Don't have loud conversations According to etiquette coach William Hanson, when it comes to talking on the train, whether it's to your friend or on the phone, you need to check if you're in the quiet carriage first.

In 2026, talking on the phone on a train is generally permitted but subject to strict social etiquette and "Quiet Zone" rules. Most modern rail networks (like Amtrak in the US, GO Transit in Canada, or various European lines) designate specific "Quiet Carriages" where phone calls are strictly prohibited and electronic devices must be muted. In these cars, even whispering on a call is considered a breach of etiquette. In "regular" carriages, while calls are allowed, the "Golden Rule" is to keep them brief and low-volume. If you must have a longer or more private conversation, the standard practice is to move to the vestibule (the area between carriages near the doors) to avoid disturbing fellow passengers. Many commuters in 2026 use noise-canceling headphones with "transparency mode" to manage their own voice levels, as people often unintentionally shout when they can't hear themselves. Failure to follow these unwritten rules often leads to public "shushing" or intervention from conductors, especially during peak rush-hour commutes when the tolerance for loud noise is at its lowest.