Don’t Be Unprepared! | BEST Winter Trucking Supply List!

[@MrShuntking]

Canadian Driver here. I like that you mentioned the warming pads for your gloves. There isn't a company out there that makes a pair of winter work gloves out there that are actually good enough. When you get out of the truck and it is -25C (-13F) not counting wind chill. And you have to try and work a frozen landing gear, do a pre-trip, and knock off countless pounds of ice off a trailer. Gloves alone just don't do it. Hell the moment you touch frozen metal you can almost instantly feel the cold come through the gloves. I would suggest extra food. Stuff that doesn't require a heat source to eat. When you could end up stuck for days. Having extra food helps. Ooh and an external heat source. Heaven forbid you can't get the truck started and you're in the middle of no where. Kind of feel lucky being Canadian. Don't really have to worry about adding fuel conditioner. Already comes blended into the fuel right from the pumps. But good idea for those doing OTR out of say TX and never experienced a NY or Canadian winter. Their fuel is for sure going to need it.

[@JO-qn4hb]

Spray paint your cam tool (for chains) a bright color to contrast with the snow. Red and orange work great. That way you don't leave it in the snow when you finish tightening your chains!!

[@dondenis1500]

That is one smart dog when it comes to keeping snacks on the truck.

[@ShelbyHBTM]

She keeps the food supply on point! 😂

[@an-ic6gs]

You are such a hard-working lady .I used to enjoy 😊your videos from London. May God always bless you luck health and safety.

[@me-it9jn]

our family what made you not enjoy 😊them anymore?

[@herewetruck128]

👍🏼👍🏼😉🤙🏼

[@JuliaSantos-sb1yc]

Ice cleets that fit over shoes and boots, I swear by them!

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I have used them while Ice Fishing..

[@someperson7]

💯 they just sit there in the side box for like a year and then one day they're everything

[@22640cal]

Yup! Kahtoola micro spikes, I had my set for hiking for 5 years now and they are awesome 😎

[@AlaskaErik]

I use YakTrax Diamond Grips. They are awesome and work great on glare ice.

[@MrFriday83]

I also swear by them, Cheap and must have

[@grundig2132]

Food, water and cold weather gear in case the truck goes down. Bad weather you could be there awhile. Your doing a awesome job Shelby. Keep them coming.

[@perrylc8812]

A hand held CB when you’re outside trying to communicate to a truck, like guiding them backwards. Good for snow storm & rain. Better than them trying to see your hands.

[@astilerosss]

AIRBRAKE ANTIFREEZE MOST IMPORTANT

[@carib5423]

I always pack a headlamp! You never know! When I’m backing I like to goal and make sure I can see obstacles well.

[@jhy25]

Good call. I'd recommend the streamlight bandit. Very affordable, lightweight and usb rechargeable.

[@behroozkhaleghirad]

Sleeping bag. A hardcore extra warm sleeping bag which can resist up to -60 celcius.

[@proehm]

Mil surplus sleep system?

[@amyd.thompson-bernard1817]

@@proehm best choice honestly

[@henrywhite2333]

Or just put the night heater on

[@michaelm6624]

I would recommend a bag from Wiggys. They are great, warm and machine washable and driable. They make bags for the U.S. Air Force. www.Wiggys.com

[@fall3332]

@@henrywhite2333 that's only good if; 1 You have a night heater, and 2 if you don't run out of fuel or have a breakdown.

[@TheOnefalcon07]

Carhartt pipeline gloves are the best I've ever used. So warm if it's above 20 degrees dont wear them. Your hands will sweat. Ive worked outside with them alot and my hands have never gotten cold. I've got a pair at home, both trucks, and toolbox at work

[@peterkurtz8096]

Alil l side note, diesel treatment can hurt your truck and it is called hot shoting your tanks. If you put more then the required it'll end up messing up your injectors and you'll end them changed out. Saw a trucker that this happened to them.

[@Michael-apja4]

When you stop for any length of time, don't set your trailer brakes. If they freeze, you'll need a blow torch to unfreeze them! Also, thanks Shelby. Your videos are genuine, sincere, and very helpful.

