautiful thing!!! Thank you so much for asking the truckers & sharing with us. I never want to be anything but respectful to these people who work so hard & deliver to us our needs!!
FIRST: THANK YOU ALL TRUCKERS FOR THE WORK YOU DO!!! 2nd: awesome and informative video thank you soooo much! 99.9 percent of truckers are family oriented and really good people as is most Rv’rs. Blessings of love for all!!! Happy trails!!!
Loved your opening! Thanks for this video, my husband and I team drive and are also rvers on our off time. We all have to work together to stay safe . And thanks for being trucker friendly, Robin. Safe travels to you.
Hi Robyn, I retired from trucking and returned to school bus driving so I could be home nights, weekends and holidays. Now preparing to go back on the road in an RV. The worst event at truck stops or rest areas was when an RV slides were out and walking between rigs in the dark. Nothing worse than cracking your head on the edge of a slide. Thanks for your video
Robin, you never cease to amaze me! You give the BEST information on the most important subjects. Thanks for making traveling down the road a little safer for us as well as truckers. God bless them!!!
I’ve been rving since 2004. I have learned lots of hacks from you tubers I never thought about. But truckers I have the utmost respect for and try not to take up there space anywhere unless I just can’t drive another mile. They have all been friendly helpful and taught me etiquette on the road at rest areas and truck stops. Also on moving out of the way when there trying to enter the freeway. Something that should be in drivers handbook. I have also been helped blown tire and other mishaps. Kudos to the truckers. I love them.
Very good info thanks. My dad and Uncle were truck drivers and they told me awful stories of how people acted toward them so it was very considerate of you to ask them for input.
What a nice video and a nice thing you did for the truckers!! You actually took the time and effort to find out what they want and need. I think thid the first time Ive seen that. So on behalf of them THANK YOU!
Robin, you ROCK! This is by far one of the most interesting topics I have seen about RVing. I have always had a soft spot for truckers, many of whom have helped me be safe when travelling back and forth to uni many years ago...they were kind and down to earth! This is such great advice and I love that you reached out to their community for the feedback.
I so appreciate you taking the time and effort to find out what the truck drivers have to go through. I'm a truck driver and it has been on my mind that my fellow drivers don't understand the nomad life.I am pretty positive that if my fellow drivers were more aware that there are single people living in their van conversions or their RV those drivers would be keeping an eye on them in an effort to keep them safe. A lot of these guys are very protective. This video covers exactly what has been concerning me regarding the rvers and the trucker's out here on the road. Thank you so much for doing this.
Intro was fantastic! lol (I started driving in 1986) If you park in a truck stop after dark, don't be wandering around. That's when bad things can happen. Park and close curtains.
Another great video... Fantastic, practical topic. I have a 40' DP and I read EVERY comment and each reply to learn as much as I could to make me a safer, more thoughtful driver. Hysterical intro! Thanks again! :)
Nice to have a different video. truckers are just people out on the road like us. We all want safe travels and a safe place to stay. Just do what you need to do and move on. Happy travels to you.
Also, when RVers, who have diesel engines are fueling in the fuel lanes, please watch your children. I can't count how many times a child or a group of children have run across my fuel lane or other drivers fuel lanes just as we're about to pull out. We try to look before we move, but a small running child might not be seen. I've even had really short drivers walk in front of my rig as I pulled out. If it wasn't for my little mirror attached to my fender, I might have not seen them.
Loved your video.👌👍 Great information! We've stayed in Flyin J's and rest areas for yrs cross country. We always park up near the restaurant near the outer island of the property where the truckers aren't. So far no problems. Common sense plays a huge role here.
I read every single comment on the truck forum and recommend everyone watching this do so as well. I’m impressed with how you compressed what was essentially a sh”t fight between the RV haters and rational truck drivers to provide concise tips for responsible RVers
Having a son who is an OTR driver, I understand fully the life of the truckers and appreciate their profession. Most are courteous, but alas, that is starting to disappear with the amount of new hires and lack of knowledge of the real professionals. When we full timed with our diesel pusher, we had a total length of 70 feet and ran a business on the road. When the drivers saw me back into a slot between 2 other semi's, they always asked me who I drove for and were surprised when they found out I didn't. Know the rules, know how to drive and how to act and truckers will be your friend!
THANK YOU SO MUCH! I love the trucking community and so glad we can work to get along. I've stayed at truck stops and rest stops and I'm always amazed at what they have to put up with on the road.
I loved this one! Very good info and great that you took the initiative to get truckers input on this. Very helpful. When I start my van life I will be mindful of these things. Thankful to truckers opinions and feelings as well. The only way for people to get along is through communication where we listen and hear, learn and compromise where we differ in opinions. Thanks
HERE’S THE LINK TO THE TRUCKERREPORT.COM FORUM: www.thetruckersreport.com/truckingindustryforum/threads/please-give-advice-for-the-rv-community.1259761/page-14 HERE’S THE LINK TO TRUCKER PATH: truckerpath.com/ HERE ARE THE LINKS (click READ MORE at the bottom of this comment to see everything INCLUDING EVERYTHING MENTIONED THIS VIDEO)! CHECK OUT ALL ROBIN'S GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS AND PRODUCTS MENTIONED ON RUclips HERE: www.amazon.com/shop/creativityrv 😃READ ROBIN'S #1 BESTSELLING BOOK😃: BE A NOMAD CHANGE YOUR LIFE -- THE ULTIMATE GUIDE to living full-time in a van or RV: , Be A Nomad Change Your Life: amzn.to/2G5QF4J GET 15% OFF ON A HARVEST HOSTS MEMBERSHIP WITH HERE **USE COUPON CODE " ROBIN1 " **: HARVEST HOSTS harvesthosts.refr.cc/robin1 ***WANT TO READ MY BOOKS FOR FREE?!? ***GET A 30 DAY KINDLE TRIAL HERE: amzn.to/2IePDqT NEED INSPIRATION? Check out Robin's Inspirational Quotes Website: www.wordsinspired.com/ *CreativityRV is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. By using these links I will make a small percentage of your purchase, even if you buy something else--and it won't cost you anything.
Great Information again !! I'm sure the Trucker Community can give a Lot of driving tips! I know when I was driving my 34' Class A, there were a lot of clueless people cutting off trucks and coaches, oblivious to the wrecks they almost cause. These semis don't stop on a dime 😱. Coaches and semis most times need to take a bit of a run at a hill. You have no idea how Blue the Air gets when breaks have to be used to avoid Grandma who has just pulled ifo them to putt up the hill. Anyway, remembering this is bad for my BP when I'm stuck at home. 😂😂😂 I hope you get some feedback and stories fm Truckers. 😊
Several of my friends are Truckers I always give truckers the right of way regardless of what the law says. and everyone should do that we need to stay out of their way and let them do their job. Every time we go into a store to buy something think about it folks a truck deliver that item were buying. Without the trucks of America would not exist. God bless all my brothers of the road.
Creativity RV Just read all the comments on that link. There were a few very helpful people and a few who were angry at the world. All in all, once they realized that you are trying to make THEIR lives easier, the real pros stepped up to the bat. You get an *A' plus in Communications and conflict resolution. #whyyourchannelgrows. Keep up the good work! You're a Pro!
Mrs. Becky, retired due to disability. Would love to do what you and yours are doing. Wife retires in a few years, but we haven't any ideas yet on making a living and travel. Still working on it. Enjoyed the video, keep up the good work and by all means stay safe out there.
Maybe you could give the people at truck driving schools an overview of RVers and how truckers and RVers can coexist on the roads. I think that would be a great class.
How many times can you say "BEST VIDEO EVER!' without it sounding insincere? You never cease to amaze me with your leg work and research of facts and first person info. Again, I've learned so much and it makes me more anxious than EVER for my house to sell so I can hit the road. I grew up with the bumper stickers "IF YOU HAVE IT A TRUCK BROUGHT IT!" I also know that many independent truckers are struggling and fighting the big corporate machine. I can't imagine having EVERY MINUTE OF EVERY DAY being watched by the computer in your rig, telling you when to stop, when to go, docking you for every little minute. I worked for a large company with regular truck deliveries and I know what these guys go through. If we can help make their day a little easier, I will do my best to do so. Thanks again for another informative video. I now archive them for when I get my rv so I can be a good citizen of the road.
learn the Smith System!!! so you can drive safely. other than that is try to observe courtesy in a truck stop: do NOT extend your sliders - too easy to rip them off - unles they open over grass or a raised island; after fueling/watering pull ahead so the guy behind can fuel/wash windows; try not to park in truck spots - we get caught somewhere else it's likely a $300 minimum ticket with a smirking cop. Safe driving!
Retired trucker-thinking about the RV nomad thing. Speaking as a trucker, I would have to agree with some of this, but would like to add--the closer you are to the East Coast, the more you need to stay out of truck stops. Spaces are few, and truck traffic is heavy. We're losing spaces every day. Also--YOU MISSED WEIGH STATIONS! Some states leave their parking lots open, even if the coop is closed. There's also industrial parks, abandoned malls or former grocery stores. AND, if you end up having to use a truck spot, try to double up whenever possible!
