Interview with Jack
Confessions of a backpack
Article published on January 15, 2026
Have you ever been on a crowded bus and felt a little jab in your back? Don’t panic, it’s just Jack, a fellow passenger’s backpack who’s taking up some precious space. In this interview, our troublesome guest reminds us that a simple gesture, such as holding your bag in your hands in a crowded vehicle, can transform the journey for your fellow passengers.
Introduce yourself and tell us what you’re carrying that’s so important you need to take up so much space.
Hey there! I’m Jack. I’m a big backpack.
Some people will politely say I’m just plus-size, but over time I've come to accept myself just the way I am. I was created this way; my size is hereditary.
Today, my owner has loaded me up with tons of stuff. There’s a 15-inch laptop, a meal that could have been lighter, a one-litre bottle of water to stay hydrated, a travel mug of coffee that’s essential to keep him productive, a paperback book to pass the time, headphones to use on public transit, a tablet to play sudoku, and a fleece jacket in case he gets cold.
I thought I might go on a diet after the holidays, but my owner never keeps his resolutions.
How do you feel when your owner turns around... and you bump into three people?
Honestly, when the bus is crowded, I tend to feel trapped. Too constricted.
Did I mention I suffer from claustrophobia and a fear of crowds? I guess that’s a topic for another interview...
Anyway, when the bus is full, I would much rather be in my owner’s arms, or on the floor, if it’s not too dirty. Even then, I’m willing to put up with the dust if it means I’ll have more space and won’t bump into people.
Actually, I’d like to take this opportunity to apologize to all the passengers I’ve inadvertently bumped into over my working life. I’m sure a sudden zipper to the face is not much fun.
Gentle reminder from Jack the backpack
When travelling on public transit, my place—and that of all my fellow backpacks—is in our owners’ hands when they’re standing, and on their laps or on the floor when they’re sitting. It’s that simple.
Are you aware that you sometimes take up more space than a full passenger?
Definitely! The worst is when my owner places me on the seat next to him during rush hour. One time I even got dirty looks from other passengers when seating was scarce. How embarrassing! And my owner didn’t even notice! He continued doing his sudoku like it was no big deal. He was completely absorbed in completing a master-level game in under five minutes. It was impressive, but still!
Etiquette is a shared effort
Simple, often spontaneous actions create a smoother, safer, and more pleasant environment.
What behaviours would you like humans to adopt on public transit?
I’m handy, I’m handsome, I know it. But when the bus is crowded, I’d prefer you to hold my hand rather than ride on your back.
Jack the backpack speaks for all bags in Greater Montréal when he says: if the bus is crowded, put us on the ground! This simple act creates space and comfort for your fellow passengers, and it’s very civilized.
Your fellow passengers will thank you.
Discover other interviews with civic‑minded objects and the principles that guide exo in terms of civility across the network.
