The phrase "bum a ride" is mostly used to describe the act of hitchhiking. However, there are many other ways to refer to this practice, depending on the context and region. In some places, people may say "catch a lift" or "hitch a ride" instead of "bum a ride." Other synonyms for the phrase include "thumb a ride," "beg a ride," or "beat a ride." Some people may even use slang phrases like "flag down a car" or "shake down a ride." Regardless of the phrasing, the idea remains the same: getting a ride from someone else to reach a destination.