How Many of You Are Only Eating Fast Food?

[-]

Ok_Judgment3871@reddit

Be nice if theyd integrate more mini grocery stores in travel stops but theyd just jack the prices up. Its not like basically every walmart, grocery or dollar store has no semi signs these days. Like fuck us i guess.

Reply

[-]

FIST_FUK@reddit

Here’s a question. I’m not a trucker, but could you park behind the store at the loading dock where you would usually deliver to like you’re supposed to be there, and then just run in quickly and go shopping?

Reply

[-]

Ok_Judgment3871@reddit

I dont see why not if you deliver to one. I dont deliver to grocery stores so i couldnt do so. Also not supposed to ever block loading docks if youre not unloading or loading at any location.

Reply

[-]

CommissionVirtual763@reddit

I stopped drinking pop about 10 weeks ago.i feel much better. Still a little fat but i feel lile im under control now. I swore off subway and all fast food. I try and find actual food. Petro can sometimes have porkchops and veggies. I know where all the real eatieries are so i try to stop there but if i end up at a pilot or loves i just wont eat.

Reply

[-]

Huge-Variation7313@reddit

Gained 60 lbs my first year because I didn’t know how to buy groceries and basic cooking tools You get addicted to the convenience and submit to the weight gain- it gets dark

Reply

[-]

1234567qwert@reddit

I did this. Jumped from 160 to, I shit you not, 260 ... I learned about intermittent fasting. And after a lot of hard work lost those 100 lbs. I caution new drivers, if you're reading, DO NOT only eat fast food driving OTR

Reply

[-]

chicagofloridaline@reddit

IF it's an amazing health tool. Good for the wallet too

Reply

[-]

Huge-Variation7313@reddit

What cycle do you do? I’ve heard of 8 hr windows, 10 hrs, etc idk which one is best

Reply

[-]

1234567qwert@reddit

I fast for 20 hours then have a 4 hour window. Basically I wake up and eat from my mini fridge before pre tripping, and just drink water and black coffee the rest of the day! I made it a routine. 20 hours may be a little extreme for some, I eased into it, fasting for 10 - 16 hours. It's all about finding what works for you

Reply

[-]

Antique-Addendum-788@reddit

I recently read some studies on intermittent fasting and if you haven’t seen them, they implicate it in way higher rates of heart disease. https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/intermittent-fasting I mean no judgment by the way, just trying to help a fellow driver. ✌🏼

Reply

[-]

IBossJekler@reddit

Alot of that is probably the mental load and anxiety of trying to follow a diet. Stress and anxiety will eat a heart away. Those that just do it without stressing everyday about food, I'd say super healthy afterwards.

Reply

[-]

redditg0nad@reddit

I just read that and provided it hasn't been peer reviewed, I will wait until I take any of it with more than a grain of salt. How they collected the data and used it really stands out as being inconclusive: "A big limitation of this research is that the participants were only asked about what they ate over two days. We do not know if those who reported restricting their eating to an eight-hour window or less continued this for the study period."

Reply

[-]

Antique-Addendum-788@reddit

Definitely. I just think it’s something worth discussing with a GP to be sure it fits OP’s health profile. But losing 100 pounds is DEFINITELY better for your heart than not.

Reply

[-]

Antique-Addendum-788@reddit

And congrats on losing that weight. That must have been really hard. You should be very proud of that achievement.

Reply

[-]

curiouspolice@reddit

My man! I also vouch for intermittent fasting / OMAD. Lost about 40 lbs in 4 months. Your mileage may vary.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

I did this my first year, too. They even warned me in training, but I didn't listen. Eating junk food is also very bad for your wallet and mental health too. You don't realize that part until later though

Reply

[-]

K4NNW@reddit

They actually warned y'all? Wow.

Reply

[-]

burnaboy_233@reddit

Yea mines did to.

Reply

[-]

K4NNW@reddit

Impressive.

Reply

[-]

Huge-Variation7313@reddit

Being fat and broke is the worst 🤣

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

My first year as a trucker I got fat but I sure wasn't broke. For some us, this job pays more than anything else we've ever had

Reply

[-]

jarrodandrewwalker@reddit

Fat, broke and lonely

Reply

[-]

Ok_Kangaroo_6530@reddit

Okay then tell us how to eat healthy while trucking. What do you eat exactly and what cooking tools should we get?

Reply

[-]

Huge-Variation7313@reddit

I bought a bunch of meal prep containers from Walmart, I use them as Tupperware containers because they’re not tall and I can stack a bunch in the small fridge Fill those with broccoli, celery, and carrots. Having them already in the container means you can just grab and eat without having to take veggies out of wrappers or whatever. This is better than chips. If you look up a visual representation of 1000 calories of fast food vs 1000 calories of vegetables, it’s incredible. If the goal is that full stomach feeling, get in to it Buy sandwich meat, and some cheese, maybe a lil mayo. Also, peanut butter and jelly stuff. Bread and tortillas to go with this I don’t own a microwave- the spot for it in my truck is filled with a large plastic tub that holds canned foods like beans and soup, along with the aforementioned food supplies that don’t need refrigeration. Also rice, and pasta I have a rice cooker, hot plate and pot, and toaster oven/air fryer. My truck has a built in 2000 watt inverter, that’s definitely a blessing- but you can buy inverters that plug in to your cigarette lighter outlets as long as your appliances don’t need more than they can supply. You can also have a company shop person install one for you that will supply enough power, you might be hard pressed to find a plug in inverter than can power any useful cooking appliance BE RESPONSIBLE FOR GETTING TO A WALMART. I don’t know how else to put it- you’re gonna have to be intentional about shopping. With adequate storage, you can make it two weeks off a load of groceries. Shoot, get some fast food now and again- the goal here is not to be dependent on it. You can PC on a 34- take advantage of this fact (if your company allows PC) OTR is not an excuse to become a landwhale. If we’re honest, we’re getting depressed sad boy and trying to kill ourself. Fuck that. You feel better when you eat better, you look better when you eat better, you feel better when you look better, and you eat better when you feel better. It’s a cycle we have the power to influence TL;DR veggiemaxx and sandwichmaxx w a hot plate and a toaster oven

Reply

[-]

Ok_Kangaroo_6530@reddit

We don't have fridges in our trucks, even sleepers. But I drive day cab now. 2 days out

Reply

[-]

Huge-Variation7313@reddit

I’m guessing hotel for the one night then? There’s gotta be some time of mini fridge you could buy? Or shit dude buy a cooler and hella ice packs, that’s gotta be adequate to keep some sandwiches and veggies good for two days

Reply

[-]

Ok_Kangaroo_6530@reddit

Yes, hotel. Yeah that's an idea. Thanks for the help!

