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:''Texas definitely exceeded my expectations. The folks here are friendly and hospitable; none of that "You ain't from around here" stereotyping. Hitching is easy compared to neighboring states. Most locals work on oil rigs or ranches, so expect lots of working vehicles. '' -[[User:Dr.Keith|Keith]]
If you are comfortable doing so, I recommend standing where an on-ramp meets the highway itself (either on the shoulder or grass) - something that is legal in texas. The sheer number of cars means you will get a ride fairly quickly. Otherwise, ask at truck stops (ask truckers and regular cars). Pilot truck stops have free WiFi. The attendants are usually cool unless they think you're begging and/or scamming (something that people unfortunately see way too often and which can also make it difficult to get rides). I had pretty decent luck, making it over 1000 miles from Austin TX to Jacksonville FL in 2 days. I met some very kind people (including one trucker who let me sleep on the spare bunk in his truck) but I also got asked for sex by 2 drivers in texas. Hitchhiking in the states is a real bummer for me because of the way people regard you - most assume you're a begger, criminal, prostitute or all 3. They never consider that you could be doing this by choice and after this trip I understand why riding freight is so popular. Definately agree with the comment above that people would rather give you money than a ride. That said, its definately possible to have great experiences; be polite, try to seem "wholesome" and throw in a m'am/sir. As in other states, a lot of drivers told me they only gave me a ride as a female alone, and wouldn't have picked up a man or a couple. -Liz, December 2017
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