[@dougcooper5740]

A small tarp, or even just a piece of tarp to lay on when chaining in the snow to keep you dry and head lamp

[@ron827]

Regarding the fuel additive, "You can figure it out." GREAT line. :-) Because wet gloves are cold gloves, insulated waterproof gloves will help keep your hands both warm and dry.

[@benmathews6820]

I call it my interstate survival suit; it's a snowmobile suit, hat, gloves, and boots. That compliments Shelby's winter kit to not get stranded, but plan for the worst so you won't freeze, while winter dishes it out on you. Also, know your own winter weather limits as a driver. Keep up to date with weather on your intended routes and consider alternate ways to the same destination. Winter in the Rockies is not to be underestimated and can change quickly. I decided that throwing chains in a blizzard is not fun and will wait a day for conditions to improve. My rule of thumb in the flat land is when I can no longer safely drive 45mph, it's time to take a break while road crews work. Arrive alive drivers!

[@luisrosario363]

Great advice!

[@nd318865]

$20. headlight for your cap or forehead is a must. Also; I use those cheap brown cotton gloves inside the extra large blue rubber gloves for throwing chains. Keeps even my middle finger tips from hurting.

[@bovine71211]

One tool I love is a huckleberry hammer. Its a hammer, a chisel, a 5th wheel puller and it has an attachment you can get to tighten tire chain with more leverage. Also insulated tall waterproof boots and thick socks. Nothing worse then a short boot and you don't realize how deep the snow is then you have snow/frozen water in your boot.

[@jeffjohnson6224]

i recommend a decent pair of ski goggles. anti fogging ones cost more but are worth it. I don't drive trucks but i ski and have gotten stuck multiple times coming home from the mountain and the goggles were a life saver.

[@richardrogers8254]

Small roll of carpet, maybe 15-20ft good for traction. Clear containers work great long as stay warm in truck. Some them when get cold will disintegrate or shatter. Rubbermaid toughest containers. Coolant can't be used straight. Must have certain amount of water or it will evaporate and run hotter. Check ball tester to check protection level. Never use the 50/50 premix; buy concentrate. Usually it's like 70 or 80% coolant to water. Neoprene gloves are good if you put them on with warm hands. Good grip, stay warm & waterproof. Military roll up sleeping mat (keeps you warm) survival reflective sleeping bag. Headlamp like Black Diamond Spot is a must have. It's water resistant, has spot, flood and red for night vision. Adjustable light levels and flashing strobe for emergencies. Supply of batteries. Mainstay emergency coast guard approved food bars and water. Shelf stable and can store several days in small space. Survival Tabs food. Beef jerky, peanut butter and quart of honey (lasts forever long as you don't get water into it). Hot green tea and Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup can raise the dead. Cans of tuna. 1 handed opening pocket knife, fire extinguisher, fleece clothing, not cotton. Set of Frogg Toggs (hooded rain jacket & pants) paper thin, yet wind proof and totally water proof. Driving in heavy snow areas, 2 extra air filters in case they get stopped up with snow. A fence stretcher be handy to have to tighten things or pull leverage. That 5th wheel tool could double as a tire knocker or maybe help with ratchet straps. Flame throwers are cheap now. Clear ice in a hurry.

[@mitchellchandler3689]

Instead of sand. Use a sand and pea gravel mixture or strate pea gravel

[@lloydbaker7104]

A decent and bright headlamp.

[@JordonPP]

Also, Keep a few good quality LED flashlights 🔦. On hand. I’m not a truck driver but I’m learning so much about the trucking industry, thanks for the wonderful, informative videos, and yes, definitely a younger Sandra Bullock look alike.

[@codycodie]

TL/DR . use a shower curtain to place on the ground for chain up and removal during wet and slushy.

[@amyd.thompson-bernard1817]

Very good initial video. I’d add high protein snacks, jerky, peanut butter, cheese wedges. For the truck itself I’d add multi wick candles or the long burning emergency candles & a candle lantern. Two three wick candles can keep your cab in the comfort range when added to your truck heater in extreme cold weather. Last winter(2019) I got waylaid in Wyoming when the road was closed 3 times. With the supplies I carried I was comfortable & I had enough to help out other drivers who weren’t as prepared or experienced.

