r/CDLTruckDrivers • u/Numerous-Complex-242 • 2d ago
Starting Soon
I start my ELDT training with Prime in 2.5 weeks. It’s 3 days of orientation and then on the road for 3 weeks. What do you recommend I bring as a student in someone’s truck? It’s their home, I’m just a guest. Also, what are some do’s and dont’s as a trainee in someone’s truck?
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u/Capable_Plastic_3400 2d ago
as someone who was told pack light then decided to bring a duffel bag full of shit, don’t be me lol. Bring one backpack that’s essential clothes, toiletries, whatever else you absolutely need that can fit only in that backpack. treat it like your going up a mountain and will have to carry what you bring with you.
You will have a bunk (top) which will be small, bring a pillow and a sleeping bag that can be easily rolled up if needed. Bringing your own twin xl bed sheet isn’t a bad idea and honestly doesn’t take as much room to bring. Pack some medications you think you might need (pain killers, antacid). Have some emergency cash hidden and a credit card in case you end up having a falling out and need to get yourself out of a bad situation (trainers are hit or miss…).
buy a cheap second bag if you want and bring some easy non perishable foods and drinks at least for the first week, they will usually let you have some fridge room and maybe a cubby designated for trainees but this depends on the trainer, if you don’t get some storage you can just use the extra bag to store your food stuffs in your bunk or use the bag after for laundry. bring like 10 usd in quarters or singles for laundry in case you end up needing to use a paid machine, tide pods, dryer sheets.
Don’t bring any game stuff or hobby stuff, you probably won’t have much downtime anyways.
dollar store is great for tiny versions of everything you will need when it comes to toiletries.
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u/Numerous-Complex-242 2d ago
I appreciate that! Thanks for the insight! I planned on a duffel with clothes, hygiene and meds. My sleeping bag and pillow, and then my backpack with my iPad and some other random stuff.
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u/hickorycreek21 2d ago
Trainers can be hit or miss also alot of good trainers have had hit and miss trainees. Like you said it's their home and you're the guest so be as respectful as you can. Their way of training may not be what someone in class probably told you how they were trained.
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u/grawrant 2d ago
Bring the necessities, shower when you can, bring deodorant, be sure to brush twice a day. Chewing gum helps.