Reply

[-]

Virtchoo@reddit

They have coolers that plug into your DC connectors so you don’t even have to worry about ice. I believe last I saw like 60-100 dollars. Great investment.

Reply

[-]

Ok_Kangaroo_6530@reddit

Thanks! I will look them up online. If I had something to keep my food cold, then that would be a game changer in terms of being able to meal prep and eat healthy on the road.

Reply

[-]

hippie_twiggie@reddit

I have a $20 electric skillet from Walmart, and an electric kettle for boiling water. I cook anything that could be cooked on a stove at home. Fresh vegetables and meat make up the core of my diet, I'll do instant mashed potatoes or rice if I want some carbs. One of the 12v thermoelectric coolers make meal plans a lot easier if you don't have a fridge, I used one of those for years until I got a truck that has a fridge installed.

Reply

[-]

curryshotzz@reddit

This is so true on so many levels.. especially the addiction to convenience.. like why waste ur time cooking and cleaning ur dishes when a subway employee can make it for you lol. After a year of trucking found another job and had to redo my physical. Found out I had sleep apnea and now am on it ugh

Reply

[-]

Huge-Variation7313@reddit

That’s how it feels, definitely. I kept eating all my money though. I didn’t think about this until later, but literally time is money If my take home pay is 50cpm, that means $10 at subway is 20 minutes of driving Does it take me 20 minutes to clean up after making my own sandwich? No, it takes 5, IF that. Yeah I gotta spend the time to make the money to buy the ingredients, but I guarantee you buying the subway costs 2-4 times what it costs to “buy” me making it myself Subway ain’t that good

Reply

[-]

Ok-Bit4971@reddit

I felt bad for truckers during Covid. I had gone through the drive-up at a McDonald's, and parked my work van to eat, when I saw an 18-wheeler driver park his rig and walk up to the dining room door, only to find it locked. It's not like they can go through the drive-up.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

I would walk up to it and enver had an issue tbf

Reply

[-]

Full-Respect-8261@reddit

Not often. I've been using the George Forman and a rice cooker, sometimes my microwave, most days and nights. Actually, knowing you're going to be stuck somewhere for hours is great, and it gives me a chance to go grocery shopping. So I now ask when I get places, do I have time to fo grocery shopping and drop the trailer in the door. I have been happily surprised at a lot of shippers and relievers saying yes. Also let's me know how slow they are.

Reply

[-]

Lopsided_Cup6991@reddit

Stopped eating that crap 20 years ago.

Reply

[-]

qaf0v4vc0lj6@reddit

I was when I was OTR and I ballooned to 409 pounds. Afterwards, I started Keto and would make my own food, or order food without carbs at any of the fast food places. I prefered making my own food, but occasionally I would change it up and get fast food.

Reply

[-]

machinehead3413@reddit

I do a keto diet. The healthy options are there. You just have to have the discipline to choose them over the bad stuff.

Reply

[-]

tony7914@reddit

Been doing that since February and have lost 47 lbs so far, I also do a 16/8 intermittent fast as well.

Reply

[-]

machinehead3413@reddit

I don’t have the willpower to do the fasting. I eat 5-7 small snack sized portions instead of 3 big meals. Keeps the metabolism going and keeps the aggressive hunger at bay.

Reply

[-]

Green_Lawyer_1049@reddit

Rarely but that's because I'm only an out mon-friday driver so I van refill fridge every week.

Reply

[-]

king_rootin_tootin@reddit

Gentlemen, **GENTLEMEN**, how the heck is nobody talking about the greatest invention in the history of bachelorhood: The Crock-Pot It sips electricity. They make them with lids, too. Fill her up right before pre-trips and setting off and when you're finished, bam, you got a nutritious dinner.

Reply

[-]

MadeForThisOnePostt@reddit

I eat McDonald’s EVERYDAY yes. I also lost 27 Lbs on the road and can do 20 weighted pull ups ( 25 Lbs ) with the current McDonald’s diet I’m currently on …. There really isn’t a such thing as “ eating healthy “ it’s all thermodynamics and macro nutrients! When I go to McDonald’s I eat 1,400 calories , 100g of protein , 45g of fat, 200g of carbs , etc etc etc the difference between me and the rest of these truck drivers is that they eat McDonald’s and me I eat a strict diet with the right macronutrients 🕺🏾 I also exercise every other day I stopped cooking for whatever odd reason lol

Reply

[-]

caret_app@reddit

I work online delivery. Not a truck driver. But I delivered to a trucker today. He ordered salmon, potatoes, and onion, and a few seasonings from Meijer. I arrived and told them the salmon is not cooked. They said its cool, they use an air fryer. I've also delivered BWWs to a trucker parked right next to Popeyes.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

As a truck driver, I really appreciate you delivering to us. It sucks not being able to go to restaurants that we can't fit in to. Uber Eats/Doordash and Instacart have been lifesaver on occasion

Reply

[-]

caret_app@reddit

It's quite mutual. Where you stop to park is usually near where we'll be fishing for orders. Shorter trips for us - is fresher/hotter food for ya'll. And truckers tend to tip above average in my experience. Something is above average there. Other orders take us away from that "hot zone" to homes. But truckers usually park within that zone. So it works out. Ya'll always chill when expecting food.