[@jackson7421]

If you are in WY, UT, CO area, you definitely have the chance to see -30F I used to drive the NE, to the ME Canada border. Definitely have a sleeping bag rated as low as you can find..... like -40 or so.

[@1966DNO]

Look how beautiful that engine is...look at all the colours..ace 🤣🤣😂😂🤣😜...only from a girlie..sod the truck you look great.😂👍🤙..hi from London.UK.

[@janvandenhurk3251]

Shelby .... kitty litter has a purpose on a truck, I have a few 2" high containers of clumping litter to contain small leaks, when noticed, until its repaired.

[@jeffcockroft5230]

I always carry extra fuel filters with me. That will be the first place the gelled fuel will plug.

[@tschuh20102010]

also a spanner wrench to remove the fuel filters

[@truckpilotnate2972]

Something else that’ll help with traction is ground oyster shells. It’s cheap and available at most farm elevators or feed stores. I mix it with salt and it really works well. Been using it for two decades.

[@mitchellchandler3689]

You might want to get the deals that slip over your shoes that give you grip on ice.. they kinda remind me of studs like studded snow tires. The studs are attached to a cross wed style of black rubber

[@danielwietchy1037]

Most Walmart and Kroger stores sell vehicle Traction Mats. These are durable hard plastic, yellow in color and approximately 25 inches X 12 inches with a rough jutted surface. You can jam them in front of your tires to give yourself more traction when spinning or stuck. Two cost $15. Easy to put inside your cab or behind your bench. Nor a substitute for chains but a inexpensive and very quick solution to get you rolling. I plow snow in interior Alaska and these have saved me hours waiting for AAA to show up.

[@ShelbyHBTM]

I’ll look into it 🤗 thanks!

[@norahc.]

Trailer mud flaps also work for this. Don't ask me how I know. :s

[@ronaldnesbit8988]

Just being used to driving in the snow across the US, It's a proven fact. Take a little air out of your tires, and they grip the road better on the snow and ice.

[@someperson7]

You should always be equipped to walk to help in whatever conditions you encounter. So for winter that means waterproof boots. Ice cleats. Fleece lined pants and/long johns. Hot hands. Waterproof heavy high visibility winter coat. Balaclava. Flashlight. Sunglasses. Backpack, thermos, food, water. And a handheld radio.

[@robwilliams3484]

Heavy hammer to break brakes when the pads freeze to the drum. Smack the drum until it pops, if it rings it’s not frozen.

[@madsjohansen3552]

Regarding gloves: I prefer www.jokasafe.fi/en/products/10-jokapolar -50C is -58F so they're probably overkill but being cold is not worth anything. Also when looking at gloves, look for EN 511, higher numbers mean more insulating both for temperature, wind and water.

[@tommydulfer1787]

More important than all these things you showed us is time. Do not hurry. When conditions are bad, slow down. As I saw you in your last videos running... don't do this. I have been a truck driver in Europe (Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, France) for 15 years, i know what winter means and I tell you, beeing late is better than parking your truck in the ditch.

[@Lakaymaria27]

Thanks for pointing out the con about kitty litter, I’ve never thought about it after I leave. I will be switching to sand! Thank you for making this vid, lots of great tips! Even for 4wheelers.

[@bobbates6642]

I used to drive flat beds and used a great deal of those heavy bungee cords .I was taught by a wonderful man who had done that job for about fifty years. Anyway he told me to always wear safety glasses when uses those cords. I did and it saved my eye. When those things break the hook came back and hit the safety glass and broke them . Gave me a black eye but at least I did not damage my eye. So please take my advice and always wear safety glasses when uses those rubber bungee cords .

[@mikeskidmore6754]

A Stocking Hat ,, Carhart Insulated Overhalls . Rubber Winter Buckle boots that can slip over regular shoes.. Leather Work Boots or regular winter boots.. Extra Emergency Food .. Water.. I like the Deydrated Pepper Food Meals .. canned food ect.. Flash lights including a headband one.. I like the ones that are USB recharchagle .. I had a guy sell me a flash light with shocker at a rest stop ..

