Also, and I know I'm going to get hated on here, but if you ever get a chance, try using a lightweight pair of trekking poles. They make a WORLD of difference. Especially being able to move faster, and taking a huge load off of your lower body.
They are not practical in all situations, like in hoping trains, but hitching and walking, hell ya.
During my last grand walking adventure last winter I used trekking poles for the first time, always considered them pointless. But coming through the mountains with ice and snow, and just generally walking for long distances at a time, they were a blessing. They do minimize the weight impact and provides better balance and stabilization, especially over rough and uneven terrain... ✌️
❤️