During the holidays, most Americans are surrounded by loved ones. As they look out from their frosted windows under a cozy roof, truckers share a similar view from inside their cabins, trying to know how to deal with loneliness during the holidays.
The supply chain doesn’t rest. Essential supplies need to be delivered, and Santa can’t keep up these days.
If you’re a trucker on the road this holiday, we want to offer a heartfelt thank you. Your sacrifice is crucial to making the holiday merry and bright.
Despite your noble sacrifice, it’s no secret that trucking during the holidays can be difficult and lonely. Even with video call tools, the absence of loved ones can be especially poignant around the holidays.
To help you find a little holiday cheer on the road, here’s how to deal with loneliness during the holidays:
Check for Holiday Feasts at Truck Stops
Though it varies yearly, several truck stops offer holiday meals to truck drivers hauling over the holiday.
If truck stops near you aren’t offering meal options, here is a helpful list of restaurants open on major holidays.
You may be in an area where these restaurants aren’t available, or if you are struggling to make ends meet this year, Meals for 18 Wheels is an organization dedicated to providing meals for truckers on demand. If you find yourself in a bind, simply message the page admin!
Trim Your Truck!
If the holidays make you blue, try hanging a little green!
A little tinsel can go a long way to make the season bright. Whether you choose to mount a wreath, plug in some lights, or tune into your local holiday radio station, embracing the spirit of the holidays can deter your inner Grinch.
If you need ideas for decorating your truck, check out this guide for help.
Get Involved with the Locals
If you know you’ll be hauling through the holidays, try making accommodations to join a few local celebrations. A few ideas include:
- Join a local holiday parade! These celebrations typically need a few truckers to toot their horns. This article is a great resource for finding a parade along your route.
- Attend a holiday service or program. Churches, schools, and theaters almost always have a show around the holidays.
- For an especially memorable holiday, coordinate a volunteer opportunity in advance. Nothing beats loneliness like helping those that are less fortunate than yourself.
Learning how to deal with loneliness during the holidays can be difficult. But, by exercising just a few of these practices, you can feel a little jollier at the most wonderful time of the year.
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The England Carrier Services (ECS) division offers various services for carriers ranging from maintenance to support. As ECS members, carriers have access to nationwide discounts on fuel and tires from dedicated team members committed to finding the best price. ECS also provides factoring services with benefits such as same-day funding to a bank account or fuel card. These options allow carriers the freedom to focus on growing their business while saving time and money.