by Derek Smith

Created on: August 25, 2008

Maybe your car broke down and cell doesn't work; maybe the 9 to 5 routine doesn't quite quench the adventurous heart; perhaps it's only logical and considerate to humanity and our environment to share a ride when someone heading the same direction has an empty seat, but for no fewer reasons than there have been souls daring to gamble with their frailty at the hands of an unpredictable and sometimes merciless road, hitch hiking has long served as, and continues to be, a feasible means of getting to where you want to be. So, you want a ride? Don't stick that thumb out just yet, here's some road-tested hobo wisdom that will help make the going go safely and comfortably.

As you know, not everyone has the ability, trust or desire to serve as public transport, so of all the cars going by that could pull over and give you a lift, even fewer do. First impressions become crucial when people only see you for a few seconds, especially if they've never picked someone up before. Fortunately, there are choices you can make and things you can do that can increase your chances of getting picked up. But regardless of how far you are going, you've first got to be prepared and informed.

-Overestimate how long it will take to get to your destination, what you'll need for food, money, shelter and warmth.
-It doesn't hurt to let people know your plans and have backup plans for if you end up on the wrong road, city, or country even.
-Check out things like weather forecasts, maps, information on legalities, amenities and local cultures.
-Stay clean and use the bathroom before you begin hitching.
-I generally use my thumb, though some say it's best to make a sign showing your direction or destination. Different people use different gestures across the planet, but from my experience of hitching between North America and Europe, I haven't found it to be much more than a waste of time and material to make a sign, not to mention a possible deterrant for the passersby. Also, did you know that the 'thumbs up' gesture is as insulting as the middle finger in various places?
-Dress accordingly, your clothes speak different things to different people. It helps to keep it simple, common and non-threatening.
-Make a plan, though I've found flexibility is usually rewarded when travelling by any means.

When you get out to the road, put yourself somewhere that keeps you visible, safe, and legal. You must be alert and focused in order to stay safe as well as not communicating the wrong first impression. You

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