Why One Millionaire Refuses To Pay for First‑Class Flights
Take a moment to imagine what you think a millionaire does with their money. Odds are fairly high you assume they drive an expensive car, live in a lavish house and fly first class when they travel.
However, it could be hard to recognize a wealthy person by focusing on such traits. Today's modern millionaire is more likely to drive a nice (but possibly used) car, live in a nice (but not necessarily ostentatious) home, and opt for coach rather than first class.
Why wouldn't you pay for a luxury plane seat if you have the money to do it? Here's what one such millionaire had to say about the benefits of flying coach instead of first class.
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'Real Joys Aren't Found in Fancy Plane Seats'
Bryan Clayton is the CEO of online marketplace GreenPal, which has been referred to as "the Uber for lawn care" by Entrepreneur magazine. After selling his first big landscaping business, Clayton hit millionaire status at age 32. He could have easily started spending his money on first class seats, but there was one problem: It didn't feel like something he would do, or really wanted to do.
"Honestly, sitting in one of those slightly bigger seats up front just because you fork over extra dough? That's not how I roll," said Clayton.
Over the last few years, Clayton said he has traveled through more than 50 countries and discovered the real joys aren't found in cushiony, oversized airplane seats. Instead, Clayton has put his hard-earned money toward dining on delicious meals or staying in hotels in unique cities and areas.
All of this has paid off for Clayton in ways he says a first-class ticket comes up short.
The Benefits of Embracing a Coach Mindset
"By sticking to coach, I've easily saved tens of thousands of dollars," said Clayton. "That money goes a lot further when you're talking about real experiences, not just a few hours in a comfier seat."
While not everyone, millionaire or otherwise, is sold on flying coach, Clayton wants fliers to consider embracing the coach mindset. The simple act of flying coach now will pay off in the short- and long-term.
"You could be using your extra cash on investments, experiences or even saving it for something big," said Clayton. "Flying coach isn't just about saving a few bucks. It's about making smart financial choices that add up big time."
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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