Sure, a singing crazy is better than a smelly or dangerous one but still probably not what you want appearing next to you on a peaceful bus journey.
This got me thinking about what other unwritten rules we have for travelling on public transport. Do you actually still form a line when waiting for a bus? I thought not. But do you respect those who got to the bus stop before you and let them on first? Hmm, not all do.
Be Prepared
Do you have your fare or pass ready for boarding or do you get on and then open your bag to look for it? (Just like those people at the supermarket checkout who couldn't use their time in the queue to find their wallet but wait until all of their items have been scanned as if their shopping wasn't real until the till display told them a total amount to pay.)
Unwanted Noise
Noise on the bus can be from loud, one-sided, phone conversations; shouting passengers; teenagers playing music for all to hear from their mobiles; from people using headphones that don't truly keep their music 'personal', etc. Public transport is never likely to be a silent ride but an awareness of others would be nice.
Giving Up Your Seat
We would all like to sit on our own on the bus but there simply aren't many single spaces so generally you'll be on a seat for two people. Many try to keep others away by placing their bags beside them but I've never yet found someone who paid for two seats so their bags could have a 'comfortable ride'. So when the bus gets busier why do we always see another passenger have to ask to sit down before these bags are moved?
There are some passengers who need a seat more than most of us and they shouldn't have to ask. Give your seat to those "less able to stand" is what the bus sticker says and it shouldn't have to list who the people are in that category. It's disheartening to see the lack of respect we have these days for our older folk. Many are too proud to ask for a seat but they should never be in that situation. If you're able-bodied, jump up and let them sit down.
Smells
From body odour issues to smelly food this should be obvious. And when would it ever be OK to leave a chicken and chips box on the floor under your seat?
Travelling on public transport comes with many pet peeves. Now's your opportunity to share yours.