[pct-l] Hitch-hiking

[Diane Soini of Santa Barbara Hikes]

Well, Iceaxe, as long as we're posting hitchhiking tips, here are the  
ones that worked for me.

By the way, one of the other contributors to this list would make up  
pre-printed signs to use for hitching. He figured it demonstrated  
that he was not only serious, but capable of using a computer and  
rich enough to have access to a printer.

I had less luck with a sign than I did with just my thumb. I would do  
the following to improve my chances.
- First of all, it helps to be a woman, so I tried to be as much of  
one as possible in my bedraggled state. I would make sure my long  
braid was showing. I might take off my big desert shirt so my little  
tank top was showing. I might take off my hat and wear only my  
bandana. At one point I had some pink Crocs so I changed into them to  
really drive it home - here's a pretty lady who needs a ride.
- I'd smile. I'd look right at the people. I'd laugh and wave if they  
made any gestures indicating they really wished they could help but  
couldn't. I figured a positive attitude would help for the next car.
- I'd invoke The Force. Sometimes I could will them to actually turn  
around and come get me by simply being certain deep in my heart that  
those people were My Ride.
- I would stow my weapons -- I mean trekking poles.
- I would make my pack look as small as it could.

If all else failed, I'd just set off walking. Eventually someone  
would feel sorry for me.

Once I called a cab.

On Dec 14, 2010, at 10:00 AM, pct-l-request at backcountry.net wrote:

> Hitch-hiking