Fed up with irksome commutes? You’re not alone! A recent survey delves into the UK’s top commuting pet peeves, and the results are bound to resonate with many of us. Topping the list, we’ve got folks shouting into their phones—annoying 42% of commuters. Hot on their heels are those who treat the train like a personal concert hall, blasting tunes for all to hear (39%). And let’s not forget the serial sneezers and coughers who don’t cover up—triggering 34% of us!
The research shines a light on how these daily irritations can impact our experience, with over half of commuters encountering such peeves at least weekly. While some grumble silently, a brave 10% confront the culprits directly. Interestingly, one in five of us admits to being guilty of these bad habits, with workers in agriculture leading the pack. Meanwhile, retail staff seem to be the most respectful commuters, with only 11% confessing to these faux pas.
Etiquette guru Laura Akano reminds us: public transport is a shared space, not our living room! A touch of kindness and basic manners—like keeping feet off the seats and saving strong-smelling foods for later—can go a long way in ensuring a smoother journey for everyone.
And let’s not forget the importance of these morning routines, as they set the tone for our entire day. Perhaps it’s time we all add a dash of courtesy to our daily travels, making the world—well, at least the train carriage—a better place. What’s your biggest commuting bugbear? Let us know in the comments!