Unusual and Annoying Behaviours on Public Transport
Public transport often reflects the diversity of society, bringing together people from various backgrounds. However, it also highlights a range of social behaviours that can be both unusual and annoying. From loud noises to poor personal space awareness, these actions can significantly impact the experience of others.
Listening to Something Out Loud at Full Volume
One of the most common complaints is when individuals listen to music or watch videos at full volume. A member of the nine.com.au team expressed frustration with this behaviour, stating, “If you forgot your headphones: bad luck. You do not get to scroll TikTok and Instagram at full volume.”
Zarife Hardy, an etiquette expert from the Australian School of Etiquette, emphasizes that public transport is not a private space. She advises, “Always use headphones when listening to music or watching videos on public transport. Keep your volume low enough that others cannot hear anything at any time.”
Not Having Awareness of Personal Belongings Blocking Space
Another significant issue is the lack of awareness regarding personal belongings taking up space. One staff member shared her experience of sitting on someone’s jumper because they had placed their belongings on the seat next to them.
Hardy notes, “Seats are for passengers to sit on. Place your bags on your lap or at your feet and move any baggage straight away when the train becomes busy. Always be aware of the space you are taking up.”
Not Giving Seats to More Vulnerable Members of Society
A recurring problem is when people fail to offer seats to those who may need them more, such as the elderly, pregnant women, or individuals with disabilities. One team member expressed frustration with those who ignore this responsibility, stating, “It should be universally known that if you are sitting, even if you’re not in a priority seat, you should give up your seat for anyone elderly or injured who might struggle to stand in a moving vehicle.”
Hardy adds, “It is generally considered rude not to offer your seat to someone who is elderly, pregnant, injured, or living with a disability, especially if seating is limited. It is part of basic public courtesy and shows respect.”
People Being Sick on Public Transport
Being sick while on public transport can be uncomfortable for everyone involved. One staff member shared her experience of encountering someone who vomited on a packed train. Hardy emphasizes the importance of hygiene, stating, “Always cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing and preferably turn away from people, sanitise hands after and be very mindful when in crowded environments.”
People Not Letting Passengers Disembark First
Another common annoyance is when people push ahead of others as soon as the doors open. A member of the team mentioned, “I hate when people cut in front of you (shove past you) as soon as the doors open, knowing full well you were standing there long before they arrived and should be allowed to get on before them.”
Hardy explains, “It is considered rude and poor public transport etiquette to push onto a train before passengers have had a chance to get off. Always stand to the side of the doors while the train stops, allow passengers to completely exit first, then board the train in a considerate manner.”
When People Stay Seated Even When Asked to Move
Some individuals refuse to move when asked to make way for others exiting the train. One staff member described the frustration of being ignored when trying to get off. Hardy states, “When getting close to your stop, start preparing for your exit. If someone’s stop is approaching, good etiquette is to start moving toward the doors in advance (when practical), make space for others to pass and always avoid blocking aisles or doorways.”
