Two Decades of Train Travels: Seven Habits to Abandon

Riding trains in the United States for over 26 years has been an enjoyable pursuit for me. However, there's a downside to my travels, marked by recurrent passenger behaviors that can sour the experience.

Experiencing the rapidly changing landscapes and engaging strangers in conversation can make train travel an exciting voyage. Yet, it can quickly turn chaotic if fellow riders engage in bothersome conduct. Here are my top seven pet peeves from decades of train journeys.

Overzealous Chatting with Your Seatmate

Much like any mode of public transportation, you may find yourself seated next to someone who loves to talk. While brief exchanges can be enjoyable, not everyone is in the mood for prolonged interaction.

Insisting on a conversation throughout a long trip can be draining. Keep in mind that many choose train journeys for their tranquil and relaxing nature. If you both enjoy the dialogue, proceed; however, mutual agreement is essential.

Excessive Luggage

Just like flying, train travel offers limited storage space under seats and in overhead compartments. Stick to your allotted luggage, or consider checking it in advance.

On Amtrak, most tickets include allowances for one suitcase and two carry-on bags. More baggage may be possible with a private car booking or ticket upgrades. Remember, passengers will board and deboard at every stop, so even a seemingly empty car can fill up quickly.

Occupying Multiple Seats

Occupying more seats than necessary by spreading out your belongings inconveniences others. Although sometimes necessary to rearrange your items, be considerate of those around you.

Avoid laying across several seats. If stretching out is a must, the café or observation cars usually offer more room.

Leaving a Mess

A prevalent attitude on public transportation is a reluctance to clean up one's mess, which can be quite irksome. Trash bins are located throughout the train, including near stairs, restrooms, and dining areas.

Cleanup of personal waste and spills is your responsibility while on the train.

Blocking Pathways

Avoid lingering in spaces between train cars or narrow, winding staircases. Tight spaces can cause discomfort if you block others for too long.

Occasionally, you might block someone during boarding or deboarding, but aim to be conscious and considerate.

Noisy Activities Without Headphones

Minimize noise by using headphones for videos or music. While fascinating to you, others might be irritated by loud audio.

This advice applies to phone calls as well—engaging in a conversation on speakerphone disrupts the peace for everyone else.

Going Barefoot

Removing shoes in most public venues outside of pools or spas is frowned upon, particularly in the confines of a train.

For the comfort of everyone onboard, it's best to keep your shoes on. Personally, I wouldn't recommend walking barefoot on a train's flooring.