Reply

[-]

Hehehe79@reddit

I think a lot of us are gonna need to start eating better and less fast food if the new regulations of truck driving go into effect. anything below 140/90 and you pass. Anything above, and some action is necessary. Starting Novemver 2024

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

This is news to me. I even googled it and couldn't find any information on it. I'm not worried about the BP thing, but I would like to know if they're changing rules. Can you send me a link?

Reply

[-]

Hehehe79@reddit

I gotcha https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/medical/driver-medical-requirements/medical-examiners-handbook-2024-edition Its page 32 of the handbook. I found out from this guy https://youtu.be/qAPE-XmXU6Y?si=hqSDby7Z_zcUVLyW

Reply

[-]

Frequent_Opportunist@reddit

My step dad was an owner operator for 20 years. In his mid 40s he had to have The arteries on both sides of his necks sliced open and scraped. One year later he had heart surgery. One year after that he had a stroke. He has 25% use of his heart, limps and can't use one of his arms/hands. The docs said it was from truck driving, living a sedentary lifestyle and eating junk food on the road. Eat well and work out guys.

Reply

[-]

Kan-ka@reddit

It’s better than eating noodles. And noodles and beef put together. I’m still trying to figure out how y’all cook in the truck especially while driving still. I bought a burner thing from Walmart but it started smoking really bad so

Reply

[-]

CatfishCharlie1984@reddit

Nah. You'll F'n die before you get 10 yrs into your career doing that. Be waddling around on your cankles and belly hanging out under a T shirt too. Best investment I ever made was a fridge. Stock up at the Walmart, save some money and save your heart. Gotta take care of yourself out here. Diet is everything especially if you're not getting adequate excersise. It's tough when you first start driving though. Don't make shit. Out for long stretches between home time. Try to do what you can though.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

Fortunately my company provides a fridge and microwave. I sort of blame the truck stops and fast food companies for creating a culture around relying on them though

Reply

[-]

CatfishCharlie1984@reddit

Yeah. It's convenience. They've started carrying some healthier options in store but it's hard to walk out with hard boiled eggs, fruit or a salad when there's a F'n Wendy's or Taco Bell 30 ft away. 🙄

Reply

[-]

ra13ne@reddit

You think fast food taste better than hard boiled eggs, fruit, and salad?

Reply

[-]

CatfishCharlie1984@reddit

Not really. Depends. Sometimes you just need a hot meal. I've got a fridge, "pantry", microwave and a portable skillet in here so it's not really an issue for me. What I mean is I can understand how it would be for some. A lot of kids grow up eating shitty food and it's what they know. That carries into adulthood. It's hard to break those habits. Also, its easy to be lazy after a long day. Still, gotta try to make some better choices.

Reply

[-]

ra13ne@reddit

Oh, yea thats understandable. Definitely true, I used to despise the fact that my parents never kept any chips or sodas or cookies in the house, used to go over to other peoples houses and feel like I was at Willy Wonkas. It was actually a fortunate thing, now I would rather drink water and eat real food instead of only wanting chicken nuggets and prinkles and a dr pepper.

Reply

[-]

CatfishCharlie1984@reddit

For sure. I grew up with grandparents and we cooked most meals. Still had some junk food here and there (still mostly homemade like pie, cookies, etc.) but eating out was more of a treat.

Reply

[-]

88MikePLS@reddit

I was OTR 92 to 98, truckstop food was my first choice back then it generally was good food. But just traveling around now and stopping in most of them don’t have staff and the food quality has gone down.

Reply

[-]

ShockEnvironmental64@reddit

In my actual driving days I lived off of beef jerky, cheese, protein bars, and protein drinks. The issue of found was lack of fiber. Psyllium Husk cured all my issues and I continued to be a jacked driver for years with a semi decent diet

Reply

[-]

Usual_Safety@reddit

Rarely. Sometimes I’ll grab a meal after a delivery for a special treat and eat it while I cry in my sleeper in the dark.

Reply

[-]

kingkongspurplethong@reddit

Do you use your tears as lube?

Reply

[-]

jarrodandrewwalker@reddit

That's what ya call a "tear-jerker"

Reply

[-]

JoeAneas02@reddit

Ok that’s it logging off boys

Reply

[-]

jarrodandrewwalker@reddit

"logging off"...the way of the lumber jack

Reply

[-]

JoeAneas02@reddit

You know it

Reply

[-]

Sky-Juic3@reddit

This is the one. That’s enough Reddit for today.

Reply

[-]

dusty_bag@reddit

This sub has the bangers 🤣

Reply

[-]

jarrodandrewwalker@reddit

🤣...in fairness that frees up a hand to shift with

Reply

[-]

SadPhDStudent17@reddit

Underrated comment

Reply

[-]

Natural_Tomorrow4784@reddit

😭😭😭

Reply

[-]

iDontHaveUndiesToday@reddit

I was JUST typing this And get points for that was in the movie “Waiting”…a classic

Reply

[-]

leftover_class@reddit

Shit be like that sometimes 🤗

Reply

[-]

dsdvbguutres@reddit

Crying the calories off is the go-to strategy of the health conscious consumer.

Reply

[-]

Flashy-Reserve5081@reddit

🤣🤣🤣

Reply

[-]

Recipe_Critical@reddit

lol

Reply

[-]

Professional-Leave24@reddit

I saw an interesting study. People ate fast food, but didn't consume excess calories and got all their daily nutrients, had blood chemistry basically indistinguishable from healthy eaters. It appears excess calories are the major factor in unhealthy eating habits.

