12 Interesting Facts About Truck Stops

Lots of our readers have been asking questions about truck stops, including non-truckers. Here are our takes on the matter:

I remember my first time walking into a shower room. There was the sink, mirror, long seat bench, a toilet and a shower.

This was before I had a duffel bag since I had already made a habit of using my travel backpack from when I was vending on the road with my ex-business partner.

I awkwardly pulled my clean clothes out of the bag and placed them onto the seat bench, put my tooth brush and toothpaste on my black socks, and plugged in my phone.

It was a plain looking room. The shower ran as hot as I liked and everything felt private and secure.

It’s been a long time since I experienced that detached “I don’t belong in this world” energy that I carried into that shower.

These days, I feel at home showering on the road.

That said, I feel qualified enough to answer many of our reader’s very basic questions regarding truck stops.

Are truck stops safe or dangerous?

Yes, truck stops are mostly very safe. There are security cameras and lights that keep the area well-lit for truckers and other people who are making use of the facility.

Are truck stop showers only for truckers?

Truck stops are available to truck drivers and non-truckers. You don’t need to be a trucker to use a truck stop. However, since they are intended for truckers, non-truckers may still use the facilities for a fee.

How long can you park at a truck stop?

Depends on the truck stop. There may be time restrictions for how long you can park at a truck stop. However, many truck stops do allow drivers to stay parked overnight.

Are truck stop showers free?

No, not usually. Truck stop showers will take membership credits or direct payment to use their showers.

Are truck stop showers private?

Yes, truck stop showers consist of individual rooms or stalls with doors to ensure privacy.

Are truck stop showers timed?

Some truck stops set a time limit on how long you have running water for your shower. This ranges about ten to twenty minutes.

Can you sleep at a truck stop?

Yes, given you are following the rules and regulations of the given truck stop. Overnight parking is typically set in designated areas.

Do truck stops have dump stations?

Some truck stops have dump stations for people driving motorhomes and RV’s to dispose of their waste.

Do truck stops have gyms?

Large truck stops may have a gym and other fitness facilities for truckers and other patrons.

Do truck stops have microwaves?

Yes, truck stops have convenience store areas with microwaves for people to heat up their food.

Do truck stops have wifi?

Yes, many truck stops offer wifi to their patrons.

Do truck stops sell alcohol?

Yes, depending on availability, local laws, etc.