Hitchhiking 101

So, it seems there are a few places more difficult to hitch in...Asia being one of them. I guess because of the huge amount of backpackers here, especially on the routes I did in Laos. It seemed there were less offers of assistance on these roads. many drivers expected I wanted to be walking (which I did).

In many Asian countries there are private vans and cars with paid drivers. Don't bother flagging these cars down, they charge a rate to take you to your destination, much like taking a bus and quite the opposite of what you want to achieve.

Here are some basic rules 'of thumb' -

1. Be prepared to walk. In countries where hitchhikers are not common, it may take you a while to find a hitch but there is no point getting sad about it!

2. Wear bright fun clothing, a smile and have a clear sign. Taking your sunglasses or hat off when cars come may also help in the trust department as people can see your full face. Use a friendly wave and point in the direction you want to go rather than sticking out your thumb - it helps!

3. Choose a good location. Make sure you are somewhere drivers can see you..and have time to think about picking you up..and that there is enough space for them to stop safely. You don't want to cause any major traffic accidents!

..and preferably not here...

4. Be careful walking on highways..try to find a lift before, at toll roads, service stations, restaurants etc You'll be amazed what a simple chat can achieve (provided you speak the language!)

5. Speaking of safety, ensure you have your intuition and judgment skills switched on, you can easily assess the feeling of a person from one look - remember to do this! If you don't feel safe, the person is too eager to get you in the car or there is something else, simply don't get in..you'll always get another lift!