Reply

[-]

Top_Roll_6136@reddit

Currently detoxing. Quit all fast food, sugar, chips, candy, soda, bread... even dropped cream from the coffee(say a prayer). 30 days so far feeling better and down 32 lbs. Sadly long way to go but gotta start somewhere or else.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

Congrats. I was really messing up when I first did OTR, and going local made me realize how bad my diet was, and I was able to get back into being healthy and lost 40 lb. It takes determination, but it sounds like you're already past the hard part. Good luck with your new diet

Reply

[-]

awr90@reddit

There’s very little difference between a home cooked tater tot casserole you can eat as much as you want of, and a burger and fries. It’s as simple as calorie intake each day.

Reply

[-]

Mrcommander254@reddit

Never! I have an air fryer, rice cooker, and a crockpot. Two freezers and a fridge. I never eat fast food or at truck stop restaurants.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

How do you fit 2 freezers in your truck, and isn't that a lot on your inverter? I keep veggies in my fridge, but having a freezer for them would be nice

Reply

[-]

LizardKingTx@reddit

So

Reply

[-]

BL24L@reddit

Love how these types of posts brings out everyone that cooks their own meals. lol. F'ing reddit man.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

What do you mean? The extent of me cooking in the truck is throwing stuff in the microwave lol

Reply

[-]

Terri_Yaki@reddit

It's a shame that they no longer have restaurants in the truck stops. It was nice to go in, sit down and get a decent meal for a decent price.

Reply

[-]

KilgoreTrout1111@reddit

My hometown has had a truck stop diner forever. It was a popular spot after the bars closed, too. Always a good time. The "long haul" breakfast was 2 eggs, bacon, hash browns, biscuits and sausage gravy, and french toast. For like $8. I'm ashamed to admit how many times I ate there at 2am. 😁

Reply

[-]

LazyStore2559@reddit

PREACH IT! But with ELD's and idiot dispatchers, try finding the time to park sit and eat at a truckstop.

Reply

[-]

Bertoletto@reddit

there are some, at least here in the West

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

Sometimes they do. It's always nice to come across a place with a good restaurant. I'm also not against walking a mile or 2 if it's a place that looks pretty good

Reply

[-]

MikeV2@reddit

Does the Walmart hot food count as fast food? God I love those jalapeño poppers. But I work regional and I’m only out for 30 hours at a time so I always stop at Walmart and grab some groceries. Some cereal, deli meat/pepperonis, raisins, cheese strings and grapes to snack on. Hot food on the night I leave, a Walmart wrap for the next day’s dinner. Maybe some meat and cheese snack packs. Much cheaper than fast food.

Reply

[-]

ra13ne@reddit

Ive been living on Marketplace as my work week food for years lol

Reply

[-]

cmb271@reddit

I didn't have the opportunity to get my refrigerated food out of my house before I went on the road because I would have been late for my delivery so I've been living with fast food for the week but normally I try to only get it once a week as a personal treat and eat out of my truck the rest of the week

Reply

[-]

Admirable_System5691@reddit

I bring a cooler full of steak and breakfast food and cook on the pull out platform on the back of my budbuggin trailer. Propane stove and cast iron pans. Plus a Jetboil for making coffee and heating water for mashed potatoes or rice. I eat better on the road then I do at home lol

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

I know a lot of drivers they don't know how to cook even the basics. I head out for a week at a time with a Yeti cooler full of leftovers. It's not hard to find microwaves available for use at truck stops or other stops along the way. I don't have an inverter in this truck so the only thing I have to buy these days is my endless supply of coffees, as I don't have a good kettle.

Reply

[-]

Ryanisme23@reddit

Well aren’t you just as healthy as can be!

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

Don't see many oversized car haulers, got to keep trim to jam myself in between the frames and the door.

Reply

[-]

Last_Cable4726@reddit

How long have you been doing car hauling?

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

Few years now

Reply

[-]

Last_Cable4726@reddit

Did you start out as a car hauler? Do you think it’s a good job? What would be the pros and cons compared to Dry Van or Flatbed?

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

Personally it's one of the better trucking occupations. It's very difficult until you become proficient and then it just has its daily and weekly challenges. I do a combination of factory to terminal and dealership delivery. So it keeps it interesting, plus I have a lot of seniority so I get second pick on what's available. Before car hauling I did city LTL and flatbed work.

Reply

[-]

Last_Cable4726@reddit

How is it one of the better trucking occupations? Mind sharing some examples? I’m doing flatbed for my first year, but down the road would love to get into car hauling. Let’s say I put in 1 or a couple years with Flatbed but want to do Car hauling, what companies do you recommend?

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

>How is it one of the better trucking occupations? Mind sharing some examples? I have a bit of a union bias. Car hauling as many organizations that are under collective agreement. Here in Canada that is amazing benefits, strong protections, great wages. >I’m doing flatbed for my first year, but down the road would love to get into car hauling. Let’s say I put in 1 or a couple years with Flatbed but want to do Car hauling, what companies do you recommend? Cassens and Jack Cooper are probably your two easiest ways in. Once you gain some experience you can go to one of the more shiny organizations or small fleets. Virginia is another behemoth. If you go with them expect to be out for weeks at a time resetting on the road. Another to consider is Reliable, especially if you want to do the exotics.

Reply

[-]

Admirable_System5691@reddit

Plus reliable runs mostly big cabs. Bonus+++

Reply

[-]

Last_Cable4726@reddit

Awesome! I’ll definitely consider this but will first Focus on my first year in flatbed. Are the car haulers automatic?

Reply

[-]

Last_Cable4726@reddit

Also, I hear car haulers usually stay in hotels which is another perk!! My CDL instructor said being a car hauler was his favorite job, but it was physical. Which is a con but in some ways a pro beczuse it keeps you in shape. But his company would pay for his hotel every time. Never had to worry about the truck stops.

Reply

[-]

Healthier6908@reddit

I did in closed for about 6 years. Loved it. Made lots of money. Just gone for long periods of time

Reply

[-]

Last_Cable4726@reddit

What does “in closed” mean?

