Experiments in Hitch-hiking: What works best?

» MorganSalman - heydays (early 70's) vs. modern hitch statistics

It's interesting (well, in a geek-loving way) to read about hitchhiking results using statistical analysis. Over the last few years, I've tried to document some of my trips by length of wait, my appearance, some local conditions and distance of ride. I wasn't always consistent, though.

For the Hitchhiker Scavenger Hunt this year (May) from Toronto, Canada, to Mexico, I hope to give all participants a logbook so those who would like to record their results can use a ready-made template. The Gathering and Scavenger Hunt are sure to give some great resources to hitchhikers in the present age.

The fact that a larger percentage of the population was hitchhiking in the early 70's is why there's much more record to show. Hitchhikers have become rogues over the last 20 years because there haven't been many people to 'compare notes' with.

Well, the web has changed that. And with internet access being available for free in many industrialized countries (libraries, drivers' homes, etc), it's easier than ever to make the connection. I hope more hitchhikers will use the resources to give something back to the community; to share and educate, as well as to get a free ride.

As most of you know, your stories, statistics, tips, links, journal entries, photos and anything else road-related are always welcome on digihitch.com.

You'll also find a bit of my hitchhiking statistics scattered around the site. Add your own as you record them! Scientific method or good ol' fashioned guesses are both welcome...

-- posted by MorganSalman

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» mountainmonk - Guide to hitch-hiking

To anyone who may read this. Here is the guide for hitch-hiking in the states. As an avid hitcher these are the self described rules.
1. Never try to hitch where cars are going faster than 40mph.
2. Always make sure it is safe for the car to pick you up. (a good pull-over area)
3. Use corners or stop signs/lights, so people can see you and are going slow
4. Never walk and hitch at the same time. Stand and face on coming trafic. Remove glasses, hat, and backpack.
5. Smile and look nice. Army jackets and big knifes are a dead end.
6. Use signs that cater to the local community i.e. "heading back to college at UW", "going to wedding at church"
7. Use your thumb and be proud.

-- posted by mountainmonk

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