I had always been under the impression that if you had a backpack on public transit, the polite thing to do was take it off and hold it, so you didn’t whack into people unknowingly when you moved, and created more space for others who are trying to pass by. I don’t know where I learned this, but it seems reasonable and I try to adhere to it, though many people in Boston don’t seem to.

For the most part, this isn’t the end of the world. Sure, it’s annoying to get smacked in the head with a laptop bag when someone turns around, but it’s not like you’re standing on your own luxurious plot of land when you are riding the T. Most backpacks aren’t that big and people are at least somewhat conscious of their movements.

Having said that, one of my last commutes to work from Allston involved the usual horrendous crowd, but also a guy with an enormous hiking backpack. It looked as if was taking the T to the Appalachian Trail stop (which I guess would have to be really far out on the Worcester line!). This rider never removed his backpack, and not only was hitting everyone within a three foot radius, he also could barely fit through the doorways due to the height of the backpack.

I’m usually not one to complain about much, but what’s the deal? That couldn’t have been the best option for you, and certainly wasn’t good for those around you. I wonder if this is going to become a trend, like critical mass but without even an assertion of a purpose?