Reply

[-]

Healthier6908@reddit

Maybe I spelled it wrong. Enclosed car trailer. Doesn’t hold as many cars but pays much better. Usually higher end cars. The trailer is “enclosed”. A lot of race cars and low to the ground cars can’t be loaded in a ramp trailer and needs a lift gate. Expensive cars like that, the owners will pay more to have them shipped in an enclosed trailer

Reply

[-]

Last_Cable4726@reddit

Very cool! How did you land that job off the bat as a rookie? And are car haulers mostly manuals or automatics?

Reply

[-]

Healthier6908@reddit

All of the trucks I drive or have driven is mostly 13 or 18 speed. I had years of experience in household goods. They hire a lot of household goods drivers to do enclosed car hauling. Most of but not all of the car haulers I worked with used to do household goods

Reply

[-]

K4NNW@reddit

Enclosed. Very expensive cars. One wouldn't want to get a scratch on those.

Reply

[-]

NoLyfe_Trader@reddit

I take a jet boiler, I have water coffee sugar and milk so it takes 60secs with these bad boys to make a hot cuppa!

Reply

[-]

Admirable_System5691@reddit

Jetboil is the way

Reply

[-]

Admirable_System5691@reddit

Jetboil flash with coffee press will change your life

Reply

[-]

Mickey10199@reddit

Same here. I bring three or four dinners with me, a lot of times a couple of those are leftovers from the weekend. I have an inverter so I just warm them up in the truck. Every couple of weeks I’ll have a moment of weakness and get some McDonald’s but that gets old real fast

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

Exactly. I go to Quebec weekly and my weakness is poutine. So every week I'll slop down one greasy reward meal. Otherwise it's overnight oats, mason jar salads, chips and salsa, various microwave meals.

Reply

[-]

HeavyTea@reddit

I am not a Trucker but this seems like healthier than most people and super-healthy for a Trucker. Well done. Why is inverter needed? Microwave ises too much power? I would think a microwave and kettle, maybe hotate would work. We need more pictures of inside of the cabs to educate us. Unless that is redundant. I am a guest…

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

The job requires it. I walk anywhere between 3 to 5 km every day just chasing down vehicles or dealing with where I need to park and where I unload. I secure and unsecure everything myself so you do a lot of climbing, bending, reaching, then the act of securing the straps is a good upper body exercise. No inverter because the company didn't install one, and I don't feel like putting one in. Never needed to use it and it gives me excuse to stop and take a break. I'm in a day cab and half here. I do have a small sleeper for occasional use but spend my nights in motels and hotels on the company dime.

Reply

[-]

HeavyTea@reddit

Cool! Motels. Company truck woth no amenities. Ok. I assumed most Truckers have there own truck like BJ and the Bear. I may base it all of Hollywood.

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

The majority of truck drivers simply operate the equipment owned by another company. There is a good percentage of owner operators but that number has dwindled from the time of the '80s and before.

Reply

[-]

HeavyTea@reddit

Oh wow. Thanks!

Reply

[-]

2k1tj@reddit

Poutine fresh off the maple tree tap

Reply

[-]

antoltian@reddit

Coleman stove and a percolator!

Reply

[-]

CleanSeaPancake@reddit

If you get one of those 12v kettles, I've found the Nescafé instant coffee is exceptionally good.

Reply

[-]

Chef_Fats@reddit

You can get a decent one of Amazon that’ll plug in the 12v. Takes about 15min to boil.

Reply

[-]

ifbevvixej@reddit

Is the Yeti brand cooler worth the price? I used to have an igloo but stuff never stayed too cold.

Reply

[-]

Pitiful-MobileGamer@reddit

I won the yeti so it's worked well for me. I can generally go 3 days on a bag of ice as long as I not opening and closing it excessively. There's knock-off brands that work just as well.

Reply

[-]

O_W_Liv@reddit

Get a Timberline or other knock off, and yes, they're better.

Reply

[-]

CapitanPino@reddit

nah nah nah i was way too self aware of the weight gain. I immediately developed an eating plan that suits my needs and I've lost 40lbs since I started back in January. Fasting and groceries. Friendly to the wallet and the waist. And allows me to go my whole drive time if needed without having to stop to poo.

Reply

[-]

CannedGrapes@reddit

Stay away from soda (and all sugary drinks for that matter) and you'll be alright. Sodas do the most damage because they don't make you feel full, and the spike in blood sugar makes you hungry which leads to overeating. You can't magically gain weight if you eat at or under your maintenance caloric requirement.

Reply

[-]

LuisChoriz@reddit

I make a weekly stop at Walmart or a grocery store. I get whole grain crackers, apples, bananas, oranges, various trail mixes, bottled water, tuna, salmon, and chicken pouches, canned veggies, vegetable chips, canned beans, a jar of almond butter, whole grain rice cakes, green tea cold brew, and coffee instant. I get one cheat treat (for my sanity) at a truck stop, usually a slice of pizza. If I buy food at a truck stop, it'll be salad, fruit or veggie cup, a pack of boiled eggs, or a sandwich with the whole grain bread. I try to keep my calorie count as low as possible without starving myself. I limit my carb and sugar intake too. It's way cheaper. It's tough at 1st, but you get used to it.

Reply

[-]

youneverbanmereddit@reddit

I do it 100% of the time but I will change it once i buy my fridge to store food from Walmart

Reply

[-]

bsafcb@reddit

I ear Walmart Microwave dinners every day.

Reply

[-]

truckmonkey12@reddit

The “theres no healthy food options at truck stops!” excuse is just an excuse to be lazy and eat slop. There are countless truck stops located within walking distance of a grocery store

Reply

[-]

oasuke@reddit

I'm local so thankfully I don't have to waste money on that sludge anymore. I cook all my meals and make sure to have plenty of vegetables.

