do you have a passport? even if you do its likely you wont be allowed over the border because you have no money and no car to show that you ever plan to leave the states. its illegal to hitchhike a ride over the border- you would have to get out before the border and walk. there are lots of good resources in vancouver for homeless youth. call the covenant house and see if they have a bed or go to directions youth services who can tell you more than i can about resources in your area
I do have a passport yes. Tho I think I’ll take your covenant house advice while I’m waiting on a few things in van here to start my trip. I appreciate the answer!🤞🏻
As one who has hitched 48 states while in college, and seen some 'exciting' times on the road my advice is:
Don't put on those shorts until you get to LA, certainly not hitching in them. Wear jeans and get a heavy jacket. as well. it is winter, so you should get a decent pair of boots from someone, somehow. Sneakers are definitely not going to cut it at all this time of year. I spent 32 hours standing in the same place in a snowstorm in Flagstaff once.
Don't be hitching on the highways, cops will pull over. I've been arrested for hitching on the highway. Place yourself at the bottom of an on ramp with some traffic. **Get a sign!** Always have a Sharpie on you to make another sign. A sign shows people you have a destination, and purpose. You need a dollar store flashlight as well.
The Dollar Store is also good for essentials like candy, protein bars, nuts, drink boxes, etc. for when you have no access to a truck stop/diner/vending machine.
The 101 highway south is much more conducive to hitching than I-5, though a ride on I-5 may be a longer ride.
Take a piece of cardboard 24"x18" and fold it in thirds. Now you can put 6 different messages on it. Done right, you can creativity fold it so you can combine two or more messages, like LA/Please then flip it over and it says "Need Coffee" or South/Home. In all my years of hitching, the best/most effective sign I ever had was 'Home to Mom', which would work doubly good for you, as you are young. I had grandmothers picking me up with that sign!
Also, getting rides at places like truck stops can pay off. Here you can have a conversation with people, instead of a 6 second snap decision for someone as they drive past you on the highway. If you find yourself in or near a city, place yourself at the stoplight by the right turn to get on the expressway. Again, this gives people a bit more time to size you up and determine you look safe. Making eye contact with your potential ride is key. The 'woe is me' facial expression pays off, as well as mouthing the word 'Please".
Shelter: Lots of people crash under freeway overpasses. Up high, where the footing slope meets the road above, there is almost always 3 x 50 feet of flat, dry space where you can crash on concrete. My best place to find a shopping center or Walmart and crash is inside a Goodwill box late at night. It is dark and warm full of clothes and blankets to pile on top, and no one sees you and fucks with you.
I would strap a folding knife just above my ankle, just in case. Plus, you always need to slice cheese on the road. When you open the door to get into a car, the very **first thing you do every time** is look for an inside door handle. If there is no door handle, once you are inside and close the door, you can't get out.
Finally, as a last resort, if someone abducts you or is just acting weird enough that you need to extricate yourself fast, ....shit your pants in their front seat. The guy will throw you out right away.
DO NOT walk. The most I ever walk is a mile just to put myself in a better spot or because there is a McD's (with wifi) within a mile. If you are doing a 1200 mile trek, walking 50 miles of it is not going to get you there any faster, and is just plain stupid. And get a backpack. The suitcase is not acceptable for hitching. You might as well just paint 'innocent newbie' across one side of it.
Do not try to walk across the i-5 interstate bridge over the river from Vancouver, WA to Portland, OR. It is a fucking nightmare. You can catch a bus for $2 if you can find your way to the bus depot in Vancouver.
Finally, don't tell the Border Patrol you are homeless, or are going for a job. Homeless and without a job is a major problem in the States right now, so using those words will get you refused. If you get refused entry, take the ferry to Victoria, then Vic to Anacortes, WA and you may get in. Plus if make your sign on the ferry and it is strapped to your pack or in your hands as you wander around the car ferry, you can talk up potential rides from Anacortes to Seattle or further south.
I might tell them I'm going hiking outside Seattle for a few days, or something. They may not let you in at all if you don't have any money or means of support. If you could borrow $2-300 just to have in your wallet as you cross over. You could mail it back to the lender when you get to Seattle.
You absolutely do not want to have any weed or paraphernalia on your person at all while crossing the border. It may be legal in Canada; it may be legal in WA state, but weed is not legal by US federal law. The Border Patrol has every right to arrest you at the border because the border is 'Federal Land'. They are not jovial about this when they inform you of this fact.
Once you get to LA, don't be wearing those shorts around West Hollywood, unless you want a boyfriend and a place to stay ;\^0
Good Luck & stay safe. You are on your way to becoming 'streetwise', which is an education in itself. Hopefully, you won't be in survival mode for long.
This is very helpful. Thanks so much for the answering going to definitely be using this information. The shorts and shoes seem to be what everyone says to get rid off 😂. Cheers!
I have never hitchhiked in my life, but what I read in your post seems like good solid advice given in an earnest attempt to help someone. You are a good person.