I used a closed down weigh station with nothing but a trash dumpster that Iowa left open and labeled as a rest area once with the travel trailer I had. Truck stops are usually my last resort due to noise but I will use them if needed.
A MUST SEE for every RVer!!! Been driving on and off since since 1978 and have absolutely NO ISSUE with RVers using parking spots at truck stops. A great video!!! Very very well researched!!! There are two things I would like to add. First is that the ratio of RVs on the road big enough even have to use truck parking spots - even at the height of the season - to trucks is at least 100 or maybe 200 to 1. There will never be enough to begin to be an issue. Second is that anywhere within 50 to 75 miles of a metro area the parking fills real quick in the evening. Same thing along a busy interstate between metros. So, being a driver, I/we have to abide by the ELD/hours of service and this, more often than not, ends us up in these areas. Being in an RV, what I would be doing, and I RV on occasion, is to get farther away from a metro area before stopping for the evening. There are a lot more options and safer options the farther away you get. Of course, in the eastern part of the country this gets harder to do. Happy RVing!!!!
Hah! Fun opening. :). At just under 53' long I am the size of a box trailer on a semi so I find it so much better going through the diesel pumps for truckers. The pumps are big and fill quickly and I know the DEF is fresh and properly stored. I haven't found truckers to be rude or give me stink eye when fueling, but I fuel up while doing a walk around my rig to check tires and the rig in general and then pull forward so the truck behind me can fuel up. I am constantly amazed by the number of newby truckers who are leaving their trucks at the pumps while they go inside--even to restaurants next door. Crazy! I appreciate truckers--have a few in my family and really like having merchandise and supplies they carry on the shelves in my stores. ;). Thanks guys. Keep the shiny side up.
Wonderful information Robin.Thanks for giving us both sides.I agree with you and them,let's all be safe and respectful to one another.Be safe my friend.
Great information very informative. My stepdad was a trucker so, I have nothing but, respect for what they do. When traveling with our 5’er or just driving with out the 5’er I show truckers nothing but, love.
Personally, the only real issue I've had at a truck stop with my rv was some flak a couple times because I prefer the high volume pumps instead of the "regular" diesel pumps; when I explained 1) I work in/from my rv and 2) my tanks are comparable to theirs (170 gals to 200 gals respectively) so do not have the time/patience to wait and/or do multiple purchases (many 'regular' pumps will shut off automatically @ 50-60 gals) if not necessary we were fine. Also, I will wait to fuel at non-peak hours whenever possible because I recognize their time restraints ...
Some churches with large parking lots don't have a prob if you park just for the night. I suggest if you do park at the edge of the parking lot at the side or back and of course where it will not cause a problem for people parking going to the church. Real important if you park on a Saturday night, night before church services.
Excellent video. We have been following you tubers for about 4 years and we travel with our 39ft Truck and RV horse trailer to the USA. This is the first time we have seen a video about truck stops. Not ever had a problem resting there or overnighting. But then again we understand the truckers are driving for a living. Thanks again!
A trucker for a living, with a 22,000 lb 5th wheel pulled with oall.cbingled, converted 397 Pete for pulling a RV. I get it!!! For the most part both communities are the salt of the earth. It's the one of several hundred in each group that ruin it for all... Don't hesitate to tell the slobs they are ruining it for all, them included, when they do this stuff.
Great video, great tips. In a land long ago, I was a trucker. Now I am an RV'er. What I love about truck stops: friendly people, usually clean showers, a nice store. It's good to be polite, and thanks for helping us all to do that!
Very creative, as usual!! It’s good to know these things. Jack’n with someone’s livelihood is serious business. Plus, my father was a trucker and my mother was a waitress. Fred and Edythe! I always told them (given their jobs and names) they were the perfect country western couple! Yeehaw! They were such fun folks!! Thanks, again, for the always-relevant info!
Glad to watch this video! I've always been considerate of trucker FIRST. That's their job and their income. Stayed in Flying J's, Loves, etc and always looked for the spots that I could fit in without taking up a trucker's slot. Never had an issue personally. With walmarts and other spots being closed off it's even more important to be a good neighbor. Thanks for all the good info!
The problem with rvs parking in truck spots in truck stops is rvs have many more options for parking than trucks, so we need every spot legally available to us for parking
Barbara H. Those are the spaces I’m talking about. She made some good points, but when we pull in to park in the few places we can legally park. It gets very frustrating to find that the rvs, which are almost unregulated when it comes to where they can park. Parked where we need to park.
I've seen long RV's pulling through and taking up two car spaces in the front lot (in an area with nose-to-nose car spaces that can be entered from both sides). She never mentioned those. She should have said, don't take up a truck's space unless the lot is almost empty.
@ Robert : _“RVs have many more options for parking than trucks....RVs are almost unregulated when it comes to where they can park.”_ With all due respect, that’s not true. Don’t get me wrong - I know that you guys are heavily regulated in general (driving hours, etc.) and that it’s even more difficult for trucks than for RVs to find a place to park, but please don’t think that RVers have it easy. It ain’t much better for us. I have noticed over just the last few years that cities are putting onerous and widespread restrictions on RV parking. As time goes by, we are finding ourselves with fewer and fewer options.
Robin, thanks for the informative video. I am a Long Haul truck driver that also owns a 31 foot RV. A few times a year my 80 year old mom uses the RV solo. This is what I’ve told her: •Use the satellite view on Google Maps (before arriving) to see how a rest area is set up. If there are lots of car parking spots, try to park lengthwise over 4-5 spaces at one end of the lot (she can put the slides out on one side). IF there are no car-side options, AND many truck pull throughs - share a spot with another RV or car/trailer combo (most spaces are 80 ft long). •NEVER park overnight in a Truck Parking Area (signage looks like a Rest Area). These are specifically for trucks and desperately needed. •As was mentioned already, if possible, try parking crosswise or lengthwise through the car parking spaces at Truck Stops before heading around to the back lot. *To my fellow truckers: Yes, RVers do have more options. Many cost, and also may be as scarce in certain areas/at certain times of year. Be patient with them. A friendly tip, and a good attitude can go a long way. -wherever I go, there I am. See you on the road!
Loved this video, its a great topic, open polite communication and mutual respect is what avoids conflicts. Proper rest is necessary for everyone to drive safely avoiding stupid mistakes and un necessary time delays because of accidents. Respect the truckers, they can respect us. Be friendly, be kind be there for one another!
Oh, yeah....back in the 70's there was a huge, HUGE fad relating to trucker culture. Movies like “Smokey and the Bandit” and “Convoy”, TV shows like “BJ and the Bear”....and CB radios galore. CB lingo was _everywhere_ - books were published about CB jargon and translating it for regular folks. “That’s a big 10-4, good buddy!” It was crazy.
I love your videos, I read a lot of the comments on this subject. I also was a truck driver many years ago until an injury forced me out. This being said some truck drivers a grouchy and cranky snobs, but most are nice, kind, willing to lend a hand if your stuck. We all share the road, we all need respect. I have helped many RV'ers in my past and they helped me a few times. As for sleeping in a truckstop if you need too then do it, better to sleep in a truckstop then wreck on the highway. If some trucker thinks his load of Cornflakes is more important then your rest to keep from wrecking then he/she needs to find another line of work, clearly this ones not for them. Unless your broke down and need repairs keep it to 1 night. I remember when the truckers were called the "Prince's of the highway" sadly those days are gone. Thank you for letting me add my two cents.
I would say, I would give them the right of way because they need the room where they park. If I make a friendly error as I park or park somewhere I shouldn't, I wouldn't mind someone knocking on my vansion and telling me "I wouldn't park there if I were you because ....."
I have used my SUV as a temporary RV by putting a mattress in the back when traveling to camp or out-of-state family visits, and have had to stop at a Rest Stop due to heavy rain at night. Apparently I was not the first or only one with the same idea and need! I feel much safer to stop at a State-owned rest stop than several other areas. These are patrolled by State employees and are well lit and spaces are out of the main traffic flow. I asked for permission first, and that lets them know to keep an eye out for you.
@@beckyelliott2871 be aware that SOME remote rest areas have a reputation for drug traffico & avoid dark areas. I'm sure NO ONE, whether trucker or family van/motor home/what have you wants to accidentally be in someone's line of Fire.
As a truck driver and a rver thank you for doing this video. One tip I have is at most rest area if you have a smaller rig park in the car lot. The truck spots are sometimes hard to find and the semis cant go in the car side most times.
I recently stayed at a Loves and felt very safe sleeping back with the semis. Thank you for the “best practices” and the rules of the road for co-existing with the working trucking community.
I second LOVES travel centers. They are clean, super friendly, and I have fresh fruit cups when I get tired of eating all the junk on the road. I have never felt unsafe at a Loves.
I car dwelt a 4 wk road trip alone and even though we never spoke verbally i felt like truckers were so nice on the whole and were a huge part of that true nomadic culture where people look out for and help each other.
You did a good job of summarizing the long message thread at The Truckers Report. Your video opening was clever & funny.. i would emphasize how many truck drivers over there said that they generally don't have problems with the RV folks. Truck drivers & RVers aren't enemies. The RVers I see that are problems are the "one trip per year" types driving big RV rigs like an SUV in a hurry. Don't force your way in front of a big truck and hit your brakes, even if you waited until 8 inches before you have to exit. That is THE MOST COMMON 4-wheeler maneuver & THE MOST DANGEROUS thing to do around trucks.
