I haven't stepped on a plane since February 2019.
Here's why.
Photo credit: Flight Free UK
I have not been on a plane for 22 months. I never aimed for this number in particular; it just kind of happened. Now that it has, I'm not looking back! It's been far easier to not travel by plane than I ever thought it could be, so much so I've decided to consciously not fly for another 12 months, and I'm not even the slightest bit worried about it.
In the past I would've thought there is no way I could not fly at least once in the year to 'get away', get some space, and have an adventure, but I've realised two major things that has helped me in my personal transition to not flying:
The UK is FULL of beautiful places to see. There are rolling hills, lush water spots, breath taking views, fun sand dunes, and vast empty beaches to walk miles on - you just need to go out there and explore the UK.
The value aspect, as always must be shifted. There are other, more interesting ways to travel, and if you make that bit a part of your journey, you'll get far more out of your trip, and therefore, the perspective of value is altered. The value in a low cost plane ticket is pretty much all about the money, yes, but you're also short changing yourself on experieces and fun to be had travelling a different way. A train ticket might be more money, but if you can afford it, think of the value to be gained not through monetary terms, but through the sights through the window, not having to go through stressful security and the enjoyment of seeing the countries you're travelling through, rather than racing over them.
Realising these two things has made it far easier than I ever thought not flying could be, and I feel so lucky, like I've gained, rather than lost, or made any kind of 'sacrifice'. I'm not going to keep this quiet - it's a pretty humble and smug feeling at the same time!
"I feel so lucky, like I've gained, rather than lost, or made any kind of 'sacrifice'. I'm not going to keep this quiet - it's a pretty humble and smug feeling at the same time!"
There are lots of reasons I came to the decision to not fly in 2021, but rather than list them here, it's outlined rather nicely on the Flight Free World website which tells various people's stories on why they are not flying (I've linked below). I'm so lucky to be one of them, and I hope my passion for UK travel inspires others like you to consider flying a little less, and discovering some gems closer to home.
Everyone has a different path and it's really important to remember that only you can come to make a decision about your life. Stop, look, listen, read but don't feel pushed or pressured if you are not ready to do things that don't feel right or suit. We obviously need to do all we can, but we are all different people, with different lifestyle, and different responsibilities.
Everyone has a different path and it's really important to remember that only you can come to make a decision about your life.
Check out my story and others' and hopefully you can be inspired to take the pledge too!
But, if you can't or think you're not ready, then listen to yourself, and maybe instead, share the campaign around!
Photo credit: Flight Free World
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