I am a Missouri State Trooper. If you are contacted by an officer be polite and answer any questions honestly. Lay down your hiking staff and keep your hands empty and in plain sight. Make any movements slowly and only when directed to do so. If the officer decides to conduct a pat search, comply with his instructions. Yes, you can be searched by an officer of the opposite gender. Tell the officer if you are carrying a knife, pepper spray or anything that could be taken for a weapon. If you have to reach into a pocket that contains a knife or pepper spray, tell the officer it is there. We don't like surprises. Explain why you are hiking. You will most likely be asked for identification. A computer check to ensure that you do not have a warrant for your arrest will be conducted. Plan your overnight stops to be off the highway. We dislike having a report of a "man down" and finding out it is someone sleeping on the side of the road with out the good sense to be out of sight. Being clean and neat in personal appearence counts a lot towards creditability. Having good camping equipment adds to the overall appearence. DO NOT carry a knife that gives the primary appearance as a weapon. Bayonets are not a valid camping tool, they are designed to be a weapon. No "Rambo" knives, just something that looks like a camping tool. Your pack can be searched because it IS on your person. If you truly support the FOP that is a fine thing. Just carrying the card to quote "get in good with us" smacks of being phony. Things that appear phony cause further investigation. Don't BS, tell the truth. Different jurisdictions have different laws relating to weapons. Generally laws are more stringent in cities than in rural locations. If you are told you have violated a law, apoligize and inquire how to be in compliance, then do so. Be friendly and non threating to the officer. Hope this helps. Have a great journey seeing our wonderful country.