This is great information! I have the utmost respect for truckers, always give them room and am courteous on the road. I flash them in when they need to get in and when going cross country ride with them, leaving plenty of distance. These folks are the reason we get everything, they deserve respect! Thank you!
My dad was a truck driver and so I have a soft spot for them. My rule for parking and driving around truck stops is don't be ****. If we treat truckers with respect and commonsense things will go more smoothly.
As a trucker I don't care where you stay.. but when it comes to fuel... pump it pull up to line and take care of business. .. Watched one of them huge motor homes sit on fuel island the other day for 45 min no body in or around it... truck stop very busy at the time trucks lined up 2 and 3 deep waiting for fuel
Your videos are awesome. So well thought out and concise. Your topics are on point and helpful. You have a positive no nonsense demeanor and make me want to start vanlife! 🤗😁🙌👍
Great help here, Robin. Truckers are doing important work. I'm on the road a lot, and see them by the hundreds. Good that you pointed out that many RVers are working just like them, and their RV is the only home they have.
Thank you from a trucker you were spot on. But not refered to as cabs, they are called bobtails or tractors. Keep up great work. 21 months to my full time nomadic life!
Half my family are or were truck drivers, friends too. I trust a trucker on the road more than I would anyone else. My experience has been that when a trucker is working, they take their work seriously. It may be quite a different story when they are off duty and at home, but when they are on the road, they are very diligent to "conditions", be it safety or otherwise. When I have had to travel in a car across country, I always felt safe parking where the truckers park. When I was a young single woman traveling across country alone, I always felt that if I were ever in jeopardy that the truckers around me would come to my aid. GO TRUCKERS!!!!!!! TRUCKERS ROCK!!!
Excellent video. When I was growing up, truck stops were a safer place, & if I broke down, someone might come look at the problem & tell me if I could continue or if it needed work, now. I'm 63 & at one time, my dad had a small fleet of rigs running Canada - Mexico down the California coast. He gave that up sometime after I was born. I do want to tell the truckers who stopped to help our boys when they rolled a car, thank you so much. They were coming down Emigrant Pass, heading East & the kids were 15 & 16 at the time. They're now 40 & 41! But, I never had a chance to say thank you. So, I'll pay it forward: to all of you who help another, THANK YOU.
I pulled 53-foot trailers for a little while and, noticing closed rest stops, signs prohibiting parking on ramps and shoulders, and docks not letting truckers sleep over (with driving time about run out-can you say “log book violation”?), finding places to park is getting harder...especially when bad weather hits. You’d be amazed at how fast that I-880 truck stop’s 600 spots fill up during winter storms! There’s always more trucks on the road (about a MILLION at a time) than there are legal places to park. RVers don’t have log books to worry about, so have a heart and don’t take up space badly needed by truckers because, when they have to pull in, they HAVE to pull in!
With time running out at terminals where you pu and deliver you can wait out the rest of the time and then use personal conveyance for up to 2 hrs to legally get to safe haven then do a ten hr reset. If I had 10 mins left I just let my time expire then send empty or loaded macros whichever was appropriate then go “pc” time off duty safe haven. PC can help you avoid that violation if you think ahead. Also, you can use part of your on duty time as a yard move allowing you to drive up to 20 mph at a terminal or company yard. I would also use these yard moves at truck stops. It beats trying to creep under 5 mph and doesn’t eat up your 11 hrs of drive time either.
A trucker saved my life when I was falling asleep at the wheel on a very long road trip. He flashed a spotlight in the car and woke me up. I respect that truckers have tighter schedules than I do, and Bless them for doing the jobs they do. If I can make their life easier at a truck stop I will.....and I do!
I always try to give our truckers extra space and courtesy on the road. Thanks for this vid! Most people don't understand the regulatory limitations that force truckers to do some of the things they do and how we can help them so they are minimally impacted by the public at large. Def will take your advice to heart next time we take our RV out.
How bought this one back in 1987 I was driving the biggest Pendle brand new truck from Missouri to Tucson broke down 3 times we had a trucker stop help us went got coffee and hot chocolate stayed with us till tow truck came to tow us out in middle cold desert they are wonderful I feel safe when I see them out there.after that traveled years later for six years drove every day them being out there in the 90's and after always make me feel safe on the road.it can be a lonely place at night.And oh yes we rv'd fifth wheel all over parked at truck stops locked up and never had a problem.We were always considerate of not taking truckers spots.Truckers are the backbone of America.What makes me made is how their hounded by Smokie
Hi all, this is my first time coming across this video. I am planning to become a full time rver next year and I felt the need to thank you for this information and also thank the truckers out there as well. I have traveled by car and truck many,many miles across our beautiful country both for leisure and work. My preferred time to hit the road is around three a.m. I love the truckers on the road this time of the morning,They make me feel very safe for the most part, we know that there are some exceptions but they are rare thank God. Truckers are the backbone of our country when it comes to moving goods of all types, so let us all remember that a little courtesy goes a long way and thanks to those who are like minded!
I LOVED THE INTRO. Brought back so many memories - I am a truckers (RIP Hugo) daughter with family still driving. He logged over 3.7 million miles mainly hauling hog/beef to east coast. Before he fell ill & retired, we saw how much the industry was changing. Guess we were lucky because with mom being from MA, we run summers with him (70's/80's). We'd meet up & swap cousins at exits, learned a few saucy words (CB) etc. I adored this uninterrupted time with him & learning so much. Accountability, working through time constraints, big city traffic, interaction with the vendors, office ladies, even driving (cars) well before I was 16 (parked rigs & trackers as a guide post). I had a manual for years - also used RPM's (like dad) so I didn't always rely on the clutch. I still love a good road trip. So while I may be a "seat cover" I continue to look at "yardsticks" while using "eyeballs" & signals accordingly. I remain in reverence of the men & women driving "big rigs" today - cheers to all of you & RV'r's.... "may you keep the shiny side up and the greasy side down".
Wow! Great information! I nominate you to be a liaison for the rv community! Ha! Ha! Heading out this week and I get so much confidence from your videos. Thanks for the hard work you put into your vids.
Girl~~ you deserve an award from RUclips for your great videos and your spirit is outstanding! Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference! ❤️🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸
Robin, you are both informative and entertaining. If we ever see you out on the road, expect a hug. We always follow the unwritten rules of distance, speed, and safe maneuvering around commercial drivers and wish them all God speed. Thank you.
I am a trucker for over 30 years now. I am just happy someone took the time to learn about our problems a want to work together with us. Thanks.
Thanks for being kind to us when we have to stop. I went oklahoma to Jacksonville NC to visit my son. I didn't have hotel money and I felt safer with you guys. Thanks .
@@joesr.shannavanausdall855 why didn't you keep drving?
You don't have to stop there.
@@luismangiaterra1031 You're not too bright are you. Remember the bit where Luis wrote " I felt safer with you guys. "
Apart from having all necessary conveniences and even meals cooked for them, why the hell shouldn't they?
@@lorditsprobingtime6668 truck drivers are there because it's their job. You can only do one thing there and that's to waste important business and rest time.
Time is money.
Lack of rest can cause an accident.
Why don't you just get a motel room, that's what they're there for or are you a complete moron?
@@lorditsprobingtime6668 cause if I see them I'll vandalize their RV
A million years ago - I was a very young 20-something. . . and two truckers safely escorted me through foggy Tennessee mountains in the late night. I'm pushing 70 now - and never forgot it. . . respect truckers. Glad to see their perspective. . .
I am forever grateful and in debt to the many truck drivers that helped keep me and my 2 young teenagers safe at night, when driving in our beat up Chevy van cross country to my parents in Oregon. After about 3/4th of the road trip cross country, money was getting very low and I could no longer afford to check into camp grounds. This was not a holiday trip but a necessary trip to get to my parents house and away from a not so good situation.
First truck stop i pulled into I will admit I was scared but, I was more scared of just parking overnight along side the road, all alone and risk something bad happening to my children. I drove up to where the truckers were parked, got out, walked up to the first truck and knocked on the drivers door, The trucker opened the door and I told him about our situation and asked if I could please park next to him, so I would feel more safe during the night. He looked down at my kids and his answer was immediate. Yes, of course hun, as long as you don't mind my engine running... I could have kissed him! He also told me that most truckers have no problem keeping an eye on someone that asks them for help, especially when you have children with you.
Next trucker that came in, "our" trucker got out of his truck and stopped the new truck, talked briefly with him and next thing, that trucker parked on the other side of our Van. First night in a long time I was able to sleep comfortably feeling safe between the big rigs, going to sleep listening to the soft rumbling of their big engines! More or less the same situation at the following 6 truck stops we slept at until we finally reached my parents house in Albany Oregon.
I was also given some do's and don'ts when driving on the road alone. Lessons I still to this day remember. As well as what signs to look for when trying to decide if it is safe to ask a driver or anyone on the road for help. I love you truckers!! And yes, I am now married to a long haul retired truck driver! Not one of the guys that I met on the road, just a coincidence or synchronicity of life.
