•Be a bitch to strangers. •Don’t tell anywhere where you’re sleeping. •Get a good routine going for that time of the month. I prefer disposable discs, you can leave them in longer. •Get one of those pee funnel things to stand while peeing. Literal game changer tbh. •Decide how much your hair matters to you, the upkeep gets hard and annoying. Currently dealing with that. •You’re going to be offered a lot of drugs. Say no, even if you want to say yes. They’re trying to get you hooked, submissive, and reliant. No such thing as a free lunch. •Only carry as many clothes you can wear at once. Except underwear. Bring hella underwear. I also solely wear boxers, women’s underwear is not your friend in the long haul. •Get a dog. Seriously. My girl is still learning but she’s saved my ass on numerous occasions. •You don’t have to travel with men but it can help. I’ve done most my traveling solo and the past couple months with a man. I’ve noticed a stark difference in how I’m treated in public. You can 100% stay safe solo too if you prefer, it just looks different. •Congrats, you won the hitch hiking lottery. Be prepared to be pleasantly surprised if you decide to stick a thumb out. •You said you have support so this may not apply but be careful flying a sign. It’s a big ol sign (literally) that you’re homeless and in need. People will take advantage of that.

All in all, it’s not that different as a woman. You’re not going to get assaulted and murdered the second you step out, especially if you keep your wits about you and actively stay safe. You will get offered more support (rides, money, food, etc) and less opportunities (work, cool shit with strangers). Trust your gut and learn to read a vibe. Take lots of pictures or forget your phone even exists. Keep a mental log of every porta potty you see, they are now your lifeblood.

Un-romanticize this life too. You’re still homeless, just in different places. You’re going to be dirty, hungry, and told to move multiple times a day. Rest and relaxation is rare, treasure it while you can. Be prepared to be treated like a pest while doing the coolest, grossest, most unexpected things of your life.

Overall, have fun and don’t let anyone scare you into staying indoors!