The first week of classes is over, the buses are more crowded than ever and sometimes it may feel like everyone forgot how to ride a bus. Here’s just a few tips to make everyone’s transit ride just a little smoother.
- Have your bus pass ready before you get on
Whether you have the Umo app or the physical card, have it out and ready to scan before you step on the bus. You don’t want to be the person that takes forever once you step on because you’re not prepared.
- Move all the way to the back
When getting on the bus, try to avoid stopping two steps in and stand there. Moving all the way to the back helps to make space for everyone else. If you don’t keep moving, people won’t be able to get on and the bus will say it’s full even though there’s still space. You could be packed like sardines on the way to school, especially if you’re taking popular buses such as the 26 or the 4. It’s important to accommodate and move back.
- Don’t put your bag on a seat if the bus is full
If the bus is totally empty, it’s okay to put your backpack on the seat beside you but as soon as other people start getting on, put it on your lap or on the floor. Don’t take up two seats if there’s people standing even if you don’t want anyone sitting next to you. Unfortunately, that’s just the reality of taking transit.
This may all seem like common knowledge but after a summer of driving or being back home, it may not be as obvious. These aren’t all the tips and tricks, just three things that can help as we all get on the bus for these first weeks back.