I know I'll never be able to thank the drivers that helped us on the road, even if I did make sure I made them their morning coffee and sandwich.
Many thanks from a mother that really needed your help and you gave it and more freely.
Solani Someni, what did you learn about how to know who to ask for help? This is something that could be helpful for all of us to know.
What a great story, thanks for sharing. My husband used to drive for a moving company, and my daughter and I rode with him a few times. I always felt pretty safe at truck stops.
Solani, what are the do's and don'ts that you learned?
My husband drove long haul. He would have helped you, because he helped many.
That story brought a wee tear to my eye 😢 Thanks for sharing it! 🙏
Shortly after Christmas, I was pulling my Travel Trailer down to Florida (for obvious reasons) and the day turned windy. I pulled into a Truck Stop to fuel up and to put on my friction sway bar. A truck driver thought I was having trouble with my pulling it out of its hold and came over to help and see if I needed any of his tools. No sooner had he come over and another driver observed and joined him. A third driver did the same. That friction sway bar did not have a chance of not cooperating with six experienced truck drivers determined to get the job done correctly! I asked them about RVs taking up space in a Truck Stop. They said, as long as I pulled in to be back as I did, and as long as I didn't block anybody in, and as long as I did not block access to the CAT scales, and as long as I was courteous and not disrespectful, and as long as I am not taking up the last truck sized parking space, I was more than welcome. It was an amazingly positive experience!! I know that there is supposed to be a bad apple in every barrel, but somehow there were no bad apples in that barrel!!
A great story, God sent his angels in the form of truckers.
Yeah right.
@@0906blue they were only being cordial
Truckers are trying to do a job that we ALL rely on. COURTESTY goes a long way.
I'm a criminologist and do a lot of work on the sex trafficking problem. As part of that, I've talked with hundreds of truckers over the years, and the vast majority of them are beyond decent, caring folks (in fact, one of the coolest anti-trafficking groups out there is a Truckers Against Trafficking group--they've aided law enforcement in breaking up many rings, and have saved many victims). I never had a negative opinion of truckers, and was surprised to learn that some (ill-informed) folks do. Both as an RVer, and professionally, I've had nothing but positive interactions. Thanks for this thoughtful video--these folks have a tough job, and I think this effort to educate RVers about the stresses and realities of the trucking profession is admirable, and will likely engender more understanding and courtesy from both ends. Bravo!
I am a truck driver Robin and thanks for this video. We have a computer mounted in our truck that I call the "Gossiper". It will tell EVERYTHING we do to our boss and DOT. We have 14 to work daily using 11 to drive, fuel, fix truck, scale inspection and the other 3 to take rest breaks. We also can only work (using the 11 hours daily) 70 hous of a week. We get paid by the mile, so if we are not driving we are not making money. We don't have overtime, pay for load and unload etc. So as soon as we start the clock our 14 hous start. We have to do a 30 minimum pre trip. So I have 13.5 hours left but also takes from my 11 hours. We can not drive more then 8 hours without a 30 minutes break. So what I do. I drive 4 hours straight, then I take my 30 min break by law (I will use this time to shower and I will stay 45 minutes). I would use 15 min for fuel. So by now I used 5 hours total of 14 hours and 4h 45 of my 11 hours. Then I would drive 3 more hours and stop to use a restroom for 15 minutes. By now I would have used 8h 15m of my 14 and 7h 45m of my 11 hours. I would have 3h 15m to drive but here is where the stress begins because I would have to start look for parking. Sometimes we arrive on places in our rout and they are all full and that is when you see us parked in illigal and weird places, because we run out of hours. Many Walmarts don't accept us anymore, only for shopping. The states knows the regulations but don't have enough parking spaces on their rest areas. The cities don't want our trucks parked there either ( Hayward, CA said because we make their city ugly.😒). Truck stops has to buy land, so they won't increase size. I love my job, but it is very frustrating and we fell discriminated all the time.
REMEMBER, THE ONLY THING WE DON'T DELIVER TO YOU IS YOUR BABIES. THE REST IS ON US. 😉😘🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛🚛
Ana Paula: Thank you for your timeline breakdown. Helps me understand your work life better.
Here's a question for you. Years ago (actually decades ago) I was told that when a load carrying rig passed me on highways, it was appreciated by the driver if I flashed my headlights to indicate to him/her that he/she had at least 50' clearance between the front end of my vehicle and their back end. I noticed that some drivers would flash their 4-ways as a thank you. I still do that (flash headlights) but am not getting a response. Is this practice still applicable or am I pissing them off?
@@cruisinconnie3491 There is too many new drivers out there. I was trained at Scheneider Company 18 years ago and they trained us to be polite on the road. Many drivers today pay for trucking schools that are cramped with people on the same rig taking their money and not caring about others or a friend teach them, and if they are not polite they don't teach that. Thanks for caring, and continue being nice to us. 😘
@@cruisinconnie3491 I am old school, and I appreciate it when you are courteous and flash me over. This new breed of drivers, cars and trucks, just don't care. Blink blink thank you 😉
I generally will flash trucks over and they usually acknowledge. After they see that I flash them over, they will do the same for me. Like you said, many new truckers out there don't acknowledge and I can generally know by company which ones will or won't. I'm closing in on 53' including my truck so I'm as long as a box trailer on a semi. It's an awesome responsibility which I take seriously on the road and try to be as courteous as possible with the truckers out there.
@Ana Paula Moraes,
Interesting break down of your day. And imo, truck drivers should be "thanked for their service" to Americans. You are the fluid that runs through the main artery of our lives.
I grew up in the 70s..when we all had CB radios in our cars (yup, this teenager had a handle). My stepdad covered 3 states in his job so my parents had a base radio at home as well so that dinner was on time. He taught me about being courteous on the road with the truckers, as this was very important to him. I still flash my lights to this day and give a wide berth when passing and I NEVER take chances around your rig. I detest seeing so many 4 wheelers on the road being rude and zooming around the trucks, cutting them off, etc. It really angers me, endangering everyone...all for the sake of ego.
Safe travels.
i am alive because of a trucker. years ago i was driving from arizona to california in a tiny vw beetle...the old style...like me. it was at night...i was falling asleep and veering of the road. a trucker sounded his/her horn over and over again...enough to get my attention and save my life. now i am an old lady rv'er and forever grateful to truckers.
It's not about being told what to do, it's about working together to make sure everyone makes the best use of a space.
Yes!!
Bravo! I was 25 years a commercial driver and am getting ready to start the next phase of life as a full time RVer and I must say the fact that you are taking the time to try and understand is a major step in the right direction! Good job and be safe!
As a professional truck driver with over two-million safe miles AND a 40' class A motorhome owner (diesel pusher, of course), I'd have to say you did a pretty good job here, Becky. 😉
Rarely have I felt too annoyed with RVers who park with us, but, when I have felt that way, it's usually because of things you've mentioned here: slides out, not centered in a parking space, parking in a "parking space" when a truck driver would recognize that it's obviously more of a buffer zone in order for someone else to use when they pull out in the morning, parking at the fuel islands, and a 30' RV in an 80' truck space when there's plenty of room up in the "regular people" area of the truck stop.
The biggest tip I could offer the average RV operator - whether pickup & trailer (they're not REALLY trucks - haha) or motorhome - is to take a skills course and learn to SAFELY operate a larger vehicle; the Smith System is a GREAT course to take. It bothers me that Jeff thinks he's a good driver because he can drive his Prius from the 'burbs to work every day, then once per year he throws Becky and the kids in an RV and he doesn't have a clue about what he's doing. He THINKS he knows what he's doing, but he doesn't fully understand just how dangerously he's operating his RV.
Anywho, good stuff, kiddo. Keep up the good work!
P.S. I didn't understand half of what you were saying in the beginning. 😉😂
Ms Linda - Should I have spelled it Geoff, just to emphasize the upper-middle class aspect more? 😉
Thank you, both for your kind words and for understanding my warped, sarcastic view of reality.
Yep
What you didn't understand the "Trucker Slang"? Though to be perfectly honest "Trucker and the OTR trucking culture" really is a dying language and culture in north America.
Not an old school driver personally but I was trained by one so I've always leaned towards the old school traditions and professional, and take care of others the way you would want to be taken care of if you found yourself in need of help. Traditions of the industry. Sadly trucking is just becoming another "job" in the eyes of newer drivers and those traditions like the headlight spotting for passing trucks is becoming lost.
I have taken the Smith System course to drive a 24' straight box years ago. to this day I use that info for my daily driving in both auto and motorcycle. Don't to and professional driving any more but that info should be mandatory for any driving.
