Public transportation is a shared space, and sometimes it can be challenging to know what to do and what not to do. Whether you’re a seasoned commuter or a first-time rider, there are certain unwritten rules; here are 21 things you should do on public transportation to make it easier for everyone.
Keep Your Belongings Close
According to The Independent, “Fear of crime on subways and buses is back as a top concern in some U.S. cities,” so not only does keeping your belongings close protect you better from thieves, but it also helps to free up space for other passengers. Remember, everyone wants a seat, and your bag doesn’t need one.
Give Up Your Seat for Those in Need
If you see an elderly person, a pregnant woman, or someone with a disability, offer them your seat. It’s a simple gesture that can make a big difference in someone’s day. Even if you’re tired or had a long day, remember that some people need the seat more than you do. It shows respect and consideration for others.
Maintain Personal Hygiene
Public transportation can get crowded, and close quarters mean that your personal hygiene becomes everyone’s business, so make sure you’re clean and fresh, use deodorant, and avoid strong perfumes or colognes that can be overwhelming in busy and confined spaces.
Use Headphones
If you’re listening to music, watching videos, or playing games on your device, always use headphones—no one wants to hear your playlist or game sounds, no matter how good you think they are. Keeping the volume at a reasonable level ensures you’re not disturbing those around you.
Keep Conversations Quiet
Whether you’re on a phone call or chatting with a friend, keep your voice down, as loud conversations can be annoying to other passengers who might be trying to read, work, or just relax. Be mindful of your volume and respect the shared space.
Wait for Passengers to Exit
When the bus or train arrives at a stop, wait for passengers to exit before you try to board, because this helps avoid congestion and makes the boarding process more efficient. Standing back and letting people off first is a simple way to keep things moving smoothly.
Stand to the Side
When standing on an escalator or moving walkway, always stand to the right and walk on the left; this allows those in a hurry to pass on the left side. It’s a small but significant way to keep traffic flowing and avoid unnecessary frustration.
Hold On Tight
Always hold onto a handrail or pole when standing, as sudden stops or starts can catch you off guard, and holding on helps prevent falls and injuries. It also ensures you’re not accidentally bumping into other passengers when the vehicle moves.
Keep Aisles Clear
Avoid blocking the aisles with your body or belongings; make sure to stand to the side or move further into the vehicle if there’s space. Keeping the aisles clear helps passengers move more freely and makes the ride more comfortable for everyone.
Be Mindful of Space
During peak hours, public transportation can get very crowded, so you’ll want to be even more aware of your personal space; try not to encroach on others. Stand or sit as compactly as possible and avoid spreading yourself out unnecessarily.
Let People Know Your Stop
If you’re sitting at a window seat and need to get off at the next stop, politely inform the person sitting beside you; a simple “Excuse me, this is my stop” is usually enough. This helps avoid confusion and ensures you don’t miss your stop.
Respect Personal Boundaries
Don’t lean on or touch other passengers, even if the space is tight. Keep your hands, arms, and legs within your personal area as much as possible. Respecting others’ personal space helps maintain a comfortable environment for everyone because nobody wants to be pushed up against a stranger.
Avoid Eating Strong-Smelling Foods
Eating on public transportation is generally discouraged, but if you must, avoid foods with strong smells; not everyone will appreciate the aroma of your lunch, and some might even find it offensive. Stick to less odorous snacks if you need to eat, especially on a warm day.
Don’t Hog the Pole
When standing, don’t wrap yourself around the entire pole or take up more space than necessary; you can easily hold on with one hand and leave room for others to grab onto it as well. Sharing the pole ensures everyone can stay steady during the ride.
Be Ready at Your Stop
As your stop approaches, gather your belongings and move toward the door. This helps you to make an easy exit and gives other passengers time to adjust their positions. Being ready prevents delays and keeps the flow of passengers moving efficiently.
Avoid Blocking Doors
When the vehicle stops, step aside to let people board and exit, as standing in the doorway can cause delays and frustration. Once the doors are clear, you can move back into position. This simple act of courtesy keeps everyone happier—yourself included.
Offer Help if Needed
If you see someone struggling with bags or a stroller or needing assistance, offer to help; they’ll likely be very grateful for this small act of kindness. It can speed things up if they’re trying to board, and promotes a sense of community—not to mention it makes public transportation a more pleasant experience for everyone.
Keep the Noise Down
In addition to keeping conversations quiet, be mindful of other noises. Avoid tapping your feet, drumming on the seat, or making other repetitive noises that can annoy fellow passengers. A quieter ride is more enjoyable for everyone, particularly if it’s a long journey.
Stay Awake and Alert
While it’s okay to rest, avoid falling into a deep sleep, especially if you snore or take up extra space. Staying awake and alert helps you be more considerate of other passengers and aware of your surroundings. It also ensures you don’t miss your stop.
Use Good Manners
Simple politeness goes a long way on public transportation; saying “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” can diffuse tensions and create a more pleasant atmosphere. Treating others with respect and courtesy makes the journey better for everyone trying to get to their stop.
Clean Up After Yourself
One last unspoken rule: if you bring something on board, make sure to take it with you when you leave. Dispose of trash properly and avoid leaving any mess behind. A clean vehicle is more pleasant for the next passengers, and it shows respect for not only other travelers but the cleaning services who have to deal with it.
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