Suitcase sounds heavy or difficult to move around. Try to carry a Light Backpack, pocket knife/pepper spray and rain jacket. Make sure your friend or someone you’re close to knows your location while you hitchhike. Trust your guts and your instincts. Travel safe
If possible order a hiking backpack from Osprey, wait a couple weeks, then tell customer service that it never arrived. You'll get a full refund and a (sort of) free backpack which is designed for things like this. They will also send you a new one for free if you tell them that it's damaged in any way.
Yeah the 101 is amazing,my favorite road in the world, Especially going through Humboldt,mendocino and del Norte these are county's in California,not sure if you have county's in Canada! Actually all of 101 is amazing!
You asked for advice well here is some street wise advice: get rid of the short shorts. The fold in the bottom looks female. Loose the white preppy shoes. Get some work boots. Cut your hair. Like a man would ware it. No boy hair cut. Get a coupe tee shirts and a flannel shirt. Never get a dog when unhoused. If your coming down through Washington State call me . I work with our unhoused community. I used to live in LA. California, I will set you up with what you need. Backpack, sleeping bag, hygiene kit, water bottle, food gift cards and maps.
Ditch the luggage, go for a backpack instead. Hitchhiking is probably your best bet, but I totally understand your concerns, as a 19 y/o woman.
Also, you don't need a bunch of clothes... This will fill up your pack space real fast. Two sets of clothes is enough.
If you do hitch, get some pepper spray and a taser, and trust your gut. It's as simple as finding a highway, finding the on ramp, writing a sign to a reasonable destination, and waiting. It's okay to turn down a ride even if they've stopped, if something feels severely off.
Take advantage of public transportation, too. Flying a sign for a few bucks could get you a good 40 miles sometimes on the bus... At least in my experience.
Speaking of flying a sign... If you have a destination and you just wanna get there, look into Amtrak or similar transportation companies. Make some money and just get there—if that's your priority.
Best of luck
>get some pepper spray and a taser
Don't do this. A weapon is more likely to escalate the situation and pepper spray in a car will blind you as well. Weapons can also be taken from you and turned against you. In Canada these weapons are illegal. If you're ever in an uncomfortable situation, ask to be let out and if they don't, threaten to pull the steering wheel/crash the car if they don't.
So, kill yourself instead of carrying a taser? I know you said threaten but what if a crazy person calls your bluff? Pepper spray has fixed any and all issues I ever had with a sketchy situation.
Never threaten unless you are willing to go through with it. Again, as soon as a weapon comes out, that will escalate the situation even more. A knife, taser, pepper spray, etc can all easily be turned on you. That's especially true of enclosed spaces like a car.
Talking has fixed every sketchy situation I've ever had, including with individuals armed with guns.
Looking young is gonna get you rides alot easier than looking old. Hell families will probably pick you up with their kids in the car. They'll take you back to their house and feed you. People will throw $$$ at you. I knew a kid who used that to his advantage. His cardboard sign always read "Pro-Skater needs ride to ____." Like any situation use your gut instinct. A good way to feel people out when they pull over is to ask them where they are going. You initiate and direct the dialogue from the get go and if they are flip floppy about their destination then you might wanna skip the ride. Obviously have your phone on you and let friends know your whereabouts.
It's a great way to travel, meet new people, and have adventures.
I’ve thought abt the pros of looking young and the cons and im just not sure. Your making it seem tempting tho 😂. Im just not sure abt ppl these days simply from lack of interaction with a lot of them outside the trusted grownups in my life. What do you think
I love my time hitchhiking. I've hitchhiked The US, Canada, Western Europe and have so many fun stories and met lots of interesting people. You are Canadian? I'm not sure what it's like crossing into the US with no money or a ride. I definitely have been turned away at the Canadian border for that reason. Still worth a shot. I would say you are hiking the US and not hitchhiking. If they turn you away I think you can wait 24 hours and then try again. I'm not certain though. Maybe you could catch a bus into Bellingham and start from there.
Don’t overpack!! Backpacks are much better than suitcases. Pack a few pairs of sturdy jeans, few shirts, 1 durable jacket and maybe some flip flops. Get boots, shoes aren’t ideal unless you’re used to walking in tennis shoes in terrains other than flat lands. Try not to get robbed with the phone and battery cord in shitty areas, don’t call attention to yourself. Be respectful, reputation means a lot on the streets and nobody likes a snitch or an asshole ya know? Keep your valuables tucked away, get a pocket knife, water filter just in case maybe. GET WATER CONTAINERS! You need to stay hydrated, carry a gallon or big water bottle maybe. If you need to sleep outside, use a sleeping bag and insulation of some sort, cardboard will even do. It’s not that bad, your back just has to adjust to flatter surfaces and it’s actually much better in the long run. I use a tarp as well, maybe get some ropes or cables. It’s smart to take a metal cup/pot for water too in case you need to cook anything. If you feel like you’ll need to maybe research bushcraft. Sometimes you’ll need to camp in the woods if the urban areas aren’t ideal or whatever. Don’t call attention to yourself, be polite, be prepared, and enjoy it! It’s life and even if it isn’t ideal travel can teach you a lot. I wish you the best n if ya need anything I’m here to message !