Thanks Victory Midwest. I have driven almost everything except a large rig. I grew up in my parent's used car dealership in which my dad bought all types of vehicles to sell... I had to learn to drive some really different vehicles in my life, of all sizes, and this through downtown LA while maneuvering through the Interstates. Buying and operating a Motorhome, however, in which to travel and live in, is a new experience for me. Money will be tight and most of it will be going into the tank. I can't afford RV parks, so I'm glad to hear that truckers aren't going to throw rotten tomatoes at me if I find an out-of-the-way spot to park for the night. I'm sorry that there are inconsiderate people who open their slide outs or are being a nuance to truckers. For what it's worth most RV owners I've known, are not that way. At the truck stops, I'll mostly just gas up, sleep overnight and will head out to my next stop on my way to the home of family or friends where I'll stay for a bit. I appreciate you bringing up RV driving courses... I didn't know they existed. I will definitely find one and take it. I have test driven about five motorhomes and did quite well, but only for 10 miles or less each time. Hardly enough training for crisscrossing the United States! I want to tell you, and you can pass this on to other truckers: Most full time motorhome drivers really appreciate truckers. Watching you guys drive the highways in rigs much larger than ours, is encouraging. If you guys can do it, so can we... I always feel safer anyway with truckers on the road. Fortunately, my daddy made sure his daughters weren't weaklings. Before he handed us the keys to our first car, we had to be able to change the tire, check the fluids, install a battery, and a number of other maintenance things. Still, it's nice to know there's decent men traveling the same roads that we women are, and that we can park our rigs somewhere in the vicinity of at night. You'd be surprised at how many of us women are driving large motorhomes. Take care, Kathryn.
I am newly married and my father in law is a trucker, so I appreciate this episode. I have literally been on a marathon of your videos, my husband and I are fascinated with the RV life and are considering when to make the switch if we do so. The information you relate is so relevant and you answer so many good questions.
Enjoyed the insight. A trucker saved me with a gang of males let the air out of my tires when i was in the restroom. I have a soft spot for truckers
Truckers are great people
So scary
A gang of males? 😂
@@Vera-xu3xw
My same reaction.
Perhaps not his/her primary language?
If that's the case, I can promise that they speak mine better than I speak theirs!
Male what ?
Great Video! A few additional tips 1-Plan, plan, plan your trip and do as much research about your route and stopping points as possible. This will help you to figure out the best place to stop. 2-When stopping for a few hours at a Flying J or any major truck stop check with the on site manager...he or she may tell you exactly where to park in their lot or somewhere else close by. Ultimately they want to accommodate everyone . 3-We in the RV community need to treat these places as a way to get a few hours of sleep in between destinations and NOT camping locations. If we use these places for a few hours and move on then there is another open spot for a professional driver.
Thank you Robin. We truckers are usually put in a bad light....careless murders running down the highways. I am glad you brought to light that it is not just truckers who are getting a bad rap, but rv'ers as well. I have heard...(by other nomads), truckers are losing places to park because of piss jugs and trash, when I have set and watched rv'ers doing the same. If you are filthy and nasty, you are filthy and nasty, no matter where you are. Remember your sticks and bricks life...that nasty filthy neighbor. I watch other nomads on RUclips, and a few of them complained about trucks idling. Well, most of us do not have solar, on board generators, etc to stay comfortable while we rest. If we do not get our rest, we are not safe rolling down the highways. The only option we have is to idle. I cook in my truck, and you have to idle to use the inverter when you use a heating element. One huge misconception I have been seeing more frequently by the general public, on both truckers and rv'ers, we are out there to get in their way and to piss them off. And let's be real, it is because of the general public that we are losing our spots to park, they do not like our element in their neighborhood. This is more common in larger towns and cities (suburbia). We (trucks and rv's) trash up their town, is what has been explained to me by the locals. (We aren't sticks and bricks (comfort zone)). We, truckers and rv'ers, need to get along, we are all nomads. The only difference is, one is heavily regulated, the other one is not. Again, thank you for brining this to light! 10 10 on the side 😉
And thank you, that is much needed for us to hear!
Spoken so true
As a full-time RVer I agree. Everyone has to give a little, take care of their own crap and hope for larger truck stops to separate the different sizes.
ForeverOpen Road m
I work with a lot of truckers (Fedex, DHL, UPS - the works) and have found them to be pleasant, professional and great to be around. 😊 We owe you guys so much, and I just want you to know you’re appreciated. Thank you!
I can't tell you how pleased I am that someone finally asked us truckers what we think! After a stressful day of driving, with my legal hours fast running out, I find it frustrating to find half the parking taken up by smaller campers that could park in the car section. We are VERY regulated and options are few. Thanks for helping people understand each other's situation 😊
Thanks my husband is a truck driver and I want him to stay safe.
I'm 61 ft long with RV and tow car, and I have a 110 gallon diesel tank, but I don't feel entitled like some RVers have expressed below. I'll stay at a truck stop as a last resort, I'll pull ahead in the fuel line after filling and before going back in to pay, and I appreciate the courtesy I've always been shown by truck drivers on the road and off. :)
Thank you so much for this video 😊 My ex Is an OTR Truck driver and has been for over 30+ yrs. He now at this moment has my son(25) riding along learning what his dad loves to do and I want them both safe 😊 So Thanks again.
P.s. I'm getting pretty sick and tired of hearing about all these ignorant ppl that are putting out their slides, setting up lounge chairs, grilling outdoors, etc..... at Wal-Mart, Truck Stops, and anywhere else inappropriate to do this.
It's ruining the image for us RV-ERS that have respect for business owners and just other ppl period!!!!
I don't have a clue why these ppl think they are so privileged to do anything they please with no care or respect to anyone but themselves! !!
Lol!!! I had to add this and get it off my chest lol!!
Stay safe and Happy trails to you. 😊
Well said on the ps.When we were in Portugal we drove into a lovely little village ,went to park round the back on a car park.Full of rv.s /vans ...chairs out /washing hung off trees/bbqs going, we turned around and left.That little village lost out on us spending our money there so over time their going to stop people parking overnight.We spent a month going through France,Spain and Portugal without staying on campsites, being respectful of our surroundings and meeting people from all over the world,its just a few that spoil it for the many.In 7 years i have never had a knock on my van,watch .. i will get one now, lol sod's law. Oh PS. its a big nato green van with a stove pipe out of the top !!
Sharon O'neill .
HAHAHA omg! People always have to ruin a perfectly good thing. We're new to RVing and were even afraid to park at Walmart when we had no other options-but here there are people who go all out and grill and set up lounge chairs! Sounds like cousin Eddie to me (from National Lampoon's:Christmas Vacation).
I was really impressed how you handled your self in the trucking forum. As a trucker myself I frequent them and see numerous post of bashing, complaining, personal attacks, and insults that would make a lot lizard blush. But you actually got control of the conversation and got a lot of good info from them. Your video was spot on and I hope more of both sides will see it. Good job.
Robin you are a hoot! Your opening is very entertaining. I am not in an RV currently and when I am, it is not full time. But, your message here is incredibly helpful for so many. Safety on the road should be everyone's #1 concern. Good job bringing two communities of travellers together in a peaceful and informative manner. You taught me much! 🚚🚛🚐
Girl, you are a hoot! My x trucker bfriend and me send you a big 10-4
I'm a retired DRIVER, I hope people pay ATTENTION to what you've told the viewers.
Me too and about to buy a motorhome so I'm glad it seems truckers for the most part don't mind. Obviously you take their situation into consideration and certainly don't go squeezing yourself into a parking area that's very full and all other logical considerations it SHOULDN'T be a problem either. Already used to the noises around truck stops so that's no issue to me.
@@lorditsprobingtime6668 your a problem on the road too, you fool
I also have a soft spot for truckers. One took the time to stop on a busy interstate and help me change a flat tire when my jack was broken. He was incredible!❤️
Great info.
Thank you for covering such an important issue.
I have a 60 year old lady friend who drives a truck. Because of joint issues, she has a handicap tag & parks in the designated handycap parking spots.
She actually had an RV driver knock on her door at 9pm to tell her she had to move, so he could have that spot. I guess because he is handycap AND retired?
She dumped her water bottle at his feet, rolled the window up & went back to bed.
Driving a truck IS our job. It's a 24/7 job.
You are Aw some!! My husband is a trucker and we also have a motor home and I've never thought of this. But truckers do have limited areas where they can park and now are on a timed clock. Love how you put love in between all and courtesy toward others!!!
Bless your heart! Thank you, thank you, thank you, for asking the truckers! They are hard-working folks and deserve every consideration. They have very limited areas in which to park and sometimes the law will ticket them just because. EVERY commodity we use in life is delivered by a trucker. They deserve the utmost respect by ALL other drivers. (And yes, my husband is a retired trucker. I've heard the horror stories.)
Thank you so much for your channel. I enjoy it very much and look forward to more. Happy Trails!
I have been wondering for quite some time on the etiquette of staying at truck stops. Thank you for the thorough information and also giving us the feedback from truckers on ways we can help them.
I am retired and off the road now (and sometimes really miss it,but not the daily headaches) so I watched with interest to see what you had to say. It was all good but when you told your viewers to be considerate of the times truckers needed to use showers and laundry I said YES! because there were times I was on a very tight schedule and may need to run all night but really needed a shower. A shower was a luxury and valuable time off the road. Civilians on vacation used to fry my mind hogging the showers. A shower would refresh me for hours so in some cases it was almost essential. So thank you for all the guys and gals still out there bringing all the goods you enjoy. Good for you!
