Re: Ever hitchhiked? In the last few years?
I hitched all around the country back in 70-72. Mostly finding myself, and getting through the VN experience.
I kept clean, had a few bucks at all times, and never had a hard time from people or LEO. In fact the LA Highway patrol gave me a ride from one end of the state to the other, on I-10, just because the first guy's son was in the 101st. I would get out at the edge of one guy's area, and the next Patrolman was waiting, to give me a ride. they bought me lunch, and wished me well. Never happen now, I don't think.
I got rides from preachers, salesmen, GI's, old guys, farmers, ranchers (always offered a place to stay, and some work), and once in a great while a lady.
finally settled down, and gave it up to go back to school.
OK, but hard to get a ride sometimes, and hard to stay clean all day. Have to keep neat looking, polite, and avoid the hobo jungles.
I don't think the tenor of the country is right for traveling like that.
Read the "Reacher" series of stories by Lee.