London News spoke to experienced train commuters to find out how they ensure the seat next to them is always free. Here’s what they had to say:
Sally from Romford:
If it’s an early morning start to the day, close your eyes, make out you’re asleep and hang your leg over the seat next to you. It works almost every time.
Charlie from Loughton:
Pretend you’re on the phone and keep laughing out loud. No one wants to sit next to a maniac.
George (sitting next to Charlie) from Loughton:
Eat your pre-cooked Indian take away on the journey to work. Commuters will undoubtedly be put off by the smell.
Megan from Manchester:
Try using no deodorant under the arm. Poor body odour a decade ago was always a great tactic, although almost everyone attempts this today.
Richard from Croydon:
Burping is a tremendous human defensive mechanism when new passengers get on board. They won’t come near you.
Tony from Basildon:
I unintentionally placed a traffic cone on the seat next to me once. I was drunk, but it worked. No one removed the cone, and I had a peaceful journey home.
