When you’re spending long hours on the road, your cab becomes more than just a vehicle; it’s your workspace, your breakroom, and sometimes even your bedroom. Packing the right gear can turn a tough journey into a manageable one and help you avoid common mishaps.
In this guide, we break down the must-have HGV driver accessories and gear that everyone should have in their trucks. From emergency kits and tools to food supplies and personal hygiene gear, you’ll find everything you need to stay safe, comfortable, and ready for the long haul, or even to inspire bold ideas for lorry driver gifts.
What we’ll cover
Fleets, bookings, subcontractors, compliance & payments.
With HX, you can manage them all in one place.
Safety and emergency kit
A solid emergency kit will help you handle injuries, breakdowns, and low-visibility conditions with confidence, making it a go-to section for anyone looking for practical gifts for lorry drivers.
First aid and PPE
No one plans to get injured on the job, but even a small scrape can become a hassle without the right supplies. A well-stocked first aid kit and basic personal protection equipment can make all the difference, especially on-site.
Keep a first aid kit that includes:
- Bandages
- Antiseptic wipes
- Plasters
- Painkillers
- and be sure to check expiry dates regularly.
If you’re visiting depots, construction zones, or ports; make sure you have:
- High-vis gear
- Steel-toe boots
- A hard hat
- Safety gloves
Some sites have their own PPE rules, so it’s worth carrying extra items just in case.
It’s not just about compliance; proper gear helps prevent injury in unpredictable environments.
Breakdown and visibility gear
If you break down on a hard shoulder or in poor visibility, it’s your job to stay safe while you wait for help. That means being seen by other drivers and staying protected from the elements.
You should be carrying:
- A reflective jacket
- Warning triangles
- A torch or headlamp
- Spare batteries
Winter extras:
- Jump leads
- A high-grip mat
- An emergency foil blanket (can be lifesavers in freezing conditions)
- A portable tyre inflator or sealant helps with slow punctures if you’re miles from a garage)
- A high-vis vest (could be what keeps you safe at night or in heavy rain)
These are both top picks when shopping for HGV driver gifts with real purpose.
Tools and basic maintenance
Even if you’re not a trained mechanic, having a few tools can get you out of trouble. They help you fix minor issues before they turn into major delays.
You should always have:
- A small tool kit with pliers
- Screwdrivers
- An adjustable wrench
- Duct tape
- Zip ties
- WD-40
- A tyre pressure gauge
- Gloves for dirty work
Keep spare bulbs and fuses handy, especially if you’re driving long distances at night. A multi-tool or Swiss Army knife is also useful, you’ll be surprised how often it comes in handy, making it one of the top truck driver accessories.
Navigation, comms and documents
Staying on track and in contact is a big part of the job. A few small tools can help you plan better, stay legal, and avoid missed delivery windows.
An HGV-friendly sat nav is better than your smartphone when it comes to height, weight, and route restrictions. Make sure you also carry a phone charger or power bank to keep your devices topped up.
As you’ll read in any guide on how to become an HGV driver, you’ll need to keep a few things on you at all times.
This includes:
- Your driver CPC card,
- Tacho card
- Any required delivery documents on hand when you set off.
A simple clipboard or folder can also help you keep paperwork neat and ready for inspection. So, consider these as functional lorry driver accessories for day-to-day convenience.
Food, water and simple cooking
Eating well on the road isn’t just about saving money; it’s about feeling good and staying alert. A small setup can go a long way when you’re tired, hungry, and miles from the next café.
Stock a cool bag or 12V fridge for perishables, along with high-protein snacks like nuts, bars, and jerky. A travel kettle or camping stove opens the door to proper meals, and even a tin of soup or noodles feels like luxury on a cold night.
Don’t forget the basics!
- Water (at least 2 litres per day)
- A reusable mug
- Cutlery
- A bowl
Some drivers also pack sachets of coffee, instant porridge, or seasoning to spice things up.
These small comforts are often overlooked. However, they make excellent gifts for lorry drivers who spend long stretches on the road.
Bedding and sleep comfort
If you’re tramping, sleep is your fuel, and poor sleep makes long drives harder and more dangerous. A well-kitted sleeping area helps you rest properly and wake up ready for the road.
