Red Dead Redemption 2 is filled with small yet immersive details that make its world feel alive. While most players are familiar with fast travel and horseback riding, there’s a lesser-known way to get around the map—hitchhiking.
This unique mechanic allows players to hop into wagons and buggies, letting NPCs take them to different locations without the need for manual travel. It’s a simple yet effective way to explore the vast landscapes of Rockstar’s masterpiece without missing out on the breathtaking scenery. Let’s take a deeper look at this feature and why it’s such an underrated part of the game.
What Is Hitchhiking in Red Dead Redemption 2?
Most players rely on fast travel or their trusted horse to get from one place to another. However, Red Dead Redemption 2 includes an alternative travel method—hitchhiking.
Instead of riding alone, you can ask NPCs in wagons, coaches, or buggies for a lift. This feature isn’t explicitly explained in the game, which is why many players never even realize it exists.
A recent discussion on Reddit highlighted this hidden mechanic when a user asked about their biggest “Wait… You Can Do That?!” moments in RDR2. One player mentioned, “Asking people in wagons/coaches/buggies for rides.” The response from the community was filled with shock, with some players admitting they had never discovered this feature despite multiple playthroughs.
One user commented, “WHAT?!? I have done 3 playthroughs and never once come across this. I may fire up a save just to try it out.” Another added, “Just discovered this about a month ago. Makes me wonder what else I’ve missed.”
Why Was Hitchhiking a Common Practice in the Wild West?
Beyond being a cool in-game detail, hitchhiking in Red Dead Redemption 2 is actually rooted in history.
Back in the late 1800s, being stranded without a horse in the wilderness could be life-threatening. That’s why people often relied on the kindness of travelers for a ride. In those days, stealing a horse was considered a serious crime, sometimes punishable by death. Hitchhiking was a normal part of life, long before cars and public transportation became widespread.
One Reddit user pointed out, “Being stranded without a horse in the wilderness could lead to death. That’s why people give rides, and why horse thieves were prosecuted harshly. Hitchhiking only stopped being a thing about 80 years later.”
Rockstar Games is known for adding historically accurate details to their games, and this feature is another example of their commitment to realism.
How to Hitchhike in Red Dead Redemption 2
If you’re interested in trying out this hidden travel method, here’s how you can do it:
- Find a Wagon or Coach: Look for NPCs riding wagons, coaches, or buggies along roads or in towns.
- Approach the Driver: Walk up to the driver and greet them. Some NPCs will respond positively, while others might ignore you or react negatively.
- Request a Ride: If the driver is friendly, they may offer you a seat in their wagon.
- Enjoy the Journey: Once inside, you can relax and watch the world go by as the NPC takes you to their destination.
It’s important to note that not every NPC will let you hitch a ride. Some may simply keep moving, while others might react aggressively if you try to stop them. This adds a layer of unpredictability to the experience, making it feel more dynamic and immersive.
Why This Feature Matters in Red Dead Redemption 2
While fast travel is convenient, it takes away the opportunity to fully appreciate the game’s breathtaking world. Hitchhiking offers a more immersive alternative, allowing players to travel without skipping the journey entirely.
Here’s why it’s worth trying:
- Experience the world at a slower pace: Red Dead Redemption 2’s map is one of the most beautifully crafted open worlds in gaming history. Hitchhiking lets you appreciate the small details you might otherwise miss.
- Discover hidden locations: You never know where an NPC might take you. You could stumble upon new locations, events, or random encounters.
- Adds realism to the game: Just like in the real Wild West, hitchhiking is a natural way for travelers to get around. It makes the game feel even more authentic.
Will GTA VI Have Similar Immersive Travel Mechanics?
With Grand Theft Auto VI on the horizon, many fans are wondering what kind of immersive details Rockstar will introduce in their next game. While hitchhiking might not make sense in a modern setting (since taxis and Uber-like services exist), there’s hope that GTA VI will include other dynamic travel options.
Could NPCs offer carpool rides? Will players be able to take public transportation in more interactive ways? Rockstar’s track record suggests that they will push the boundaries of realism once again, and fans are eager to see what’s next.
Final Thoughts
Red Dead Redemption 2 continues to impress players with its deep, immersive world—even years after its release. Hitchhiking is just one of the many small details that showcase Rockstar’s attention to realism and historical accuracy.
If you haven’t tried it yet, go ahead and see if you can catch a ride in-game. Who knows? You might just find yourself appreciating the journey more than the destination.
Don’t forget to checkout our PS5 Best Settings: 5 Features to Turn Off Now (And Why You Should), Will GTA 6’s Second Trailer Drop on April Fool’s Day? Fans Think So!, How to Choose the Perfect Gaming Monitor for Your Setup in 2025 for more fun gaming.
