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Bus driver settles debate on where to put your bags when travelling – not your lap
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Bus driver settles debate on where to put your bags when travelling – not your lap A bus driver has shared some important etiquette tips for passengers - and there's one rule you need to keep in mind to avoid causing a disruption on board When you're travelling by bus, it's not always obvious what's considered acceptable behaviour and what isn't. The clear-cut offences, such as shouting, causing disruption or being violent, go without saying, but what about those minor habits that might...
Bus driver settles debate on where to put your bags when travelling – not your lap
A bus driver has shared some important etiquette tips for passengers - and there's one rule you need to keep in mind to avoid causing a disruption on board
When you're travelling by bus, it's not always obvious what's considered acceptable behaviour and what isn't. The clear-cut offences, such as shouting, causing disruption or being violent, go without saying, but what about those minor habits that might appear harmless, yet are actually quite irritating?
There's nobody better placed to offer guidance on bus etiquette than a driver themselves. And one London bus driver has come forward to share insight into some of the acceptable - and less acceptable - behaviours that passengers should always bear in mind while on board.
Driver Vicardi turned to the Transport for London Facebook page to share his thoughts on bus etiquette, with one particular bag-related tip that's definitely worth remembering.
In a video, he said: "It's your bus driver, Vicardi here. Don't worry, no one's in trouble, this is just a quick public service announcement - bus edition."
The first piece of advice he offered is something most of us likely do already, but it can make a significant difference - and that's simply greeting your driver with a hello.
Vicardi said: "No pressure, no full conversation needed as we've both got places to go. But a hello, a thanks, even a little nod, absolutely makes our day."
Where to put your bags on a bus
Having addressed one straightforward tip that passengers should always attempt to follow, Vicardi then turned his attention to some of the habits worth steering clear of, in order to make the journey smoother for yourself, your driver and fellow passengers alike.
Whether you're commuting to work or heading off for an overnight stay, there are times when lugging a large bag onto the bus simply can't be avoided.
While this is perfectly acceptable, Vicardi urged 'Please don't' when it comes to placing big bags in certain areas.
He said: "Backpacks. I love that you're prepared for anything, but if it's the size of a small fridge, popping it on the floor really helps when it gets really busy.
"But please don't block the exits, or the designated priority space."
Local buses are generally not fitted with the same amount of storage space as airport coaches, so it's important to keep any oversized bags out of the way to avoid causing an inconvenience to fellow passengers.
Most bus operators also reserve the right to refuse or limit the size, quantity and type of luggage or personal belongings brought on board — though as long as it isn't obstructing the aisle, exit or priority space, you should be absolutely fine.
Where is the best place to stand on the bus?
Another handy tip from Vicardi focuses on whereabouts on the bus you should actually go once you've boarded — and it's something that many passengers get wrong.
When you step onto a busy bus, the temptation is often to hover near the front of the vehicle to avoid getting caught in the crowd.
However, this may not be the wisest move. Vicardi explained: "If there's space further down the bus, please use it.
"The bus is like a Tardis, bigger on the inside."
For those who find it difficult to keep their balance while standing on a bus, Reddit users have been sharing their top tips on how to stay steady on your feet.
One user advised: "Number one, don't lock your knees, have your knees slightly bent. Not only does it make your joints hurt in the long run, but it's also more rigid, so you can't fight against or adjust to the force of the bus's movement. And number two, feet at shoulder width. With a wider stance, you're able to have a more stable base."