29 July,2010 07:38 AM IST | | THE TRIP TEAM
Hitchhiking isn't common in India but if you decide to venture bravely where no one has beenu00a0 before, here are some tips that will help you travel by the seat of your pants.
When a vehicle stops, ask the driver where s/he is headed to so it's easy for you to decline if the driver doesn't smell right or if you don't get a good vibe, instantly.
Always note the vehicle registration number, colour, model and make of the vehicle and text it to a family member/friend before you hitch a ride.
Single women should avoid hitchhiking. It sounds sexist but let's face it, we don't live in a country of gentlemen!
Be prepared to walk. It isn't easy to get a lift in the direction that you are headed and the best way to get from one place to another is to start walking. This obviously means you wear sturdy, comfortable walking gear.
Ensure you have a relatively destination for the night because getting a ride at night is difficult. If there's no option but to walk, wear bright clothes so drivers can spot you from a distance and stop to give you a lift or at least not collide into you.
Never forget the essentials: Bottled water, a lighter or matchsticks (if you have to sleep outside and build a small fire), a loaf of pau/bread, chocolate and dry fruits to keep your energy up, thick black marker to to make a sign to attract a driver's attention, a map and a torch.
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