7 types of annoying car passengers that you'll encounter

Having company while driving during rush hour makes your journey more fun, meaningful and sometimes more economical. As a car owner, there are certain things or set of rules that we would like to establish when we are taking in passengers.

Unfortunately, not all people are fun to be with, and there will come a time that you will encounter a passenger/s that can get into your nerves. Here are some perfect examples of passengers that you want to steer clear of or be extra cautious with.

1. The freeloader

For me, I guess that it is okay to give free rides every once in a while. However, if your constant carpool buddy lacks sensitivity regarding things around them, then that is where the problem begins.

 It is better to be clear about monetary contributions from the very start to avoid misunderstandings in the near future

Although we should not expect much from our passengers but if they ride in your car almost every day, then they should at least contribute a certain amount for gasoline, toll fees and in some cases parking fees.

If you know someone who turns a blind eye or a deaf ear every time payments needs to be made then you can probably ask politely for contributions and come up with an agreement to avoid conflicts.

>>> You might like to read: How to be a good car passenger: 7 Dos & Don'ts to remember

2. The backseat driver 

This type of passengers can ruin your entire mood. Having someone inside your car telling you what to do, where to turn (suggesting directions and alternate routes) and how to drive (do this and do not do that) can really be very annoying and make you lose your temper.

That is why it is essential to choose your passengers wisely if you have the opportunity to do so because backseat drivers can cause accidents on the road. If someone criticizes your driving skills maybe he or she should take over the steering wheel for the duration of the trip.

A backseat driver is the type of person who always wants to be in control of certain things

3. The noisy one

This is a little bit similar to the backseat driver, but he or she does not only criticize your driving but talks about anything that catches his or her attention. Some drivers are unable to focus on the road when there is a passenger who talks for the entire duration of the trip.

Quack! Quack! I can't even focus on my drive

This type of scenario happens to me very often so what I do is either turn the radio on or put my earphones. It is understandable that chatting while driving is fun and it prevents you from getting sleepy and bored but too much noise can also be irritating.

If you are a passenger, it is just right to give your driver a moment of silence while on the road.

4. The messy one

Have you tried being with a passenger who gets very messy inside your car? This type of passengers can get really into your nerves especially if you are doing an excellent job in taking care of your vehicle. Since your car is just a small space, it won’t take long before its filled with trash and food wrappers.

To avoid this from happening to you make sure that you place a couple of trash bins where passengers can dispose of their litter appropriately or just do not encourage eating inside the car.

If you and your passengers are feeling hungry, then it is better to stop by at the nearest fast food joint rather than order drive-thru, so you don’t need to worry about cleaning up after other people’s mess.

As a driver, it is not fair for you to keep up with the mess that your passengers leave behind, and in some cases, you might end up spending money bringing your car to the nearest car wash.

To avoid having a messy car do not encourage passengers to bring food and eat while traveling

>>> More tips to keep car interior's cleanliness:

• 6 Ways to Maintain Your Car Interior’s Cleanliness
• 4 simple tips to keep your car interior clean and tidy

5. The stinky smoker

Smoking inside a vehicle is very inappropriate especially if it is your passenger who has this kind of habit. Cigarette smoke can linger for a very long time inside the car and make your car seats, ceiling, and dashboard really stinky.

It is hard to get rid of cigarette smell even if you use a deodorizer or air freshener to neutralize the odor.

>>> Must read: Lesser-known harmful effects of smoking in cars

Even some drivers who also happen to be smokers do not smoke inside their car because they know that the traces of nicotine combined with dust particles will pollute the vehicle and may also affect other passengers especially kids who have asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

If you happen to have a passenger who smokes then he or she must first ask permission if it is okay to smoke inside the car.  

Smoking inside a car without seeking approval from the car owner is very disrespectful

6. The disengaged passenger

Have you ever encountered a passenger who does not care about what is happening around him? Well, some people merely treat you as a cab driver by just slipping in and out of the car without even saying thank you.

Maybe you just happen to have a very shy and non-interactive passenger, but it would be nice to be able to exchange some pleasantries or even small talks with your passenger.

7. The radio operator

Every passenger must have the urge to control themselves when riding other peoples’ car by behaving accordingly and fighting the urge to change the musing that is currently playing on the radio.

The driver is usually the person who is in charge of the music (his car, his music, and his choice). As a passenger do not attempt to change the tune unless the driver permits you to do so.

Wait for the driver to give a signal before touching the radio

>>> Click here for more useful tips and advice for smart driving.