Cycling from London to Sweden: An Alternative Adventure

In June 2024, a journalist embarked on a 1,500km (930 miles) cycling journey from London to Sweden, spanning 17 days. This trip was not just a leisurely ride; it was an exploration of cycling as a viable long-distance travel alternative. The experience highlighted the stark contrast between cycling and flying, as the journalist noted that while flying is often the default choice, cycling can offer a more environmentally friendly option with zero carbon emissions for the trip. Despite the significant distance, the cyclist found that the time spent on the road limited opportunities for spending money, making the journey more economical in some respects. The total expenditure for the trip amounted to approximately £1,400 ($1,830), which was considerably higher than a typical plane ticket priced around £100 ($130) or a train ticket at about £350 ($460). This financial aspect raised questions about the true cost of sustainable travel versus conventional methods. The journey also involved a brief reunion with family, after which the journalist had to fly back to London with the bicycle, underscoring the complexities of combining cycling with other forms of transport. Reflecting on the experience, the journalist expressed a newfound appreciation for the vastness of the world when traveling by bike, contrasting it with the often compressed perspective offered by air travel. Looking ahead, the journalist is considering future cycling trips, such as shorter routes within the UK, armed with the knowledge that long-distance cycling is not only possible but also enriching.