Skydiving for Beginners: What to Expect on Your First Jump

Thinking about making your first skydive? Most first-time jumpers in the United States start with a tandem skydive, where an experienced instructor handles the parachute system and guides the jump from aircraft exit to landing. You do not need a skydiving license, and no prior experience is required.

This guide covers what to wear, what happens during the jump, common beginner questions, and how to prepare for your first visit to a dropzone.

Quick Facts

• Experience Required: None
• Typical Duration: 2–4 hours
• Freefall Time: 30–60 seconds
• Average Cost: $200–$350
• Photo/Video Package: Usually $80–$200 extra
• License Required: No
• Minimum Age: Varies by operator

Before You Go

• Complete any required waivers
• Eat a light meal
• Get a good night's sleep
• Arrive on time
• Leave valuables in the car
• Review age, weight, and health requirements

What to Wear

Recommended

• Closed-toe athletic shoes
• Comfortable athletic clothing
• Weather-appropriate layers
• Hair secured if long

Avoid

• Flip-flops
• Dresses or skirts
• Loose hats
• Expensive jewelry

Most operators provide:

• Harness
• Goggles
• Jumpsuit

What the Day Looks Like

1. Check-In

Paperwork, waiver confirmation, and possible weight verification.

2. Ground Briefing

Your instructor explains:

• Aircraft procedures
• Body position
• Exit procedures
• Landing instructions

3. Equipment Fitting

You'll be fitted with:

• Harness
• Goggles
• Tandem attachment system

4. Aircraft Ride

Expect approximately 10–20 minutes climbing to altitude.

5. Exit and Freefall

The aircraft door opens, and you jump attached to your instructor.

Most tandem freefalls last under a minute.

6. Parachute Flight

The ride becomes calm and surprisingly peaceful.

Take in the scenery.

7. Landing

When instructed, lift your legs and allow the instructor to handle the touchdown.

Common Beginner Questions

Can I Breathe During Freefall?

Yes. Breathing is completely normal during freefall.

What If I Wear Glasses?

Most dropzones provide goggles that fit over glasses.

Is Skydiving Scary?

Most people are nervous before the jump. Nearly everyone says it was less frightening and more enjoyable than expected.

How Long Does the Whole Experience Take?

Plan for two to four hours due to weather, aircraft scheduling, and other groups.

If You Are Nervous

• Tell your instructor
• Focus on breathing
• Ask questions
• Remember tandem systems are specifically designed for beginners

Trip-Day Essentials

• Waiver completed
• Closed-toe shoes
• Light meal
• Government-issued ID
• Official website reviewed

Ready to Jump?

Search skydiving operators near your ZIP code and compare dropzones, services, and locations.