It’s everyone’s dream to travel around a continent completely free and there’s a particular type of role that allows you to do this, all while earning money at the same time. After completing HDR lessons, I started my career transporting goods all across the European continent. I first started in the UK, going around every town and city while seeing some amazing sights before going overseas to see more of the world.
Join me in this article, as I share with you the benefits of becoming a HGV driver to give you an easy way to travel the world while growing your revenue stream. Continue reading for more.
The Office With a View
While my friends are staring at the same grey office wall everyday, my office changes every few minutes. One morning I’m watching the sunrise over the White Cliffs of Dover and the next, I’m driving past the vineyards of Bordeaux. International haulage companies pay for the fuel, tolls and ferry crossings for us too, so the travel part of the journey is completely covered as you explore some of the most wonderful destinations in Europe.
Getting Paid to Explore
When you’re travelling in your HGV, you’re hauling heavy goods from one location to another as you get paid. International Class 1 drivers can earn higher salaries than those who do multi-drop runs due to them having to cross borders from one European country to another. Most companies provide nights out money to cover your food and expenses while abroad, so you get the chance to park your HGV and go dine at some fancy local restaurants.
I’ve used my 45-minute breaks to grab a fresh espresso in an Italian plaza or my 11-hour rest periods to explore the night markets in Prague, all while sometimes enjoying a little bit of the nightlife.
Cultural Immersion
Tourist travel can often feel forced, but driving a truck gives you an authentic look at Europe as you travel down some of the most famous roads in the world. You get the chance to interact with locals at loading docks, learn enough local dialect to get by and find the best hidden-gem roadside diners that no travel guide mentions. You gain a sense of independence and confidence that only comes from navigating a 40-tonne vehicle through a foreign country, all while being your own boss and choosing when it’s time for work or for leisure.
What You Need to Start Your Journey
There’s several things you’re going to need before you can start your journey as a truck driver across Europe. Getting your Category C+E Licence from Lifft Group will give you a short-term solution for this, as their HGV courses can be completed within 4 days. You also need to obtain your Driver CPC, which is a professional qualification required to drive for a living in the UK and Europe. Of course, make sure your passport is valid too, as you won’t be able to cross borders without it. Finally, don’t forget your sense of adventure, as this is what will keep your spark alive during your travels.