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Hitchhiking in '''Turkey''' is easy. Looking like a Western backpacker will get you a lot of attention when travelling outside the major tourist areas. Often, the first vehicle to pass will stop for you (sometimes even if they are going the opposite direction!) Lifts with big trucks are the most common − partly because personal cars are very often quite full. Turkish truck drivers are generally very friendly and helpful but may not speak a word of English. Knowing some German may Turkish phrases will helpa lot. Especially truck driver will often invite you for tea and on long distances even for meals.
Some drivers might ask you for a few Lira, and if you are not willing to contribute to the cost of the ride, please learn to say ''Param yok'' (I have no money) before getting in the car.
Also while waiting for a lift, have your backpack on the ground ''in front of'' your feet, in a position that is easily visible and recognizable as a backpack by passing by drivers. As many will admit, seeing a large backpack and camping gear such as a mat always makes Turkish drivers more comfortable with the idea of letting a stranger in their car—since it kind of proves that you are travelling on budget, not a serial killer—and thus enabling you to get lifts far more quickly.
== Getting In ==