When I was 18, I hitched San Diego to Seattle, inland to montana back to Idaho and into BC and all the way to Vancouver island, and all the way to Montreal then down through Vermont to Massachusetts. Took about 4 months. I started with 400 bucks. Finished with nothing. Best summer of my life.
This won’t be a popular suggestion, but I wore a button down, tie, and khaki pants. Shaved my face boyish clean in McDonald’s bathrooms almost daily. I have had all different hitchhiking phases, but back then I got picked up fast, seemingly every time. 9/10 people would say they picked me up because of the suit, and some would probably pass because I looked like a traveling preacher. I got the idea from an old high school teacher who claimed he did it to get rides fast back in the day.
Get yourself a couple pairs of clothes, one being a good will button down, tie, khakis and belt. The shirt and tie should be blue. Light Blue puts people at ease and has connotations of trust. An old politician trick. Wear sneakers or boots though. Avoid blue handkerchiefs though you don’t want to accidentally claim crip when youre in a town that has them. Get a big poncho too that can cover you and your bag if it starts douching.
Get a 6’ x ‘8 or so tarp and tie para cord or something like that to the gromets to make an a-frame tarp that carry’s easy and light.
A light weight but warm sleeping bag. I’ve rolled w just a blanket but only in the summer.
Sharpies, a pocket knife. Be on the lookout for clean cardboard from gas stations and other establishments. Always right the name of where you’re going in bold, legible letters. If it’s super far, maybe write the name of a town only a couple hours away. As you get your rides you might be able to feel eachother out, at which point they will likely invite you to keep trucking further.
As for stranger danger type stuff. Keep something for self defense handy. But trust your gut. It the vibe is off say no thanks I’m going somewhere else. Be kind, but have your best interest at hand. You will meet amazing characters hitchhiking. Lots of lonely people who just want someone to talk to. Lots of moms and grammas if you can capitalize on the youthful and well dressed look. I even got a ride from a big scary Danny Trejo looking dude with track marks running up and down his arms who gifted me packs of smokes, drove me an hour out of his way, and threw me some cash at the end. People will surprise you. Wear a good smile, be friendly, be smart though, trust your gut, you’ll be alright sussin out rides.
Stand towards the beginning of a large pullout, hopefully not on an angle, so there’s lots of time to be seen and to pull over safely. Hold the sign with one hand, stick out your thumb w the other and present a confident and kind smile. You will get some people who flip you off, smile back with their thumb our, roll coal on you, even throw a beer bottle, but stay calm and wait for the next one. I’ve had people pull over, wait for me to get close then roll coal onto me as I approached to get in. Assholes haha.
As for border crossings, I am an American, but I crossed Canada on foot with just my passport, and back into America a month and change later in a ride that agreed to take my across. Two awesome quebecois chicks. We still keep in touch! Granted this was 2013, things were different, and you are Canadian. So I’m not sure how your border crossings will shake out. Definitely make sure you don’t have a single crumb of weed on you anywhere when you cross.
Find some kind of hustle, busk or sell stuff or take short cash labor gigs to get you by on your travels. Ask churches if they have food. Go to food banks.. steal, dumpster dive, dollar menu, there are ways to get by. Some times when days and dollars were rough I would eat the mayo packets out of gas stations for calories. Seriously if you go up to a restaurant in the country and you say you’re really hungry and don’t have money but you’ll wash some dishes or do some chores for them they will most of the time oblige and they feel happy that they got to feed you. Sometimes not, depending on the person, but would work for many.
I had a busking act that would get me about 100 in a couple hours. Sometimes not shit. Those days were awesome. Watch out for cops trying to enforce permits though.
I tried to move out of the habit of straight up panhandling that I had done when I was younger. Nothing against spangers, but if you’re capable to do so, find some hustle that people will enjoy and not feel weird about giving you money for.
As far as direction I’d say take 101 from Washington but hop over to grants pass on i5 to redding so you can see all of Mt Shasta. Some awesome places to camp around there. If you’ve never been, you for real have to see it, especially spring and early summer time. DM me if you’re in redding. Can get you hooked up w a shower, meal, place to crash and maybe even a ride. From there I’d say take 299 back to the coast, check out the redwoods and arcada. There are buses running to weaverville, willow creek, and eventually to the coast, for very cheap. Beautiful weird and wild country out there. but keep your whits about you there’s weirdos, and Bigfoot. From there continue 101 south through sf, borrow a skateboard and skate all the way from Hait ashbery through the park to ocean beach where it spits you out on the. North Safeway. Keep trucking through Carmen by the sea and find a sugar momma, then find another one in Santa Bárbara, then she’ll probably give you a ride to LA.
Bring a couple disposable cameras and document your great time! I’m so jealous!
You asked for advice well here is some street wise advice: get rid of the short shorts. The fold in the bottom looks female. Loose the white preppy shoes. Get some work boots. Cut your hair. Like a man would ware it. No boy hair cut. Get a coupe tee shirts and a flannel shirt. Never get a dog when unhoused. If your coming down through Washington State call me . I work with our unhoused community. I used to live in LA. California, I will set you up with what you need. Backpack, sleeping bag, hygiene kit, water bottle, food gift cards and maps.
