Top Tips for Hitchhiking

. in Today's World, Hitchhiking is Not the Safest Way to Get Around.

Jennifer Moore
If you plan on traveling by foot here are the top tips for hitchhiking you need to be aware before leaving. Sometimes people hitchhike for many different reasons, the main reason that people hitchhike is they have no money and no vehicle and therefore their only means of transportation is hitchhiking. In today's world, hitchhiking is not the safest way to get around. However if you have to travel a few states away and no vehicle, than this may be your only way. Listed below are the top tips for hitchhiking.

Top Tips for Hitchhiking

First, you must hitchhike from a safe location such as a truck stop. Truck drivers usually go from state to state and are willing to take along extra company. Spend a little time getting to know the truck drivers to ensure you choose the right one to ask for a ride. Truck drivers are usually willing to help anyone out if they can and therefore they are the best ones to ask for a ride. Just keep one thing in mind when riding with a truck driver never talk politics.

When you hitchhike be sure to dress appropriately, do not dress in worn out clothing because people may not want to pick you up. This does not mean you have to wear a suit or dress but do dress decent enough so someone trusts you.

If someone stops and asks where you are going let them know the direction you are heading. If they offer to take you as far as they can say thank you and introduce yourself right away. This is the polite thing to do because they are giving you a ride.

Always carry a cell phone with you and let the driver know you have a phone, this lets the driver know you have a way to contact help if needed. If you begin to feel uncomfortable during the ride politely, ask to stop at the next gas station or truck stop without giving away your fears.

If you are hitchhiking during the night be sure to wear clothing that is bright enough for drivers to see you by headlights. Carry a flashlight and be prepared to find a place to stay overnight because many travelers do not pick up hitchhikers at night.

Hitchhiking has gotten a bad name over the years and for this reason, if you are a hitchhiker traveling state-to-state following the tips given here it should be easier for you to catch a ride. I hope that the top tips for hitchhiking will aid in getting you to your destination. Remember to be safe when traveling in the form of hitchhiking. If you feel uncomfortable at any time while hitchhiking, make sure to exit the vehicle as soon as possible.

Published by Jennifer Moore

Jennifer is a mother to 4 fantastic children three of which are grown and on their own. She has 3 handsome grandsons. Jennifer has a wide array of topics she has written about over the last year.  View profile

3 Comments

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  • Erica Johnson2/28/2011

    I plan on hitch hiking for a while, because I'm homeless. I am a safe person, nevertheless, I'm worried about what's out there.

  • Laura Cone1/5/2011

    still sounds dangerous; but glad there are safety tips

  • Monica Lehua1/5/2011

    I wouldn't do it in this day and age. However, I guess for some people it's a way to get somewhere that they can't afford to any other way. There's safety issues for both those who hitch and those who pick them up. I would never do it if I were driving alone - but if I were back home in Hawaii and driving a truck, (adults can ride in the back legally) I might do it, but no where else. Good article for those stuck in those situations where that's their only choice. Good job.

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