Article: You'll actually get to your destination faster that way. It's better to travel 50 miles and get dropped off at a gas station or truck stop than to travel 100 miles and get dropped off in a bad hitchhiking spot.  If you're on a busy roadway for more than two hours and people aren't stopping, you're probably on the wrong road or the wrong side of the road.   Never take rides from anyone who appears intoxicated. Drinking while driving is illegal in many places, but people still do it. Don't be afraid to ask the driver questions to get to know them better. Ask them where they are going, and why. This might give you a better idea of their intentions. Even if you are desperate, your safety is more important. If you are getting bad vibes from the first car that has pulled over in hours, don't get in. It is not worth the risk. Wait for another car. You should be wary of the following:  Cars that look and/or smell dirty. This implies that the person is not responsible and doesn't care about themselves, and quite possibly others. Cars that have bottles or cans, especially empty ones. If they are alcoholic, stay away; the driver might be intoxicated. Cars that have multiple people inside. This means that there are more people who can take advantage of you. Drivers who give too much or not enough eye contact. They usually are hiding something. Drivers who are angry, controlling, or impatient. Not only can they make your ride less enjoyable, but they might not be very safe drivers. If someone pulls over for you and you don't feel safe (or if you are already in the car and no longer feel safe), you should not hesitate to stand firm and refuse the ride. If you are already in the car, politely ask to be let out at the next stop. If that doesn't work, here are some things you could say to excuse yourself,:  "I'm sorry, I was hoping for a ride that is going further than that." "Oh no, I think I forgot something back in town. I need to head back. Thanks for the offer, though." "Ugh... I feel sick..." Be sure to look nauseated while doing this. Most people don't want to vomit in their car. Before going on a trip, tell your friends and family where you are going, for how long you will be gone, and when to expect you back. This way, if something goes wrong and you are gone for longer than expected, they will notify the police and send someone to look for you.  Before you get into a car, it would be a good idea to text the license place to a friend. This may help police find you if you do go missing.  Once you are into the car, consider calling a friend and letting them know where you are at. This way, if the driver had evil intentions, they'll be less likely to carry them out. Not only are the roads more dangerous, but you will be harder to see. You'll be more likely to get hit by a car than picked up by one. Also, people tend to commit more crimes at night, because the darkness gives them cover. Find a place to camp or a motel to stay at. Avoid putting it into the trunk. If you put it into the trunk, the driver might drive away with it when they let you off. You will be stuck without supplies for a long time. Keep valuables, such as wallets and phones, on your person at all times. This way, if your bag does get lost, you will still have money and some form of communication on you. It is always safer to travel in pairs, especially if you are female. It might also be a good idea to hitchhike with a friend who has done this before. You'll feel more at ease, and you'll be less likely to make mistakes. A friend may also help ease boredom and frustration. On the other hand, some people find that pairs have a harder time picking up rides.

What is a summary?
Be selective about which rides you take. Know that you don't have to accept every car that pulls over. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to excuse yourself. Stay connected to your friends and family. Avoid hitchhiking at night. Keep your bag with you at all times. Consider bringing a friend if this is your first time, or if you are female.