Two things that I dislike about bicycle riding are getting stuck on long stretches with heavy vehicular traffic, and backtracking the same route to get back to your starting point - ie, I'd rather see 30 miles of new scenery, than 15 miles twice (when you can't build a good loop).

In an urban area a folder often gives you public transport options to minimize both issues, but what do you do in the country away from these transportation infrastructures?

I recent did a ultralight 3-night camping tour on my Brompton and was shocked at how many folks had never really seen a folding bicycle before. People were astounded by the bike with many actually asking if they could take pictures of it. It certain opened up many friendly conversations.

So I was wondering if this folding bicycle curiosity might be a good catalyst to catch a ride while out in the country. Just fold the bike up by your feet and stick your thumb out. There's bound to a few folks that would inquisitively stop to check out the bike and offer you a ride. Just testing in my own cars, I think I can gracefully board most cars with the Brompton right on my lap, and without touching/bumping any part of the vehicle - in other words, no additional loading time or effort required by the driver vs a regular hitchhiker.

So, anyone ever try hitchhiking with a folding bike?