Etiquette & Train Travel

Etiquette was an integral part of Victorian society. Etiquette was also a part of train travel whether traveling great distances or traveling locally. The perfect etiquette of the time would have dictated that the experienced traveler would have adhered to the following:

Always be on time

Check baggage early

Purchase a ticket before taking your seat on the train

Select a proper seat before the train gets full

It’s amusing to read the comments made of the inexperienced traveler. The traveler unaccustomed to the transactions of travel was assumed to make many mistakes. He might arrive at the station too early or fail to have his baggage available promptly. Because of his confusion, his purchased ticket might be put in a place where he can’t find it.

In reality, how different is the Victorian etiquette of travel from today?

Proper etiquette recommended that individuals with weak eyesight should not read on the train. In addition, if you had weak lungs, etiquette stated that you should avoid speaking while the train is in motion. Why? Because the noise would necessitate talking loudly which would put undue stress on the individual.

Eating should be done at regular intervals. Men were supposed to refrain from smoking, particularly in the presence of those who would find it offensive. Women were advised to avoid wearing laces and velvet lest dust particles attach to the fabric. It was also considered bad taste to wear fancy jewelry while traveling.

Doesn’t it seem a complicated business for Victorians to travel?