Parking For OTR Drivers-What Do You Look For?

Hello, I'm new to the forum and so thankful it exists to give a voice to women in trucking. Truck parking is becoming harder and harder to find. I should say legal truck parking that is, what do you look for in ideal space? What are some of things to be aware of as a woman driver?

Hi Renee, welcome to the forum! ID Mtn Gal (Laura) should be along shortly to answer your woman-driver specific questions, but I'll try to help in the interim. In general, try to park in a well-lit spot, next to a light pole if possible, near the building. Carry or have handy whatever tools you can that are or can double as self-defense tools, within the regulations of state laws, company rules, and your comfort level. One thing I carry and recommend is pepper gel as I believe it safer for the user vs pepper spray due to how it sprays.

I don't know your experience level so sorry if these are too basic, and like I said, just trying to offer my perspective til Laura sees this and can offer more specific advice.

Hey there Renee,

Personally I do not worry too much as far as being a ‘female’ truck driver. Most everyone I have run into are fairly decent but you have to use your street smarts and good judgement. I have POM spray but you do need to be aware of laws concerning pepper spray depending on where you are driving. Lock your doors always.

Park near well lit areas as close to the building of a trucks stop as you can and within camera view if possible. Do not discuss what you are carrying with anyone as far as load or otherwise.

Always stay alert. Plan your trip accordingly so that you are always picking a truck stop and never ‘hunting’ for a truck stop. Pre-trip planning is as important as driving. Make sure to pick truck stops you are comfortable with.

Use good judgment, this can’t be said enough.

Stay safe!

Hi... I have a youtube channel with a playlist for women. i talk about safety, sexism and even hair & makeup while OTR. there is tons of info for new drivers.

I look for Petros & Ta's with 250+ spaces. it is more likely you will be able to park. use trucker path to look for the history of the parking lot. after awhile, i started looking for smaller AMBEST or mom and pops. i was shocked to find that most drivers want the chains, so 100 trucks will fit into a Loves with 70 parking spaces. Yet, the AMBEST a mile away have 10 trucks in a lot for 40. I would take the small place. Also weigh stations. many don't have bathrooms, or may have port a pots, but safe parking with video cameras.

Personal Safety OTR