Train etiquette tips from expert William Hanson

As the fall season approaches, many people take to the rails to enjoy scenic views and seasonal foliage, but traveling by train can be a stressful experience if inconsiderate passengers are present on board.

Inconsiderate behavior from fellow travelers is a common issue that can quickly spoil an otherwise enjoyable journey. To avoid being one of these passengers, etiquette expert William Hanson has shared seven things that travelers should never do on trains.

One of the most annoying behaviors for other passengers is talking on speakerphone while traveling by train. This not only disturbs those nearby but also makes it difficult to relax and enjoy the ride.

According to Hanson, using a phone's speaker is not an excuse for disturbing others, even if you're trying to avoid keeping your phone pressed to your face for long periods of time.

Passengers should also be mindful of their belongings, particularly when it comes to claiming seats on crowded trains.

When using electronic devices on trains, it's essential to be considerate of fellow passengers. Hanson points out that making phone calls on speakerphone in a carriage would create a cacophony if everyone did it simultaneously. To avoid disturbing others, it's better to wait until you disembark the train to catch up on your calls.

Another etiquette faux pas is placing feet on seats, which is not only impolite but also unhygienic. Trainline's research revealed that while some passengers might not mind being disturbed by phone use, many still find it annoying. However, this behavior pales in comparison to the issue of foot placement on seats.

Taking off shoes and placing bare feet on seats is a common mistake that can spread germs to others. Hanson emphasizes that even without socks, feet still harbor bacteria and viruses. This behavior not only disrespects fellow passengers but also creates an unhealthy environment on public transport.

When it comes to luggage, it's crucial to keep bags off open seats. Trainline found that over a third of people consider spreading out over multiple seats as the most annoying behavior from other passengers. To avoid this, it's best to keep purses or small bags in your lap, on the floor in front of your seat, or in designated luggage areas.

In extremely rare cases where a carriage is almost empty and there are plenty of available seats, it might be acceptable to place a bag on an adjacent seat. However, even then, Hanson advises exercising caution and respecting fellow passengers' space.

When occupying your designated seat on a train, it's not uncommon to find another passenger's bag taking up space. In such situations, etiquette coach Hanson advises maintaining a reasonable tone when approaching the issue.

If you're polite and courteous, there's a good chance the other passenger will willingly move their belongings to accommodate you. This approach is essential for creating a harmonious atmosphere on board, especially during long journeys.

To avoid causing discomfort to fellow passengers, it's best to opt for snacks that won't emit strong odors or make excessive noise while eating. While consuming food on the train is perfectly acceptable, some choices are more considerate than others.

Fragrant foods like oranges can be particularly bothersome, as their smell may linger and disturb other travelers. Instead, choose snacks such as sandwiches, sweets, nuts, dried fruit, or fresh fruit like grapes that are less likely to cause inconvenience.

When traveling by train with a pet, consider the comfort level of fellow passengers. Most US trains allow pets on board, but this often depends on factors such as the train company, pet size, and journey length.

A significant number of people may not be comfortable sitting next to dogs. Trainline research has found that 25% of passengers fall into this category, highlighting the need for pet owners to be considerate of others' feelings.

Pet owners can take proactive steps to address potential discomfort by opening lines of communication with fellow passengers and asking about their comfort levels. If hesitancy is shown, it's a good idea to move to an unreserved seat if possible.

In addition to respecting people's personal space, travelers should also be mindful of their timing when boarding a train. According to etiquette expert Hanson, passengers should let others off the train before they board.

This courtesy can make a big difference in terms of available seating and overall comfort for all passengers. As Hanson explained, if people get on first, there will generally be more room for those who follow, reducing congestion and making it easier to find an empty seat.

By letting others exit the train before boarding, travelers can help create a smoother and more pleasant experience for everyone involved.