I use my handheld radio like I use my mobile phone, as a servant not a master. Use it when necessary, for example inbound to places like Shoreham, or transit Brize (twice last weekend, and 'negative squawk' as well - thanks guys!), and then switch it off when not necessary. X-country in the open FIR I select 121.5 and then switch off, until ready to call next arrival airfield if needed, and can then concentrate on navigation and lookout.
I would think that operating a totally non-radio a/c would be quite restricting, as so many potential destinations would be unavailable. But there is no reason why it shouldn't be done.
Slip