Planning Your Rest Stops: Locating Next Rest Area for Truckers
“Where is the next rest area?” is a daily question for any commercial trucking driver. Long hauls can be demanding, both physically and mentally, and even the most skilled driver becomes a hazard when deprived of adequate rest. For drivers in the trucking industry, rest breaks are not just a matter of adhering to regulations; they’re indispensable to ensure your safety, maintain your health, and stay alert on the road.
Rest area locator apps
You’ve spent all day behind the wheel and it’s time to take a break. But where can you find a safe and legal spot to park your rig? After hauling for miles, you’ll want this information at your fingertips.
Today’s drivers have a range of apps to choose from to find a place to park and rest. Rest Stops Plus and iExit are just a few options designed to help drivers find nearby rest areas and truck stops. They can also provide you with details on amenities and services available at those stops, as well as up-to-date information on available parking spots and rest area conditions.
With a multitude of options at their disposal, carriers often wonder how to choose the right app for their needs. When fatigue sets in, the last thing a driver wants is to waste time and fuel navigating through numerous apps. DAT has addressed this challenge by integrating comprehensive services directly into the DAT One app. Now, drivers can easily find safe and legal truck parking along with access to the largest load finder network in the trucking industry—all through a single interface. Simply tap the Take a Break icon in the DAT One app, and instantly find the nearest parking options.
State Department of Transportation websites
State Department of Transportation (DOT) websites can be another resource for finding rest areas. These facilities, sometimes called “welcome centers” or “information centers,” are provided by state DOTs along Interstate highways, offering drivers a convenient spot to rest without exiting the highway. Rest areas typically feature basic amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and vending machines for travelers’ convenience.
Listings of rest areas throughout each state can be found on that state’s DOT website. These listings are usually available under menu items like “Rest Areas,” “Traveler Services,” or “Highway Information.” Online resources vary by state and may include maps, information on what amenities are available at each rest area, and contact details to report lost or left items.
Although this information is available on state DOT websites, accessing it efficiently can prove to be challenging because these sites vary in layout and content. Navigating these pages may require extra time and effort, and many drivers use them as a last resort. Alternative methods such as nationwide apps tailored to carriers’ needs offer streamlined solutions that make it easier to locate nearby rest areas efficiently.
TPIMS for Midwest Drivers
For truckers in the Midwest, TPIMS (Trucks Park Here) offers a valuable resource for finding rest areas and truck parking options. TPIMS is designed specifically to meet the needs of truck drivers, providing a user-friendly platform that simplifies the process of locating nearby facilities. The service offers detailed information on rest area locations, available amenities, and parking availability, helping drivers plan their routes more effectively and find convenient places to rest.
By using TPIMS, Midwest truckers can bypass the challenges of navigating varying state DOT websites and access a more streamlined solution for their rest and parking needs. This service enhances the efficiency of route planning and contributes to a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
Truck stop chains
Major truck stop chains offer comfort and convenience for truckers on the road. Most truck stops will provide a range of amenities for truck drivers and owner-operators to rest, refresh, and refuel. These range from essential services such as fueling stations and truck maintenance services to clean restrooms and showers, well-stocked convenience stores, and parking accommodations for large vehicles. Many locations will offer 24-hour full-service restaurants, Wi-Fi connectivity, and even on-site hotels.
National chains such as TA/Petro, Pilot Flying J, and Love’s offer a consistent brand experience across their widespread network of locations across the country. This reliability can make them a go-to for truckers seeking a familiar environment no matter where their journey takes them. Additionally, most truck stop chains offer loyalty programs or rewards points systems. These programs allow drivers to earn points for various purchases and redeem them for showers, food, drinks, laundry services, and more.
When drivers are looking for a quick bite to eat, a secure place to sleep, a refreshing shower—or all of the above—they will often turn to major truck stop chains to refuel not only their trucks but themselves.
Rest area amenities
Rest areas provide an area for you to safely stop, rest, and check your vehicle and load. Basic amenities such as parking, restrooms, drinking water, and trash receptacles are standard. Food options, however, are likely to be limited to soft drinks, packaged snacks, and other vending-machine fare. While rest areas may be great options for you to stop and take a break, you’ll likely want to make sure you find a nourishing meal before pulling in for the night. Many rest areas feature designated picnic areas equipped with tables, benches, and sometimes covered pavilions or shelters. Information centers with resources like maps and information about local attractions are common but may have limited hours. Free public Wi-Fi is also becoming increasingly standard at these stops. Overall, they can be secure and convenient rest stops on the road, but they are not likely to provide restaurants where you can find a meal.
Safety tips to keep in mind
Spending the night worrying about the safety of your cargo—or even worse, yourself—can make it impossible to decompress and recharge. Follow these tips to make sure you’re safely parked and can truly rest.
Choose well-lit and busy areas: Prioritize parking in well-lit and busy rest areas and truck stops to minimize the risk of vandalism and burglary. These areas will be more likely to have security measures in place like cameras or security personnel. After parking, conduct a thorough survey of your surroundings to assess the area. Trust your instincts if something feels suspicious.
Avoid parking on the shoulder: Parking on the shoulder of the road or on exit ramps is not only unsafe, it is illegal except in emergencies. If you do need to stop on the shoulder, immediately turn on your emergency flashers.
Be proactive when parking: Pay attention to where and how you park. It’s a good idea to back into your parking spot. This strategy both allows you to make a quick exit and also prevents theft by making it harder for anyone else to access your trailer. To prevent collisions, avoid parking at the end of a row or near any trucks that are parked haphazardly.
Secure your trailer and cab: Ensure that your trailer is securely locked. A range of heavy-duty locks, such as cargo door locks and kingpin locks, are available that can reinforce the security of your cargo. Before settling in for the night, take measures to enhance your safety. Close all windows and curtains and lock your doors. Make sure you hide any valuables. Consider investing in additional safety measures such as locks, door straps, security cameras, or dash cams.
Maintain a low profile: Avoid discussing details about your freight with other drivers or other individuals you may meet when stopping overnight.
Consider personal safety measures: Some drivers opt to carry pepper spray or firearms for personal protection. If you’re considering these options, ensure compliance with relevant state laws and that you thoroughly understand the associated risks and liabilities.
Share your location: Consider sharing your location with at least one trusted friend or family member. This communication adds not only a layer of security but also peace of mind that can ensure that every break you take is a restful one.
Ensuring restful stops: the importance of advanced planning
There are a lot of places to stop on the road, but finding the right one can be challenging. We hope this article gives you a clearer understanding of how to effectively plan your stops using reliable resources like the DAT One mobile app. By prioritizing safety and convenience, you can navigate your routes with confidence and ease, ensuring a smoother and safer journey every time. When you trust in a partner like DAT, the next time the question arises, “Where is the next rest area?” rest assured, the answer is just a tap away.
The easiest way to locate your next rest stop!
Use the DAT One mobile app to find the nearest rest stops. Our interactive map—with truck stops, truck parking, weigh stations, rest stops, and more—is just one of the services accessible through the DAT One mobile app.
Find your next rest stop with just one tap on the DAT One mobile app. Get started today!
