The holidays are a juggling act, and nowhere is that on display more than on a train or bus. We’ve all seen the guy or gal fresh from the office party, donning a Santa hat and with a full and unzipped backpack in their lap as they snore their way from the Loop to their stop.
It can be tricky to keep track of your belongings when you’re traveling with shopping bags, luggage or the potluck-bound green bean casserole, so how can you manage to travel safely and efficiently around the city and ‘burbs?
Here are some holiday season transit tips to keep in mind as you embark on your commute from point A to point B.
Safety
Although the Chicago Police Department wasn’t able to comment on whether they see an uptick in thefts this time of year, the department did confirm that there are more police officers on Michigan Avenue during the holiday season.
“People are particularly vulnerable during the holidays when crowds flood stores, sidewalks, and subways. Busy shoppers and commuters navigating through crowds are preoccupied with multiple obligations,” CPD said in a news release. “A thief or con artist can blend into a crowd searching for an unsuspecting target.”
Whether you’re boarding a bus or train or squeezing your way through the crowds on Michigan Avenue, CPD suggests keeping your wallet, phone and other valuables inside a coat breast pocket or front pants pocket.
The department also suggests not carrying valuables in backpacks, which can easily be accessed in a crowded space or checkout line, and keeping an eye on your purse at all times.
In an emailed statement, the police offererd this insight, which may be helpful on the CTA or in any public place: “Thieves prey on purses hung over the back of a chair or left on the floor.”
Metra spokesman Michael Gillis cautions riders to be alert while riding the train.
“We see a lot of people who aren’t regular Metra riders this time of year, so it’s good to be reminded to respect the rules and be aware of your surroundings,” Gillis said.
From personal experience, having multiple heavy bags hanging off your arms can be tiring on the muscles. Be aware of your physical limits, and don’t push yourself to the extreme, even if that means not carrying that extra bottle of wine or cheese ball to the party.
Don’t be “that” person
If you absolutely need to take up additional space with your bags, food dishes or luggage, avoid boarding during rush hours and allow yourself extra travel time, the CTA suggested.
“When I’m carrying a bunch of stuff, I try not to travel during peak hours, and if I can’t help it, I’m very apologetic,” said Samantha Mueller, a 22-year-old Edgewater resident. “I never let go of anything and sit where there is enough space for me to push my stuff up against the wall.”
If you board public transit during rush hour without a bunch of stuff, not only will you avoid getting the stink eye from everyone around you, but you’ll also be making it easier on others and yourself. No one likes feeling all hot and bothered with 50 pounds of additional crap hanging off them and then having to cram themselves onto a packed train or bus … amiright?
But if you really can’t avoid it, do your best to tuck your stuff as neatly as you can in front of you, keeping the aisles free of holiday goodies.
If you’re able, invest in a bigger bag. I know, a bag within a bag sounds like some “Inception” shit, but it’s actually not a bad idea. Save yourself the space by placing your bags within a larger bag.
Proper shoes
Don’t be dumb. Wearing high heels while you’re trying to load a crowded bus or train is a rookie mistake, and you will be judged accordingly.
Throwing on a pair of boots or shoes with good traction on the soles can help prevent you from slipping and spilling your Pinterest dessert all over the person in front of you or flinging your newly purchased presents across an intersection.
Getting home tipsy
Don’t drink and drive. Ever. If you have anything to drink at that holiday party, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re in proximity to the CTA, take a bus or train. If the CTA is not your scene, order an Uber, Lyft or taxicab.
Always be aware of your surroundings so you don’t become the victim of theft—or worse. The holidays are already stressful enough, so do what you can to eliminate the potential stolen wallet, broken bone or judgmental glare during your commute this holiday season—or any time, really.
