5 Courtesy Tips for Public Commuters

Credit: Style My Soul, www.stylemysoul.com | Public Commute

Navigating the unspoken rules of public commuting can be a minefield at times. Style My Soul sought insights from frequent travelers to guide you.

Dispose of Trash Properly
As someone who takes public transportation a few times a week, I have noticed that people tend not to pick up after themselves. There is often garbage in and outside the stations, as well as on the actual transportation vehicles. It can cause the buses or trains to become places where commuters don’t want to be, as it makes them unenviable. If cities want people to use local transportation, it helps to ensure there are places to put garbage and to make sure they are being emptied frequently. Also, from the commuter’s perspective, dispose of your trash in designated bins or containers. Keeping the environment clean contributes to a more hygienic and pleasant commuting experience for everyone. It can be helpful to take your garbage with you if there isn’t an immediate place to dispose of it. - Najaf Ali, Director, Urban Leather Jackets

Use Earphones in Public
One common courtesy often forgotten is the use of earphones when you’re listening to music, looking at reels, or watching videos. This seemingly small act can significantly impact the overall experience of fellow commuters. I recall a particular instance during a bus ride when a passenger decided to play his music out loud. While he was lost in the rhythm, the rest of us struggled to focus on our thoughts or books. After a few polite requests, he finally plugged in his earphones, instantly restoring the peace. The importance of using earphones while listening to music or watching videos in public cannot be overstated. It respects the shared space and allows everyone to enjoy their commuting time in their own way.
- Swena Kalra, Chief Marketing Officer, Scott & Yanling Media Inc.

Offer Seats to Those in Need
Giving up your seat to someone in need, like the elderly, pregnant individuals, or those with disabilities, is a common courtesy. It promotes inclusivity and ensures everyone has a comfortable and safe commute.
- Alan Senejani, Co-founder, Digital Marketing Director, LVL Music Academy

Observe Escalator Etiquette
Standing on the right and walking on the left on escalators is both a matter of common courtesy and a means to ensure safety in public spaces. When you stand on the right side, it opens a clear path for those who prefer to walk or are in a hurry, preventing any congestion. It facilitates a smooth flow of foot traffic and minimizes the risk of accidents or collisions between commuters. It also prevents the risk of luggage or belongings falling onto the steps, maintaining a safer environment for everyone. The significance of this etiquette becomes even more pronounced when you think about passengers with mobility issues. Those with mobility aids, such as canes or walkers, have sufficient room to maneuver, and it can make a big difference for those who require additional time or assistance in navigating the escalator.
- Riley Beam, Managing Attorney, Douglas R. Beam, P.A.

Let Exiting Passengers Disembark First
A seemingly obvious courteous act, but one that many commuters tend to flout, is allowing passengers to exit before boarding. The reason why it’s so important to follow this unspoken rule is primarily for everyone’s safety. When you allow passengers to exit first, it helps prevent accidents and injuries that may occur when there’s a rush of people trying to force their way on while others are still disembarking. In some cases, this rush can be overwhelming and dangerous enough to create stampede-like scenarios. It could lead to travelers being pushed or trampled, which poses a serious threat to the well-being of commuters. Physical injury aside, let’s not forget that dealing with a rush can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing act for many. By following this rule, you create a sense of order and predictability in the commuting process — which, in turn, helps reduce stress and anxiety for passengers. - Alex Freeburg, Owner, Freeburg Law