Sydney train passengers express growing frustration over riders who keep backpacks on during peak hours, turning crowded carriages into tight squeezes.
Backpacks Taking Over Train Space
A fed-up commuter vented online: ‘Take your backpack off!’ They highlighted how adults, not just students, wear packs on their backs in busy trains, blocking pathways, delaying boarding and alighting, and pressing against others in full carriages.
Newer Metro trains amplify the problem, according to riders. The post ended strongly: ‘Just take your damn bag off, you inconsiderate jerks!’
Fellow commuters piled on in agreement. One shared: ‘I almost got a black eye the other day from someone who’d apparently stuffed their backpack with bricks.’
Removing the pack reduces accidental bumps during jolts, riders note. ‘It’s about consideration for others and making room in limited space, which makes the trip better for everyone,’ one explained. Others called it a lack of civic awareness, urging riders to hold bags at the side, front, or floor.
NSW Transport Tackles Etiquette
Recent NSW Transport initiative ‘The Creatures of Transport’ spotlights issues like ‘The Space Hog,’ who bumps passengers with backpacks. The campaign stresses: ‘Public transport is for everyone. Being considerate is simple but makes a world of difference. Let’s offer seats, move aside, and stay kind.’
Site messaging reinforces: ‘When we act thoughtfully, the ride improves for all.’
Bags Claiming Seats
Forum users also targeted bags on empty seats during crowds. ‘I ask them to move it so I can sit,’ one declared. Riders advise awareness: put packs on laps when seated or clear space as trains fill.
Some hesitate to floor bags due to grime, especially post-Friday nights. Alternatives include twisting packs to the front or holding near legs without touching down.
Boarding Chaos Adds to Woes
Debates extend to boarding: passengers push on before others exit. One ranted: ‘Do people not understand to wait for disembarkation?’ Replies echoed daily encounters of lost common sense.
The NSW campaign calls out ‘The Blocker’ at doorways and urges clear paths for entry and exit.
Etiquette expert Jo Hayes deems skipping waits for alighters disrespectful and inefficient. ‘Step back, let them off, then board smoothly,’ she advises.
