10 Tips to Stay Safe on Public Transportation

Public transportation provides a fast and easy way to get around. Although, those who use public transit to work daily might not agree with that statement! Nevertheless, buses, trains, and subways make it easy to get from A to B, especially in big cities.

However, buses, trains, and subways are not always as safe as they should be. So, you must be careful traveling on public transport, especially at night. Here are our ten tips to help keep you safe on public transportation.

It’s not difficult finding your way around on public transportation. However, the longer you wait at bus stops and subway stations, the more exposed you become. And thieves tend to target people who look unsure of themselves. So, planning your route and knowing the timetables when traveling on public transport is best.

When planning your journey, choose routes that minimize waiting times and the need to walk alone between stations or stops. And avoid changing buses or trains at locations that might be dark and deserted. Instead, ensure all changes and waiting are done at busy interchanges.

Whenever possible, travel when there are plenty of fellow travelers around. And, if possible, avoid boarding an empty train carriage or bus. If you travel late when few people are around, sit near the driver on a bus or another member of staff on a train.

Make a mental note of where the exits are in case you need to disembark in an emergency. However, if you sit next to an entrance, someone could grab your purse or phone and leave the bus or train as the doors are closing. So, it is generally best not to sit immediately adjacent to a door.

Thieves look for people that are worth the risk of targeting. So, avoid wearing expensive jewelry, flashing cash, and using your latest iPhone on public transportation. And remember to keep your bags in front of you where you can see them. And, of course, never leave luggage unattended.

Using pepper spray in enclosed spaces like public transportation is not always advisable because it can affect innocent bystanders. However, if you feel you are at risk, you should take whatever steps are necessary. Still, you might also want to carry a personal attack alarm, which you can use without fear of harming bystanders. Another advantage of personal alarms is that they can be taken anywhere, including to work.

Keep your phone close at hand and switched on so you can call for help if needed. However, avoid getting too engrossed in reading emails or social media. And, as already mentioned, keep expensive devices out of sight when not in use.

Be on the lookout for anyone acting suspiciously. For example, a lone traveler eyeing up other passengers might be a thief on the lookout for their next victim. Also, be aware of any trouble brewing. For example, people arguing may begin to fight, or anyone who looks drunk or high may behave erratically or violently. If you see anything that makes you feel unsafe, move away from the danger to another carriage or get off and wait for the next train or bus.

Let someone you trust know when you will be traveling, your route, and when you expect to depart and arrive. Then, if you fail to arrive at your destination, people will know where to look for you and can notify the police if they are concerned. However, don’t publicize your route on social media, or strangers will know where you be at specific times.

Trusting your instincts is the best way to steer clear of trouble in almost any situation. So, if something or someone doesn’t look right on public transportation, get to a safe place and report the incident. It’s better to be late for work or an appointment than to get hurt or lose your possessions.

Traveling by public transportation is generally safe. However, you do need to be cautious, especially when traveling alone or at night. So, stay alert, avoid the obvious dangers, and carry a self-defense device like pepper spray or a personal alarm.

We hope this article was helpful. If you think others may find these tips interesting, please share this page on your social media accounts.

Many thanks for reading. Have a wonderful day, and stay safe. However, you do need to stay alert and take care.