Sleeping In A Day Cab Truck: Tips For Comfort

Trucking is an exhausting job, and it's not uncommon for day cab truck owners to need to take a nap on the road. However, sleeping in a day cab isn't easy, so here are some tips and tricks to help you get some rest between stops.

Using a hammock

To set up a hammock in your truck, you will need two D-ring anchors, and a pair of hooks or carabiners. Attach the anchors to the wall of your truck and use the hooks to set up and take down your hammock as needed. You can also use ratchet straps to keep the hammock taut. If you have a roof rack, secure the hammock straps to the roof rack and another anchor point. If you are driving an open-top vehicle, secure the hammock straps to the roll cage and a nearby anchor point. If you are in a truck, secure the straps to the hooks inside your truck bed.

When hanging your hammock, it is important to consider the height. An ideal height is about chair-height, with enough slack to allow you to sit in the hammock without risking flipping over. You can adjust the length of the loops to find a comfortable elevation. Always test the hammock before you get in to make sure all anchor points are secure.

If you cannot find an anchor point near your truck, you can use a portable hammock stand. McLean Metalworks makes a stand that hooks into the hitch, and Eno makes a stand that is placed in front of the wheels and then rolled over to secure them between the ground and tires.

Sleeping in a hammock can be more comfortable than sleeping in a car, and it ensures your safety and the safety of those around you.

Blackout curtains for light

Blackout curtains are an essential accessory for truckers looking to enhance privacy, comfort, and light control inside their cabs. They are designed to block out light, whether it's the sun's glare during the day or street lights at night, ensuring you can get a good night's sleep.

Blackout curtains for semi-trucks are typically made from heavy-duty, premium-grade polyester fabric, ensuring durability and long-lasting use. They are also designed to be compact and space-saving, easily folding away when not in use, and often come with adjustable hooks and a built-in track system for easy installation.

When choosing blackout curtains, it's important to consider the size and fit for your specific truck model. Custom-made curtains ensure a perfect fit, enhancing both the functionality and the aesthetic of your truck's interior. Additionally, some curtains may have small holes that let light through, so be sure to check for this feature.

• Amazon offers a one-piece blackout cab privacy curtain in black, measuring 28" x 11", that provides complete light blockage. It features adjustable hooks and a built-in track system for easy installation and is designed to fit most truck cabs.
• Jake's Cab Solutions provides a range of blackout curtains for semi-trucks, including custom-fit options. They offer various colours, such as black, blue, and burgundy, and their curtains are designed to be durable, easy to install, and machine washable.
• RoadPro offers a single privacy cab curtain in black, measuring 28" x 11", that provides light blockage and privacy.
• Jakes Cab Solutions also offers a blue, two-piece cab curtain set that darkens the cabin, providing privacy and light control.

With these blackout curtain options, you can create a comfortable and private space in your semi-truck, making it feel like home, even when you're on the road.

Climate control

Day cab trucks are not designed with sleeping in mind, so getting a good night's rest can be challenging. One of the biggest issues is climate control, as day cabs can quickly become hot and stuffy, making it difficult to get comfortable. Here are some tips to help you manage the temperature and get a better night's sleep:

Keep Cool with Fans and Air Conditioning

Invest in a small fan or portable air conditioner to keep the air circulating and the temperature down. These devices can make a big difference in regulating the temperature and creating a comfortable sleeping environment.

Choose Breathable Bedding

Opt for lightweight and breathable materials for your bedding. Sleeping bags, pillows, and sheets made from breathable fabrics will help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the night.

Blackout Curtains or Windshield Cover

Light can disrupt sleep, but a simple solution is to use blackout curtains or a windshield cover. This will block out unwanted light and create a dark and inviting space for sleeping.

Hammock Sleeping

If you're using a hammock for sleeping, you can take advantage of the airflow it provides. Hammocks allow for better air circulation than traditional beds, helping you stay cool. Additionally, on a nice day, you can string the hammock under the trailer for even more airflow.

Hotel Option

If you're unable to get comfortable due to the temperature, consider checking into a hotel for the night. This option will provide you with a temperature-controlled environment and a more comfortable bed.

Day Cab Conversion Kit

If you're looking for a more permanent solution, consider investing in a day cab conversion kit. These kits extend the cab, providing extra sleeping space and allowing for better climate control.

Creative Solutions

Some truckers have shared creative solutions, such as using an igloo cooler or a plastic milk crate between the seats, with a sleeping bag and padding on top. Others have suggested using a large plug-in-style cooler or an inflatable cushion across the seats.

Remember, getting a good night's sleep is essential for your safety and well-being, so take the time to find the right climate control solutions for your day cab truck.

Seat shuffle

Day cab seats are not designed for sleeping, but with a few adjustments, you can maximise your comfort. Start by reclining the seats as far back as they can go. If you have the option, lower the seats to the correct height. Use pillows for support and experiment with different positions to find what works for you. For example, if you're using a hammock, you might try lying at an angle with your head by the headrest and your feet closer to the dashboard.

If you're willing to invest a little more time and money, you could create a foam-padded sleep board to fit over the seating area. Measure a piece of plywood or particleboard to the size of your cab's seating, cover it with foam and fabric, and you've got a comfortable resting spot that can be easily stored behind the passenger seat.

To enhance your comfort, consider investing in some bedding essentials. A good sleeping bag, pillow, and sheets are recommended. Opt for lightweight, breathable materials that pack down small for easy storage.

Day cab conversion kit

There are several companies that offer day cab conversion kits, each with its own unique features and compatible truck models. For example, Iowa 80 offers basic and deluxe day cab conversion kits for the Kenworth AeroCab and Peterbilt UltraCab. These kits include different components and features, such as interior window trim, window glass with a seal and lockbead, and exterior seal kits.

Another company, Prairie Technology, specialises in custom day cab conversion kits for various truck models, including Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, International, Volvo, Sterling, and Western Star. They prioritise safety, ensuring that their conversion kits are structurally sound and safe for their customers.

The Daycab Company, the largest aftermarket upholstery manufacturer for class 8 trucks, offers day cab conversion kits with new water-resistant upholstery board and new foam, allowing you to choose your preferred colour and style. They have been in the business for 18 years and are known for their high-quality aluminium and fibreglass work.

When considering a day cab conversion kit, it's important to compare the cost of the kit with the cost of purchasing individual components separately. Day cab conversion may require a significant investment, but these kits provide a cost-effective way to maximise the potential of your sleeper cab.

Frequently asked questions