Seat snatching, where passengers sit in pre-booked train seats and refuse to move, is becoming increasingly common. Social media is filled with complaints from travellers who have faced this issue, with some too afraid to confront the offenders. One TikTok user said: 'We buy RESERVED seats on a train to get to your seat and someone's sat in it and telling you it's a free for all so not moving and no one does anything about it.' Another added: 'Currently standing on my two-hour train because someone sat in my seat and I'm afraid of confrontation.'
Train companies have policies to help. LNER's Seat Guarantee Scheme offers compensation if the booked seat is unavailable and staff cannot find an alternative. Great Western Railway advises contacting a member of staff who can speak to the other customer, though they note they cannot force them to move. National Rail suggests finding the onboard train manager for assistance. However, if the seat snatcher refuses, there is little that can be done.
This trend reflects a broader decline in courtesy, with similar behaviour seen in other settings. One passenger recounted an incident where a driver illegally parked in a disabled bay and refused to move, even after being told a disabled person needed the space. The driver responded angrily when challenged, highlighting a growing disregard for rules and others' needs.
While compensation schemes exist, many feel the issue is about principle rather than money. The rise of such selfish behaviour, both online and offline, suggests that basic kindness is becoming rarer. For now, passengers are advised to seek staff help promptly and document incidents if possible, though enforcement remains a challenge.