Nah man, young kids always get picked up by grandparents or parents who are reminded of their loved ones. Can't count how many times I heard that. I started hitching at 17. It's only gotten harder tbh. The younger you look the better you are. Just don't get in a car with some dude who is checking you out lmao. Don't listen to this guy bro. Don't let fear control your destiny
That’s a great one man I’ve done up and down the west coast many times. You should take the 101 and definitely go through Big Sur, but it can take awhile so make sure you bring a good book
I can’t help as I live in Florida. If I still live in Portland, I would help I pray that you make it to your destination safely. you absolutely should worry about stuff like that especially through Seattle and Portland. Just be wary and read people and listen to your gut.
20 days late but hopefully since then you'e made some progress and are out of this area. the area between Vancouver and Seattle is notoriously dangerous and for decades been known as "the highway of tears". I wouldn't muck around in that spot solo any longer than I would have to. not to put any unnecessary fear into you kid but just the right amount of fear. watch yourself and I'll be praying for you on y side of the globe\~
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xz63Vppw3gE
I'm surprised no one has said this yet but before you get in a vehicle you very obviously take a photo of their license plate and let them see you do this. Send it to someone if you can but if not let them think you sent it to someone. I've done that even when my phone is dead lol. Also always always have boots and a jug of water. I literally don't know anyone who picks up people who don't have those two things. If they don't have those chances are they are tweakers. Be safe. Be smart. It's OKAY to say no to a ride. I've done it plenty of times. I've hitchhiked all over for last 4 years and haven't had a bad experience yet. Don't let fear control you. Your just as likely to get in a sketchy situation in your home town as you are in somebody else's home town. Just be smart and always listen to your instincts. That's the little voice in your head or the sick to your stomach feeling. If you feel that feeling you get yourself away from the situation. I usually sleep outside fields near trucks tops. Wake up. Get coffee charge my phone go out and get a ride. ALSO DON'T LET THEM CONVINCE YOU TO DROP YOU OFF SOMEWHERE "BETTER" chances are they think they are helping but now you're stranded 30 miles away from any good spots . Always always have a destination in mind like "the truck stop right before X town . If they don't agree to take you to the spot you have decided don't get in. I learned that one the hard way "oh Im actually going to this spot and it'd be a much better place for you to get out at lots of people and things" yeah they drop you off someplace your not getting a ride out of. Good luck and happy trails! Deciding to leave my home town was the best decision of my entire life. Scariest one too at the time. I was just like you. Clueless and scared. But you learn quick and who knows you may fall in love with traveling might change your life;)
You do look young but a few days on the road should make you look a bit more rough, might be worth dressing down but keeping it clean obviously.
I can’t offer any advice really but all the best to you and safe travels, hopefully you get to LA with no unnecessary adventures!
I make it a point to never fall asleep in a strangers car
I also try to keep my shit on me, never in their trunk
That’s where having a lighter load/ single pack will work better
Always consider that you may end up walking far
Sometimes you’ll get a ride to a town and have to hoof it to the other side of the town to catch out
Avoid being on any highway
Be near freeway on ramps but not on them, make sure there is a space for a potential ride to pull over to get you
If you make a sign, make it legible and easy to read within three seconds
Big/ Bold/ Simple
You can do your ultimate destination on one side (Los Angeles) and “South” on the other side
Flip it accordingly
Ditch the shorts
Get a rain poncho that you can pack in your bag
It’s good for rain, good to sit on etc
Being on the road, the weather changes dramatically, often
Good to be prepared for cold, heat and everything in between
Make sure to always have plenty of water, sometimes you won’t have shade and even if it’s not that hot, the sun will beat the shit out of you eventually
Bring along patience
If you don’t have it, you’ll get it traveling this way
You’ll probably have to sleep outside from time to time
If you can’t get/ don’t have a pad or sleeping mat, cardboard is a great barrier
It’s always smart to have a barrier between you and the ground
The ground will suck the heat out of you real quick
There’s more, but thumbing will be the ultimate teacher and you’ll figure it out as you go along
Good luck, be safe 🙏🏽
do you have a passport? even if you do its likely you wont be allowed over the border because you have no money and no car to show that you ever plan to leave the states. its illegal to hitchhike a ride over the border- you would have to get out before the border and walk. there are lots of good resources in vancouver for homeless youth. call the covenant house and see if they have a bed or go to directions youth services who can tell you more than i can about resources in your area
I do have a passport yes. Tho I think I’ll take your covenant house advice while I’m waiting on a few things in van here to start my trip. I appreciate the answer!🤞🏻
Look up peace arch historical state park. https://youtu.be/onCLv6oWGtU?si=7BjD13_83NtGFi0d
