by James Johnson

Created on: April 11, 2010

What do you need to know before you hitchhike?  Hitchhiking sounds fun and exciting, and it can be, but the fun can get out of hand and the excitement be more that what you expect.  If you do not know what you are doing, it can be dangerous, so think carefully before hitching a ride with strangers.  Some strangers can be really strange and should probably be avoided!

So before hitchhiking, carefully consider the route on which you are hitchhiking.  Is it safe and known for hitchhiking, or is it a route that had ad problems in the past, people disappearing or being molested?  You should be able to get this information from the highway patrol or police.  While asking this, also check to see if hitchhiking is legal in the area, it isn't everywhere and so the ride you might end up with might be to jail!

Because hitchhiking is dangerous, you need to know how to defend yourself.  Sound ominous?  It can be.  learn a bit of karate, it will get you some good exercise if nothing else, and you will need to be in good shape if you are planning on hiking the highways and by-ways of civilization.  A few kicks and hits can come in handy, especially hitchhiking.

When hitchhiking, you also need to know the signs of drinking and drug use.  Dilated pupils and slurred speech are good starters, but then funny smells can also be present, either the drugs and alcohol or something to hide their odor.   a person using either alcohol or drugs may be relaxed and friendly, so not a direct threat but they are also more prone to accidents and if the police stop the car everybody in it will be suspect!

Always carry identification when hitchhiking, or any type of traveling.  If something goes wrong it is good to be able to prove who you are and where you live, there are vagrancy laws in many cities and the problems they cause can be avoided with a simple photo identification and a home address!  They can also be useful if you are in an accident!

Other essential knowledge to have when hitchhiking is to know the next town or crossroads in the direction you are heading.  This is in case you end up riding with someone you feel uncomfortable around, such as a driver that speeds excessively.    You can simply say "I get out at ____.  Thanks for the ride."

Also travel light as rides will be limited if you are traveling with three streamer trunks, a tent and laptop computer!

Now you know what you need to know before you hitchhike!

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