If you have years of experience as a long-haul trucker, you most likely already know that there are some pretty big dos and don’ts at truckstop showers. However, if you are new to the business or you are simply a traveler craving a hot shower on the road, you will definitely want to read on to learn a little bit about truck stop shower etiquette.
Truck stop showers are not only for professional drivers, anyone on the road is able to purchase a shower at most travel centers across the country. However, remember that these facilities are often the only options these career drivers have at their disposal for personal hygiene. A good rule of thumb: act as if you are a visitor in their home!
Showering at a Truck Stop
If you are still curious about truck stop showers, such as how to use one, what to expect in regards to amenities, wait times, and general pricing, we will go through everything you need to know now!
There are essentially three rules when it comes to bathing at a truck stop that will ensure you have a good travel center shower experience.
- If you are not a trucker, and you see truckers waiting to use the facilities, let them shower first! Professional drivers are often on a time limit for their break and have a long way left to go. It’s considered good manners to wait a few extra minutes so they can carry on with their shift.
- Don’t spend too long inside. As you will find, there is often a line for showers at most truck stops. So even if there isn’t a time limit, and for most locations, there isn’t, be respectful and get in and out in an appropriate amount of time.
- Be kind and courteous to the drivers waiting for a shower. This may seem fairly obvious, but for some reason, there is a stigma that truck drivers are hardened people who are rude instead of polite. This is simply not true. They have usually had an extremely long day and are simply looking for a moment to regroup and clean up, so please treat them with respect. Truck Stop Shower Etiquette
How Much Do Truck Stop Showers Cost?
As a professional driver, you most likely have a rewards card at one of the many available travel centers on the road. With this card, you can easily access free showers with credits gained from regular fill-ups.
This option is also available to non-truck drivers who are simply spending a lot of time in the car, so make sure to check out the options at some of your favorite stops.
If you won’t be using a truckstop shower as your regular sanitation station, a one-time buy might be the right option. Typically, a shower will cost anywhere between $10-$17 depending on the location.
Want to make a new friend and get a free shower? We don’t mean at the same time. Truckers often have free shower credits on their rewards cards. If you see a trucker, feel free to say hi and ask if they have an extra to spare! Truck Stop Shower Pricing
How To Use a Truck Stop Shower
You have probably been to quite a few travel centers that offer showers without even noticing! Different locations have varying systems, sometimes you can ask at the same counter where you pay for your gas or snacks, where others will have a separate clerk in the back.
Usually, the attendant will give you a ticket with a time for your shower and a code to enter. Dependent on the wait time, you may have a few minutes or more to spare before your shower has been cleaned and is ready.
Once you’ve entered your code, you can access the room which will come equipped with a toilet, sink, shower, bath mat, towels, and even soap. Some are quite luxurious and have a clean seat, and even after shower mints. What to Expect at a Truck Stop Shower
Conclusion
If you are in need of a hot shower on the road, truck stops are a great option. They are available for purchase for anyone in a vehicle, but of course, are mostly used by professional drivers.
For each and every person using a travel center shower, the rules of etiquette are the same: make it fairly quick, be courteous of others, and for those of you who aren’t professionals, let those working a long shift skip you in line. One last thing, don’t leave your car at the pump when you go for your shower! This may seem obvious, but you would be surprised.
Now you know how to use a truckstop shower and how to do so with kindness, so grab your toiletries, a clean pair of clothes, and enjoy!