Yes, Christians do believe that Saul was a historical person, as he was mentioned in the Old Testament (which is a Holy Text of both Christianity and Judaism).
Robbery and murder where very common on the road to the west. Coming across food was rare. Many people froze or starved on the road.
But while it was terrible for most, a lot brought along pigs, chicken, wheat, and other eatable things to last them the trip. This was useful and could make for a better experience. You could tell why you and your family are traveling west, is it for a better life or do you have family over there? Where are you going? Are you rich or poor? How old are you? What is your family like, these factor in.
