Ever considered what it is like when you spend half your week sleeping in a truck? A “tramper” is someone who starts their shift at a depot and then transports goods across the country for the next few days, sleeping as they go. At Gregory Group, around 35% of our drivers are trampers. We spoke to one of them to find out more about life on the road.
Jason Leake is a tramper who starts his shift from our Bridgwater depot and then travels across the UK delivering goods on behalf of our customers. On average, he spends 3-4 nights a week sleeping in his truck. Here’s an overview of what that is like in reality:
Do you always have the same truck?
Yes, but I share it with one other driver. When I’m off shift, he’s on shift so while we get rest, the truck never stops!
Do you have to “move in” every time you start a shift?
There are five storage lockers in the cab where me and the other driver keep most of our kit. But I remove my bedding and clothes at the end of every shift.
What’s it like sharing the space with another driver?
It’s all about trust. We both keep the unit immaculate. It’s like staying in a hotel only we are the cleaners! But by maintaining cleanliness, it feels like a second home.
What home comforts do you like to take with you?
For me it’s my iPad so I can watch TV and films. I also enjoy taking my drone with me to capture some aerial shots, particularly when I’m in the really scenic parts of the country.
What are your go to meals when you are tramping?
I try to avoid fast food and make my own meals in the cab. I have a microwave and fridge, so it makes that task fairly easy.
What is the best bit about being a tramper?
I get to see parts of the country that I wouldn’t usually see. Sometimes, when on a break, I get to stop in the most beautiful places with the most amazing views.
What are the most challenging parts of being a tramper?
The roads can be unpredictable and can really delay you sometimes. And if you finish late at night, a lot of the motorways services are full, so parking can be a struggle. But the more you do the job, the more you become familiar with where is most likely to have space for you.
This job also teaches you patience! If roads are closed sometimes you will be stuck for hours and you just have to sit tight. Thankfully there is a real driver community, so we have each other to talk to.
What aspects of your truck make tramping life easier?
The mattress topper! My bed is really comfy, and a lot can be said for a good night’s sleep!
I drive a Scania and it has some brilliant features. For example, it gives you all the information you need regarding driver time, breaks, and hours left, so I can easily make decisions on when I need to stop. The seats are heated and have air conditioning, and the digital radio also enables me to listen to music and podcasts, so I have pretty much everything I need.
In my three years here I’ve also seen the safety systems develop. For example, we now have the DVS (Direct Vision Standard) system which alerts me if pedestrians or cyclists are near. They are all extra precautions that mean I can keep myself, and others, safe, which is very reassuring.
Thank you to Jason for giving us an insight into the world of tramping. If this sounds like the life for you, have a look at our Current Vacancies to see if there is a tramping role near you.
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