Everyone has their own bucket lists, whether it’s witnessing the surreal beauty of nature, experiencing different customs and culture, traditional delicacies, or taking a break from routine life and living amidst nature.
One of the most common barriers travel enthusiasts and adventure lovers face is budget issues. It can be costly to travel the whole world on your budget unless you are born with a silver spoon. But that shouldn’t stop you from living your dream life full of adventures worldwide.
Taking cheap flights, staying at hostel sharing rooms, and using cheap accommodation and transport systems are many ways you can lower your traveling expenses and tick your bucket lists. Hitchhiking is one of them. Hitchhiking, which is typically free, involves arranging a ride to the destination by requesting a lift from passing vehicles. The concept of hitchhiking came from the nomads, and it’s now adapted by many in their travel journeys. Overcoming your fear and building trust in humans is essential to starting hitchhiking.
Hitchhiking tips:
- Your Backpack is Your Asset:
Have your essentials in your backpack securely, as it will be your best companion throughout your journey. Have your phone and cash with you in your pocket securely. Have your medicines and basic first aid with you. Avoid overpacking because that can be a burden for you later. You are most likely not to get picked up if you carry extra baggage with you.
- Friendly Outlook:
Having a smile on your face and positive body language can make you look more friendly and harmless to the driver. This will increase the chances of getting your ride. Put on clean and nice clothes, and it will make you look more approachable. Avoid doing anything culturally inappropriate in the area. Always be polite when you are approaching them.
- Fix Your Method:
Decide your destination. Choose where you’ll wait for your ride. Make sure there is a wide space for the driver to stop his vehicle. Even better if you wait at the stoppage of vehicles or where there are more vehicles on the road. It raises the chances of getting a ride. You can put your thumb out in the direction you want to go. Stand there waiting for your ride; you can use a placard sign if you want.
- Safety Measures:
Always be aware and listen to your intuition. Make your judgment while the driver is pulling out, have a conversation, and if something seems off, don’t get in. Make sure the driver is not drunk. Don’t forget to take a picture of the number plate of the vehicle and share your location with your friends and family. Don’t overlook any negative vibes; listen to the gut.
Daytime is ideal. Plan out to go in the morning or in the daylight. Nighttime can be risky for hitchhiking. The drivers are also more concerned about letting a stranger into their car at night, so there is less chance for you.
- Make sure it is legal:
Hitchhiking is legal in most countries of the world. But there are some countries where it is outlawed, acknowledging the threat to the driver and hitchhikers. So, it will not be a good idea to break the rules in an unknown land. Safety and legality come first.
- Patience and Positivity:
It is normal for you to get frustrated while waiting. Breaking down is not an option for you. Staying strong mentally and physically, not losing hope, and having patience is a must.
A hitchhiking journey can turn into lifelong memories of adventure. It’s a great opportunity for the risk-takers and fearless travelers.
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Writer,
Sayeda Jannatun Nahar
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE