italy - TravelPUNK Backpacker College Student Budget Travel Message Boards!

05-25-2003, 06:08 PM

i'm heading to italy in august with a friend. our plan is to do it as cheaply as possible. i'm quite comfortable hitch-hiking in the states and have done some extensive trips that way. i'm curious if this means of transportation is as safe, not as safe or (possibly) safer in italy than the united staes. or if anyone might have a reasonable alternative to hitch-hiking (rideshares, bus or train) that are cheap -- please do not direct me to eurail, i've already compared prices. (it isn't compatable with my itinerary) i'd be very thankful for some direction.

**travelpunk** · 05-28-2003, 05:17 AM

Danny,
I´ve heard that hitch hiking is safe in Europe and probably much safe than in the US and Mexico. Not sure how safe it would be in the Eastern European countries as they are poorer countries and poorer countries have higher crime rates.
Just have your guard up at all times. If and when you do hitch hike, be careful about throwing your backpack in the back seat/trunk/or back of the pick up truck, because when they drop you off at your destination, all they have to do is hit the gas pedal before you even get a chance to reach for your bag. Next thing you know, you´re left in the dust and the guy now a new wardrobe and travel equipment -yours

!

06-06-2003, 07:56 AM

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First of all pickup trucks aren't really common here in Italy so no need to worry about that.
I have hitchhiked a lot in the past in Italy and never had any problems. The italians are generally very nice folk.

If you are interested in earning your keep while here you could check out the WWOOF organization (look it up on google.com).

You will have a lot less problems getting rides if at least one of you is female!

One thing to consider is that in August most families are on vacation therefore there isn't much space available in cars --- another thing is getting rides with big trucks - unfortunately since most companies are closed in August there ain't many truckers around.

Good Luck

**travelpunk** · 06-07-2003, 09:50 PM

Good points, smell. Thanks for the low down