Mind Your Elephant

If I’m lucky enough I’ll get to Stuttgart tomorrow and will be joined by a first-time hitchhiker. I decided to give her some tips that might be useful for others also who are about to lose their hitchinity. Here goes:

• Get a few good markers (fat tip, dark colors).
• Make a re-usable sign so you don’t have to worry about finding pieces of cardboard all the time. I’ve stapled two plastic covers (A4 size) on a cardboard folder so I can just change the paper on the way.
• Bright clothes make you visible to drivers. Dressing smart gives a good first impression.
• Make sure you have a couple of water bottles with you. Re-fill them whenever you can.
• Travel light!!! Don’t take any excessive luggagge. For one week’s travel one small backpack is enough. There’s plenty of opportunities to wash laundry on the road.
• Decide if you want to go far and travel long distances in trucks or if you’d rather take shorter trips in which case the passenger cars are a better (and sometimes faster) option.
• Remember: it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. Don’t get frustrated at any point but enjoy every second of it. “There are no ordinary moments” (Peaceful Warrior). Trust the process: someone always picks you up, sooner or later.
• When traveling together with someone you’ll need to agree beforehand whether it’s ok to accept a ride that takes only one person. My general suggestion: no. It can be difficult and time-consuming to get back together later.
• Remember your travel buddy is not a mind-reader. Be honest of your feelings – both positive and negative ones. Respect the fact that there are different personalities and varying needs.
• Getting into and leaving cities is always the most challenging part. Check maps.hitchwiki.org to see the best locations.

For more tips check Hitch Wiki.