15 tramp tips for newcomers

15 tramp tips for newcomers

There is no worse means of transport than hitchhikes. Overcome your fear with these top tips for hitchhiking experienced travelers

I hate tramps. Perhaps it is the retired Brit in me, but I hate the feeling of embarrassment when I am rejected and the feeling of imposing when I am accepted.

I hate the feeling of putting strangers a request at feet and expecting that they say yes. I hate the awkwardness of the small talk and the penetrating feeling of guilt. If I could prevent it, I would never do it.

Of course, traveling from remote villages in the South Pacific meant that I had to swallow my hatred and hope for the best. Sometimes buses came for days, let alone for hours, not, so hitchhiking was the only option.

Despite the countless warnings around the hitchhike, it can be a cheap, simple and safe way to move on, especially if you know how to do it.

To help other newcomers, I asked a number of experienced travelers and put together their best tramp tips.

Check the local laws

hitchhikers are illegal in some areas and on certain types of streets, so find out about the rules beforehand. Ask a locals, whether there is a tramp and safe. If you have substances with you that can cause problems with the police (does), note that the hitchhiking can attract the attention of the local law enforcement authorities.

hitchhikers with a partner

A lonely hitchhiker looks like a drifter, while two hitchhikers like traveling friends look. If possible, travel with someone else. Some experts swear that two women do best, but we were told by several anhers that a mixed -sex couple works better. A driver who takes two women may be afraid that he will be accused of something unsavory, while a couple between men and women seem to be a safe bet with fewer complications.

Learn the right gesture

Make sure that you know the local gesture to stop a car, as the sign with the thumb upwards is not always appropriate. In parts of the South Pacific, for example, you are expected to stretch your hand with the palm of your hand down and move up and down as if you were ordering to slow down to the car.

you will find a good location

Think twice about making a sign

On the one hand, a sign is helpful because it clearly shows where the journey is going and the number of false starts minimizes. However, it can also work against them: some drivers who may have taken a bit with them may not stop because they do not drive to their goal. Instead, consider the general directions ("East" or "West").

wear clean clothes in light colors

The wearing of a light color makes it not only more visible, but also more accessible. White is a good choice because it implies cleanliness. Try looking cleanly and well -groomed. Nobody wants to spend the night on a long journey next to the stereotypical backpacker.

let the shadows fall

Do not wear shades or a hat; Let the drivers see their face. Make eye contact and offer a slight smile. This makes them look more trustworthy and accessible. A friendly hitchhiker has the theory that it makes you appear less threatening if you keep your forearms uncovered (that is, nothing hidden in your sleeves). I have no idea if that works, but it can't hurt.

be confident

Do not stretch your hand with a embarrassed shrug. Stand near the street, keep your hand high, be confident and smile. The drivers only have a few seconds to make their decision, and if they are half -hearted, they will be too.

you wave with your thanks, even if you don't stop

smile, nod or wave thanks to drivers who make eye contact, especially if you indicate that you cannot take them with you. It will help to dispel the general fear of hitchhiking.

be sure

• don't be afraid to reject a trip. If the driver seems unpredictable, unpredictable or just a creepy, ask him where he drives and tell him either that you take another way, or just tell him in general, but I hope that I can continue to drive ".
• Write down the license plate of the vehicle and ideally also the brand, model and color. If possible, send the information to a friend.
• sit on the passenger seat if possible, since the rear ones may have a child lock.
• keep your most important things at hand if you have to get out quickly. If your big backpack is enclosed in the trunk, be prepared to lose it.
• keep your phone charged. Buy a solar charger to charge it on the go.
• consider carrying out a personal security system (e.g. pepper spray). You will probably not need it, but it is best to be prepared.
• If you have accepted a ride, but absolutely want to get out of the vehicle, pretend you to hand over. Tell the driver that he shouldn't wait and go to the roadside.

Learn the language

If you are traveling in a site where you do not speak the language, you should acquire at least one or two sentences beforehand. Single drivers in particular are allowed to pick up hitchhiking for the company. A deadly embarrassing silence will not calm any of you.

keep a few sweets with you

whether it is a pack of sweets or a bar of chocolate to offer the driver something is a useful way to break the ice cream, especially if you don't speak its language.

consider to cross borders yourself

land borders are a good place to go along, but remember that drivers could be careful if they hitchhike transported across the borders. You may find it easier to cross the border yourself and try to find a ride on the other side. Note that some borders have a strip in between, which may not be crossed on foot.

Always wear a good card

Even if you have Google Maps, an excellent cover and a fully charged phone, you should always have a paper card and preferably also a compass.

you have a backup plan

You may have to run all day or pay for an overnight stay. If you have a plan B. If possible, if it means to do the same the same thing the next day, try not to be discouraged. The key is, happy, clean, friendly and accessible. Ask yourself: "Would I pick myself up?" And change your behavior or look accordingly.
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