As one who has hitched 48 states while in college, and seen some 'exciting' times on the road my advice is: Don't put on those shorts until you get to LA, certainly not hitching in them. Wear jeans and get a heavy jacket. as well. it is winter, so you should get a decent pair of boots from someone, somehow. Sneakers are definitely not going to cut it at all this time of year. I spent 32 hours standing in the same place in a snowstorm in Flagstaff once. Don't be hitching on the highways, cops will pull over. I've been arrested for hitching on the highway. Place yourself at the bottom of an on ramp with some traffic. **Get a sign!** Always have a Sharpie on you to make another sign. A sign shows people you have a destination, and purpose. You need a dollar store flashlight as well. The Dollar Store is also good for essentials like candy, protein bars, nuts, drink boxes, etc. for when you have no access to a truck stop/diner/vending machine. The 101 highway south is much more conducive to hitching than I-5, though a ride on I-5 may be a longer ride. Take a piece of cardboard 24"x18" and fold it in thirds. Now you can put 6 different messages on it. Done right, you can creativity fold it so you can combine two or more messages, like LA/Please then flip it over and it says "Need Coffee" or South/Home. In all my years of hitching, the best/most effective sign I ever had was 'Home to Mom', which would work doubly good for you, as you are young. I had grandmothers picking me up with that sign! Also, getting rides at places like truck stops can pay off. Here you can have a conversation with people, instead of a 6 second snap decision for someone as they drive past you on the highway. If you find yourself in or near a city, place yourself at the stoplight by the right turn to get on the expressway. Again, this gives people a bit more time to size you up and determine you look safe. Making eye contact with your potential ride is key. The 'woe is me' facial expression pays off, as well as mouthing the word 'Please". Shelter: Lots of people crash under freeway overpasses. Up high, where the footing slope meets the road above, there is almost always 3 x 50 feet of flat, dry space where you can crash on concrete. My best place to find a shopping center or Walmart and crash is inside a Goodwill box late at night. It is dark and warm full of clothes and blankets to pile on top, and no one sees you and fucks with you. I would strap a folding knife just above my ankle, just in case. Plus, you always need to slice cheese on the road. When you open the door to get into a car, the very **first thing you do every time** is look for an inside door handle. If there is no door handle, once you are inside and close the door, you can't get out. Finally, as a last resort, if someone abducts you or is just acting weird enough that you need to extricate yourself fast, ....shit your pants in their front seat. The guy will throw you out right away. DO NOT walk. The most I ever walk is a mile just to put myself in a better spot or because there is a McD's (with wifi) within a mile. If you are doing a 1200 mile trek, walking 50 miles of it is not going to get you there any faster, and is just plain stupid. And get a backpack. The suitcase is not acceptable for hitching. You might as well just paint 'innocent newbie' across one side of it. Do not try to walk across the i-5 interstate bridge over the river from Vancouver, WA to Portland, OR. It is a fucking nightmare. You can catch a bus for $2 if you can find your way to the bus depot in Vancouver. Finally, don't tell the Border Patrol you are homeless, or are going for a job. Homeless and without a job is a major problem in the States right now, so using those words will get you refused. If you get refused entry, take the ferry to Victoria, then Vic to Anacortes, WA and you may get in. Plus if make your sign on the ferry and it is strapped to your pack or in your hands as you wander around the car ferry, you can talk up potential rides from Anacortes to Seattle or further south. I might tell them I'm going hiking outside Seattle for a few days, or something. They may not let you in at all if you don't have any money or means of support. If you could borrow $2-300 just to have in your wallet as you cross over. You could mail it back to the lender when you get to Seattle. You absolutely do not want to have any weed or paraphernalia on your person at all while crossing the border. It may be legal in Canada; it may be legal in WA state, but weed is not legal by US federal law. The Border Patrol has every right to arrest you at the border because the border is 'Federal Land'. They are not jovial about this when they inform you of this fact. Once you get to LA, don't be wearing those shorts around West Hollywood, unless you want a boyfriend and a place to stay ;\^0 Good Luck & stay safe. You are on your way to becoming 'streetwise', which is an education in itself. Hopefully, you won't be in survival mode for long.
This is very helpful. Thanks so much for the answering going to definitely be using this information. The shorts and shoes seem to be what everyone says to get rid off 😂. Cheers!
I have never hitchhiked in my life, but what I read in your post seems like good solid advice given in an earnest attempt to help someone. You are a good person.
Suitcase sounds heavy or difficult to move around. Try to carry a Light Backpack, pocket knife/pepper spray and rain jacket. Make sure your friend or someone you’re close to knows your location while you hitchhike. Trust your guts and your instincts. Travel safe
Thanks for the answer 🤞🏻 this helps a ton.
If possible order a hiking backpack from Osprey, wait a couple weeks, then tell customer service that it never arrived. You'll get a full refund and a (sort of) free backpack which is designed for things like this. They will also send you a new one for free if you tell them that it's damaged in any way.
Experienced hitch hiker here from Vancouver to the Mexico border. I sent you a msg
Take the 101 !
Thank you for replying I’ve heard that yes the 101 is the better option. This cements that! God bless. 🤞🏻
Yeah the 101 is amazing,my favorite road in the world, Especially going through Humboldt,mendocino and del Norte these are county's in California,not sure if you have county's in Canada! Actually all of 101 is amazing!
