Contacting a HitchHiker using a CB radio

[Bling Lady]

Yes, I agree.  We often are going down the road and see a rig with the antenna up, or something that we would like to tell them.  So we usually get on the CB, and try to talk to them, but usually don't hear from them, so we assume they don't have a CB.

Hi,

I am posting an idea for comments.

A couple days ago, we saw two Hitchhikers going the opposite direction on I-44. Maybe we know them. Maybe we should.

I began thinking about how to communicate with HitchHikers we see on the road. Most RVers have CB radios in their tow vehicle. My thought is that we move to CB channel 8, if we want to communicate with these HitchHikers. I am not suggesting we monitor CB channel 8 all the time. I am not suggesting we change our current CB radio habits – only switch to CB channel 8 to make a contact. In the situation described above, you would have only a couple minutes to talk to them. In slower traffic, more time to communicate would be available.

Because “H” (for HitchHiker) is the eighth letter of the alphabet, I selected CB channel 8 for this contact? If we forget the channel number, maybe the “H” will remind us. Based on what I read, CB channel 8 can be used for this purpose.

What do you think?  Should we start spreading the word to “Use CB channel 8 to pick up a HitchHiker”?


Fred

[ragface]

I think ch 8 was the original suggestion on this thread, so seems like that should be our choice.  My problem is that I had forgotten, but now with the notion that "H" is the eighth letter - I think I can remember that!   We always give a toot on the horn, but two rigs closing at over 100 mph (2 x 50mph)........

[WD40]

I have found one or two other HitchHikers on CH 8 a time or two. When meeting them on the road you only have time to say Hi & Bye.
Ever now and then they will have a good CB radio and you can talk for a mile or two.

[AmGypsies]

My father just gave us his CB, and after thanking him diligently for it and leaving, I turned to the DH and said, "Now what are we going to do with this?"  I will have to turn it onto channel 8 and start looking for you guys!

[LoneGranger]

 

I caravanned briefly with four other HHs in Yellowstone this summer and that was the only time I've turned mine on!  Some folks say they're good for traffic info.  Maybe some of those users will chime in here.

Debbie 

[Jeff Collingwood]

You probably won't hear much.  I haven't met any of us on the road that actually listen to CH 8.  Most only turn it on when traveling with a friend.
...Jeff...

My father just gave us his CB, and after thanking him diligently for it and leaving, I turned to the DH and said, "Now what are we going to do with this?"  I will have to turn it onto channel 8 and start looking for you guys!

[ragface]

We use ours 95% for traveling with friends, but every once in a while it does come in handy for getting local info or finding out about an accident.  We have even had truckers cut in when we were discussing directions and offer help, or once we were looking for fuel and a trucker cut in and offered great advice.

[HighwayRanger]

but two rigs closing at over 100 mph.....

Caught my attention, Murray!   

   Roy 

[Fred A.]

Hi,

I am glad to see my suggestion to use CH. 8 is still alive and well on the forum. We continue to attempt making a contact with other HHs on our CB as we travel.

 Fred

[Jeff Collingwood]

If anyone ever is successful in this  I will be surprised.  I don't even have my CB on, so you won't reach me

Does anyone leave their CB on with it on CH 8?
...Jeff...

Hi,

I am glad to see my suggestion to use CH. 8 is still alive and well on the forum. We continue to attempt making a contact with other HHs on our CB as we travel.

 Fred

[Fred A.]

Jeff,

I don't have my CB 'on' all the time either. However, it is always set on CH 8.

If I see another HH, I turn it 'on', put out a call and hope for the best.

Someday, I WILL be surprised.

Fred

[warthog]

If I see another HH, I will turn it 'on', put out a call and hope for the best also.

Nate

[kkro]

We use walkie-talkies or the cell phone when traveling with friends. Haven't used a CB since the 70's.

[cdrcos]

This was discussed quite a while ago and less than 1/2 of the HitchHiker owners use a CB regularly these days.

http://nuwaowners.org/forum/index.php/topic,3645.0.html

[ragface]

Although 53% use it always or sometime.  I have tried several times and have yet to make contact.  I'll keep trying but it requires both rigs to be alert, notice each other, think to turn on the CB, and remember ch 8 - lot to happen in a short time.  Plus a very large percentage of HH owners have not yet discovered the forum.

[LoneGranger]

There were several of us...you and Shelle included...who used our CBs when we caravaned from Tetons to the G & G.  That was fun.

Debbie

[warthog]

This could be fun, if you see another HH turn your CB on and try to talk to the other person.  If you do make contact post it some place on the form.

Nate

[InfoHog]

I just found this thread even though it has been here for some time. Yes, I like this idea though I think one would have to react quickly. My CB usually stays on when traveling because we normally travel with friends and we "talk to each other  often . I just turn squelch down so most of the "trash talking" does not bother me. My buddy stays close enough where we can usually hear one another calling. We bought good antennas  and mount then to the top arm of our extended mirrors  and they really pick up well. (they are way out there). We take antennas off when home.  I always take the lead when going because my buddy gets "lost" too much and I point him in the right direction via CB. He always passes me up sometime on the way home because he is always ready to hurry and get there. I just let him go. We do not have a NUWA dealer in LA. so we see few Hitchhikers here. I do see a few of them on the road. We have signed up for the Rally in Montgomery, TX. in Oct. because we would like to meet some of you.    Ken

[graysneck]

I have my CB set to scan channels 8 & 13 only and leave it on all the time.  Also have a small sign attached to my ladder that says I am monitoring ch 13 in case anyone wants to contact me.

John

[cdrcos]

There were several of us...you and Shelle included...who used our CBs when we caravaned from Tetons to the G & G.  That was fun.

Debbie

I have found the Motorola Talkabout FRS radios to be great for caravanning.

Joe

[InfoHog]

We use the little hand held radios too when the "chatter" is so bad you really cannot use the CB effectively. I keep a set in my truck and share with whomever we are traveling with.