[@joshharpole83]

Insulated coveralls or overalls. Helps keep your clothes clean and keeps you warmer when having to do any outside work during the winter

[@TheDj2tallchicago]

There is a pressure relief valve on the passenger side of the coolant reservoir. Allows you to vent any pressure built up to add fluid

[@speedandmarine9066]

Opening the cooling system on a hot truck is bad idea on newer stuff due to the EGR cooler - you can get hot spots in the cooler doing that and it'll crack the cooler and you'll end up with a cylinder full of coolant. We replace a LOT of EGR coolers in the shop and that is one of the common reasons they fail. The ratcheting radiator caps also don't last as long as the old school caps, replace them often. We use a lot of kittylitter/floor dry for cleaning spills on the road and a few years ago we had to do a friction test and wet floordry was one of the highest traction options we tested. This was for spills and not snow, but we did use various grades of sand, peet and some other really expensive special absorbent products. After being saturated, the el cheapo floor dry from the parts store provided the best overall traction if left on the ground. Also, Dakota is awesome! Life is always better with a cool truck dog.

[@harmbooij8241]

-30 F is -34C so you were close enough :)

[@toastybuns5281]

A good pair of wool socks (Darn Tough is my go-to, so long as they’re Merino wool)! Especially if you can’t afford insulated or waterproof boots. They’ll stay warm even if your shoes soak through (and cut down on foot stink if that’s a problem!)

[@TheOnefalcon07]

I love darn tough socks. Wool is my go too for cold weather socks and shirts. I believe wool retains 90% of its heating properties even while wet

[@briansensenig4222]

I had a coolant leak in my truck and one time I opened the lid to refill it, when the engine was still hot and I didn’t have any gloves on😡 it burnt my hand pretty good and I could hardly drive for awhile. So I learned the hard way

[@norahc.]

I learned the hard way too, so now it is gloves and a rag or towel over the cap when loosening it. Helps keep it from spraying everywhere.

[@ILKBNS]

Coolant level should not drop much, it is an indication of a problem if it does. Before winter it is wise to check the condition of the coolant as coolant will degrade over time raising the freezing point and lowering the boiling point. This can be checked easily with an inexpensive tool called a coolant hydrometer.

[@paulhoge]

Clearly there is a need for more NANAS whether it is summer or winter.

[@ShelbyHBTM]

Absolutely 🤣 🍌

[@norahc.]

Considering a lot of companies treat drivers like Minions, I have to agree.

[@roundsm18]

One of the things you didn’t mention are those of us that throw the three railers. They make chain sticks, they’re a huge bar clamp looking thing that you clamp onto your duals and from there you simply run it over to pull your chains around and then you can hook them with them already wrapped. I didn’t realize until I saw your video on I84 but I was out there with you when Portland froze. You did great! I am looking forward to seeing your chaining video. In the last 10 years I’ve done a lot of them, and everyone has their own way. Some right, some funny, and some wrong. Taking the time to educate the new people is how we keep this profession competent and keep everyone safe.

[@alexclement7221]

From my years of driving eastern Canada and other places with severe winters, I'd like to suggest 3 things you didn't mention: 1) A gallon of isopropyl alcohol (91% preferred). Add this to your washer fluid, and sometimes even put a shotglass full in your trailer brake lines to keep ice away. 2) A propane torch. Nothing better for thawing frozen trailer brakes, and sometimes for opening stuck 5th wheels in severe cold (always have your fire extinguisher ready if you do this...). 3) A garden spray bottle (found at any Home Depot) filled with diesel fuel: Use this as lubricant on your 5th wheel mechanism when severe cold sets it; heavy grease will only solidify (requiring the propane torch...). You will need to do this between every trailer, though, so don't forget!

[@markis8441]

Not a big rig truck driver but for my pickup i love the extendable snow boom type brushes/scrapers definitely helps when your shorter to reach and pull/push all the snow off. I also carry regular flares in my truck along with a reflective vest and reflective gloves. Another good thing to have is a hand held flashlight and/or a headlamp

[@tonybillstrom]

in sweden we have sand containers in front of the drive wheels that are activated when needed, we also have chains that sit on a rotating holder which when needed is lowered and under the drive wheels my experience is that both work well!

