Tech Etiquette Rules For Commuters and Travelers

As an old proverb goes, politeness is to human nature what warmth is to wax — it softens us. Being respectful to fellow straphangers and travelers can make trips more pleasant for everyone and in the case of tech etiquette, a little can make a big difference.

Most commuters know it's rude to gawk or blare music. But, there are lesser-known etiquette rules that are often broken.

For example, many travelers don't think twice about pulling an iPad out on a crowded train or plane. Etiquette experts say that's a no-no. Riders should always turn down screen brightness in close quarters and consider who's around before using devices with giant screens. Texting in the middle of pedestrian traffic and checking phones while traveling in the company others should also be avoided (for safety as well as politeness. You never know what you might run into).

Here are few pointers from top etiquette experts. These tech rules will ensure good commuter karma and more zenful rides.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Firstly, don't let technology and gadgets distract you. The most polite thing travelers and commuters can do is pay attention to their surroundings, experts say. Be aware of where you are, give yourself ample time to exit and give up your seat when appropriate.

Secondly, focus on walking safely along the platform or bus lane instead of staring at your phone. Always be mindful of what you're doing whether on foot or on public transportation, says Palm Beach-based business etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore.

When safely on the bus, train or plane, travelers should pay attention to maintaining face-to-face communication with friends or family, says Patricia Rossi, author of Everyday Etiquette.

"If someone is talking to you, you don't want to sneak peeks at your phone," Rossi says. "You want to give them one-on-one attention. No one wants to look at your roots."

Protocol and etiquette guru Diane Gottsman agrees. It's better to "take out both (not only one) ear buds when talking to fellow commuters or giving directions to fellow passengers."

Also consider this — on public transportation, it's Quiet Hour. Playing Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja is a great way to pass the time, but an easy way to get on people's nerves. Etiquette experts suggest passengers turn down all sounds or wear headphones while traveling.

"The sounds coming from your iPhone when you're playing a game can be invasive — you want to make sure you mute it," Rossi says.

SEE ALSO: Bad Tech Etiquette to Avoid at Work

This rule applies to texts, alerts and ringtones. "I suggest having no texting tones. You don't want to have a ringer that blows people out of the water," Rossi says.

Investing in a sturdy pair of headphones is probably a good idea. "Go ahead and spend the extra $10 on a snug pair. Nothing's worse than noise pollution from leaky ear buds," Rossi says.

Gottsman also reminds commuters to sing in your head and not aloud.

"It's easy to forget that others are around when you are in the zone, listening to your tunes. Don't sing out loud or dance as if no one else is around," Gottsman says.

More travelers are choosing to take their tablets and laptops with them on trips. Individuals should pay attention the device's screen brightness. Whitmore suggests asking around if it's bothersome, especially in tight spaces or at night.

"Ask someone next to you, 'Do you mind if I use my iPad?' Always asking permission is better than turning it on and letting it light up the whole entire area," Whitmore says.

Commuters should also pay attention to who's around when using these devices and refraining from viewing pictures and content above a PG-13 rating.

Another situation where travelers should consult their fellow passengers is when pictures are taken on a full bus or train. The rise of Instagram and mobile photography makes commuters more comfortable with taking pictures on public transportation. But you should avoid taking pictures of unknowing strangers or climbing over neighbors to get the perfect shot.

"I would give [passengers] the choice," Rossi says. "I'd say 'Well we're passing Central Park now, just want to grab a picture.' It's general etiquette and politeness that you just ask and not become a habitual offender."

Travelers should definitely not take pictures of strangers just because they'll never see them again. "Don't take photos of people and post on Facebook without their permission — even if you don't think you will ever see them again. It's not the civil thing to do," Gottsman adds.

To Answer or Not to Answer

Most individuals don't question talking on the phone while commuting to work or on a business trip. It's convenient to get work done, pass the time and let others know we've arrived or left. But, etiquette experts say it's only acceptable if it's dire. It's better to let calls go to voicemail and text instead.

When taking calls on public transportation, travelers should be considerate of the subject matter.

"Don't discuss private matters in public," Rossi says. "You should always be aware of your surroundings and know people can be listening. Obviously, you wouldn't want about anything too private like a love affair or a client's lawsuit."

She also suggests keeping your voice down.

Whitmore agrees. "It's becoming much more accessible even in business meetings. I think it's just a sign of the times," she says.

Helpful Tips

The experts suggest sticking to the golden rule — to treat others the way you want to be treated. With that in mind, here are some commuter tech etiquette guidelines.

• Avoid getting "lost" in an ebook. "You want to make sure you look up and walk off the train and you're not mowing down people because you're on the last part of Fifty Shades of Grey," Rossi says.
• Respect the Technology Free and Quiet zones, Gottsman says. "If it is posted, take those wishes and instructions into consideration."
• Don't take up too much space on the seat. You should only take up one seat. Your laptop doesn't take priority over another passenger.
• Don't hog all the plugs.
• Don't text on busy platforms, by the escalator or sidewalk.

Will you take a stand against poor tech etiquette? Share with us in the comments what you've seen on your way to school or work.

Image courtesy of Flickr, moriza