Most hitchhikers carry a backpack with them wherever they go. The backpack should be sturdy, yet comfortable.
Things you need:
- As little as possible
- The longer you travel, the less you want in your bag!
Besides that, in order of importance:
- A marker. Sharpies work best.
- An A4 transparant plastic map, and some spare A4 papers or a piece of cardboard - you'll often be able to find this on the though
- A map of the area you plan to travel in.
- Preferably showing gas stations and tollway stations.
Then, if you expect to be on the road for more longer time:
- A towel or something or similar nature.
- Hygenic products such as
- toothbrush - even better in your pocket!
- toothpaste
- soap
- some mints.
- Try not to smell too bad for your drivers.
- Toilet paper or tissues. Don't ask why, just do it.
- A stick of deoderent.
- A sleeping bag.
- An extra set of clothing, at the minimum, an extra pair of socks and undergarments.
- Something to drink, food, mainly fruit, or something with nuts, at the minimum.
- Reading material, for waits and quiet rides.