[@ronschmitt2495]

Go to a Harbor Freight and get rachet straps to help tighten your tire chains

[@JMAC-rs6ey]

I have automatic chains. Love em

[@avscience8347]

Just don’t go to harbor freight it’s cheap but it will break

[@corycollier]

Don't forget a really good first aid kit. You can build it yourself, or just buy one that's already put together and then customize it fit your needs. Feel free to think outside the box when outfitting it. For example, chopsticks make excellent splints. they're strong enough to hold a finger in place, but soft enough you can easily cut them.

[@proehm]

A lot of winter diesel has kerosene in it, which around $5 a gallon. Hence the increased cost.

[@norahc.]

Anyone else remember the days of #1 and #2 diesel?

[@markmuggins8375]

@@norahc. ; # 1 and #2 Diesel is still around. It's identical fuel, the ONLY difference is #1 is DYED ORANGE to signify that Federal and State "Road Tax" has NOT been applied to the price. #1 Diesel can ONLY be used for NON ROAD engines - Think Farm Machinery. If you're caught using it in your Rig - get out the checkbook (most states = $2000.00 + Fine plus "out of service" )

[@norahc.]

@@markmuggins8375 #1 diesel was kerosene, not off road diesel. It used to be at the pump and in winter time you could mix both into your tank to prevent gelling.

[@Truckinlife]

Be careful using Howes. It doesn't treat as low a temp as you might see in the Pacnorthwest. Power Service treats down to lower temps. A lesson I learned the hard way as well.

[@patw52pb1]

From experience, I completely agree. Power Service is the only diesel fuel additive that is approved by all major diesel engine manufacturers and is recommended and endorsed by Cummins.

[@norahc.]

I just add a bottle of rubbing alcohol to my washer fluid to keep it from freezing up. Has added benefit of really cutting thru and removing the brine that is sprayed on roads as a deicer

[@proehm]

Lock de-ice is denatured alcohol in an old visine bottle. (Wipe the extra off, it eats paint.) Always seemed to need it more for padlocks than the truck itself.

[@norahc.]

@@proehm glad to see I'm not the only one that has that issue.

[@max1349]

one practical thing is metal tractions aids i have mine on my truck... having a chain can be also helpful... and also i have my 20 pounds sledgehammer for the frozen wheeles on the trailers...

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I work off road in the mud use two 6" thick 30' long tow straps snatch staps ..

[@fsctrucking]

Some blue washer fluid will freeze in the hoses and tank. I just had that happen to a rental...

[@WBDE]

Since you are petite, you may want to consider carrying a small 2-step stepstool to help you safely reach places under the hood.

[@travelcampingblacksmithing786]

Sterno stove, extra flares, emergency candle, ice creepers, woobie, mummy bag, extra CWG (cold weather gear), a couple pairs of dry socks, a glove and boot drier, hand saw in case of downed branches, can also cut small brush to shove under tires for traction. Also, a .22 rifle. You wont go to war with it, you may not kill any attackers with it, but if the worst happens and you need to it will take a rabbit, squirrel, etc

[@kentr2424]

I've found that high visibility gear - such as yellow overalls and a yellow jacket (that fits over your warm clothing) can save your life when chaining on/off. Not only does it keep your clothes reasonably dry and clean, but that bright color lets others know that you're out there working on your unit so they don't run you over! Good gloves are a necessity, as is a decent headlamp when you're trying to hook your chains together at night.

[@drozone3658]

Always spending your free time making videos to help others! You are a good person

[@HisLostSheep]

I got stuck last week. Picked the worst parking spot... dumb move. I used a gallon of washer fluid and a tire chain... Thank God it worked. Bringing a small bag of stand or kitty litter and my mini shovel this time.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

If you get caught in the Cold if your tanks are low before you shut off add the fuel treatmentn and run it through the pumps and injectors ect.. I don't think you should be loosing any Coolant when your engine is sound.. The Trucks I was driving for a Fleet .. had coolant leaks all I had to do is tighten the hose clamps on the CPU ect .. heater lines..

[@firefly24601]

That is the BEST safety vest model I've ever seen! I think I'll get five of them. :D

[@mikeskidmore6754]

I had two of them they lived 13 & 15 years ..

[@Grandamse1]

@@mikeskidmore6754 awww very nice

[@davidbailor3235]

Nice information. But I don't throw chains.

