How to Hitchhike When Traveling Abroad

There are some places in the world where hitchhiking is relatively safe, inexpensive and a good way to meet locals. Do your research ahead a time to determine whether this is a transportation option for you, and maximize your safety and comfort with the following guidelines.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Local Guidebooks
• Water Bottles
• Fruit Snacks
• Maps
• Foreign Language Phrase Books

1. Research thoroughly whether hitchhiking is considered safe in the area you will be visiting by checking a variety of sources. Your best sources will be other travelers experienced with budget travel in the area, but also check guidebooks and travel advisories issued by your country's consulate or embassy.

2. Always hitchhike with at least one other travel partner, even if traveling in a country with a reputation for safe hitchhiking.

3. Learn the culturally appropriate hand signals for asking for a ride in the region where you are traveling. An extended thumb will only get you confused looks in some areas of the world.

4. Have a local write down your destination if you don't speak or write in the local dialect. Indicate when asking for a ride that you want to go "toward" or "in the direction of" a particular place so that you have the option of taking a ride part of the way and then hitching other rides if necessary.

5. Ask locals where the best roads and times of day are for catching rides. If catching a ride on a truck or tractor that will be picking up other passengers along the way, the earlier you go looking for a ride the better your seat.

6. Find out bus and train fares to your destination, and use these as guidelines for settling a price with your driver, if compensation is culturally expected.

7. Split your group into smaller units if trying to catch a ride for three or more people. It's easier to flag down a vehicle if there are only two of you, and then negotiate taking more people from there.

8. Carry a map that marks roads and highways so that you are familiar with your route. Also bring plenty of water and an extra layer of clothing to maximize health and safety while you wait for a ride.

9. Be prepared to chat with your driver and his companions. If you share a common language, chances are you will be expected to socialize.

Tips & Warnings

• Be a socially responsible traveler by researching the way in which hitchhiking works in the local culture and economy before negotiating payments. In some regions, rides are given to locals for free, and an offer of payment by a "rich foreigner" may make it difficult for locals to find affordable transportation; in other regions, payment makes it possible for private drivers to provide cheap and efficient transportation alternatives.
• Hitchhiking in many parts of the world is a dangerous activity. Consider hitchhiking only if you are an experienced traveler and are certain it is legal, common and safe in the area in which you are traveling.
• Plan in advance how you will deal with sleepy or intoxicated drivers. Options may include requesting to be let off earlier than you planned, paying for a rest or meal break, or singing very loudly.
• Stay awake during the ride to ensure your own safety and to ensure that you arrive at your desired destination.

on 11/22/2005 I found myself in Puerto Vallarta recently with a very heavy backpack and several hours until my plane left. What to do with the backpack?

I went to a Sam's store, where they insist you can't take the pack into the store, so I checked the backpack at the door. I went in one door and out the other. I returned to pick up my backpack shortly before my plane was to leave. Problem solved!