Hitchhiking, once a popular and cost-effective mode of travel, has seen a decline in recent years. This article explores the legality of hitchhiking in the UK, the US, Europe, and other Western countries, examines the safety concerns for both hitchhikers and drivers, and discusses the reasons behind the decline in its popularity.

We’ll also explore why, personally, I would never choose to hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker due to the safety concerns, but why we have given strangers a lift on two occasions. But first, is hitchhiking illegal? Let’s explore.

Legality of Hitchhiking in Western Countries Across the Globe

In the UK, US, Australia, and Europe, hitchhiking laws vary considerably depending on the country, region, and even the type of road. While it remains legal in many places, there are specific regulations that restrict its practice, and cultural attitudes can make hitchhiking more or less common. Let’s look at the legal status of hitchhiking in different regions.

HITCHHIKING IN THE United Kingdom:

In the UK, hitchhiking is legal but subject to certain restrictions. It is prohibited to hitchhike on motorways and dual carriageways where pedestrians are banned, and standing on the hard shoulder to solicit a lift is illegal. However, hitchhiking is permitted on other roads where it is safe to do so.

Hitchhiking is not explicitly regulated by national laws in the UK but falls under general traffic and safety rules. For instance, it is illegal to obstruct traffic or create a hazard while attempting to hitchhike. Signs at motorway entrances often remind pedestrians not to walk or hitchhike along these roads.

HITCHHIKING IN THE United States:

In the US, hitchhiking laws vary by state, but it is generally legal in most areas with certain restrictions. According to reports, hitchhiking is legal in 44 of the 50 states, provided that the hitchhiker is not standing in the roadway or obstructing traffic. States often prohibit hitchhiking on highways or in areas where stopping is unsafe, such as near intersections or motorways.

Interestingly, even in states where hitchhiking is technically illegal, enforcement appears to be minimal. For instance, in Wyoming, the Highway Patrol approached 524 hitchhikers in 2010 but cited only eight of them. Following this, Wyoming legalised hitchhiking in 2013 (source).

It’s important to note that while hitchhiking is legal in many states, the rules can differ significantly between jurisdictions. Travellers are strongly encouraged to check local regulations before attempting to hitchhike, as laws can vary widely and are subject to change.

Despite its legality in most places, hitchhiking has become less common in the US due to cultural shifts, safety concerns, and the availability of alternative transport options like carpooling apps and public transport.

HITCHHIKING IN Europe:

In Europe, hitchhiking is legal in most countries but comes with regional nuances and restrictions. While it remains a relatively common practice in some areas, the legality and cultural attitudes towards hitchhiking can vary greatly.

For example:

• Germany: Hitchhiking is prohibited on highways (Autobahns) but is allowed on other roads. Many hitchhikers find success waiting at petrol stations near Autobahn entrances, where drivers heading long distances often stop.
• France: Hitchhiking is legal but regulated. While standing on busy roads or motorways is prohibited for safety reasons, using designated spots, such as petrol stations or carpooling areas, is both legal and effective. France is considered relatively hitchhiker-friendly, with a long history of roadside travel.
• Italy: Italy is known to be less welcoming to hitchhikers. Cultural attitudes often view picking up strangers as unusual or even unsafe. As a result, hitchhikers frequently report difficulties getting rides in Italy, sometimes finding it nearly impossible compared to neighbouring countries like France or Germany. This sentiment is supported by travellers who have shared their challenges on platforms like Quora.

Hitchhiking is particularly popular and well-accepted in Eastern European countries such as Poland, Czechia, and the Baltic states, where locals are often open to offering rides. In contrast, some Western European countries are stricter about where hitchhiking is permitted or culturally less inclined to participate.

Despite its general legality across Europe, safety rules often prohibit hitchhiking on motorways or other roads where stopping is unsafe. Signage indicating restrictions on pedestrians often serves as a clear guide for travellers.

As with anywhere in the world, the success and safety of hitchhiking in Europe depend on cultural attitudes, the specific location, and the precautions taken by both the hitchhiker and the driver.

Hitchhiking laws vary significantly depending on the country and even within regions of the same country. While hitchhiking is generally legal in the UK, US, and Europe with some restrictions, Australia has a more complex legal landscape:

HITCHHIKING IN Australia:

Hitchhiking is legal in most parts of Australia but with notable exceptions:

• Queensland and Victoria: Hitchhiking is explicitly illegal in these states.
• Motorways: Across Australia, hitchhiking is illegal on motorways, where pedestrians are prohibited, and vehicles are not allowed to stop.
• Non-stopping Zones: It’s also illegal to signal a vehicle to stop in non-stopping zones.

Hitchhiking was once a common way to travel in Australia, but it has significantly declined. As highlighted in a report by ABC News, the decline can be attributed to a combination of cultural and practical changes. The affordability of cars made individual travel more accessible, reducing the need for hitchhiking. Additionally, infamous crimes, such as the murder of seven young backpackers by Ivan Milat in the 1990s, have left a lasting impact on the perception of hitchhiking as unsafe.