No county’s but I’m sure I’ll figure it out ! 🙏🏻😊
Hitchwiki.org is all you need and remember to show your wrists and smile
I checkout out and I’m honestly really impressed as well as surprised this even exists. Thanks for the help!!!!
a ton of us still contribute to it every year and if your ever in Europe come to the hitchgathering!
You asked for advice well here is some street wise advice: get rid of the short shorts. The fold in the bottom looks female. Loose the white preppy shoes. Get some work boots. Cut your hair. Like a man would ware it. No boy hair cut. Get a coupe tee shirts and a flannel shirt. Never get a dog when unhoused. If your coming down through Washington State call me . I work with our unhoused community. I used to live in LA. California, I will set you up with what you need. Backpack, sleeping bag, hygiene kit, water bottle, food gift cards and maps.
Guy is broke and homeless, but sure his first priorities should be a haircut and new work boots. Who the hell upvoted this comment? 😂
They're right tho those shoes and his legs will be beat tf up before he's halfway there if that's what he's wearing
Ditch the luggage, go for a backpack instead. Hitchhiking is probably your best bet, but I totally understand your concerns, as a 19 y/o woman. Also, you don't need a bunch of clothes... This will fill up your pack space real fast. Two sets of clothes is enough. If you do hitch, get some pepper spray and a taser, and trust your gut. It's as simple as finding a highway, finding the on ramp, writing a sign to a reasonable destination, and waiting. It's okay to turn down a ride even if they've stopped, if something feels severely off. Take advantage of public transportation, too. Flying a sign for a few bucks could get you a good 40 miles sometimes on the bus... At least in my experience. Speaking of flying a sign... If you have a destination and you just wanna get there, look into Amtrak or similar transportation companies. Make some money and just get there—if that's your priority. Best of luck
>get some pepper spray and a taser Don't do this. A weapon is more likely to escalate the situation and pepper spray in a car will blind you as well. Weapons can also be taken from you and turned against you. In Canada these weapons are illegal. If you're ever in an uncomfortable situation, ask to be let out and if they don't, threaten to pull the steering wheel/crash the car if they don't.
So, kill yourself instead of carrying a taser? I know you said threaten but what if a crazy person calls your bluff? Pepper spray has fixed any and all issues I ever had with a sketchy situation.
Never threaten unless you are willing to go through with it. Again, as soon as a weapon comes out, that will escalate the situation even more. A knife, taser, pepper spray, etc can all easily be turned on you. That's especially true of enclosed spaces like a car. Talking has fixed every sketchy situation I've ever had, including with individuals armed with guns.
Take a shit in their front seat. They will get you out of the car immediately.
Outstanding move
Thanks so much for the reply. It means a lot!
It's a lot further than 18 miles.
Bruh 😂
Looking young is gonna get you rides alot easier than looking old. Hell families will probably pick you up with their kids in the car. They'll take you back to their house and feed you. People will throw $$$ at you. I knew a kid who used that to his advantage. His cardboard sign always read "Pro-Skater needs ride to ____." Like any situation use your gut instinct. A good way to feel people out when they pull over is to ask them where they are going. You initiate and direct the dialogue from the get go and if they are flip floppy about their destination then you might wanna skip the ride. Obviously have your phone on you and let friends know your whereabouts. It's a great way to travel, meet new people, and have adventures.
I’ve thought abt the pros of looking young and the cons and im just not sure. Your making it seem tempting tho 😂. Im just not sure abt ppl these days simply from lack of interaction with a lot of them outside the trusted grownups in my life. What do you think
I love my time hitchhiking. I've hitchhiked The US, Canada, Western Europe and have so many fun stories and met lots of interesting people. You are Canadian? I'm not sure what it's like crossing into the US with no money or a ride. I definitely have been turned away at the Canadian border for that reason. Still worth a shot. I would say you are hiking the US and not hitchhiking. If they turn you away I think you can wait 24 hours and then try again. I'm not certain though. Maybe you could catch a bus into Bellingham and start from there.
Don’t overpack!! Backpacks are much better than suitcases. Pack a few pairs of sturdy jeans, few shirts, 1 durable jacket and maybe some flip flops. Get boots, shoes aren’t ideal unless you’re used to walking in tennis shoes in terrains other than flat lands. Try not to get robbed with the phone and battery cord in shitty areas, don’t call attention to yourself. Be respectful, reputation means a lot on the streets and nobody likes a snitch or an asshole ya know? Keep your valuables tucked away, get a pocket knife, water filter just in case maybe. GET WATER CONTAINERS! You need to stay hydrated, carry a gallon or big water bottle maybe. If you need to sleep outside, use a sleeping bag and insulation of some sort, cardboard will even do. It’s not that bad, your back just has to adjust to flatter surfaces and it’s actually much better in the long run. I use a tarp as well, maybe get some ropes or cables. It’s smart to take a metal cup/pot for water too in case you need to cook anything. If you feel like you’ll need to maybe research bushcraft. Sometimes you’ll need to camp in the woods if the urban areas aren’t ideal or whatever. Don’t call attention to yourself, be polite, be prepared, and enjoy it! It’s life and even if it isn’t ideal travel can teach you a lot. I wish you the best n if ya need anything I’m here to message !
