I have done this numerous times for fun. I hitchhike, meeting new people and getting the pulse of a place. I love it, but I cannot suggest that for everybody. Try it if you dare to, you won't regret it. I also have many friends who do the same, none of us are poor or homeless, it is just a cheap and fun way to get around. Also, greyhound bus lines has a pass similar to Eurail where you get to travel on any greyhound bus for a certain period of time. Amtrak has something similar but it is limited to the train routes which are not extensive in the US. Look on Craiglist also under RIDESHARE, and you will find people driving all over who want a second driver and help with gas. Then there is a thing called driveaway services, google it. It is a service that connects people wanting to go somewhere with people who need their cars driven somewhere. There are some drawbacks there but check it out. Have fun.
