Things you should never do on public transport is a topic I happen to think about every day. This is because I get on the tube (London Underground) every day and it is absolutely filled with people who make me feel like my head is going to explode. I know I'm guilty of doing some of these things, too - only a few, mind you - but you don't tend to moan when you're the one doing it. And therein lies the problem. So, if any of you fellow commuters would like to avoid a subtle whack with someone's handbag, I have compiled a handy list of things you should never do on public transport.
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1. Fail to Wash
Of all the things you should never do on public transport, this would be an obvious one, you would think. Alas, no. When it's hot outside and you've been working for ten hours, I can sort of understand. But in the morning, when you've just woken up? No. Excuse.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
2. Have Your Music Really Loud
You might enjoy listening to some rapper singing about his bitches at half past seven in the morning. I don't. Nor do a significant number of other people you're forcing this on.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
3. Consistently Tap
Oh my goodness. I feel like you're tapping directly on to my head. Jiggling is also unacceptable.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
4. Dance or Schmooze to Your Music
Ok, so this doesn't really affect me, but I don't really want to see it. Do you know what I mean when I say schmoozing? Like the eyes closed, really getting into it, nodding of the head. It makes me uncomfortable. Let's keep those creative expressions for private, shall we.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
5. Hem People in
I hate this. When someone puts one arm either side of me and I feel like I'm in a human cage. LET ME OUT RIGHT NOW.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
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6. Fail to Move down
Nothing, not anything is more infuriating than if you have a train to catch but you can't get on said train because people refuse to stand down the aisles. You're left on the platform, looking at all the glorious empty space you could have occupied as the train drives away.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
7. Tell Other People to Move down
Equally, don't tell me to move down! Can't you see how busy it is on here?
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
8. Use Someone as a Book/paper Rest
Just not acceptable. The busyness of the train is not an excuse - if you're having to rest your book on somebody's actual head, put that book away.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
9. Fully Extend Your Paper on a Packed Train
Do you know how much space a fully opened newspaper takes up? That's an extra two people there, dickhead! And that's not even getting started on the broadsheets.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
10. Fail to Give up Your Seat to Someone Who Needs It
Nothing makes me more angry than seeing a young, sparkling with energy-type person sitting down and wilfully ignoring the very pregnant or very old person in front of them. There's a special circle of hell reserved for you, my friend.
***
Public transportation is a shared space and it is important to be considerate of others. Failing to give up your seat to someone who needs it is not only rude, but also dangerous. It is especially important to be aware of the needs of pregnant women, elderly people, and people with disabilities. By not giving up your seat, you are putting someone else's safety at risk. Furthermore, it is important to be aware of the laws in your area regarding giving up your seat on public transportation. In some places, it is a legal requirement to do so. By following these guidelines, you can help make public transportation a more pleasant experience for everyone.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
11. Lack of Spatial Awareness
You know the people I mean. The ones that are all arms and elbows. I know they probably don't mean it, but one more elbow in the ribs and I might lose my mind.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
12. Failure to Let People off the Train First
You won't get on the train any quicker. You are just causing CHAOS for everyone involved.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
13. Standing on the Wrong Side of the Elevator
I think only people who aren't from London do this. People who are know that, if they do, the tired, sweaty wrath of fifty workers will shortly be headed their way.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
14. Leg Spread
Men with insane leg spread. Needs no explaining.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
15. PDAs
If other people can HEAR the sounds of your mouths moving, you are not fit to use public transport. Please leave immediately and don't return until you've learnt some control. Best regards, everyone.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
16. Obnoxious Behaviour
I've definitely been guilty of this. When you're drunk and getting the last train home, your burger sauce is flying everywhere and you're singing Beyoncé with your shoes off. Fun when you do it, intensely annoying when anyone else does.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
17. Consistently Humming
I WILL DESTROY YOU.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
18. Not Holding on
I don't understand this. The people who refuse to hold on, then spend the entire journey stumbling on to other people's feet. Why?
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
19. Bags on Seats
Have you paid for an extra ticket for your bag? No? Then move it right now or I will chuck it out the window.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
20. The Slow-movers
I have somewhere to be. So does the man walking a whisker in front of me. This is not the place to dawdle.
Oh, there are quite a few! For starters, don't play loud music. Nobody wants to hear your playlist. Also, try not to take up extra seats with your bags. And please, avoid eating smelly food; it's just not pleasant for anyone.
It's super annoying for everyone around you. People might be trying to relax, read, or even catch a nap. Headphones are your best friend in this situation.
Definitely! Be sure to stand aside to let others exit before you board. Also, always offer your seat to those who may need it more, like elderly or disabled passengers. And of course, keep your volume low, whether you're on the phone or chatting with a friend.
Because the smell lingers and it's really off-putting. Some people might even be allergic. Stick to non-smelly snacks if you really need to eat while you’re onboard.
Firstly, give up your seat for those who need it more. Second, keep your belongings tidy and don't hog space. Lastly, be mindful of noise – whether it's music, conversations, or phone calls.
21. FAILURE to QUEUE
Obviously. The world could descend into anarchy and somewhere, we would still be queuing. Failure to adhere to the queuing rules is unforgivable.
I'm not sure how many of those things are uniquely British. Our reactions certainly are - someone could be so irritating, you are only seconds away from a full-on meltdown, but you'll probably just end up crossly apologising. Do people on public transport drive you mad?
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Comments
Stephanie: this article is perfect.
Aisha1995: I agree ! Especially the leg spread...so annoying
sophie: i find this article very aggressive instead of helping it seems like you are accusing everyone. Anyways
eli: a lot of these points are repetitive. respecting people's space is important, but it shouldn't ruin your mood so severely.
Cathleen: also remember your words when you need a seat and others refuse to give up their seat or move their toddler onto their lap so you can sit.. and have respect!!
Jacinta: I will be travelling to London soon and will be using the train. I thought this was helpful. yet some are just silly. why shouldn't someone be allowed to jam to their music? as long as they aren't playing out a dance routine, or taking up too much space, then it shouldn't concern you.
lina: You seem like a very angry person.
Jamie-Lee: This article is aggressive but I completely understand the frustration. The other week someone was clipping their nails on the bus. Are you kidding me?! I don't understand why people are so self absorbed.
Chelsea: LOL why can't I feel my music on the train? I feel like there are basics to riding the public transportation, but some of the ones you listed sound personal.
Eva: What about people doing there make-up in the train? According to me, you should really get up earlier. And worse... Yes, I've really seen it: Plucking your eyebrows ?! Now THAT made me want to get of the train...
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