There are many tricks CDL drivers use to stay awake and combat fatigue on long drives, especially at night. 

1. Consistent Sleep Schedule

As a truck driver, you may not always be able to sleep on the same schedule you would at home. But if you try to keep your sleep schedule consistent, you will have an easier time falling asleep and will get a better quality of sleep. When you get enough good sleep you’re less likely to experience fatigue or drowsiness while driving. 

2. Eat a Healthy Snack

Make sure you always have some light and healthy snacks with you. Eating a granola bar, a piece of fruit, or a protein bar can help give your body some energy and signal that it’s not bedtime. Fast food can cause you to feel sleepy after eating, so try packing healthy meals whenever possible. 

3. Drink Lots of Water

It’s tempting to load up on caffeine and sugar to give yourself a boost of energy, but drinking water instead of a cup of coffee or an energy drink is a lot better for you and can prevent a sugar or caffeine crash later. 

4. Turn Up the AC

When it’s warm and cozy in your cab, it’s easy for your body to want to curl up for a cat nap. Cranking the AC up and cooling down the atmosphere can help you stay awake and alert on the road. 

5. Turn Up the Volume

Many long-haul truck drivers listen to audiobooks, podcasts, and music while driving. If you’re worried about staying awake during a nighttime drive, you can turn on some upbeat music and crank up the volume to keep yourself awake. 

6. Take a Break

If you’re feeling tired or sleepy, park your truck at a nearby rest area, get out, and walk around a bit for fresh air. You can even do some bodyweight exercises to get your heart pumping and help you get rid of some of the cobwebs. A ten-minute nap can also help you feel refreshed and keep you from drowsy driving.