While I'm nor a professional trucker, (I'm a musician) but I learned to drive a large vehicle starting with a Greyhound 4104 and have driven may different types since then and have a million accident-free miles under my belt. I learned most of these things first hand, but that is an excellent video that all drivers should see/learn. They don't know the stress drivers are under when a 4 wheeler passes them and cuts in too close ( takes more than a few feet for them to stop, That's 16+tons of metal behind them), or what can happen if a truck tire has a blowout while they're riding carefree next to it. Pass it or follow it, but give them some room. At the end of the day, those truckers are worn out and need some rest. Very good advice, though. Thanks
Most RVers will try to get past a truck if they are going faster than them. It is not always easy as some of the RVs are older and do not have the power of the newer ones. I agree that a person should pass as quickly as possible, but sometimes it is not possible to be fast and then there are the older rigs that are gas and go slow even when they are trying hard to keep out of the way. If they have a C B they should let the trucker know when they see one coming up in their rear view mirrors. It makes it easier for the trucker and the RVer.
Robin.. Great video! My brother was a trucker for 30+years. He certainly had his share of stupid 4- wheelers/rv'ers stories.
But the one that won the TOP PRIZE...
a couple decided to park their old station wagon at the ENTRANCE TO A TRUCK ESCAPE RAMP!!!
They had the tailgate down, sitting there oblivious having a picnic enjoying the view!
DO NOT BLOCK A
TRUCK ESCAPE RAMP!!!
Holy crap!
C O M M U N I C A T I O N !! What a beautiful thing!!! Thank you so much for asking the truckers & sharing with us. I never want to be anything but respectful to these people who work so hard & deliver to us our needs!!
FIRST: THANK YOU ALL TRUCKERS FOR THE WORK YOU DO!!! 2nd: awesome and informative video thank you soooo much! 99.9 percent of truckers are family oriented and really good people as is most Rv’rs. Blessings of love for all!!! Happy trails!!!
Loved your opening! Thanks for this video, my husband and I team drive and are also rvers on our off time. We all have to work together to stay safe .
And thanks for being trucker friendly, Robin. Safe travels to you.
Hi Robyn, I retired from trucking and returned to school bus driving so I could be home nights, weekends and holidays. Now preparing to go back on the road in an RV. The worst event at truck stops or rest areas was when an RV slides were out and walking between rigs in the dark. Nothing worse than cracking your head on the edge of a slide. Thanks for your video
Robin, you never cease to amaze me! You give the BEST information on the most important subjects. Thanks for making traveling down the road a little safer for us as well as truckers. God bless them!!!
I’ve been rving since 2004. I have learned lots of hacks from you tubers I never thought about. But truckers I have the utmost respect for and try not to take up there space anywhere unless I just can’t drive another mile. They have all been friendly helpful and taught me etiquette on the road at rest areas and truck stops. Also on moving out of the way when there trying to enter the freeway. Something that should be in drivers handbook. I have also been helped blown tire and other mishaps. Kudos to the truckers. I love them.
Very good info thanks. My dad and Uncle were truck drivers and they told me awful stories of how people acted toward them so it was very considerate of you to ask them for input.
What a nice video and a nice thing you did for the truckers!! You actually took the time and effort to find out what they want and need. I think thid the first time Ive seen that. So on behalf of them THANK YOU!
Robin, you ROCK! This is by far one of the most interesting topics I have seen about RVing. I have always had a soft spot for truckers, many of whom have helped me be safe when travelling back and forth to uni many years ago...they were kind and down to earth! This is such great advice and I love that you reached out to their community for the feedback.
As a trucker, this advice is great! Thank you.❤️😃🙌
Thanks for the information on how the truckers feel and Truck Stop etiquette. Very much appreciated. Safe travels.
I so appreciate you taking the time and effort to find out what the truck drivers have to go through. I'm a truck driver and it has been on my mind that my fellow drivers don't understand the nomad life.I am pretty positive that if my fellow drivers were more aware that there are single people living in their van conversions or their RV those drivers would be keeping an eye on them in an effort to keep them safe. A lot of these guys are very protective. This video covers exactly what has been concerning me regarding the rvers and the trucker's out here on the road. Thank you so much for doing this.
Intro was fantastic! lol (I started driving in 1986) If you park in a truck stop after dark, don't be wandering around. That's when bad things can happen. Park and close curtains.
Another great video... Fantastic, practical topic. I have a 40' DP and I read EVERY comment and each reply to learn as much as I could to make me a safer, more thoughtful driver. Hysterical intro! Thanks again! :)
Nice to have a different video. truckers are just people out on the road like us. We all want safe travels and a safe place to stay. Just do what you need to do and move on. Happy travels to you.
Also, when RVers, who have diesel engines are fueling in the fuel lanes, please watch your children. I can't count how many times a child or a group of children have run across my fuel lane or other drivers fuel lanes just as we're about to pull out. We try to look before we move, but a small running child might not be seen. I've even had really short drivers walk in front of my rig as I pulled out. If it wasn't for my little mirror attached to my fender, I might have not seen them.
Even at 6’ I always look up and make eye contact with the driver if he is in his or her seat.
@@2bituser569 exactly.
Good point. Parents, please keep your kids safe!!!!
Loved your video.👌👍 Great information! We've stayed in Flyin J's and rest areas for yrs cross country. We always park up near the restaurant near the outer island of the property where the truckers aren't. So far no problems. Common sense plays a huge role here.
I read every single comment on the truck forum and recommend everyone watching this do so as well. I’m impressed with how you compressed what was essentially a sh”t fight between the RV haters and rational truck drivers to provide concise tips for responsible RVers
I thought I was out here to earn a living, not worry about rvs.
Now what else do we have to do?
@@luismangiaterra1031 they make RV parks for them to use, guess they haven't figured it out.
Agreed, 👍
Having a son who is an OTR driver, I understand fully the life of the truckers and appreciate their profession. Most are courteous, but alas, that is starting to disappear with the amount of new hires and lack of knowledge of the real professionals. When we full timed with our diesel pusher, we had a total length of 70 feet and ran a business on the road. When the drivers saw me back into a slot between 2 other semi's, they always asked me who I drove for and were surprised when they found out I didn't. Know the rules, know how to drive and how to act and truckers will be your friend!
Joe Allen unfortunately most of the new hires can’t speak a lick of English and barely can read signs. Comforting.
Flynn Zero
So true
THANK YOU SO MUCH! I love the trucking community and so glad we can work to get along. I've stayed at truck stops and rest stops and I'm always amazed at what they have to put up with on the road.
This so helpful! We've avoided truck stops when travelling because I've never really known the etiquette. Thank you for doing the research!
I love them. Glad if it helped 😊
I loved this one! Very good info and great that you took the initiative to get truckers input on this. Very helpful. When I start my van life I will be mindful of these things. Thankful to truckers opinions and feelings as well.
The only way for people to get along is through communication where we listen and hear, learn and compromise where we differ in opinions.
Thanks
HERE’S THE LINK TO THE TRUCKERREPORT.COM FORUM: www.thetruckersreport.com/truckingindustryforum/threads/please-give-advice-for-the-rv-community.1259761/page-14
HERE’S THE LINK TO TRUCKER PATH: truckerpath.com/
HERE ARE THE LINKS (click READ MORE at the bottom of this comment to see everything INCLUDING EVERYTHING MENTIONED THIS VIDEO)!
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Great Information again !! I'm sure the Trucker Community can give a Lot of driving tips! I know when I was driving my 34' Class A, there were a lot of clueless people cutting off trucks and coaches, oblivious to the wrecks they almost cause. These semis don't stop on a dime 😱. Coaches and semis most times need to take a bit of a run at a hill. You have no idea how Blue the Air gets when breaks have to be used to avoid Grandma who has just pulled ifo them to putt up the hill. Anyway, remembering this is bad for my BP when I'm stuck at home. 😂😂😂 I hope you get some feedback and stories fm Truckers. 😊
Several of my friends are Truckers I always give truckers the right of way regardless of what the law says. and everyone should do that we need to stay out of their way and let them do their job. Every time we go into a store to buy something think about it folks a truck deliver that item were buying. Without the trucks of America would not exist. God bless all my brothers of the road.
@@MsBeachboxer thanks for the great comment! Here's today's link for the trucker driving safety advice: ruclips.net/video/x98U7hd4fGg/видео.html
Creativity RV Just read all the comments on that link. There were a few very helpful people and a few who were angry at the world. All in all, once they realized that you are trying to make THEIR lives easier, the real pros stepped up to the bat. You get an *A' plus in Communications and conflict resolution. #whyyourchannelgrows. Keep up the good work! You're a Pro!
Mrs. Becky, retired due to disability. Would love to do what you and yours are doing. Wife retires in a few years, but we haven't any ideas yet on making a living and travel. Still working on it.
Enjoyed the video, keep up the good work and by all means stay safe out there.
Maybe you could give the people at truck driving schools an overview of RVers and how truckers and RVers can coexist on the roads. I think that would be a great class.
How many times can you say "BEST VIDEO EVER!' without it sounding insincere? You never cease to amaze me with your leg work and research of facts and first person info. Again, I've learned so much and it makes me more anxious than EVER for my house to sell so I can hit the road. I grew up with the bumper stickers "IF YOU HAVE IT A TRUCK BROUGHT IT!" I also know that many independent truckers are struggling and fighting the big corporate machine. I can't imagine having EVERY MINUTE OF EVERY DAY being watched by the computer in your rig, telling you when to stop, when to go, docking you for every little minute. I worked for a large company with regular truck deliveries and I know what these guys go through. If we can help make their day a little easier, I will do my best to do so. Thanks again for another informative video. I now archive them for when I get my rv so I can be a good citizen of the road.