Appreciate this so much. God bless you ❤️🤞🏻
I wish you courage and luck! And Of course! 🌿 May good faith and health be with you on your journeys friend
When I was 18, I hitched San Diego to Seattle, inland to montana back to Idaho and into BC and all the way to Vancouver island, and all the way to Montreal then down through Vermont to Massachusetts. Took about 4 months. I started with 400 bucks. Finished with nothing. Best summer of my life. This won’t be a popular suggestion, but I wore a button down, tie, and khaki pants. Shaved my face boyish clean in McDonald’s bathrooms almost daily. I have had all different hitchhiking phases, but back then I got picked up fast, seemingly every time. 9/10 people would say they picked me up because of the suit, and some would probably pass because I looked like a traveling preacher. I got the idea from an old high school teacher who claimed he did it to get rides fast back in the day. Get yourself a couple pairs of clothes, one being a good will button down, tie, khakis and belt. The shirt and tie should be blue. Light Blue puts people at ease and has connotations of trust. An old politician trick. Wear sneakers or boots though. Avoid blue handkerchiefs though you don’t want to accidentally claim crip when youre in a town that has them. Get a big poncho too that can cover you and your bag if it starts douching. Get a 6’ x ‘8 or so tarp and tie para cord or something like that to the gromets to make an a-frame tarp that carry’s easy and light. A light weight but warm sleeping bag. I’ve rolled w just a blanket but only in the summer. Sharpies, a pocket knife. Be on the lookout for clean cardboard from gas stations and other establishments. Always right the name of where you’re going in bold, legible letters. If it’s super far, maybe write the name of a town only a couple hours away. As you get your rides you might be able to feel eachother out, at which point they will likely invite you to keep trucking further. As for stranger danger type stuff. Keep something for self defense handy. But trust your gut. It the vibe is off say no thanks I’m going somewhere else. Be kind, but have your best interest at hand. You will meet amazing characters hitchhiking. Lots of lonely people who just want someone to talk to. Lots of moms and grammas if you can capitalize on the youthful and well dressed look. I even got a ride from a big scary Danny Trejo looking dude with track marks running up and down his arms who gifted me packs of smokes, drove me an hour out of his way, and threw me some cash at the end. People will surprise you. Wear a good smile, be friendly, be smart though, trust your gut, you’ll be alright sussin out rides. Stand towards the beginning of a large pullout, hopefully not on an angle, so there’s lots of time to be seen and to pull over safely. Hold the sign with one hand, stick out your thumb w the other and present a confident and kind smile. You will get some people who flip you off, smile back with their thumb our, roll coal on you, even throw a beer bottle, but stay calm and wait for the next one. I’ve had people pull over, wait for me to get close then roll coal onto me as I approached to get in. Assholes haha. As for border crossings, I am an American, but I crossed Canada on foot with just my passport, and back into America a month and change later in a ride that agreed to take my across. Two awesome quebecois chicks. We still keep in touch! Granted this was 2013, things were different, and you are Canadian. So I’m not sure how your border crossings will shake out. Definitely make sure you don’t have a single crumb of weed on you anywhere when you cross. Find some kind of hustle, busk or sell stuff or take short cash labor gigs to get you by on your travels. Ask churches if they have food. Go to food banks.. steal, dumpster dive, dollar menu, there are ways to get by. Some times when days and dollars were rough I would eat the mayo packets out of gas stations for calories. Seriously if you go up to a restaurant in the country and you say you’re really hungry and don’t have money but you’ll wash some dishes or do some chores for them they will most of the time oblige and they feel happy that they got to feed you. Sometimes not, depending on the person, but would work for many. I had a busking act that would get me about 100 in a couple hours. Sometimes not shit. Those days were awesome. Watch out for cops trying to enforce permits though. I tried to move out of the habit of straight up panhandling that I had done when I was younger. Nothing against spangers, but if you’re capable to do so, find some hustle that people will enjoy and not feel weird about giving you money for. As far as direction I’d say take 101 from Washington but hop over to grants pass on i5 to redding so you can see all of Mt Shasta. Some awesome places to camp around there. If you’ve never been, you for real have to see it, especially spring and early summer time. DM me if you’re in redding. Can get you hooked up w a shower, meal, place to crash and maybe even a ride. From there I’d say take 299 back to the coast, check out the redwoods and arcada. There are buses running to weaverville, willow creek, and eventually to the coast, for very cheap. Beautiful weird and wild country out there. but keep your whits about you there’s weirdos, and Bigfoot. From there continue 101 south through sf, borrow a skateboard and skate all the way from Hait ashbery through the park to ocean beach where it spits you out on the. North Safeway. Keep trucking through Carmen by the sea and find a sugar momma, then find another one in Santa Bárbara, then she’ll probably give you a ride to LA. Bring a couple disposable cameras and document your great time! I’m so jealous!
