Don’t Get Caught Doing This in a New York Subway

on

 

Think you know how to ride the NYC subway? Think again. From door-blockers to phone thieves, here’s what not to do underground if you don’t want to get cursed out — or worse.

You think you’ve seen chaos?

Try the NYC subway during rush hour. It’s not just a way to get around — it’s a full-blown social experiment with steel wheels.

But if you’re new here (or worse — visiting), there are unspoken rules. And breaking them? Big mistake. Some will get you side-eyed. Others might get you cursed out. One or two? You might actually get arrested.

Here’s what you really shouldn’t get caught doing underground in the belly of New York.

1. Don’t Manspread, Backpack Slam, or Block the Door

You ever try squeezing into a packed train and some guy is out here doing the splits across two seats like he’s at a spa?

Nah. Ain’t no room for yoga on the 4 train.

If you’re on the subway:

  • Take off your damn backpack.

  • Close your legs.

  • And for the love of the MTA gods — don’t stand in the doorway like you own the place.

People have commutes. Don’t be the reason someone misses their stop.

2. Don’t Blast Music or Watch Reels Without Headphones

We get it. Your playlist slaps.
 But this isn’t a club. It’s a public space where someone’s grandma is trying to get to her doctor appointment.

Playing loud music, TikToks, or FaceTime convos with the volume up is pure rookie behavior. New Yorkers don’t do that. And if they do? They know they’re wrong.

3. Don’t Jump the Turnstile — Especially Now

You might’ve heard that everyone jumps the turnstile in NYC.

Nope. That’s lazy TikTok myth.

Besides the fact that it’s a fineable offense (and occasionally leads to arrest), NYPD has been cracking down — especially in certain stations like those in Midtown or Brooklyn transfer hubs.

And even if you’re not arrested, guess what? You just gave every tired commuter a reason to roll their eyes. Respect the swipe.

4. Don’t Pull Out Your Wallet in Sketchy Moments

Yeah, this one’s real. Petty theft on trains is a thing. Not constantly, not everywhere — but enough that you should be smart.

If someone’s dancing suspiciously close, bumping into you more than once, or “accidentally” dropping things at your feet… don’t reach for your pockets.

New Yorkers call it “being subway smart.” Tourists call it “oh my god my phone’s gone.”

5. Don’t Try to Talk to Everyone

This ain’t the Midwest.

Striking up random convo on a train full of tired people? You’re gonna get ignored — or side-eyed into the void.
 Especially if it’s 8am and someone’s still half-asleep.

Exceptions? Tourists lost and asking for directions, someone who just missed their stop and needs help, or a kid clearly freaking out. Then New Yorkers will step in, no hesitation.

6. Don’t Film People Without Consent

Seems obvious — but people do it every day.

You know those viral “look what this person’s wearing” or “subway weirdos” videos? Those aren’t funny if you’re the one being filmed. And depending on what you’re recording, it can cross into legal gray areas — especially if you're monetizing it.

So unless it's breaking news, put the phone down. Mind your business.

7. Don’t Eat Certain Foods

Look, eating on the train is technically allowed. But there’s a difference between a bagel and a three-course curry lunch.

If your food is hot, greasy, or smells like it came out of a dragon’s mouth — just wait until you're off.

We’re all trapped in the same metal tube. Don’t gas it up like that.

8. Don’t Make a Scene Over Train Delays

Yes, the train is late. Yes, it sucks.
 But yelling at the conductor isn’t gonna teleport the train out of traffic.

Locals have perfected the art of the internal scream. If you flip out over delays, you out yourself as someone who's either new, stressed, or a finance bro on a caffeine crash.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Be Surprised by the Unexpected

The subway is a place of wild possibilities:

  • A mariachi band might hop on.

  • A dude might sell you M&Ms and a motivational speech.

  • A raccoon could be riding the L train in a baby stroller (yes, really).

Just go with it. That’s part of the charm.

Final Thought (No, Not “In Conclusion”)

The NYC subway isn’t just transportation — it’s an underground culture with its own language, rhythm, and etiquette.

Mess up, and you’ll feel the wrath.
 But move like a local? You’ll fit right in.

Head down. Headphones in. And whatever happens, don’t. block. the. door.

Comments

Post a Comment

💬 We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your do’s or don’ts, or add your own tips below.