10 Tips for Making the Most of Your First Skydive
Skydiving is an amazing experience that is hard to explain to others, but it can also be a little daunting for first-time jumpers. Here are our top 10 tips to help you make the most of your first skydive:
Do your research. Before you even book your first jump, take some time to research skydiving. USPA (United States Parachute Association), is the governing body for skydiving, and they do NOT require your first jump to be a tandem jump (you could begin with an AFF or a SL/IAD jump). However, not all skydiving centers are USPA-affiliated nor do all offer every type of skydive, and even those that are USPA-affiliatedcan have their own rules. Read online reviews, talk to others that have made a skydive, and watch videos of skydives. This will help you get a better idea of what to expect and make you feel more prepared.
Choose a reputable skydiving center. There are many skydiving centers out there, so it's important to choose one that has a good reputation and a friendly business manner. All staff members should make you feel welcome, and be able to answer your questions (or, at least, point you in the direction of someone that can). USPA has a locator page that shows USPA-affiliated skydiving centers worldwide.
Book your jump in advance. Skydiving is a popular activity, so it's a good idea to book your jump in advance. While some skydiving centers allow for tandem walk-ups, having an appointment allows for a smoother experience with less of a wait. If you’ve decided that you want to make an AFF or a SL/IAD jump, then you will most likely need to book a slot in an upcoming First Jump Curse.
Dress appropriately. You'll want to wear comfortable clothing, appropriate for the day’s temperature, that you can move around in easily. You should also wear sneakers that cannot be easily slipped off. If you want to wear jewelry, be sure that it is jewelry that you don’t (potentially) mind losing.
Listen to your instructor. Your instructor is there to keep you safe, so be sure to listen to their instructions carefully. If you don’t understand something, ask them to repeat or rephrase their instructions. Skydiving is not an amusement park ride; skydiving students’ willingness to listen and follow instructions has a direct impact on the result of the skydive. If you are an AFF or SL/IAD student, you should bring writing materials with you to take notes during your First Jump Course. If you don’t feel comfortable with your assigned instructor, it is perfectly acceptable to ask of another one.
Arrive well rested. Your instructor is counting on you to be an active participant in your jump. If you are sleepy or sluggish, you may not be allowed to jump that day.
Eat some food and hydrate. Many people was worried about feeling queasy during their jump, and mistakenly believe that skipping meals is the best way to go. Unfortunately, this typically backfires; consider eating a light meal before skydiving if you are worried about nausea. Also, it’s important to stay hydrated on the day of the jump, especialy in hot or dry climates.
Be alcohol/drug/scruba free. You may not consume alcohol within 8 hours prior to your skydive. You may not be under the influence of any mind-altering drugs (prescription or illegal). You many not scuba dive within 24 hours (conservatively) prior to your skydive.
Bring a camera. You'll want to capture the memories of your first skydive, so bring a camera to take pictures and videos of yourself (and friends) at the skydiving center. While personal cameras cannot be brought on jumps , there are plenty of photo opportunities while on the ground.
Relax and have fun! Skydiving is an amazing experience, so try to relax and enjoy the experience.
Bonus Tip:
Bring a friend along with you. Many people feel more relaxed when they’ve got support from a friend. They will be there through the nerves and excitement, and you'll have someone to share the experience with afterwards.
Following these tips will help you make the most of your first skydive. So what are you waiting for? Find your skydiving center and book your jump today!