The world is a huge place, and it’s important to see as much of it as it’s humanly possible! The downside is obviously the cost; there is even a saying, “if travel was free, you would never see me again.” Unfortunately, it isn’t free. But many people choose hitch-hiking as a wonderful option to travel with a limited budget. Ten of the best countries to visit if you are looking to do some hitchhiking. Take a look at this sort of hitchhiker’s guide.
Now, before you worry about this process, provided you stay safe and use your common sense, there is no reason to worry about hitchhiking, and there are many places where this is actively encouraged.
Related Read: Top Hiking Locations in the US
Best Countries to Hitchhike
New Zealand
Road trips around this beautiful country, whether you choose the North or South Island, are epic, and the landscapes make for amazing trips. Hitch-hiking is quite easy here, and people are extremely friendly. Bear in mind that you can’t walk on motorways, but it is safe and legal to hitch-hike everywhere else.
Cuba
Hitchhiker’s Guide is quite simply the easiest South American country in which to hitchhike, and the process is also extremely common here, too. Private cars are actively encouraged to pick up hikers, and although you may be asked to pay a small fee, this is still affordable compared to buses and trains etc. Plus visiting Cuba is an extremely fun adventure.
The Netherlands
In keeping with the hip reputation of the Netherlands, simply stick your thumb out and wait for a ride! There are designated signs around the country, telling you where to wait, however, do bear in mind that it is illegal to wait on motorways/expressways.
Germany
Germany is a huge country, and this is an easy way to get around. It is illegal to hitch-hike on motorways, or autobahn, however, you are able to wait at service stations or ramps. You will find hitch-hiking a very common occurrence in Germany.
Israel
A country where you might not be expecting hitchhiking to be that common, Israel has designated areas, known as ‘trempiyadas’, which you will find at most junctions/intersections. The good news is that even if you don’t find a ride, most ‘trempiyadas’ are also bus stops, so one way or another you’re not going to be waiting too long.
Belgium
Hitch-hiking across the Netherlands and into Belgium is a fantastic way to see two countries, and again, it is a very common practice here too. Again, avoid main motorways, however, the rest of the roads are perfectly safe for hitchhiking.
Argentina
The sheer size of Argentina makes getting around a bit of a chore, however, hitchhiking is common here. Bus prices in Argentina aren’t the cheapest, so this method of transport makes perfect sense!
Uruguay
Another South American option, Uruguay is one of the safest countries in the region, and it is very easy to hitchhike here. Many locals have a positive view of hitchhiking, and this is a good way to see the passing landscapes without having to wait for buses or trains.
Italy
The sheer beauty of Italy means a road trip around its landmass is a must-do! It is illegal to hitchhike on main roads, e.g. the motorways, however, the rest of the roads are perfectly safe for hitchhiking. The people are friendly and again, there is a positive view of hiking your way around the country, so you won’t struggle to find a ride.
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Spain
Whilst the coastal regions and main cities are very easy to get around, the more rural and lesser-known areas of Spain are perfect for hitch-hiking. You may have to wait a short while for a ride, however, this is a perfectly acceptable practice and a great way to see the more off-the-beaten-track destinations.
The article was contributed by Sunny Dawn, a freelance writer at http://www.freelancehouse.co.uk/
