Use a sign when drivers need to know which direction you’re heading. If naming a destination seems to rule out useful shorter rides, try your thumb. A city name can help drivers recognise your route, though some will read it as the exact ride you need.

I haven’t hitchhiked myself. The [hitchhikers’ accounts](https://www.reddit.com/r/hitchhiking/comments/17atpqy/signs_with_destinations_far_away/) and published guidance describe this problem, and I’d apply their advice like this:

- Before a junction, or where traffic can take several routes, show your direction. A recognisable city beyond the split or a motorway number with a direction can help.
- Where traffic already goes your way, try your thumb first. Once someone stops, you can ask how far they’re going.
- For an intermediate destination, choose somewhere drivers are likely to recognise from local road signs. “Next big city” only works if they understand where it falls on their route.
- If you need to get past a city, consider naming somewhere beyond it. A sign for the city itself may get you a ride into the centre, leaving you with another difficult exit.
- At motorway service areas, ask parked drivers. You can explain: “I’m heading towards X, but another service area along that route would help.” Agree on the drop-off before leaving.

The [Neo-Nomad hitchhiking guide, pp. 19 and 20](https://hitchwiki.org/en/images/en/c/cb/Hitchhiking_-_Neo-nomad.pdf) recommends showing the most logical direction and carrying several signs. It also warns that a distant destination can discourage drivers who could offer a useful shorter ride.

I’d keep the sign to one main message, written in large, bold letters with strong contrast. Use local place names and familiar abbreviations. Something like `A7 SOUTH` may be easier to understand than several cities and road numbers. Hold it where drivers can see your face too, and use your thumb alongside it.

For your situation, I’d try a motorway number and direction, or no sign, before adding more destinations. “Towards X” or “X, partway OK” can show that you’re flexible where vehicles move slowly. At speed, the extra words may be hard to read.

Carry a marker and cardboard you can write on both sides so you can change the message. Try a nearer destination, a broader direction, or just your thumb. One quick pickup or one long wait won’t tell you much on its own; judge the rides by how easy it is to continue from the drop-off as well as how long you waited.