Reply

[-]

form_jake@reddit

i think a lot of the weight gain truckers see is more from how much they eat and how little they move. i tend to eat a lot of canned stuff chili, chef boyardi, refried beans and tortillas (foods that are definently not healthy) cause i dont wanna spend money on fast food constantly but even when i was i didnt gain 60 pounds in a year that seems insane.

Reply

[-]

Solid_Psychology8667@reddit

i do an animal based diet, eating times change since i’m OTR and schedule is not set but i try to fast few hours of waking, i’ll start my day off with one or two fruit(mango, apple, orange, dates) and 4oz raw milk and 4oz raw kefir with tbsp of honey and a scoop of jocko molk protein. depending on delivery i’ll wait till i reach cosignee or halfway point to cook 2 eggs and 2 bacon cooked in butter and if im really hungry i’ll cook up a half pound of ground beef at some point as well. as far as snacking i’ll eat a couple of fruits as i drive and have beef organ sticks and some frozen grapes i’ll eat interchangeably.

Reply

[-]

Leto_ll@reddit

I did until my blood pressure started getting too high and I had to make a choice. 5 years later I'm passing physicals again no problem. That shit will kill you and you'll feel bad while it does.

Reply

[-]

stanknasty706@reddit

In 2002-5, I lived on the 100% arabica coffee and the all the stuff off the roller tray. Jalapeño hot dogs, those “hamburger hotdogs”, rolled tacos ect.

Reply

[-]

LazyStore2559@reddit

The extent of my food intake was bought at diners and smallish local restaurants, supermarket delis. or on the rare occasion, neighborhood stand alone 'ethnic delis. My interstate grazing habits earned me the nickname of Diner Dave.

Reply

[-]

Emergency-Bus-998@reddit

Hell no ... home cooked meals 99% of the time... once a month I might have Rotten Ronnie's or something ... last week, I had Popeyes chicken for the first time in my life.. and as delicious as that was, I still enjoy cooking at home and bringing my meals with me .

Reply

[-]

Cmdr_F34rFu1L1gh7@reddit

It’s easier than storing all the stuff in a refrigerator that barely works and a company that doesn’t care for the well-being of their moneymaker (the driver, not the truck in this case.) I’ll admit I eat too much out of a fryer, but I don’t have the will or the energy to build a full kitchen and break it down for bed. I’m a trucker. I’m not out here for my health. I’m out here for my family.

Reply

[-]

Ryanisme23@reddit

I eat small children M-F. On the weekends, I usually splurge and have a bucket of trucker asses. If I happen to be on the road during holidays, I try my best to have dog or midget baby Mexicans.

Reply

[-]

UhOhAllWillyNilly@reddit

The baby children are the most tender but there’s just not much meat on ‘em. OTOH once they start getting past kindergarten they squeal too much when you try to catch ‘em and they’re kinda wiggly and hard to get a good grip on.

Reply

[-]

Ryanisme23@reddit

Hahaha I wish I could upvote you 17 times

Reply

[-]

Purpose_Embarrassed@reddit

I avoided it as much as possible. But my life’s motto has always been anything in moderation. To a point of course. Meaning occasionally eating crappy food when you’re absolutely starving is better than no food. When I was OTR I only ate one meal a day anyway. Unless I was laid over somewhere. Then I would go to a decent restaurant.

Reply

[-]

superkickpalooza@reddit

Rarely actual fast food, but I'm basically addicted to Uncrustables.

Reply

[-]

commanderbenjamin@reddit

I’ll have the occasional taquito but I pack my fridge with tuna packs, deli meat, and Greek yogurt before I leave home and park at a Walmart when I’m running low. It’s not hard to eat at least semi healthy out here

Reply

[-]

AppropriateSpecific8@reddit

I run regional and I’m out in motels mon-Fri. I go to the grocery store and get baked chicken watermelon and I keep apples, protein shakes, and green tea in my cab.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

I'm guessing you do linehaul for an ltl carrier? I never considered how you guys eat without having a sleeper. I would be lost without my fridge and cabinets

Reply

[-]

AppropriateSpecific8@reddit

I run a grease truck to pick up uco. And yes, I struggled at first. But I’m in South Texas, where there’s H-E-Bs and Laredo Tacos in every town, and I get a $35 food voucher every day, so it’s decent for me. HEB always has ready to cook meals that that package on their own. So I get fresh Fruit, and some meal to throw in the microwave. I honestly don’t know how I manage the space either.

Reply

[-]

SmooveKJ@reddit

No, Wife makes me lunch and I’m home for dinner

Reply

[-]

_buhnanners@reddit

We do, but we’re keto, and one meal a day. So we do everything without buns, no fries. If we have Popeyes we get blackened tenders, all of their sides are carby. I’ll occasionally get a coleslaw and eat a few bites. We keep keto friendly sandwich thins and tortillas on hand in case we want those. We tried cooking on the truck but we could never make it work since we team.

Reply

[-]

Psycho_1986ps4@reddit

I do but I get only like one or two meals per day, mostly Celsius and body armors to drink.

Reply

[-]

djncontrol@reddit

It's $3 Whopper Wednesday on the BK app and I'm broke so that's where I'm heading to.

Reply

[-]

El-Guapo_76@reddit

Truckers aren't known for healthy lifestyles.

Reply

[-]

n2locarz@reddit

Team driver here. 100% of our meals are prepared in the truck. We shop together once a week at Walmart. We have a microwave, air fryer, hot plate and coffee maker. Spend $150 on food for the two of us. The hardest part is not buying too much for the little fridge

Reply

[-]

icuscaredofme@reddit

Trucking will destroy your health if you don't force yourself to walk and eat healthy.

Reply

[-]

Montreal4life@reddit

I usually don't eat during the day...