This cultural shift is reflected in how rare it is to see hitchhikers on Australian roads today. Attitudes towards hitchhiking in Australia have changed so drastically that many people almost view it as a relic of the past.

Please note that the rules around hitchhiking can change over time. Always check the latest local government guidance or official travel websites for up-to-date information on whether hitchhiking is legal in the area you plan to visit.

Safety Concerns of Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking may seem like a spontaneous and adventurous way to travel, but it carries inherent risks for both the hitchhiker and the driver. Here’s a deeper look at these concerns:

SAFETY CONCERNS OF HITCHHIKING For Hitchhikers:

1. Unpredictability of Encounters:
   • When hitchhiking, you are relying on strangers, and there is no way to predict who will offer you a lift. While most people may have good intentions, there’s always the possibility of encountering someone with harmful or malicious intent.
   • In isolated or less populated areas, hitchhikers may be more vulnerable, as help could be far away in case of an emergency.
2. Theft or Assault:
   • Hitchhikers may be at risk of theft or even physical or sexual assault. As a lone traveller, you are vulnerable to situations where you have little control over who you’re getting into a vehicle with or where the journey may lead.
   • Reports of hitchhikers being victims of crimes like robbery, harassment, and violence have contributed to the decline in hitchhiking’s popularity.
3. Isolation and Remote Areas:
   • Hitchhiking can leave you stranded in remote locations with no backup plan if the lift doesn’t show up or if you end up in an unsafe area.
   • In such cases, you may have no immediate access to support services or safe places like shops or shelters.
4. Exposure to Harsh Weather:
   • Standing by the side of a road for long periods, particularly in extreme weather conditions, can leave hitchhikers exposed to the elements. Depending on the environment, extreme heat, cold, or rain can make it uncomfortable or even dangerous to wait for a lift.

SAFETY CONCERNS OF HITCHHIKING For Drivers:

1. Liability and Insurance Implications:
   • Offering a lift to a hitchhiker can lead to potential insurance complications. If an accident occurs while a hitchhiker is in the car, the driver’s insurance may not cover the injuries sustained by the hitchhiker or the driver’s liability in the accident.
   • Insurance coverage may be limited when carrying a hitchhiker because most private car insurance policies cover personal travel and passengers who are family or friends. However, when a driver picks up a stranger, it could be viewed differently by insurers, potentially leaving the driver with inadequate coverage for liability.
   • Some insurance companies may explicitly exclude passengers who are not “authorised” or “known” in their policy terms, meaning that, in the event of an accident, the driver could be held personally responsible for any costs or damages, including those associated with the hitchhiker’s injury.
2. Safety Risks for the Driver:
   • Hitchhiking places drivers in the position of offering a lift to an unknown individual. While most hitchhikers are harmless, there is a risk of encountering someone who poses a threat.
   • Some drivers may feel uneasy or uncomfortable, especially when their passengers behave in a way that seems suspicious, aggressive, or out of control. In rare cases, hitchhikers have been involved in violent crimes or assaults against drivers, making this an important concern for those who might pick up a hitchhiker.

Why Personally, I Would Never Choose to Hitchhike or Pick Up a Hitchhiker

Given the serious safety concerns outlined above, personally, I would never choose to hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker. The unpredictability and potential risks involved are simply too great for my comfort.

In today’s world, there are many safer and more reliable options available, such as public transport and ride-sharing services, that ensure the safety of both the traveller and the driver. These alternatives offer peace of mind, something that hitchhiking can rarely provide in the current climate.

There are many reasons that people won’t hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers that have contributed to its decline in recent decades. Let’s explore some of these reasons.

What are the Reasons for the Decline in Popularity Of Hitchhiking?

Hitchhiking was more common in the mid-20th century but has declined due to several factors:

1. Safety Concerns: Increased awareness of potential risks has deterred both hitchhikers and drivers.
2. Legal Restrictions: Stricter laws in many regions have made hitchhiking less feasible.
3. Alternative Transport: The rise of affordable public transport and ride-sharing services has provided safer and more reliable options.
4. Cultural Attitudes Towards Hitchhiking Due To Rising Costs: The decline in hitchhiking may partly be attributed to changing societal attitudes too. With the costs of fuel, car insurance, car maintenance, and road tax all on the rise, many drivers feel the financial strain of keeping their vehicles on the road. This could create a sense of resentment towards those looking for a free lift. The idea of offering a freebie when driving has become so expensive is unappealing to many.
5. Lack of Awareness or Interest: Modern generations are less familiar with hitchhiking as a travel option. With the prevalence of smartphones, GPS, and ride-hailing apps, younger people often don’t consider hitchhiking as a viable method of travel.
6. Perceived Social Stigma: Hitchhiking is sometimes viewed as something only desperate or unconventional people do, which has contributed to its decline. This perception has discouraged many from attempting to hitchhike or offering lifts.
7. Urbanisation: As more people live in cities with access to public transport, the need to hitchhike for rural or long-distance travel has diminished. Hitchhiking was often popular in rural areas where transport options were limited, but urbanisation has changed travel patterns.
8. Decline in Trust: As societies become more individualistic, there’s often less trust between strangers. Many people now feel more wary of engaging with someone they don’t know, making the concept of hitchhiking seem riskier.
9. Changing Visibility of Hitchhikers: Personally, I rarely see hitchhikers now, especially in the UK. Although it wasn’t very common when I was younger—I was born in the 1980s—I did see them more often back then. In fact, I recently saw a hitchhiker for the first time in years, and it really stood out to me as I’d almost forgotten hitchhiking was even a thing. This reflects how rare it has become, particularly in the UK, and is now less known among the younger generation.

