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Too many people travel by train the wrong way, putting their feet and bags on the seats, playing music too loud, shamelessly occupying reserved berths and getting drunk to death.
Luckily, etiquette expert William Hanson is on a mission to teach the public the proper way to travel by train as part of his partnership with Trainline and the launch of his ‘Mind your manners’ guide.
William says: “I have seen first-hand how being aware of personal space can make a huge difference.”
Here she reveals all, including “the biggest travel mistake,” and offers advice on how to tackle those transportation lapses that can turn a smooth trip into an unpleasant one.
Read on for the inside scoop on train etiquette, compiled from William’s online guide and his comments to MailOnline Travel.
William Hanson is on a mission to teach the public the correct way to travel by train as part of his partnership with Trainline and the launch of his ‘Mind the Manners’ guide. In it he reveals the do’s and don’ts, and how to politely deal with troublemakers.
When it comes to alcohol, William (above) notes: “Keep it in moderation, making sure your enjoyment doesn’t become a nuisance to others.”
Please be patient when boarding
William says: ‘Let others get off the train before you try to get on and stand to one side of the train doors so that disembarking passengers can get off easily. Make an orderly queue on either side of the door and remember that, as with many things in life, it’s first come, first served. Line up in the order you arrived – it’s not a race.
Do the rules of conduct vary depending on the class of transport?
The champion of civility says: “Absolutely not! Good etiquette applies equally in both first and standard class… consideration for other passengers, respect for personal space and politeness are essential and go over the top. Sure, first class may offer a quieter environment (and perhaps a complimentary drink), but that doesn’t mean you can let go of your politeness. Etiquette isn’t about where you sit, it’s about how you treat your fellow passengers.”
What is the best food to eat on a train?
The etiquette expert says: “When it comes to eating on a train, my rules are simple: choose foods that are quiet, easy to handle and won’t give off an unpleasant smell throughout the carriage. Think something like a humble sandwich, sliced fruit (except citrus fruits) or a salad – basically anything that won’t make your fellow passengers wish they had a gas mask handy.”
What is the worst food to eat on a train?
The defender of courtesy says: “The worst foods to bring on board are those that make noise, are messy or smell especially bad. Do everyone a favor and avoid crunchy snacks, sharp cheeses or anything that has too much of a fishy taste. Keep it tidy, quiet and, for everyone’s sake, keep it odor-free!”
Is drinking alcohol on the train a bit rude?
William says: “It doesn’t have to be this way, although many people get it wrong. Enjoying a drink on a train can help get through a long journey, although make sure you check the rules on whether you can enjoy a drink on the train as some operators don’t allow it.
‘Trainline’s research found that almost 60 per cent of people would buy an alcoholic drink for their train journey and indeed, sipping a glass of wine or a gin and tonic while taking in the scenery can be a lovely experience. However, it’s important to be respectful and mindful of those around you.
‘Keep things in moderation and make sure your fun doesn’t become a nuisance to others. Know your limits and respect them. Don’t get to the point where you start making noise.’
What to do if someone has their bag on the seat next to you and you want to sit on it
If you need a seat that has someone’s bag on it, William suggests asking, “Excuse me, is this seat free?”
William says: “The best strategy is to remain polite but assertive. This is where British passive aggression can really come in handy. You could say something like, ‘Excuse me, is this seat free?’ This should gently prompt them to move their bag without creating any awkwardness.”
Manspreading is not allowed
William comments: “Manspreading is never acceptable, no matter how crowded the train is. If you are the victim of intrusion from a neighbouring passenger, you have every right to ask them to make more room for you. Or, if you prefer non-verbal communication, a gentle push will suffice.”
Protocol for pets
William says: “Your Bichon Frise may be the apple of your eye, but that doesn’t mean everyone is a fan of them – and some may even be allergic! According to Trainline data, one in four people said sitting next to someone’s dog was uncomfortable. Next time you’re on the train, be mindful of others. And if it’s busy, go into the concourse with your furry friend.”
What to do if someone is listening to loud music?
William says: ‘Imagine sitting by the window, enjoying the peaceful scenery, only to have your quiet moment interrupted by an impromptu DJ set from a fellow traveller.
‘In this situation, the best way to address the issue is often through a polite but direct approach. You could simply ask, “Could you please turn down the volume?” Most people will respect a direct request like this. Maintaining a calm environment on the train ensures that everyone can enjoy the journey.’
What to do if someone has their feet on a seat?
Seats are for sitting, not for stretching, says William
The etiquette expert notes: “If you are bothered by someone using a seat as if it were their personal footrest, you are not alone. As someone who uses trains a lot, I cannot stand this behaviour.”
‘The polite but direct comment, “Excuse me, is that seat taken?” can work wonders. It’s a gentle nudge that reminds them that seats are for sitting, not stretching out.’
What is the rudest behavior one can exhibit when traveling by train?
William replies: ‘I’d say the gold medals for bad train behaviour go to those who treat the carriage like their personal kingdom – making a loud phone call, hogging several seats or ignoring a fellow passenger in need.
“I truly believe that the biggest mistake when travelling is forgetting that the train is a shared space where a little consideration goes a long way to ensuring that everyone can have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.”
William’s new Mind the Manners guide can be found here. You can find him on TikTok here.