Thank you so much!
learn the Smith System!!! so you can drive safely. other than that is try to observe courtesy in a truck stop: do NOT extend your sliders - too easy to rip them off - unles they open over grass or a raised island; after fueling/watering pull ahead so the guy behind can fuel/wash windows; try not to park in truck spots - we get caught somewhere else it's likely a $300 minimum ticket with a smirking cop.
Safe driving!
Retired trucker-thinking about the RV nomad thing. Speaking as a trucker, I would have to agree with some of this, but would like to add--the closer you are to the East Coast, the more you need to stay out of truck stops. Spaces are few, and truck traffic is heavy. We're losing spaces every day. Also--YOU MISSED WEIGH STATIONS! Some states leave their parking lots open, even if the coop is closed. There's also industrial parks, abandoned malls or former grocery stores. AND, if you end up having to use a truck spot, try to double up whenever possible!
Yes!! Thank you. The doubling up on somehow hoit the editing room floor 😯
I used a closed down weigh station with nothing but a trash dumpster that Iowa left open and labeled as a rest area once with the travel trailer I had. Truck stops are usually my last resort due to noise but I will use them if needed.
A MUST SEE for every RVer!!! Been driving on and off since since 1978 and have absolutely NO ISSUE with RVers using parking spots at truck stops. A great video!!! Very very well researched!!! There are two things I would like to add. First is that the ratio of RVs on the road big enough even have to use truck parking spots - even at the height of the season - to trucks is at least 100 or maybe 200 to 1. There will never be enough to begin to be an issue. Second is that anywhere within 50 to 75 miles of a metro area the parking fills real quick in the evening. Same thing along a busy interstate between metros. So, being a driver, I/we have to abide by the ELD/hours of service and this, more often than not, ends us up in these areas. Being in an RV, what I would be doing, and I RV on occasion, is to get farther away from a metro area before stopping for the evening. There are a lot more options and safer options the farther away you get. Of course, in the eastern part of the country this gets harder to do. Happy RVing!!!!
Hah! Fun opening. :). At just under 53' long I am the size of a box trailer on a semi so I find it so much better going through the diesel pumps for truckers. The pumps are big and fill quickly and I know the DEF is fresh and properly stored. I haven't found truckers to be rude or give me stink eye when fueling, but I fuel up while doing a walk around my rig to check tires and the rig in general and then pull forward so the truck behind me can fuel up. I am constantly amazed by the number of newby truckers who are leaving their trucks at the pumps while they go inside--even to restaurants next door. Crazy! I appreciate truckers--have a few in my family and really like having merchandise and supplies they carry on the shelves in my stores. ;). Thanks guys. Keep the shiny side up.
Robin, you are truly a blessing in the RV community. I can't thank you enough for your research and willingness to share it.
Wonderful information Robin.Thanks for giving us both sides.I agree with you and them,let's all be safe and respectful to one another.Be safe my friend.
Great information very informative. My stepdad was a trucker so, I have nothing but, respect for what they do. When traveling with our 5’er or just driving with out the 5’er I show truckers nothing but, love.
Personally, the only real issue I've had at a truck stop with my rv was some flak a couple times because I prefer the high volume pumps instead of the "regular" diesel pumps; when I explained 1) I work in/from my rv and 2) my tanks are comparable to theirs (170 gals to 200 gals respectively) so do not have the time/patience to wait and/or do multiple purchases (many 'regular' pumps will shut off automatically @ 50-60 gals) if not necessary we were fine. Also, I will wait to fuel at non-peak hours whenever possible because I recognize their time restraints ...
Tell them to pound salt. They don't own the pumps.
Some churches with large parking lots don't have a prob if you park just for the night.
I suggest if you do park at the edge of the parking lot at the side or back and of course where it will not cause a problem for people parking going to the church. Real important if you park on a Saturday night, night before church services.
Your videos are always so well thought out, researched, and thoughtful. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us.
Excellent video. We have been following you tubers for about 4 years and we travel with our 39ft Truck and RV horse trailer to the USA. This is the first time we have seen a video about truck stops. Not ever had a problem resting there or overnighting. But then again we understand the truckers are driving for a living. Thanks again!
A trucker for a living, with a 22,000 lb 5th wheel pulled with oall.cbingled, converted 397 Pete for pulling a RV. I get it!!!
For the most part both communities are the salt of the earth. It's the one of several hundred in each group that ruin it for all... Don't hesitate to tell the slobs they are ruining it for all, them included, when they do this stuff.
Great video, great tips. In a land long ago, I was a trucker. Now I am an RV'er. What I love about truck stops: friendly people, usually clean showers, a nice store. It's good to be polite, and thanks for helping us all to do that!
Very creative, as usual!! It’s good to know these things. Jack’n with someone’s livelihood is serious business. Plus, my father was a trucker and my mother was a waitress. Fred and Edythe! I always told them (given their jobs and names) they were the perfect country western couple! Yeehaw! They were such fun folks!! Thanks, again, for the always-relevant info!
Glad to watch this video! I've always been considerate of trucker FIRST. That's their job and their income. Stayed in Flying J's, Loves, etc and always looked for the spots that I could fit in without taking up a trucker's slot. Never had an issue personally. With walmarts and other spots being closed off it's even more important to be a good neighbor. Thanks for all the good info!
The problem with rvs parking in truck spots in truck stops is rvs have many more options for parking than trucks, so we need every spot legally available to us for parking
Yeah...she said that.
She also said to park in a truck space in the back lot.
Barbara H. Those are the spaces I’m talking about. She made some good points, but when we pull in to park in the few places we can legally park. It gets very frustrating to find that the rvs, which are almost unregulated when it comes to where they can park. Parked where we need to park.
I've seen long RV's pulling through and taking up two car spaces in the front lot (in an area with nose-to-nose car spaces that can be entered from both sides). She never mentioned those. She should have said, don't take up a truck's space unless the lot is almost empty.
@ Robert : _“RVs have many more options for parking than trucks....RVs are almost unregulated when it comes to where they can park.”_
With all due respect, that’s not true. Don’t get me wrong - I know that you guys are heavily regulated in general (driving hours, etc.) and that it’s even more difficult for trucks than for RVs to find a place to park, but please don’t think that RVers have it easy. It ain’t much better for us. I have noticed over just the last few years that cities are putting onerous and widespread restrictions on RV parking. As time goes by, we are finding ourselves with fewer and fewer options.
Robin, thanks for the informative video. I am a Long Haul truck driver that also owns a 31 foot RV. A few times a year my 80 year old mom uses the RV solo. This is what I’ve told her:
•Use the satellite view on Google Maps (before arriving) to see how a rest area is set up. If there are lots of car parking spots, try to park lengthwise over 4-5 spaces at one end of the lot (she can put the slides out on one side). IF there are no car-side options, AND many truck pull throughs - share a spot with another RV or car/trailer combo (most spaces are 80 ft long).
•NEVER park overnight in a Truck Parking Area (signage looks like a Rest Area). These are specifically for trucks and desperately needed.
•As was mentioned already, if possible, try parking crosswise or lengthwise through the car parking spaces at Truck Stops before heading around to the back lot.
*To my fellow truckers:
Yes, RVers do have more options. Many cost, and also may be as scarce in certain areas/at certain times of year. Be patient with them. A friendly tip, and a good attitude can go a long way.
-wherever I go, there I am.
See you on the road!
Love your comment, thank you so much!
Loved this video, its a great topic, open polite communication and mutual respect is what avoids conflicts.
Proper rest is necessary for everyone to drive safely avoiding stupid mistakes and un necessary time delays because of accidents. Respect the truckers, they can respect us. Be friendly, be kind be there for one another!
Loved your beginning “lingo”. Who new truckers have their own jargon! 👊🏻👀👍🏻
@@suziebond06 we used to, but that has kinda went by the wayside....but we are a different breed for sure lol
Oh, yeah....back in the 70's there was a huge, HUGE fad relating to trucker culture. Movies like “Smokey and the Bandit” and “Convoy”, TV shows like “BJ and the Bear”....and CB radios galore. CB lingo was _everywhere_ - books were published about CB jargon and translating it for regular folks. “That’s a big 10-4, good buddy!” It was crazy.
I love your videos, I read a lot of the comments on this subject. I also was a truck driver many years ago until an injury forced me out. This being said some truck drivers a grouchy and cranky snobs, but most are nice, kind, willing to lend a hand if your stuck. We all share the road, we all need respect. I have helped many RV'ers in my past and they helped me a few times. As for sleeping in a truckstop if you need too then do it, better to sleep in a truckstop then wreck on the highway. If some trucker thinks his load of Cornflakes is more important then your rest to keep from wrecking then he/she needs to find another line of work, clearly this ones not for them. Unless your broke down and need repairs keep it to 1 night. I remember when the truckers were called the "Prince's of the highway" sadly those days are gone. Thank you for letting me add my two cents.