Reply

[-]

Quynn_Stormcloud@reddit

I’m actively avoiding eating pizza and fast food, but if it’s all I can find when I want something hot, I’l dip in. In which cases, app ordering is a godsend, so I can just walk in walk out, and get a fair bit of food for a pretty good deal. I pack along a bunch of protein bars, granola, fruit cups and other snacks that don’t need refrigeration, and they’re pretty sustaining and a good combination of filling and sweet, without making me feel like im just chowing down on just sugar. They dont replace *every* meal, but they keep me going through the day. Then if i stop for fast food, I only need to grab a single entree, and maybe a side. I also drink exclusively water. Most of the places I deliver to have a filtered water-bottle fill with their drinking fountains, so I can keep a good supply of fresh water will me all the time.

Reply

[-]

Savagemocha@reddit

I eat subway when it is there. The only fast food stops I eat really is Taco Bell. I tend to eat food I pack before the trip. I really wish TS had quality sandwich shops though

Reply

[-]

mctwiddler@reddit

I try my best to not eat any fast food. Maybe once every two weeks. I used to get a nice burger at the end of the week but I feel better when I just eat real food.

Reply

[-]

Hourly_Employee_2024@reddit

Those big back people who eat that crap everyday can't even type a sentence cause they will get too tired. I'm a trucker and I'm on the big side but damn, some of you guys trip me out. I saw a guy get out of his truck with a chair at the fuel Island. He sat on the stupid chair while pumping diesel hahaha omg.

Reply

[-]

12InchPickle@reddit

Only if it’s tacos.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

I used to be this way for Quiktrip cheese sticks

Reply

[-]

soggyfries8687678@reddit

Quiktrip Buffalo rollers

Reply

[-]

Emergency_Hurry8852@reddit

I can't speak for everyone, but I would usually eat fast food at least once a day or every other day. I was otr but I did intermittent fasting. I would allow myself to eat whatever between the hours of 11am and 7pm, but it had to be less than 1,800 calories in total for the day. As for nutrition, I got that mostly from daily multivitamins. Between 7pm and 11am, I would only allow myself to have water or black coffee. That, and I did an hour of exercise 3 days a week, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, usually after I parked for the day. Calisthenic type stuff like pushups and situps. I did all that for several months, and dropped from 210 to 170 despite the fast food I sometimes ate.

Reply

[-]

WIbigdog@reddit

Yep, you can lose weight while just eating fast food, you just have to pay attention to the calories. Skip the fries, get the sugar free drinks, go for chicken over beef. There's a semi-famous guy from Fond du Lac, WI who has basically only eaten Big Macs for 40+ years and he's still kicking and at a pretty healthy weight. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Gorske I think the direct negative health effects of fast food are a little exaggerated and it's more an issue with over-eating at fast food joints.

Reply

[-]

Zealousideal-Mix-567@reddit

It's like gasoline. You might get very minor differences in your mpg depending on where you got it from, but it's very minor. Much more about the actual quantity of fuel.

Reply

[-]

RambleOnRoads@reddit

Rarely. I generally use my 34 to meal prep before heading out for the week, then use my mini fridge and microwave. I'll occasionally treat myself to a meal out, but that's hardly ever at the big box truck stops, I reserve that for the mom n pop places with actual sit down restaurants available.

Reply

[-]

mike-2129@reddit

I dont know if its a lot of drivers cuz you also gotta think about everyone parked and everyone fueling. And again alot of companies dont put fridges or inverter to even make cooking possible.

Reply

[-]

qnod@reddit

I put an air fryer in my truck, healthiest food choice I've made

Reply

[-]

FWTI@reddit

Here and there. Mostly I eat to ramen with added veggies. Sometimes if I am really feeling fancy I grab a steak or two at Walmart and me and the dog have steak.

Reply

[-]

JayGT1@reddit

Some do .. I think parking at the fuel island is punishable though

Reply

[-]

BitPuzzleheaded5311@reddit

Never. I cook and eat only food I make or have in my truck.

Reply

[-]

Environmental-Pear40@reddit

I know how to cook but usually just wanna eat and sleep. I'm one of those only eats once per day types though.

Reply

[-]

Zacari99@reddit

eating once a day and it’s fast food?☹️

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

I don't blame you. I'm pretty exhausted by the end of the day

Reply

[-]

Motor-Maximum-8185@reddit

I used too but I honestly just quit to protest how ridiculously expensive it's gotten

Reply

[-]

Zacari99@reddit

I still remember the stations in NJ. $12 at popeyes for some tenders. combo is extra.

Reply

[-]

jarrodandrewwalker@reddit

I gained a ton of weight on the road ..I never went home and door dash wasn't a thing for groceries at that time. Every now and then I'd get a stop near a Walmart that I could walk to but that was rare.

Reply

[-]

OldBrokeGrouch@reddit

Rarely. Sometimes I’ll get a craving and I’ll give in, but I grocery shop and use my air fryer and microwave. Summer is here and I’m about to start bringing my little propane grill with me too.

Reply

[-]

MarionberryNervous19@reddit

Im local, and if money is good, i usually eat out to lunch every day. a lot of fast food, but also teriyaki, taco trucks, and gyros, try to keep a variety besides a burger an fry. But during winters and slow season pack a lunch every day.

Reply

[-]

Zacari99@reddit

it’s like a reward for a hard days work

Reply

[-]

RockyRoadHouse@reddit

Cup ramen with bits of rotisserie chicken.

Reply

[-]

Chef_Fats@reddit

I fast during the days so if I’m doing an overnight I’ll take a pasta bowl. I must have my tea works though. I refuse to work until I’ve had a brew in the morning.

Reply

[-]

red_sekhmet@reddit

I really like breakfast biscuits and that's my habit I am trying to break. Typically I'll grab a salad from Arby's or something. Last I knew you can get a side salad instead of fries at Arby's.

Reply

[-]

No-Meat-1439@reddit

I’m on those glp-1 meds. Fast food would make me sick.

Reply

[-]

Legitimate_Sir6904@reddit

Saturday I eat out. Otherwise bring a lunch to microwave hoy every day

Reply

[-]

Geaux3469@reddit

NEVER. Hit up Costco when I’m home for 2-3 weeks worth of stuff and grocery store runs for my fruits and veggies and other perishables. Gotta be healthy out on the road!

