10 Tricks To Successfully Hitchhike Anywhere In The World
Hitchhiking may be one of the last great American adventures. When you thumb a ride you meet new people, open yourself up to different ways of thinking, and let go of the rigid schedule so many of us live by. But before you get on the road, look over these 10 Tricks To Successfully Hitchhike Anywhere In The World, and don’t forget to smile and have some fun.
Stand in a safe place
On-ramps from stops with rest stops or truck stops are good places to try. Cars should be able to see you from a distance so that they have time to decide to stop and be able to pull over safely. There should also be room for a car to stop safely. Most drivers won’t risk getting in an accident to pick up a stranger. Once a driver decides to pick you up, be sure to stand over far enough for him to be safely off the road. Choosing the right spot can mean the difference between snagging a ride and walking for miles.
Make eye contact with drivers
Face the cars coming toward you, remove your sunglasses and rethink the hat. Smile and look directly at drivers in a friendly way as they pass. This might be enough for a driver to see you as a person instead of just a stranger. If you seem approachable then a driver might just decide to pull over and give you a lift.
Plan ahead
If you have a deadline in mind be sure to allow plenty of time to catch a ride. Hitchhiking is unpredictable and trying to tie your trip to a tight deadline can just create frustration. Mental toughness is a part of hitchhiking. Being able to be relaxed and know that you have time to change plans is key to having a positive experience. Hitchhiking should be spontaneous and an adventure.
Prepare for weather
When it’s hot carry water and find some shade. Dress in layers so you can easily add on or take off garments to keep warm or stay cool. Lightweight items will minimize the weight of your pack. A lightweight plastic poncho with a hood can keep you dry when hitchhiking in areas where there is drizzle or rain. Good shoes are important since you will be on your feet for periods of time. If you are on a long trip them be sure to time your travels to find the best weather along the way.
Ask for a ride
Rest stops can be good places to ask for a ride. A friendly smile and nod can be a way to show that you are friendly. Try asking for a ride as they leave to go to their car. If you ask before they go into the rest stop then they may complain to any staff there and get you kicked out of the area. A truck stop or gas station can also be a good place to ask for a ride. Try not to be too obvious so employees don’t ask you to leave before you get a ride. Don’t use a sign as it may draw attention to you.
Use social media
Put the word out that you need a ride with the destination and a time frame. Post a message on Craigslist asking about a ride. Tell your contacts to spread the word to their friends and family. This may also be a way to get a free meal or a free place to stay on your trip.
Trust your intuition
Your best defense is your intuition. If anyone makes you uncomfortable then find a way to get out of the car. Better yet don’t get into the car in the first place if you aren’t sure about the driver or his companions. Risk being impolite if it means that you can avoid an uncomfortable and possibly unsafe situation.
Pack the essentials
Be sure to bring a map, a guidebook, a marker, and a pad of paper for making signs. Knowing where you are and where you are headed is essential. Don’t forget a marker and pad of paper. Also, bring a phone charger and keep your phone charged at any opportunity.
Make a sign
You can always use your thumb, but the right sign can increase your chances of getting picked up. A driver might be more likely to pick you up if you have a sign with the name of the town he is going to anyway. Use the name of the next big town if your final destination is far away. Sometimes just saying “please” or saying “I don’t smell” will get you a smile and a ride. Black letters on white paper are easier to read than using cardboard.
Have a backup plan
Be able to access your documents including identification, money, and contact information electronically. Just in case someone drives off with your pack or it gets taken you will be able to contact someone and recover your information and have some emergency funds. Having some funds also means that you can take a bus, get a cheap room, or buy a comforting meal if necessary.
By the end of your trip, you will have some fond memories and funny stories. You will always be a more seasoned traveler with skills that will allow you to take on other parts of your life.