I would say, I would give them the right of way because they need the room where they park. If I make a friendly error as I park or park somewhere I shouldn't, I wouldn't mind someone knocking on my vansion and telling me "I wouldn't park there if I were you because ....."
I have used my SUV as a temporary RV by putting a mattress in the back when traveling to camp or out-of-state family visits, and have had to stop at a Rest Stop due to heavy rain at night. Apparently I was not the first or only one with the same idea and need! I feel much safer to stop at a State-owned rest stop than several other areas.
These are patrolled by State employees and are well lit and spaces are out of the main traffic flow. I asked for permission first, and that lets them know to keep an eye out for you.
@@beckyelliott2871 be aware that SOME remote rest areas have a reputation for drug traffico & avoid dark areas. I'm sure NO ONE, whether trucker or family van/motor home/what have you wants to accidentally be in someone's line of Fire.
@@beckyelliott2871 not! When I was an OTR, dispatch repeatedly informed me of rest areas to avoid, because of nefarious happenings being reported.
As a truck driver and a rver thank you for doing this video. One tip I have is at most rest area if you have a smaller rig park in the car lot. The truck spots are sometimes hard to find and the semis cant go in the car side most times.
I recently stayed at a Loves and felt very safe sleeping back with the semis. Thank you for the “best practices” and the rules of the road for co-existing with the working trucking community.
I second LOVES travel centers. They are clean, super friendly, and I have fresh fruit cups when I get tired of eating all the junk on the road. I have never felt unsafe at a Loves.
I car dwelt a 4 wk road trip alone and even though we never spoke verbally i felt like truckers were so nice on the whole and were a huge part of that true nomadic culture where people look out for and help each other.
You did a good job of summarizing the long message thread at The Truckers Report. Your video opening was clever & funny.. i would emphasize how many truck drivers over there said that they generally don't have problems with the RV folks. Truck drivers & RVers aren't enemies. The RVers I see that are problems are the "one trip per year" types driving big RV rigs like an SUV in a hurry.
Don't force your way in front of a big truck and hit your brakes, even if you waited until 8 inches before you have to exit. That is THE MOST COMMON 4-wheeler maneuver & THE MOST DANGEROUS thing to do around trucks.
This is great information! I have the utmost respect for truckers, always give them room and am courteous on the road. I flash them in when they need to get in and when going cross country ride with them, leaving plenty of distance. These folks are the reason we get everything, they deserve respect! Thank you!
My dad was a truck driver and so I have a soft spot for them. My rule for parking and driving around truck stops is don't be ****. If we treat truckers with respect and commonsense things will go more smoothly.
As a trucker I don't care where you stay.. but when it comes to fuel... pump it pull up to line and take care of business. .. Watched one of them huge motor homes sit on fuel island the other day for 45 min no body in or around it... truck stop very busy at the time trucks lined up 2 and 3 deep waiting for fuel
Your videos are awesome. So well thought out and concise. Your topics are on point and helpful. You have a positive no nonsense demeanor and make me want to start vanlife! 🤗😁🙌👍
Nice video. Thanks for the input from the truckers and their thoughts and input.
Great help here, Robin. Truckers are doing important work. I'm on the road a lot, and see them by the hundreds. Good that you pointed out that many RVers are working just like them, and their RV is the only home they have.
Thank you from a trucker you were spot on. But not refered to as cabs, they are called bobtails or tractors. Keep up great work. 21 months to my full time nomadic life!
Half my family are or were truck drivers, friends too. I trust a trucker on the road more than I would anyone else. My experience has been that when a trucker is working, they take their work seriously. It may be quite a different story when they are off duty and at home, but when they are on the road, they are very diligent to "conditions", be it safety or otherwise. When I have had to travel in a car across country, I always felt safe parking where the truckers park. When I was a young single woman traveling across country alone, I always felt that if I were ever in jeopardy that the truckers around me would come to my aid. GO TRUCKERS!!!!!!! TRUCKERS ROCK!!!
Been RVing 50 years and yet still learned something about passing today! THANKS
Six days til I hit the road. House is almost empty, RV is almost full. Dog is freaking out. Here we go!
Red Apron How exciting for you! Travel safe and have beautiful adventures!
‘’Dog is freaking out”. Lol😂. Mine would be too, dog are so cute
Yay!! Congrats
Red Apron It’s rough out there.... safe travels!
Red Apron will you Have a channel?
Excellent video. When I was growing up, truck stops were a safer place, & if I broke down, someone might come look at the problem & tell me if I could continue or if it needed work, now.
I'm 63 & at one time, my dad had a small fleet of rigs running Canada - Mexico down the California coast. He gave that up sometime after I was born.
I do want to tell the truckers who stopped to help our boys when they rolled a car, thank you so much. They were coming down Emigrant Pass, heading East & the kids were 15 & 16 at the time. They're now 40 & 41! But, I never had a chance to say thank you.
So, I'll pay it forward: to all of you who help another, THANK YOU.
I pulled 53-foot trailers for a little while and, noticing closed rest stops, signs prohibiting parking on ramps and shoulders, and docks not letting truckers sleep over (with driving time about run out-can you say “log book violation”?), finding places to park is getting harder...especially when bad weather hits. You’d be amazed at how fast that I-880 truck stop’s 600 spots fill up during winter storms! There’s always more trucks on the road (about a MILLION at a time) than there are legal places to park. RVers don’t have log books to worry about, so have a heart and don’t take up space badly needed by truckers because, when they have to pull in, they HAVE to pull in!
sorry to learn this and thank you for letting us know!
So this is why truck stops are called truck stops.
With time running out at terminals where you pu and deliver you can wait out the rest of the time and then use personal conveyance for up to 2 hrs to legally get to safe haven then do a ten hr reset.
If I had 10 mins left I just let my time expire then send empty or loaded macros whichever was appropriate then go “pc” time off duty safe haven. PC can help you avoid that violation if you think ahead.
Also, you can use part of your on duty time as a yard move allowing you to drive up to 20 mph at a terminal or company yard. I would also use these yard moves at truck stops. It beats trying to creep under 5 mph and doesn’t eat up your 11 hrs of drive time either.
A trucker saved my life when I was falling asleep at the wheel on a very long road trip. He flashed a spotlight in the car and woke me up. I respect that truckers have tighter schedules than I do, and Bless them for doing the jobs they do. If I can make their life easier at a truck stop I will.....and I do!
Outstanding delivery and message!
I always try to give our truckers extra space and courtesy on the road. Thanks for this vid! Most people don't understand the regulatory limitations that force truckers to do some of the things they do and how we can help them so they are minimally impacted by the public at large. Def will take your advice to heart next time we take our RV out.
How bought this one back in 1987 I was driving the biggest Pendle brand new truck from Missouri to Tucson broke down 3 times we had a trucker stop help us went got coffee and hot chocolate stayed with us till tow truck came to tow us out in middle cold desert they are wonderful I feel safe when I see them out there.after that traveled years later for six years drove every day them being out there in the 90's and after always make me feel safe on the road.it can be a lonely place at night.And oh yes we rv'd fifth wheel all over parked at truck stops locked up and never had a problem.We were always considerate of not taking truckers spots.Truckers are the backbone of America.What makes me made is how their hounded by Smokie
Hi all, this is my first time coming across this video. I am planning to become a full time rver next year and I felt the need to thank you for this information and also thank the truckers out there as well. I have traveled by car and truck many,many miles across our beautiful country both for leisure and work. My preferred time to hit the road is around three a.m.
I love the truckers on the road this time of the morning,They make me feel very safe for the most part, we know that there are some exceptions but they are rare thank God. Truckers are the backbone of our country when it comes to moving goods of all types, so let us all remember that a little courtesy goes a long way and thanks to those who are like minded!
I LOVED THE INTRO. Brought back so many memories - I am a truckers (RIP Hugo) daughter with family still driving. He logged over 3.7 million miles mainly hauling hog/beef to east coast. Before he fell ill & retired, we saw how much the industry was changing.
Guess we were lucky because with mom being from MA, we run summers with him (70's/80's). We'd meet up & swap cousins at exits, learned a few saucy words (CB) etc. I adored this uninterrupted time with him & learning so much. Accountability, working through time constraints, big city traffic, interaction with the vendors, office ladies, even driving (cars) well before I was 16 (parked rigs & trackers as a guide post). I had a manual for years - also used RPM's (like dad) so I didn't always rely on the clutch.
I still love a good road trip. So while I may be a "seat cover" I continue to look at "yardsticks" while using "eyeballs" & signals accordingly. I remain in reverence of the men & women driving "big rigs" today - cheers to all of you & RV'r's.... "may you keep the shiny side up and the greasy side down".
Wow! Great information! I nominate you to be a liaison for the rv community! Ha! Ha! Heading out this week and I get so much confidence from your videos. Thanks for the hard work you put into your vids.
Very good information ty for sharing!
Girl~~ you deserve an award from RUclips for your great videos and your spirit is outstanding! Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference! ❤️🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸
Devo K agreed!!
Thank you so much!
Robin, you are both informative and entertaining. If we ever see you out on the road, expect a hug. We always follow the unwritten rules of distance, speed, and safe maneuvering around commercial drivers and wish them all God speed. Thank you.