Influencer Rejects “Fat Phobia” in Travel Backlash: “I’m Not Paying Extra for Your Comfort”

Travel Blogger Responds to ‘Fatphobic’ Criticism

Plus-size travel blogger Jaelynn Chaney has addressed criticism regarding her views on air travel accessibility, responding to comments that she says are “dehumanizing”. The blogger, known for advocating “fat liberation,” has faced backlash after suggesting larger individuals should receive free airline seats.

Criticism and Reactions

Chaney, based in the Tri-Cities, Washington, frequently shares her perspectives on social media platforms like TikTok. She responded to critics who suggested she “lose weight” or purchase first-class tickets due to her body size. Some commenters have drawn parallels to baggage weight restrictions, suggesting Chaney should pay extra for more space on flights.

Chaney has strongly rejected such comparisons.

• “So now my body is being compared to luggage? Charging by weight is fat phobic and dehumanizing. I’m not a suitcase,” she stated.
• She emphasized that extra baggage fees are a separate issue, calling for “fair, equal treatment for all passengers.”

Reportedly a UK size 24, Chaney also condemned those who suggested she diet to accommodate other passengers. “Oh so I should just change my entire body to accommodate your comfort? It’s not my job to shrink myself to fit into spaces that were never designed for me in the first place,” she said.

Jaelynn Chaney, a travel blogger, advocates for fat liberation and increased accessibility

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Chaney argues weight loss isn’t a simple or universally effective solution.

Addressing Travel Accessibility

Critics also suggested Chaney upgrade to first class. She countered, arguing that the issue lies within the system itself.

• “First class is a luxury and guess what? First class isn’t big enough for some fat bodies,” Chaney added.
• Upgrading is not a solution, and does not address the “under-sized seats for fat people in economy. Fix the system, not the people.”

Some users suggested Chaney avoid air travel altogether if she found seating difficult. She responded that flying is a “necessity” and people with larger bodies should not be excluded.

“Telling fat people to just stay at home is not a solution – it’s exclusion,” she said.

Chaney maintains that, while flying can be a privilege, basic human dignity and accessibility are rights. She advocates for equal treatment without exclusion, focusing on equality.

Chaney advocates for a “fat equality bill of rights and the fat accessibility act.”

“It’s time to stop tolerating fat phobia and make travel, healthcare and public spaces accessible to everyone, no matter the size,” Chaney said,

She has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her movement and secure “equal rights, dignity and basic accessibility for fat people.” She encourages others to “join me in the fight for a better future” and called to “de-mantle fat phobia together”.