Do you yearn for an exciting journey and an extraordinary way to see the country? Hitchhiking can be one of the most economical, liberating, and rewarding methods of travel.
It’s a mix of modern transportation options, such as ride-sharing with classic Americana adventuring. If you plan it out properly, hitchhiking can be quite safe.
Bringing drastic cost savings without sacrificing convenience or comfortability. Read on to discover how to safely hitchhike across the United States.
Research the regions you plan to travel through
Researching the regions, you intend to travel through before hitching a ride is recommended. This will give you insight into local customs, laws, and curfews. Knowing these beforehand can help you make more informed decisions on where and when it is safe to hitchhike.
It is also suggested to contact locals, such as law enforcement and fellow travelers, to learn more about the areas. This can help you better understand the area’s culture and determine how safe it is to hitchhike.
Look for ridesharing opportunities like Couchsurfing and BlaBlaCar
Many ridesharing services in the United States provide safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation. Couchsurfing and BlaBlaCar are two of the most popular rideshare programs in the US. Both apps allow you to connect with drivers who can offer trips anywhere from a few miles to several hundred miles.
This ride-sharing service is useful for traveling long distances as it allows you to break up trips into shorter segments, allowing for more stops and rest.
In addition to needing a rideshare account, you should also be sure to download safety apps such as Roadtrippers that allow you to track your progress and establish a safe route for your journey.
Lastly, before you get into the car with any driver, ask them to show you their ID and ensure they are legitimate. Having a friend or family member aware of your journey can also give you extra peace of mind.
Always bring along a map of your route to help keep track of your journey
No matter the length of your journey, bringing a physical map with you is important. This will help keep you oriented and provide a reference in case GPS services are unavailable.
Before leaving for your trip, mark off points of interest and emergency exits along your route. Have an idea of what time you plan to arrive at each stop.
By having a physical map, you can also keep track of your journey and mark off any places you have been so that you stay aware of your location when hitchhiking. This will help ensure that you stay on the right route and know what terrain or environment you will pass through.
Plan for stops and accommodations.
When you plan to hitchhike across the United States, having a few stops in mind is important. Whether planning on spending the night or just stopping for a quick lunch break, mapping out some points of interest and accommodations will ensure you aren’t stuck without anywhere to go.
It is also important to research the local laws before you arrive at each stop to ensure you comply with all applicable regulations.
Be mindful of your safety.
When hitchhiking, being aware of your surroundings and trusting your instincts are important. If a driver makes you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to politely decline or request a different driver. Avoid hitchhiking at night; always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to arrive.
Make sure to take breaks now and then to rest, eat, and stay hydrated
Hitchhiking can be an exhausting experience, so it’s important to take breaks now and then. Ensure you leave the car to stretch your legs and use the bathroom when necessary. It is also important to keep yourself fed and hydrated during long trips.
Try to spend only a lot of time in one spot, as this can make it difficult to find a ride. If you need to rest, look for places like rest stops or truck stops where drivers are more likely to be available.
Plan by learning basic phrases in the language.
If you plan on hitchhiking to a foreign country, it is important to learn basic phrases in the language of that area. This can help make communication easier between you and local drivers and ensure everyone understands each other clearly.
You should also research the laws of the country so that you are compliant with all applicable regulations. Many travel guides and blogs are available online that can provide helpful tips for hitchhiking in a foreign country.
These simple tips will help ensure your hitchhiking experience is safe, efficient, and enjoyable. While any form of long-distance travel can be intimidating, planning and researching the area can make it a much more enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Know the safety regulations for hitchhiking in each state
Remembering that each state has rules and regulations for hitchhiking is important. Review the safety guidelines for hitchhiking in each state you plan on traveling through before taking off. This will help ensure you follow all applicable laws while keeping yourself safe.
FAQs
Is hitchhiking legal anywhere in the US?
Hitchhiking is generally legal throughout the United States, though some exceptions exist. Many states have laws that prohibit hitchhiking on highways and interstate roads, so be sure to check the regulations for each state you plan on traveling through.
What should I do if I can't find a ride?
If you can't find a ride, it is important to stay safe. Find a public space or transportation hub to provide shelter and safety until you can get another ride.
Is hitchhiking safe?
Hitchhiking can be dangerous if you do not take the necessary precautions. Make sure to trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to let someone know where you are going, take breaks when needed, and research the local laws before arriving at each stop.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, when done carefully and intentionally, hitchhiking can create a life-altering adventure experience without breaking the bank. When considering your next journey, research-based planning is key for successful outcomes.