- A quality sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Blackout curtains (make a huge difference)
- Earplugs
- An eye mask (or even a white noise app to help block out noisy lay-bys)
Don’t overlook a spare blanket or a fitted sheet to cover your bunk, keeping your bed setup clean and comfy can improve your mood, energy and even your safety. For those sleeping in their cabs, sleep gear also counts among thoughtful lorry driver gifts that show you care about their rest.
Clothing and personal hygiene
It’s hard to stay comfortable or focused if you’re cold, damp or feeling unclean. Packing the right extras can keep you fresh and focused from one job to the next.
Pack spare workwear, waterproofs, a warm hoodie and a towel. Trainers or sliders are good for rest stops, and quick-dry fabrics save space and time.
In your washbag, keep:
- A toothbrush
- Deodorant
- Wipes
- A razor
- Some toilet paper
Add hand sanitiser and flip-flops if you’re planning to use communal showers.
Weather kit and seasonal extras
British weather can flip in minutes, and being caught out in the wrong gear is more than just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous. A compact weather kit helps you adapt quickly and stay safe in all conditions.
For winter, carry:
- A windscreen scraper
- De-icer spray
- Thermal gloves
- A warm hat
It’s also worth keeping a shovel and sand or cat litter in case you get stuck on icy roads.
In summer? A cap, sunscreen, and portable fan go a long way during long, hot waits.
If you regularly cross into Europe, remember some countries require winter tyres or snow chains, pack accordingly. Many of these seasonal items double as clever HGV accessories for UK or cross-border hauliers.
Loading and unloading equipment
Even if loading isn’t your main job, a little kit can help speed things up. It also shows you’re prepared, which goes a long way with depot staff and site managers.
For loading and unloading carry:
- Gloves,
- Steel-toe boots
- Load ratchet straps
- Hi-vis gear
A portable step or pallet truck might also come in handy, especially at smaller depots.
Before you leave, always check your load is secure, even if it’s a short hop between stops. Loose cargo is one of the most common causes of delivery delays and accidents.
Cleaning and cab organisation
You spend most of your day in your cab, so it’s worth keeping it clean and functional. It makes eating, sleeping, and even driving feel less like a chore.
Use dashboard wipes and cloths to keep surfaces dust-free, and bin bags for any rubbish.
A small broom or handheld vacuum helps with dirt tracked in from your boots, and storage boxes, hanging seat organisers, and crates keep everything in reach.
An air freshener or microfibre cloth for the windows can also make your space feel more like home. From storage hacks to dashboard wipes, these are great ideas if you’re browsing for lorry driver gifts with a personal touch.
Entertainment and wellbeing
Life on the road can feel repetitive, so it’s important to bring things that lift your mood. When you’re stuck in a lay-by or waiting at a depot, entertainment helps pass the time.
Pack headphones and pre-download podcasts, audiobooks, or playlists.
A Kindle, sketchpad, or journal offers a screen-free break, and puzzles or games help kill time too.
Don’t underestimate physical wellbeing either, resistance bands, a quick stretch, or a walk around the lay-by can refresh your body and mind. Even small moments of rest and joy matter, so whether it’s podcasts, books or fitness bands, entertainment gear is one of the more underrated truck driver accessories on the road.
Long-haul tramping extras
If you’re regularly away for days at a time, consider indulging yourself beyond the basics. These extras won’t just keep you comfortable, they can make the road feel more like home.
Drivers often carry:
- Fold-out chairs
- Travel kettles
- Extra cutlery
- Mini mirrors
- USB fan or heater
- A small TV
- Phone stands
- Dry food containers
- Extra socks
Frequently asked questions
What are the legal requirements for UK HGV driver equipment?
You must carry your CPC card, tacho card, and any relevant documents for the load you’re hauling. Hi-vis gear is recommended, and some international routes require extra items like warning triangles or breathalysers.
What should I pack for bad weather or breakdowns?
In winter, bring a foil blanket, gloves, warm clothes, and a tow rope or high-grip mat. All year round, carry a hi-vis vest, torch, warning triangle, and a power bank.
How can I improve sleep in my cab?
Block out noise and light using curtains, earplugs, or white noise apps. A proper duvet, pillow, and spare blanket will also help you get quality rest between shifts.
