Hitchhikers

Hitchhikers are people who travel by obtaining rides from passing motorists, usually by signaling with an outstretched thumb. The practice depends on the willingness of strangers to provide transportation and can be used for short trips or lengthy journeys. The term hitchhike emerged in English in the late 19th century and gained popularity in the 20th century with the rise of automobile travel.

To hitchhike, travelers typically stand at road edges, rest stops, or other safe spots and indicate a destination, often with a sign. Drivers may stop if they feel comfortable with the request and the signals are clear. Practical considerations include choosing safe locations, traveling in daylight, and avoiding risky situations. Safety advice commonly emphasizes not riding alone at night, keeping friends informed, trusting one's instincts, and declining rides that feel unsafe. Laws regarding hitchhiking vary by country and region, and in some places it is discouraged or prohibited on certain highways.

In culture and media, hitchhiking has become a recognizable motif representing travel and improvisation. It appears in folk tales and road-themed literature, as well as in modern works such as Douglas Adams's The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, where the term is central to the premise. The practice continues in some regions where car culture remains prevalent, while in others it has declined due to safety concerns and traffic laws. Modern connectivity has produced ride-sharing platforms and informal networks that facilitate informal hitchhiking.