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.
Always hitchhike with at least one other travel partner, even if traveling in a country with a reputation for safe hitchhiking.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Be prepared to chat with your driver and his companions. If you share a common language, chances are you will be expected
to socialize.