Reasons People Choose to Hitchhike

Despite the decline, some still opt for hitchhiking due to:

• Cost: It’s a free way to travel, appealing to budget-conscious individuals.
• Adventure: The spontaneity and unpredictability can be exciting.
• Cultural Experience: It offers a chance to meet new people and experience local cultures intimately.

Why People Choose to Hitchhike: Stories from the Road

Hitchhiking may not be as common as it once was, but some people still embrace the adventure and spontaneity it offers. One such traveller, featured in the Express, has taken over 200 hitchhiking journeys across the UK. Inspired by his experiences hitchhiking in America, he claims he rarely waits more than half an hour for a ride, proving that plenty of drivers in the UK are still willing to pick up hitchhikers. For him, it’s not just about saving money—he’s estimated saving over £3,000—but also about meeting interesting people and sharing unique stories along the way.

His success in the UK is particularly striking when compared to his challenges in other countries. In an interview with the Independent, he shared that hitchhiking in Italy was nearly impossible. Cultural attitudes toward hitchhiking vary widely, and in Italy, he found that many people consider picking up strangers “crazy.” While this might align with my own views—I’m still surprised he manages to hitchhike so successfully in the UK—it’s interesting how perceptions of hitchhiking can shift across borders.

Unfortunately, hitchhiking is not without its risks. Tragic stories serve as stark reminders of the dangers involved for both hitchhikers and drivers. For example, a man in Alabama was sentenced to death for the murder of a hitchhiker he picked up, as reported by the Independent. Such incidents highlight the unpredictable and sometimes life-threatening encounters that can occur.

In an equally chilling story, a hitchhiker unknowingly caught a ride with a serial killer but managed to escape unharmed. This harrowing experience, detailed in the Daily Mail, is a rare outcome in such cases, and it’s enough to make anyone reconsider hitchhiking as a viable travel option.

For me, these unsettling accounts, coupled with the fact that I’m a woman, make hitchhiking feel far too risky. The thought of small talk with strangers doesn’t appeal to me either. That said, there have been times when my husband and I have given lifts to strangers in need…

Our Experiences Giving Strangers a Lift

Although I’d never personally hitchhike, and stated I wouldn’t pick up a hitchhiker on the side of the road, I’m reminded as I write this article that we have unexpectedly offered lifts to strangers twice. The first time was when we encountered a young woman who was lost in our neighbourhood. After giving her directions, we realised they were quite complicated and worried she might get even more lost. We found her a few minutes later and offered her a lift to her destination, reassuring her that we weren’t “weirdos.” She accepted, and I was struck by her trust in us—something I’m not sure I’d have had in her situation.

Another time, after heavy rain caused flooding near our home, we noticed a man and his young son stranded at the edge of the flood. The boy, dressed in his school uniform, would have been soaked to his knees, or higher, if they’d tried to walk through. As we were in our van, we offered them a ride through the water. The weather was so bad that we decided to drive them all the way to the boy’s school. Despite our van having blacked-out windows, they accepted, likely sensing that we were just trying to help and we didn’t present a danger!

Both experiences left me reflecting on the trust involved in such situations. While we were genuinely offering help, I’m not sure I would have accepted a lift from strangers if I were in their shoes. These moments reminded me of how situational and complex the decision to hitchhike—or to offer someone a lift—can be.

Public Transport: A Safer Alternative

Given the safety concerns associated with hitchhiking, public transport is often a preferable option:

1. Reliability: Scheduled services ensure timely arrivals and departures.
2. Safety: Public transport systems are regulated, with measures in place to protect passengers.
3. Comfort: Modern public transport offers amenities that enhance the travel experience.

Conclusion

While hitchhiking remains legal in certain areas, it is fraught with risks for both the hitchhiker and the driver. Given the modern availability of safer, more reliable, and insured travel options, public transport remains the more sensible choice for most travellers. With concerns regarding safety, insurance, and reliability, it’s clear that hitchhiking is no longer as popular a method of travel for people as it once was.

Let me know your thoughts on hitchhiking

Have you ever hitchhiked? Would you hitchhike? Have you ever picked up a hitchhiker or would you consider it? I’d love to hear your views and stories in the comments section below.