If you’re like me, you love to see all the new tech, gadgets and gizmos that make their way onto the trucking scene each year. And for 2022, there are quite a few items out there worth getting excited about. So, let’s dive into what could be five of the most useful and practical widgets on the scene; check out the following list of nifty contraptions and then maybe even start constructing a wish list.

Igloo 40 Quart 12V Cooler
This handy little cooler is more than just what the name suggests, and it’s sure to be a hit for any Sprinter or cargo van drivers out there. Since most tractors and straight trucks come equipped with fully functional refrigerated units these days, this 40-quart iceless thermoelectric cooler will fit wonderfully in a cargo van or Sprinter. It’s compact and doesn’t get wet with icy leftovers once the cubes have melted, and it can be plugged directly into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter via the eight feet long cord. Keep your healthy diet alive and well in 2022 by storing your fresh, cold foods in this beauty! The current listing price online goes for $180.

RoadPro 12V Slow Cooker
Speaking of healthy eating and trying to cut out those less than necessary stops at fast food joints, give this portable slow cooker a gander. An excellent addition for any truck and any driver, you can cook and drive at the same time [insert shocked face emoji]! Seriously, with the RoadPro 1.5-quart slow cooker at your disposal, you’ll be able to prepare and set a home-cooked meal, and then let that supper simmer while you’re cruising down the interstate. Just like the Igloo cooler, this slow cooker plugs directly into your cigarette lighter and comes with a diabolical spill-proof strap-down lid. Mmm… my stomach’s grumbling already. The current listing price online goes for $30.

BESTEK 300W Power Inverter
Do you travel with items that need to be plugged into more than just a cigarette lighter? Maybe you’ve brought your laptop or fancy coffee maker along for the ride and need a bit more juice than the customary 12 volts allowed. Well, the BESTEK 300-Watt Power Inverter might be what you’re looking for. Plug one end of this energy provider into the lighter and you’ll not only have converted to two available 110-volt AC outlets to plug your machines into, but you’ll also have access to two USB ports that can charge a cell phone and/or tablet as well. The current listing price online goes for $30.

BETTER HABITAT Memory Foam Mattress
The idea of living on the road can sometimes be a harrowing thought to process. Why not give your tired brain some rest while dozing on the BETTER HABITAT memory foam mattress? This rolled-up cloud of comfort can go anywhere, and memory foam mattresses are more comfortable than most other mattresses. It will also disperse your weight better than a spring mattress, and it doesn’t squeak. The BETTER HABITAT memory foam mattress would be perfect in the bunk of a sleeper, or in the back of a Sprinter. Get a good night’s sleep and leave the dangers of drowsiness behind! The current listing price online goes for $160.

Manta Sleep Mask
Since we’re on the subject of improving the sleeping habits of over-the-roaders, let’s look deep into the Manta Sleep Mask and try and snag some precious Zzzz’s. Truckers are in desperate need of better sleeping habits, but that’s hard to accommodate when you’re not sleeping in your own bed or on your own sleep schedule. Sometimes a driver has to try and catch forty winks during daylight hours, which can be oh so difficult. The Manta sleep mask is the perfect aid to help keep those peepers shut nice and tight. This sleep mask blocks 100% of the light outside your eyelids with adjustable cups that sit ever-so gently over the eyes without applying any pressure around the sockets. It appears a restful sleep is on tap for our weary road warriors with this sleep mask. The current listing price online goes for $35.

Well, after all this talk of food and sleep you’d think I’d be ready for hibernation. Maybe I am.