If so, there’s a chance you’ve broken one of the many unwritten London Underground rules created by Londoners.
Though there is a list of what you can not do on the Tube, the unwritten rule book focuses more on actions around common courtesy to make everyone’s journey as smooth as possible.
From not wearing your backpack to not pushing to the front of the queue, here are just a few of the most important unwritten rules you should never break.
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The unwritten rules of the London Underground
Share the pole
If the Tube is busy and you’re standing holding on to the pole, make sure you share it with fellow standers.
As one Reddit user put it: “Stop wrapping your entire body around the poles (or using them as a backrest) when 4-5 other people could also do with holding onto it.”
Let people off first
When you’re in a rush, you might feel the need to get on the Tube as soon as it’s doors open to make sure you’re first.
But, you never want to be the person who gets on before other’s want to leave the train.
Many Londoners have described it as the biggest pet peeve of people using the London Underground.
Take your backpack off
Hundreds of Tube users wear backpacks every day; however, when the train is busy, and you’re standing, take your backpack off.
Although it might seem like an unnecessary step, it means there’s more room for others, and the person standing behind you won’t be whacked by a large bag.
Don’t spread out
After a long day, you might feel the need to take up a little extra space but avoid it when the Tube is busy.
If you decide to spread out with your legs across two seats or standing with your legs open, stop it.
You’ll undoubtedly receive endlessly annoyed looks, and that includes if you put bags on seats.
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Move down the carriage
If the next platform is very busy and you know you’re about to become a sardine, move down the carriage.
Though you’ll be standing among the lucky few who got a seat, by moving down the train you’re giving more room for others to board.
Even if it means you’ll have to shout ‘excuse me’ loudly to get off at your platform.
