Oh yeah, readers. I'm back! Or at least trying to be back, after experiencing what I like to call - The wild travel blue.
In order to regain my motivation I'll be using the sexy Travel Feed website to exercise my writing on the new editor, let's see how it goes!
Without further ado, on this post I'll dive straight into comparing the two cheapest ways to travel that I've tried, to help those who want to hit the road no matter what.
It's a fact that the stresses of modern life and the lack of perspective lead many people into desiring to just go travelling for the sake of scaping the miserable routine we hate. Sadly though, is that many of us don't do it because we get trapped into the idea that it's not possible without loads of money. What if I tell you that I've done it, and that you can also do it?
So far I've always travelled with barely no money in my pockets and I'll tell you the pros and cons of these different experiences, now you just have to pick your favourite and go!
1. Hitchhiking
The classic of a broke backpacker or anyone wanting to move from A to B, all you need is a good ol' thumb, a sign, a smile and perhaps a shower too. Yes, nobody likes to carry a stinky backpacker inside their car.
By far the cheapest way to travel, since you'll not spend a single penny (only if you want/have the means to help with gas or something). Sometimes you'll also be gifted with snacks or some extra bucks to continue your journey, it all depends on your story. So, don't be shy and talk to the driver!
Pros
- It may take time to find a ride, but once done it'll take you to the destination relatively fast;
- Snacks on the way are opitional;
- Someone to talk to and share stories;
- It's relatively safe;
- It's cheap, all you need is a backpack with some stuff;
Cons
- You are dependent on finding a ride, and it may take for ever;
- You won't be able to stop whenever you want to do whatever you want;
- It would be disrespectful not to talk, even when you simply want to be quiet (be nice to the dang driver, you are the guest);
- You'll sometimes find weird drivers, or drivers that speed like crazy;
While many people think that hitchhiking is dangerous, all I can say is that I've always been amazingly well treated. Of course it all depends on where you are hitchhiking, some countries may not have the tradition, or some places can not be reached by car. If you still think it's dangerous, but you really want to travel without a lot of money, maybe you can try the second option.
2. Bicycle Touring
Cyclo touring is one hell of an experience for those willing to travel, but that don't have a hefty wallet. Just don't do it during the winter, like I did!
To travel by bicycle you may need to spend some money to purchase a bicycle and some equipments, or you can improvise like many do; it's completely up to you and your motivation to decide how you'll go.
Travelling by bicycle will not only give you the versatility to move when you want, but you'll also become pretty fit doing it - it's a win win situation. But, is it?
Pros
- You'll definitely become fit, strong legs and butt garanteed;
- The versatility of moving/stopping when you want to/at any place you want;
- You'll enjoy the views better from a bicycle, you'll feel the wind, smells and everything else on the way;
- You'll be able to explore places where cars are not allowed;
Cons
- Maintenance required, you'll need the basics at least;
- It'll be more expensive to buy the needed equipment;
- You'll be more exposed on the road;
- It can be incredibly lonely and boring at times (if you are solo);
- Having a bicycle with you may be a hassle around big cities if you need to sleep on the streets, or when you need to go shopping, or when hostels don't accept a bike;
- It takes more time to move from A to B (not a big problem)
- It'll require eating more! A lot more!!!
Being a solo traveller I found cyclo touring to be super lonely at times due to not having someone to talk to. I found it super tiring as well, after a day of heavy cycling all you want is to do is to sleep; this effect can be counter player by programming more days in a destination. Even having more cons than Hitchhiking, it's still a valid and relatively cheap way to travel if you want to discover yourself - yes, you'll be challenged in all ways possible!
My conclusion is that hitchhiking is a lot easier if you can handle the waiting time alongside the road; but cyclo touring is a lot more fun if you have someone to share the experience with.
And you? Which one do you prefer?
View this post on TravelFeed for the best experience.
Good to have you back!
That tells a lot about your experience.
I've done about 100km outside city and after that I was like: "No more cycling on intercity roads."
Those cars and truck can kill you the same way they kill bugs.
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Heeeeho! it's not that it's not possible to do it during the winter, but why the extra challenge?
I completely agree about busy roads, not worth the risk at all, also never during the night; my night experiences were scary as fuck.
For me the worst part about cyclo touring is the boredoom, sometimes it's just boring. Next time I'll make sure to carry some music on my phone or something.
Thanks for the comment!
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Weheee, it's been aaaaaaages that I don't see one of TF votes, feels like old times! Thanks a lot.
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Seeing your post submitted was like seeing an old friend!
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Hello!
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Sweeeeeeeeet, and thanks for leaving me with an anormous desire to eat one of those!
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Parabéns, seu post foi selecionado pelo projeto Brazilian Power, cuja meta é incentivar a criação de mais conteúdo de qualidade, conectando a comunidade brasileira e melhorando as recompensas no Steemit. Obrigado!
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Opa, mas que presença! Valeu o apoio!
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This post was upvoted by SteeveBot!
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Niiiiice, thank you!
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Hitchhiking is quite dangerous. But traveling by bicycle is unforgettable and perfect for your health. Moreover, you decide where to go, and you can stop where you want. My close friend offered me to fly in the spring to Japan. He knew I would agree because it is my dream country. Also, I'm a fan of anime. I had already found japan cycling tours and started saving up for the trip. I've been to a lot of countries, but my dream is to go to Japan. I hope that the virus won't stop me from fulfilling my dream.
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I couldn't choose only one. I mean, both hitchhiking and bicycle touring are genuinely great ways of traveling. Both of them are very cheap. And because of that, you'll get to enjoy every single moment of your trip. However, I guess bicycle touring has to be the one that I like a bit more. Why? You can ride it long beautiful streets and views, and whenever you want to stop, you stop! You don't need to look for parking spots or anything like that. And, I think it's less tiring than hitchhiking. However, if you want to be safe, you'll need to ensure your bike at a company like https://sundaysinsurance.com/. Such simple insurance will make you feel much more confident.
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