[@lyndababy]

What a beautiful vest model ❤️

[@mpadov121]

I really appreciate everything you are doing for the community. :-)

[@ShelbyHBTM]

Thank you! I really enjoy helping so it’s a win for me 🥰

[@mpadov121]

@@ShelbyHBTM What are you hearing about a Trucker's Strike?

[@Lunerlander]

I think a sand gravel mix would be better for trying to gain traction for everyone.

[@mikeskidmore6754]

You should get some pea stones in the summer cheap at an aggrigate supplier.. and store it in 55 gallon barrles.. I would never buy sand in a Retail Store.. I got my lime in the Bulk Delivered for $18.00 per ton in the store in bags the same product is $200 per ton ..

[@ant777able]

Also use your pin puller help put on your chains, hook your pin puller on the end opposite side of the latch of the chain and you can pull the chain between the tires, that worked for me 👍

[@jasonbabila6006]

When I used to drive an 8 axle truck & trailer tanker combination I always had two gallons of windshield fluid, long handle flat shovel, three set of snow chains with two spare sets, headlamp for chaining up for the passes in the dark, jumper cables, ball peen hammer in case the spring brakes won't release, lot's of coffee, and extra dry clothes, I like those orange chain tensioners but those deteriorate quick.

[@robertmiller8730]

I think a good idea for a video for new drivers in particular would be hoe to approach and identify hazards such as icing on the roads, and how to safely be able to drive over ice. When is it time to chain up versus when you’ll be okay without. As well as advice for when can you safely push through a storm versus when is it time to shut it down and call it quits for the night or whatever it may be

[@norahc.]

A lot of variables in that one because each driver has different equipment, experience and ability. Good rule of thumb is "When in doubt, wait it out."

[@robertmiller8730]

@@norahc. I most definitely agree with that. But, remembering back to last year when I was a new driver, hitting ice going down I64 through the east side of Kentucky for the first time, I didn’t know what to do. I was running with my jakes on over my brakes, and I was probably too fast for conditions. Just an ideal “benchmark” so to speak, of things you want to keep in mind as you drive through it

[@norahc.]

@@robertmiller8730 Oh, I see what you were asking for. Things like icing on mirrors or antennas, lack of road spray when road looks wet, and my pet peeve...just because the road is black and icy does not make it black ice.

[@robertmiller8730]

@@norahc. Exactly. Things that can inform you that there Is ice present and other winter tips like that. Not just necessarily icing but what to look for when trip planning possibly

[@robertmiller8730]

@@norahc. Shelby does well you touch on things like this in her videos, but she doesn’t go into a lot of detail and can be easily missed in the whole of the video. But to have a video where tips and advice and general guidelines are would be a lot more effective in teaching new drivers

[@the.porter.productions]

Hello again. Some extra matches and candles are a good thing to pack away. If you have a jumper pack, make sure it’s charged up and then pack it into the truck. At least have some nice jumper cables. Each person will have some things that they feel is needed in addition. Stay safe and healthy! 🤩

[@chadeverett9716]

You have to watch the sand if it is not stored in a heated compartment. It tends to keep moisture in it and will freeze solid. Mixing with the salt like linecook suggested works great.

[@ShelbyHBTM]

Thank you for that suggestion. I didn’t even think about that

[@teeweea5092]

You can use 5th wheel puller to help pull chain to you to hook it then you don't have to get so wet in snow. And a small tarp in case you do have to get on the ground

[@rayclark9643]

Nice video Shelby. A couple of things you didn't mention that I used to carry on my rig. One was a Spring Brake Cage Bolt for those rare times when a brake chamber diaphragm blows & you need to release the brake in order to move to a safer location to replace it or have it replaced. Also it doesn't hurt to have a propane torch on board. Also a headlamp for working hands free in the dark. I also never found a pair of gloves that would keep my hands warm in the ice & snow...usually because they got wet while working. I finally bought rubber glove shells, no liner, and wore a separate military style glove liner on my hands before dawning the rubber gloves over the top of them. Kept my hands dry & somewhat more insulated from the cold that way...not the best...but better. Also a few small ratchet straps help with chains etc.

