Luxury and Comfort: What Amenities are Built into Big Sleepers on Tractor Trailer Rigs?

The driving experience has transformed significantly over the years, with modern tractor trailers incorporating a wide range of amenities into their big sleepers. While the exact features available may depend on factors such as budget and the needs of the driver or company, there are several standard and additional amenities that have become commonplace in today's long-haul trucks. This article explores the amenities typically found in these big sleepers.

Standard Amenities in Modern Sleepers

While the basic requirements such as a bed, storage, and lighting are standard in most sleepers, modern truck sleepers now come equipped with several added features to enhance the driver's comfort and convenience. For instance, many now have:

A small refrigerator for keeping perishables fresh. Storage space for clothing and other items. Mounting brackets for a TV, allowing for entertainment during downtime. Lit windows for better visibility and lighting.

Advanced Amenities in Luxury Sleepers

For those who desire a more luxurious sleeping environment, some truck sleepers now offer advanced amenities. These may include:

A flexible seating arrangement, where the front seats can swivel to form a seating area. A small bathroom similar to those found in RVs, complete with a toilet, sink, and shower (though these are more common in large, custom-built sleepers). A potential integration of kitchen features like a stovetop or microwave. A variety of personal storage options, including closets and under-bed storage.

Customized Sleepers

For those who need a more customized experience, some truck sleepers can be built based on specific requirements. Here is an example of a highly customized sleeper:

A 8ft customizable box behind the cab that includes: A toilet with a 20-gallon black tank. A 75-gallon water tank with a 10-gallon water heater. A 25-gallon gray water tank for holding shower water. A 6 cu. refrigerator with a sink and microwave. A double bed on an electric lift and bunk beds in the cab, allowing for 4 people to sleep. A 6.5-kw Onan generator for power. A 75-gallon gasoline tank. A/C belt-driven off generator for cooling.

Such a sleeper transforms the truck into a comfortable living space, making the entire journey less stressful and more enjoyable. No longer do drivers need to worry about finding a parking space at truck stops or waiting for a shower. This integration of amenities can truly make trucking feel like a vacation.

Factory-Standard vs. Custom-built Sleepers

While many of these amenities can be added to a sleeper, not all companies build these features as standard. In some cases, such as the factory-standard configuration, you may find:

Two beds. Under-bunk storage. A 2500W inverter. A dorm-size fridge. A closet. Microwave ovens, though they are optional and are often supplied by the driver. A mounting bracket for a TV.

For drivers who prefer a more comprehensive setup, adding a diesel-powered auxiliary power unit (APU) can provide additional amenities, such as:

AC power for heating and cooling without running the truck engine. Power for other appliances and amenities, including a refrigerator, coffee pot, and other devices.

This can significantly enhance the comfort and efficiency of downtime spent in the truck, making long journeys more bearable and enjoyable.

In conclusion, the amenities built into big sleepers on tractor trailer rigs have evolved to provide modern drivers with a more comfortable and convenient experience. Whether it's standard configurations or highly customized setups, truck sleepers now offer a wide range of features that can turn a long-haul journey into a more pleasant and stress-free experience.