People often make assumptions about jobs they’ve never held. Misinformation is especially prevalent regarding the trucking industry since few people understand how it actually works. Check out these five common truck driving myths and how each is debunked.

Myth 1: You Never Get To See Your Family

Many people believe truck drivers never get to see their families. All this belief shows is that non-truckers don’t really understand how trucking works. There are two types of trucking jobs: long-haul and short-haul. Short-haul drivers get to go home every day, just like people who work in an office.

It’s the long-haul job that drives this myth. While it’s true that long-haul drivers can be gone for extended periods of time, they also get longer breaks between jobs; it’s just a different kind of work-life balance.

Myth 2: Truckers Never Get Any Sleep

Everyone has to sleep at some point, even truck drivers. Because of their schedules, truckers may choose to sleep during the day instead of at night—that’s still a long way off from getting no sleep at all!

Myth 3: You’re Limited to Eating Fast Food

While it’s true that many truckers eat meals based on convenience, there are plenty of ways to eat better food on the road. Sleeper cabs often come equipped with mini-refrigerators that drivers can use to store homemade leftovers, sandwich ingredients, and healthy snacks like fruits and veggies. Some drivers even use countertop appliances like slow cookers and air fryers to make meals right inside their cabs.

Myth 4: Truckers Don’t Like Their Jobs

Just because driving sounds like a boring job to you doesn’t mean it’s that way for everyone else. Some people are quite happy getting paid to drive and see different parts of the country. Driving also offers plenty of time to listen to podcasts and music, and many truckers rather enjoy what they do for a living.

Myth 5: All Truck Drivers Are Men

This truck driving stereotype is one of the most common, and it’s definitely not true. The truth about trucking is that more and more women are joining the truck driving workforce because it pays well and there’s a high demand for drivers. There are even couples who drive together by alternating their driving schedules.

If you’re interested in becoming a truck driver, you’ll need to obtain proper training and a CDL. Once you’re hired, be sure to upgrade your semi-truck driver seat to help protect your spine and make your job less stressful. Having a good seat can dramatically improve your truck driving experience.