[@patw52pb1]

Caging bolts and the appropriate socket/ratchet wrench.

[@BradPaulus]

More good ideas for this winter, even for us 4-Runner drivers over Donner Pass. I've seen enough shutdowns of that route over the winters. My friend's family has a large wrecker company in Auburn CA, that makes a bundle clearing the idiots off the highway and opening things up. Chain installers are great for the flatlanders, but practice putting on your chains, and a tarp helps keep you dry. Thanks again for sharing.

[@isabellaestes5987]

Great items to keep in the truck, something I always bring with me is a backpack which has food, water, snacks, a small first aid kit, and other things you will want to have if and when you get stuck on the road. It has always helped me out. Something that my fellow snow plowers bring is an charge of clothing because many times we do get wet and it’s surprising how often we are outside of our trucks. I always like to plan for different scenarios that may realistically happen. Great video and keep up the great work, be safe out there.

[@norahc.]

Any OTR driver that doesn't have at least a 96 hour survival kit on the truck is just asking for trouble.

[@isabellaestes5987]

@@norahc. right, I know for me the most I’ll get stranded if a few hours but still we get hungry and thirsty, and we’re on our own. I’ve never done OTR trucking but many of the people I plow with have and helped me in telling me what to put in it just in case

[@ShelbyHBTM]

Awesome addition! 🤗

[@norahc.]

@@isabellaestes5987 if the most you think you will be stranded for is a few hours, the you should have at least a 24hr or better yet a 48hr kit. It gives you additional supplies in case there are others with you who dont have anything.

[@beegood9395]

Make sure to use the right coolant for the truck. Do not mix coolants it can void the warranty! Freightliner or International dealers have cheaper prices on fluids than truck stops. Open an account at your local dealer.

[@robertdowney3190]

Another good thing to have are baby dippers so you can put them on your file filters to keep them from gelatin up on you

[@JuliaSantos-sb1yc]

High visibility Waterproof bibs, jacket

[@davidcampbell1899]

Go to a ski shop and get a good pair of long under ware tops and bottoms. Know how to layer, and your will stay toasty warm at -30F

[@KYM54.]

We all know you made it safely last time in a snow storm cause your truly amazing to help out other people who were stranded!

[@paulc5333]

Kitty litter is good to carry as an "absorber" if you ever have a fluid spill of any kind ( oil, diesel, def, etc.) You spread the kitty litter (non clumping type) and it will suck up the spill, which you can then safely put in a trash can or even (worse case) chuck in the ditch. I'm Canadian so the following advice is serious winter smarts... I would add extra pairs of warm socks, and an extra warm blanket or two, you might get a situation where you get stuck on a closed road and have to shut down to save fuel to get to the next truck stop. (In winter a 1/3 tank is an empty tank especially in the north country) Extra food and drinking water is important... I would even consider a stash of MREs you can pick them up cheaply at surplus stores and they include self heating bags. Extra batteries and cellphone charger packs can be important the cold will sap the power out of a battery. If you can find a 12/24v booster box that might be useful as well other than.the obvious booster cables. Side question where did you find the safety vest for the pup? I've been trying to find one for my dog with no luck. Keep it shiny side up Shelby I'll catch you on the back haul.

[@JzimmaSRT]

Winter tires should be #1 those closed shoulder drives might as well be on the trailer.

[@dizzyrider6207]

Great video and good info. A spare set of wiper blades might come in handy. Stay warm

[@misbeautifulable]

I can use those ideas for my winter time

[@norahc.]

In reality, these ideas should be used by all drivers. Truckers just need bigger versions.

[@misbeautifulable]

True, cars can get stuck too

[@wmarshall7826]

Good Evening from Nova Scotia, Canada. I Run the North East. I'd Recommend Short Spade Shovel, Coarse Sand Gravel or Salt, single chains, 20 Ft Booster Cables if you pull Reefers you can Boost your truck off your Reefer if Necessary, Better to Test and Replace the Batteries as Needed. Hills Run the Gravel shoulder up or Down the hills or use the Ribs in the Asphalt for extra traction. 🍻

[@hoofhearted5208]

Shelby I am not a driver nor will I be, but I enjoy seeing your perspective. I think regular folks like myself need to see what truckers go through. They may not be such cawks on the road otherwise. Thanks and I enjoy your content.

