A plus-size traveler has responded to online trolls who suggested she should purchase two plane seats due to her size.
Lindsay McGlone, 26, posted a TikTok video of her Ryanair flight to Bulgaria, aiming to encourage others who are larger that “they deserve to travel.”
In the video, Lindsay, who wears a size 24 and stands 5ft 3in tall, is seen boarding the plane with her partner Tommy, 28. During the flight, she is heard requesting a seatbelt extender from the cabin crew and demonstrating that she can lower the tray table comfortably.
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The video quickly gained traction, amassing over 907,000 views and 10,000 likes. While many viewers appreciated her for bringing attention to the challenges faced by plus-size travelers, some detractors cruelly commented that Lindsay should be required to pay for an additional seat.
“I want to show people that they can travel and advocate for those with different body types while being considerate of others around them,” Lindsay, from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, explained to Luxury Travel Daily.
“I’m aware that my body type isn’t everyone’s preference. You’re bound to encounter derogatory and fatphobic remarks. I didn’t anticipate the video to gain as much attention as it has.”
She added, “I’ve received messages from people who found the video helpful. One person mentioned they were about to board a flight, were worried due to their size, and felt relieved after seeing my video. The negative comments, like those suggesting I should eat a salad, are just so petty.”
Lindsay clarified that while she has never needed to book two seats, she acknowledges it might be more comfortable, but she fits within one seat. She also chooses to treat trolls with kindness, understanding that their comments often stem from personal insecurities.
“I believe there’s a reason behind why they behave this way, and it may not be entirely their fault. Engaging in online arguments is pointless, as fatphobia is so pervasive. I’d ask them to consider how they’d feel if a relative of theirs or someone with a health condition that led to weight gain was treated the same.”
Lindsay also pointed out that most travelers can’t afford to buy an extra seat. “If it were financially feasible for larger people to purchase an extra ticket, should they? Only if they feel it’s necessary. But if I did that, others would likely criticize me for preventing another person from flying.”
She emphasized that decisions about purchasing additional seats should be left to the individual, asserting, “We have control over our bodies, and we don’t need others to dictate what’s best for us.”
Lindsay goes out of her way to ensure the comfort of those around her when using public transportation. “I haven’t had an uncomfortable flight, but I often feel anxious, worrying about potential negative reactions.
I usually speak to the flight attendants to check if there’s someone sitting next to me who might feel uncomfortable. Society often demonizes us, viewing us as needing to be ‘fixed’ rather than as individuals.”
She continued, “I always ask the person beside me if they’re comfortable. Addressing the issue can be tricky, as taking responsibility might make you feel like the bad guy, so it feels like a no-win situation.”
Lindsay is dedicated to encouraging plus-size individuals to travel and believes airlines should work to make their services more accommodating for larger customers. As a content creator for seven years, she shares her experiences living in a plus-size body without self-loathing.
“My advocacy goes beyond just fat bodies. I also support other underrepresented communities, like the LGBTQIA+ community. When you have a platform, you should use it to amplify others’ voices. It’s about making a positive impact.”
Lindsay is fully aware that her content might attract trolls but views it as part of her mission to make a difference. “I’ve accepted that trolling comes with the territory, but it’s my small way of contributing to change in the world.”
Her video inspired some viewers to book flights, while others sparked debates on whether airlines should accommodate plus-size passengers.
One person criticized the policy of charging for slightly overweight luggage, suggesting weight should be considered when booking.
Others suggested that needing a seatbelt extender should require purchasing two seats. Yet, Lindsay’s video also reassured some who had previously been anxious about flying, providing them with the confidence to travel.
Lindsay concluded, “I’ve always advocated for underrepresented groups throughout my adult life. I’ve organized events like Reclaimed Means Business, aimed at helping business owners feel they can be themselves, regardless of their background.”
She added, “I enjoyed my trip and intend to continue helping plus-size travelers feel comfortable on their journeys.”
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