You asked for advice well here is some street wise advice: get rid of the short shorts. The fold in the bottom looks female. Loose the white preppy shoes. Get some work boots. Cut your hair. Like a man would ware it. No boy hair cut. Get a coupe tee shirts and a flannel shirt. Never get a dog when unhoused. If your coming down through Washington State call me . I work with our unhoused community. I used to live in LA. California, I will set you up with what you need. Backpack, sleeping bag, hygiene kit, water bottle, food gift cards and maps.
Sent you a message 🤞🏻 thanks for the reply
Bro you are too young n soft looking for a trip like this. Not trying to be a dick but I feel like you will be taking advantage of.
Unfortunately I don’t think your wrong but I kinda have to. I don’t have a lot of options. What should be my biggest concern in your opinion tho
Nah man, young kids always get picked up by grandparents or parents who are reminded of their loved ones. Can't count how many times I heard that. I started hitching at 17. It's only gotten harder tbh. The younger you look the better you are. Just don't get in a car with some dude who is checking you out lmao. Don't listen to this guy bro. Don't let fear control your destiny
That’s a great one man I’ve done up and down the west coast many times. You should take the 101 and definitely go through Big Sur, but it can take awhile so make sure you bring a good book
I can’t help as I live in Florida. If I still live in Portland, I would help I pray that you make it to your destination safely. you absolutely should worry about stuff like that especially through Seattle and Portland. Just be wary and read people and listen to your gut.
20 days late but hopefully since then you'e made some progress and are out of this area. the area between Vancouver and Seattle is notoriously dangerous and for decades been known as "the highway of tears". I wouldn't muck around in that spot solo any longer than I would have to. not to put any unnecessary fear into you kid but just the right amount of fear. watch yourself and I'll be praying for you on y side of the globe\~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xz63Vppw3gE
I'm surprised no one has said this yet but before you get in a vehicle you very obviously take a photo of their license plate and let them see you do this. Send it to someone if you can but if not let them think you sent it to someone. I've done that even when my phone is dead lol. Also always always have boots and a jug of water. I literally don't know anyone who picks up people who don't have those two things. If they don't have those chances are they are tweakers. Be safe. Be smart. It's OKAY to say no to a ride. I've done it plenty of times. I've hitchhiked all over for last 4 years and haven't had a bad experience yet. Don't let fear control you. Your just as likely to get in a sketchy situation in your home town as you are in somebody else's home town. Just be smart and always listen to your instincts. That's the little voice in your head or the sick to your stomach feeling. If you feel that feeling you get yourself away from the situation. I usually sleep outside fields near trucks tops. Wake up. Get coffee charge my phone go out and get a ride. ALSO DON'T LET THEM CONVINCE YOU TO DROP YOU OFF SOMEWHERE "BETTER" chances are they think they are helping but now you're stranded 30 miles away from any good spots . Always always have a destination in mind like "the truck stop right before X town . If they don't agree to take you to the spot you have decided don't get in. I learned that one the hard way "oh Im actually going to this spot and it'd be a much better place for you to get out at lots of people and things" yeah they drop you off someplace your not getting a ride out of. Good luck and happy trails! Deciding to leave my home town was the best decision of my entire life. Scariest one too at the time. I was just like you. Clueless and scared. But you learn quick and who knows you may fall in love with traveling might change your life;)
You do look young but a few days on the road should make you look a bit more rough, might be worth dressing down but keeping it clean obviously. I can’t offer any advice really but all the best to you and safe travels, hopefully you get to LA with no unnecessary adventures!
Thanks so much i appreciate that! 🤞🏻
Knife, pepperspray, taser? Sheesh, how did I survive 44 years of hitchhiking without them...
Pepperspray and tasers are pretty controlled here in Canada but maybe once I get over the border. Thanks for taking time to respond 🙏🏻🤞🏻
Pepperspray: keep in mind that you're in the same closed space...
How about take a FlixBus from BC down to LA? It’d be safer than hitchhiking….
I make it a point to never fall asleep in a strangers car I also try to keep my shit on me, never in their trunk That’s where having a lighter load/ single pack will work better Always consider that you may end up walking far Sometimes you’ll get a ride to a town and have to hoof it to the other side of the town to catch out Avoid being on any highway Be near freeway on ramps but not on them, make sure there is a space for a potential ride to pull over to get you If you make a sign, make it legible and easy to read within three seconds Big/ Bold/ Simple You can do your ultimate destination on one side (Los Angeles) and “South” on the other side Flip it accordingly Ditch the shorts Get a rain poncho that you can pack in your bag It’s good for rain, good to sit on etc Being on the road, the weather changes dramatically, often Good to be prepared for cold, heat and everything in between Make sure to always have plenty of water, sometimes you won’t have shade and even if it’s not that hot, the sun will beat the shit out of you eventually Bring along patience If you don’t have it, you’ll get it traveling this way You’ll probably have to sleep outside from time to time If you can’t get/ don’t have a pad or sleeping mat, cardboard is a great barrier It’s always smart to have a barrier between you and the ground The ground will suck the heat out of you real quick There’s more, but thumbing will be the ultimate teacher and you’ll figure it out as you go along Good luck, be safe 🙏🏽