Elevators are the unsung heroes of travel. On a cruise ship, they haul passengers from the buffet to the theater; in a hotel, they whisk guests to the lobby or that rooftop pool; at tourist spots, they lift sightseers to views worth the ticket price. But these tiny boxes can turn into chaos zones when people forget how to share them. To keep your ride smooth—and your sanity intact—here are some practical elevator etiquette tips for wherever your travels take you. A special thank you to those of you who follow Postcard Jar on Facebook for your input.

Before your next cruise, hotel stay, or adventure, check out these suggestions. They’re simple, sensible, and might just save you from an awkward stare-down.

This was the most mentioned pet peeve regarding elevator etiquette when we asked our Facebook followers. So, when the doors slide open, step aside and let folks exit before you barge in. It’s basic courtesy, not a race to claim your spot. Got kids? That’s wonderful! Teach them this concept early, or they’ll be the ones leading the charge while the rest of us dodge and judge your parenting skills.

“People pushing their way in before anyone has a chance to get out (is my pet peeve)! Also, not letting people with walkers or scooters on and off!” – Jodi M.

Know your floor before you step in—no one wants to wait while you play “eenie, meenie, miney, mo” with the buttons. Changing your mind is fine; turning the elevator into your personal think tank isn’t.

With Wi-Fi popping up on cruise ships and in hotels, staying connected is a breeze—just please not in the elevator. Loud speakerphone chats about your sunburn saga? Save it for your room, not our 30-second bonding session. 

Backpacks are travel champs, but they’re also stealth space-hogs. Spin too fast in an elevator, and you might knock someone’s coffee—or ego—sideways. Move like you’re in slow motion, and we’ll all stay friends.

Post-pool or hot tub, dry off before you hop in. Dripping like you just escaped a shipwreck leaves puddles and slippery floors—nobody’s here for an impromptu water park. Damp’s okay; drenched isn’t.

Holding the door for someone sprinting to catch it? You’re a saint. Holding it for your pal who’s still buckling their sandals 20 yards back? Now you’re testing our patience. A few seconds max—others are waiting.

When it’s packed, slide to the back and let others in. Sure, it’s a mini shuffle when your floor hits, but it beats playing gatekeeper at the front. Think of it as elevator teamwork.

We shouldn’t have to say this, but please don’t pass gas in the elevator. If at all possible, wait until you’ve exited and are a safe distance from others before breaking wind. 

In addition, be mindful that strong scents of perfume, cologne, and even cigarette smoke can often trigger others’ allergies and asthma. 

“For the most part, folks are friendly and kind. Occasionally, I have had to ride in an elevator with someone who uses excessive amounts of personal fragrance. I’m an asthmatic person and lots of perfume or cologne on those who wear so much I can taste it, is not a fun experience. I have trouble breathing in their proximity. ” – Jami J. 

Going one or two floors and feeling spry? Take the stairs—it’s faster, and you’ll leave the lift for those who use powered wheelchairs, electric scooters, or have large bags that are not easy to carry.  We recently heard from a friend who uses a power wheelchair who said he waited 30 minutes and watched at least 15 crowded elevators go by without anyone offering to get out and take the stairs. He, and others who use mobility devices, may not have the option of using the stairs – so if its crowded and you have that option, please do. Need the elevator? No guilt—it’s yours to use.

Elevators can feel like sardine cans, but that’s no excuse to cozy up uninvited. Keep your arms, bags, and enthusiasm contained. It’s a ride, not a group hug.

“My pet peeve? Standing really, really  close to me when there is nobody else in the elevator!” – Dani J.

If you’re by the panel, be the hero who presses for others—or scoot so they can reach. Hogging the controls like it’s your personal cockpit? That’s how you earn side-eye. 

Busy times—like cruise disembarkation or hotel check-out—often mean a loose line. Don’t swoop in like you’re VIP; wait your turn. Fairness keeps the peace. And, if there’s someone who uses a power wheelchair or motorized scooter, offer the elevator to them first before it fills up. 

“I don’t like it when people walk on as soon as door opens without letting others get off that need to. And since my hubby has a disability, it’s difficult when people are barging in front of you to get on elevator before him and then no space left for us to get on.” – Gail T.

That “max capacity” sign isn’t kidding. Squeezing in with your oversized suitcase when we’re already cheek-to-cheek? It’s a gamble nobody wants to lose. Next one’s coming—hold tight.

Speaking of oversized luggage; when you’re on a cruise, take advantage of the porter service to help maximize space on the elevators. For embarkation day on your next cruise, simply drop your bags with a porter curbside and they’ll be delivered to your cabin.

Elevator etiquette boils down to this: think about the folks stuck in there with you. These little metal boxes link us on our travels, and a dash of courtesy keeps the ride from turning into a cringe-fest. Whether you’re cruising, hotel-hopping, or sightseeing, tuck these tips into your travel bag. What are your pet peeves when it come to elevator etiquette? Let us know in the comments below. 

Pin this post for your next trip—and maybe slip it under the door of that guy with the chicken wings.