Tips for hitchhiking — you can travel even without money!
Compared to abroad, hitchhiking in China might be a bit more difficult. That’s not to say hitchhiking is easy overseas, but rather that it’s a socially more widely accepted practice there. It's usually easier to establish a basic level of trust between the hitchhiker and the driver abroad, which I think is the fundamental reason. But as the living standards of Chinese people continue to improve, more individuals are beginning to pursue spiritual fulfillment. As such, hitchhiking will gradually gain popularity in China too, since it's a really interesting way to travel. Everyone wants to see different sights, so why limit yourself to just one method? That’s why we at HowToTrip would like to share some tips on how to hitchhike.
1. The hitchhiking gesture: thumb up — universally understood.
You can wave it back and forth to catch the driver’s attention. I'm sure most of you know this gesture, but the goal is to attract the driver’s attention — just make sure it’s not an offensive one.
2. Know your map.
Study maps and do your research. Know the towns and villages you’ll be passing through. It’s rare to get a ride all the way to your destination; often you’ll need to hitch in segments, as drivers may only take you as far as a certain town.
3. Where to hitchhike?
General roads (national, provincial, county, or rural roads): It’s best to hitch a bit away from towns where there are more cars and fewer people. The closer you are to residential areas, the harder it is to get a ride — drivers also tend to be more cautious. On highways: you can ask drivers while they’re refueling at gas stations, try hitching at highway entrances, or cross the toll gate to a junction. But don’t walk too far — the speed is high, and in principle pedestrians aren’t allowed on highways. Drivers may drop you off at a highway exit, and you can walk to the next entrance to continue hitching. Don’t go too far — safety first!
4. What to say to drivers?
Smile and say: “Hi, I’m heading in the direction of xxx, can I get a ride? / Can you give me a lift?” When saying the direction, don’t go too far — usually mentioning the next town or city along your route is good enough. For example, if you're starting from Chengdu heading toward Tibet, you might say: “I’m headed in the direction of Ya’an, can I get a ride?” Don’t just get in the car and say, “Hey driver, I’m going to Lhasa, can I get a ride?” … Why not explain? Before getting in the car, always confirm whether they expect payment. Usually, rideshares don’t involve payment, but you should chat with the driver to keep them company. In any case, talk to the driver more once you’re in the car — it helps build rapport, and believe me, it doesn’t hurt.
5. What kind of appearance makes it easier to get a ride?
Backpackers or students are the easiest to hitch rides with — drivers will take interest in your look. Showing up with a rolling suitcase and waiting by the roadside will probably only get you a long-distance bus… Make sure you look clean — no one wants to pick up a grungy backpacker.
6. Hitchhiking combinations.
Traveling alone is definitely the easiest — drivers can often squeeze out a seat even if the car seems full.
A couple — one male and one female — is the perfect combo. The girl can flag down cars (drivers’ weak spot), and the guy can chat with the driver and take care of the girl during the ride.
Two girls are also very likely to get rides — driving can get boring, and picking up two girls to chat with is always nice.
Two guys are a bit more difficult — drivers are often hesitant to stop. Groups of more than two people are even harder to hitch with, as there may not be enough space even if the driver is willing.
HowToTrip – your outdoor adventure and road trip travel website.