[@michealmacwilliams4247]

I to am from Florida but when I was 23 I moved to South Dakota and ran in the snowbelt I-70, I-80, I-90 and I-94, I kept all kinds of stuff on the truck. Things like a 50lb bag of cat litter, at least 2 old newspapers for lighting fires and warming up your air cans, A few extra thick blankets and a heavy sleeping bag. I always had food and drinks on the truck the main thing I would say about winter driving is never let your fuel tanks get under half a tank, if you cannot run with full tanks you do not need the load with the exception of when I hauled cattle which I stayed in the warmer areas I never threw a set of chains if you have to chain up then you do not need to be on the road. I drove for 18 years and always enjoyed myself A old timer when I first started driving is the one who told me about not throwing chains we would plan our route and distance by day to allow for us to take a break at night if chain laws were in effect, my first experience of tackeling a really sketchy pass was at night snowing like crazy and I was going across 37 miles of pure hell called Wolf Creek Pass

[@joshuadavis6450]

The good thing about kitty litter is it defeats two purposes. One for the road if you get stuck and secondly for you to use the bathroom if stuck in your truck due to the weather.

[@AlaskaErik]

This is a very small thing, but I prefer ice scrapers that allow you to rotate the brush end 90 degrees, which makes it easier to clear snow. Mine also has a telescoping handle that extends out, which gives you a much greater reach.

[@leecunningham2928]

There's a product that might not be easy for you to get in the US but it's excellent at lubricating spray. It also helps keep things from freezing and corroding like locks, hinges, glad hands, and electrical connections. It's called KL-73, there is also a commercial version T-40. It's made by Krown. It's similar to fluid film but a lot cheaper.

[@badgerpa9]

Barn lime is better than sand or kitty litter and it is good for the ground when it gets pushed off the road by the plow truck. The spray bottle deicer is good to spray on the trailer lights to keep them from icing up.

[@proehm]

First, boots for Dakota. (The salt is bad for their paws, and worse if they lick it.) And Second, a flatbed guy once showed me a 5th wheel puller that he had bent a 90 degree angle in about 3 to 4" from the hook. He used it to bungee tarps. Put the hook in the pocket. Snag the hook of the bungee with the long part and lever it down. Once it goes past the bend it snaps in place. Probably would work without the bend too. Should work on chains?

[@timmorin69]

Just a tip. Clumping cat litter gets soft and slippery. They key is to get NON clumping kitty litter. It is basicly just very small gravel and it doesn't get gooey and slippery. Thanks for sharing your videos. And keep smiling!! :-) Much love from Canada!

[@pennise]

The shovel also comes in very handy when you are tired of dealing with your co-driver.

[@ShelbyHBTM]

😂

[@debrahines4437]

Shelby you ought to add good size cardboard to your winter full collection my husband is a former truck driver and he said it helps gets your tires from being unstuck sometimes and you can lay on it and sit on it instead of being on the ground where it's cold

[@rich0laskin664]

No longer A trucker, I'm driving A paratransit bus, but the princable is the same I'm home every night .stay safe love your. Videos and Dakota I traveled with my dog "Highway" many years ago the best companion's.

[@Krakuswtirze]

Hi! Thank you for all your hard work and great content. Another usefull video. I am about to immigrate to Canada and it will really help me. I am youtuber as well have a look how trucking looks like in the UK and soon in Canada! Have a Great day!

[@ShelbyHBTM]

Awesome!

[@RL.1]

What the hell do you want to move to Kanada for? It's a dumb country full of bad leadership and insane liberal people. If you're not a liberal then move to Alberta or Saskatchewan.

[@davidcampbell1899]

@@RL.1 You sir are an ASSHOLE!

[@Krakuswtirze]

@@RL.1 you think it is any better anywhere else? 😃

[@RL.1]

@@Krakuswtirze Well, no, unfortunately. The entire damn world has gone mad. Anyways, good luck in Canada. I was born and raised here and I've seen it go downhill. We used to be a free country but not anymore, mostly. Canadians are obsessed with socialism but don't understand the consequences.