But life just might have gotten better, across the globe; truck stops are springing up along the highway.
Providing more than just a refuge for body and truck, their goal is to create roadside paradises where not only food, fuel and sleep can be found, but also unexpected amenities such as movie theatres, chiropractors and even dance clubs. 

The Mecca of highway heavens, the paragon of pit stops is found just out of Munich, Germany—Autohof Strohofer. At this place, the truckers and drivers can refuel body and truck in the most unexpected of facilities; clothing, optional sauna and spa. Steam rooms allow visitors to be soothed by the scent of eucalyptus, while the sedentary lifestyle of trucking is abated with a quick dip in the pool to swim away the day’s driving kinks. The biggest truck stops in Europe have been pampering truckers across the continent with more than a spa. And of course, trucks can get in top gear at the facility’s gleaming truck wash and full service garage. 

Bumpy roads, stiff seats, cramped cab life on the road is a sore back’s nightmare. What’s a trucker to do? Head straight to the highland’s petro truck stop for a quick body realignment with the truck stop’s on-duty chiropractor. According to US department of Labour statistics, truck drivers suffer more workplace injuries than any other occupation. At this truck stop, health is a prime concern. Drivers can park safely, eat dinner, shower and then walk to the chiropractor to get their mandatory Department of Transportation physical for just $ 25. 

The sprawling Julitz travel plaza in Portland, manages to give the sleepy road warrior a bed in one of the well-appointed 66 rooms, taking advantage of an exercise room and Jacuzzi tubs. Folks looking for some fun can kick up their heels in the popular dance club wherein they can check out the on-site movie theatre and arcade. All of a traveller’s needs are met at their marketplace, which features a general store, leather repair, a full service salon and barber shop, full-service laundry, medical service, lottery service, etc. 

In the lush wilds of Malaysia, the Ayer Kersh truck stop is a step above the rest. This rest stop wonder was actually built above the highway, suspended over the road and offering bird’s eye view of the tropical environs. It even feathers jungle walkways filled with exotic plants and wild life and flea market selling local goods. 

Truckers may grow accustomed to big, open roads in IOWA-80—the world’s biggest truck stop where over 5,000 truckers and drivers pass through this 65-acre heaven daily. Packing for over 800 ensures everyone gets a space. There is a 350 seat restaurant with a noteworthy salad bar over 50 ft long. When its time to clean up and unwind, drivers may visit 24 private showers. A movie theatre and game room only add to the fun. On-site barbers and dentists cater to personal needs. 

After going through the journey of the facilities available for truckers all over the world it makes makes us wonder if we could give even our truckers the same facilities in India. If not luxury — at least basic requirements like a neat and decent place to eat and stay, and hopefully getting doctors on the highway.