Having to wait in a long line can be frustrating – especially if you have somewhere else you need to go.

Just remember that everyone else feels the same way.

If you don't have time to wait, get out of line and return later, either when you have more time or after the crowd thins out. Not following common social etiquette can cause people's tempers to flare.


Here are some basic guidelines for etiquette while waiting in line:


• Find out where the back of the line is and take your place.

• Don't cut in line, unless everyone between the back of the line and the new position agrees that it is okay.

• Don't save a place for a large crowd in line. By the same token, if you're with a group, don't take turns holding a place for everyone.

• Keep your hands to yourself and give the people on both sides of you plenty of personal space.

• If you have children with you, make sure they behave. Never let them out of your sight.

Even better, if you know you'll be standing in line, leave the children at home with someone you trust.

They'll have a much better time, and you'll worry less about their impatience prompting bad behavior.

• Don't start ranting or griping about the long wait. Everyone else in line is well aware, and there is no point in making things worse by complaining. Trust me when I say that everyone already feels the pain. Very few people enjoy having to wait.

• It's fine to chat with others while standing in line, but don't discuss anything private. Even if you don't care that others know some of the intimate details of your life, you may make someone else very uncomfortable.