Sometimes RV travelers and truck drivers cross paths, and sometimes the interactions aren’t exactly comfortable. You may feel unwanted by truckers as you park your recreational vehicle at a truck stop. This could make you wonder if truckers are dangerous or where you should park your RV. So, let’s explore the beef between campers and semis. 

Why do truckers get mad at RV travelers? 

According to Camp Addict, recreational vehicles can get in the way of truckers, building frustration. Truckers are there to do their job and depend on available parking at truck stops to sleep, eat, clean themselves up, and more. 

Also, they’re on the road more than you. They park at various stops each week to keep medicine, food, whatever you ordered online, and more moving. To do that safely, they need sleep. 

Driving tired is the equivalent of driving drunk. Also, driving a tractor-trailer is way more exhausting than a lighter camper. If they can’t park and have to keep going, they put their lives at risk. 

Plus, if they don’t park by the end of their allotted 11 hour days, they get fined. The infraction goes on their record for five years too. Parking on time matters for their careers, while RV travelers are stopped on vacation. 

Electronic Logging Devices are placed in semi-trucks to monitor how much time they spend on the road. So, they really can’t push things if an RV is found in the last truck stop spot. Also, recreational vehicles can park wrong, blocking truckers in or preventing them from fueling. This messes up their pickup and delivery schedules that have to fit in their 11 hour day. 

Where can you park your RV? 

To avoid the frustration of being in the way of truckers, you can park at alternative sites. Truckers aren’t allowed to park at Walmart or places like Cracker Barrel, where campers and motorhomes can. Camping and boondocking sites are available too. 

Also, rest areas are generally not as sought after as parking spaces at truck stops. Some states have different rules and regulations for parking overnight, so research how long you can park in advance. 

But if you really want to stop at a truck stop, look for a more inviting location. Some places are now named travel centers to welcome everyone. You can also check to see if the site has specified RV spots. 

Are truck stops safe? 

Well, like with any profession and any location at night, danger can occur. Generally, truckers try to sleep, eat, fuel, do laundry, and rest while they can. However, the risk of vehicle accidents and crime does occur even in the safest places. 

Technically, you can take up semi-truck parking, but if you do, make sure you feel safe. Park away from tight spots where rookie truckers are backing in. Also, parking near poles and barriers limits visibility. 

Stay close to the security camera footage and well-lit areas if you can. Keep each door locked, and consider a dashcam if you’re worried. But on a positive note, truckers and truck stops have taken measures to make female travelers and truck drivers more comfortable.