Changes

Germany implemented the [[Schengen Agreement]]. This means, that the border to other Schengen countries are open. At the borders to non-Schengen countries ([[Poland]], [[Czech Republic]] and [[Switzerland]]) there are still checkpoints and German custom officers or sometimes police might control your luggage. These border crossings are usually among the best places in Europe to find a long distance ride. If you want to hitchhike on the from a border check point, it might be better, to stand well behind the border pass on or close to the edge of the border control area and additional services (shops and parkings) and the beginning of the motorway or national road. It is best to leave a little bit away from the car 100-200 meter (in stead check point, so you are out of 10 meter) after the border; in that case border guardians rarely bother about hitchhikerscustom officers' sight.