The great thing about this thread is that most of us can bang on about it without having done it (a bit like ditching). Another alleged top tip from the not been there not done that book of inexperience is: if spinning, dive inside the spin, otherwise you end up like the bloke who bailed from the rear cockpit of a Tiger Moth only to land in the front cockpit, from which he exited without further mishap, thus bailing out twice from the same aircraft. I hope not to be able to report back on whether this or any other jumping-out top tip is a good idea.
Meanwhile, I am trying to decide whether my National backpack-style parachute feels more comfortable with the rear seat cushion in place or removed. It is lighter and easier to put on than the seat parachute which came with the aircraft, but less comfortable when strapped into the seat. I should maybe get something to put behind my lower back. What do others with Nationals find?