Top 5 Skydiving Mistakes For First Time Skydivers

Are you thinking of making a skydive for the first time?

It’s one of the best things you’ll ever do! Here at Skydive Carolina, we’ve welcomed hundreds, if not thousands, of first-time skydivers. Here are some of the top mistakes we see first-time skydivers make, and simple ways to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Booking the Cheapest Skydive

Making your booking on price alone is never a good idea.

Consider what it is you’re booking. This is one of the greatest experiences of your life; don’t you deserve the best?

Now, that’s not to say cheaper skydives can’t be good. But we know what it takes to run a high-quality drop zone, to run high quality skydiving aircraft and to employ some of the best skydiving instructors. It’s not cheap, and that’s the main reason you’ll find variation in price.

By choosing your skydive not based on price, but based on quality, experience and service you’re much more likely to love every minute of your skydive experience.

Mistake 2: Not Eating Properly Before the Jump

It can be challenging to eat normally on the day of your jump. We understand completely that nerves can take over and leave you feeling like you’re not hungry at all.

We also understand the desire not to feel ill during your jump, so it might feel like not eating is a good idea.

The reality is that eating a normal meal before you jump is the best thing you can do. Food gives you energy and helps you stay alert. When you jump, you’ll experience an adrenaline rush and food helps your blood sugar levels stay consistent and keeps you feeling perky throughout.

Mistake 3: Not Learning About the Aircraft

The aircraft you jump from makes a difference to the experience you have.

Skydive aircraft aren’t like your standard commercial aircraft. They don’t come with comfy seats or mid-flight trolley services! But they are all perfectly adapted for skydiving, some with bench seating, somewhere you sit on the floor.

There’s also a difference in the way the aircraft climbs to altitude, how long it takes and the exit procedure.

Here at Skydive Carolina, we operate a fleet of three aircraft including a Cessna 182 (takes 4 passengers), King Air (takes 13 passengers) and a Twin Otter (23 passengers). Find out more about our aircraft here.

Mistake 4: Not Researching the Skydive Center Fully

Your choice of skydiving center comes down to a lot more than price and aircraft. The reputation of the skydiving centeris hugely important too.

You want to know that the center you choose has been thoroughly enjoyed by other first time skydivers too. Check out third party reviews from previous jumpers to find out more.

It’s also worth contacting the skydiving center ahead of time and talking through any queries you have with their staff. If you live nearby, you could even visit before your jump.

Mistake 5: Not Getting a Video of the Jump

Whether your skydive is a one-off or the start of a brand new hobby that will see you make thousands of jumps, there’s nothing quite like that moment you make your very first leap.

That’s why we always recommend our first-time skydivers have a video made of the occasion. Choose one of our video packages and you’ll have your own personal skydive videographer join you on your jump and capture every moment. It’s a great way to capture the memories for yourself and to share them with your friends and family too.

If you’re thinking about making your first skydive, book online today or get in touch and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.