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

I do the same thing. There are always Walmarts and grocery stores along the way, and worst case scenario, I'll drop my trailer and do some shopping on my 34

Reply

[-]

Geaux3469@reddit

Yessssir! I park there anyway if not a Planet Fitness! Truck stops are no bueno!

Reply

[-]

cnash@reddit

>It seems like every other person leaving the doors to the fuel island at any major truck stop has a bag of fast food. Well, one hopes nobody's sitting at the fuel island cooking a stir fry.

Reply

[-]

Little_BallOfAnxiety@reddit (OP)

It would be a nice change of pace to smell stir fry instead piss and diesel

Reply

[-]

bootloopsss@reddit

Stay the hell away from fast food drivers we don't need it. I went on a dedicated route recently to get to the gym and be at the home yard every other day. Now I grab 3 chicken Cesar salad bowl kit from Walmart and doctor it up with nuts and sauces. Eventually I'm going to grab a baby grill and keep it in the personal vehicle for restocking the meats. My Kenworth file cabinet fridge is terribly small so I can't fit 5 days worth of food in their

Reply

[-]

Lower_Recipe5196@reddit

Fast food and microwave food

Reply

[-]

Vorenious1@reddit

I go home weekly specifically to cook food for the week ahead. I make an effort to not go eat out every week. Saves money and allows me to take my wife out to eat every weekend as much as we want. The food is way better when I'm sharing it with her than the loneliness of being in the truck with that food

Reply

[-]

Bbqandjams75@reddit

I remember when I was teaming my teammates would only eat fast food and pizza everyday even when we went to truck stop that had a hot order grill.. I mostly eat salads from loves and them chicken legs.

Reply

[-]

ifbevvixej@reddit

When I was out my weakness was TA. I'd get a dinner that came with unlimited salad bar. Eat salad bar for dinner and then take my meal in a box. Their meals were so big I could turn it into lunch and dinner the next day. So 3 meals for the price of 1.

Reply

[-]

Ok_Commission9026@reddit

Im home daily. I usually bake a bunch of chicken for the week. I take the chicken, 2 hard boiled eggs, a string cheese, sugar free jello, carrots, broccoli with ranch dip, sliced cucumbers, apple, 2 tangerines, celery & pb, occasionally a protein bar or similar. Not all of that each day but always a lot of veggies. I think I eat pretty healthy but I'm still fat 😂

Reply

[-]

Resident-Impact1591@reddit

Boiled eggs and turkey burgers with a microwavable bag of frozen veggies. Load up with some salt and hot sauce and I'm full all day. I drink it with propel waters. Sweet as hell, but no calories. I only drink propel when I eat because I don't want an insulin reaction while fasting. Sometimes I'll wait an hour after eating and have a drakes coffee cake (just 1 square) with a coffee with cream and sugar. Simple, cheap and filling.

Reply

[-]

hoarder59@reddit

There are several good " cooking in the truck" fb groups from beginner to gourmet. Also some healthy trucking lifestyle groups.

Reply

[-]

Ich_mag_Kartoffeln@reddit

It was very rare I ate from truck stops/roadhouses, and then only at a select few that served decent food.

Reply

[-]

Dense-Ad-7590@reddit

Targets got a 2 compartment ninja air fryer for $100. Best purchase I’ve made. Ground meat doesn’t do well in the air fryer, chicken breast does well. I like getting green giant frozen zucchini noodles and any pasta sauce I’m feeling. It’s got no business being so good.

Reply

[-]

Lopsided_Pension_@reddit

I eat all types of food fast

Reply

[-]

Impressive_Head_2668@reddit

Have a Forman grill,instapot air fryer microwave We go to the store ,buy stuff cook in the truck Every now and again,we get fast food,or find a good restaurant and eat out We prefer eating at restaurants,we are foodies do always looking for good food Always cooking and trying new stuff too

Reply

[-]

ju5tjame5@reddit

I cook myself reasonable healthy meals on the weekend

Reply

[-]

hackingmule@reddit

Local guy here. I pack a lunch 4 days a week. I eat out on Fridays. I workout regularly so I don’t look like a truck driver. I don’t remember drivers looking this bad 20 years ago. Every time I go to the truck stop I’m amazed by the open toe shoes, dirty sweats and tshirts everywhere. We used to be professionals.

Reply

[-]

TacoRedneck@reddit

I've been trying to be better about eating too much of it. I recently got one of those instant pots and have been making spaghetti in it at least once a week. But a single pot of that stuff usually has about 4 meals worth of food in it, so it keeps me Goin for a few days. Also tried beef stroganoff and chicken Tiki Masala, which were both very good. The stroganoff was too expensive to be worth the hassle. The tiki masala was very good, and with some garlic Naan, it was the bomb. But spaghetti with some meat sauce is so dead simple and cheap.

Reply

[-]

Mstrchf117@reddit

Recently I've been trying to eat at least breakfast and lunch out of my truck.

Reply

[-]

Lower_Skin_3683@reddit

I eat a lot of fruit during the day. My work gets damaged cases off the trucks it's donuts, cakes, bread, hot dog buns and hamburger buns. We have coffee, hot tea and hot chocolate on site and filtered water cooler.

Reply

[-]

Super_Sphontaine@reddit

I am so tired of eating chicken tenders but thats all i can find 😂

Reply

[-]

iceberg_ape@reddit

I have a 9-5 local and I still exclusively eat DoorDash fast food LMAO. I got a Kirk cousins build though

Reply

[-]

AlexTom33@reddit

Let's go Falcons!

Reply

[-]

loligaggins@reddit

I have a 12v cooler that I toss a couple sandwiches, snacks and drinks into. Rarely buy anything on the road unless I really need some coffee or sugar.

Reply to Post

217 Comments