Your first tandem jump — what to expect
What happens, in order, what to bring, and how it actually feels.
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There is no real preparation needed for a first tandem — everything you must know fits into a briefing of about fifteen minutes. What helps is knowing how the day runs, so the pace does not catch you out.
What to bring
- Photo ID for the paperwork.
- Comfortable laced trainers — no heels or sandals.
- Layers: it is noticeably colder at 4,000 metres.
- A hair tie if your hair is long.
- Spare time — jumping runs to the weather, not the clock.
Freefall
The first seconds after exit are the most intense. Then the speed stabilises around 200 km/h and the sensation stops being falling and becomes something closer to lying on a very solid column of air. It lasts about a minute — longer than most people expect, and still too short.
Under the canopy
When the canopy opens it goes suddenly quiet. You fly for several minutes, can talk normally, look out over the coast, and often steer for a while yourself. For landing the instructor asks you to lift your legs, and they fly you down.
The fear
Usually there is some, and that is fine — most of it arrives when the door opens. It helps to know there is no decision to make up there: the instructor exits, and you are attached to them. The part that looks like the biggest obstacle lasts about two seconds.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare for my first skydive?
No physical preparation or training is needed. Bring ID, comfortable laced shoes and layered clothing, and allow spare time in your day.
How do I get over the fear of skydiving?
Most of the fear peaks when the aircraft door opens and passes within seconds of exit. On a tandem there is no decision to make in the doorway — you are attached to the instructor, who exits.
Can I bring my phone or a camera?
No. Nothing is carried in your hands for safety reasons, which is why filming is done by a camera flyer or a properly mounted instructor camera.