If you set the date for your first helicopter tour, congratulations! You are one of the lucky people who will have an unforgettable experience. Helicopter tours offer a new way to view the world.
You’re likely both excited, overwhelmed, and maybe got some questions. After all, it’s not like schools teach you how to prepare for a helicopter ride. Luckily, all you need is a little bit of research to calm your nerves and ensure you have a great time.
Keep reading to learn some tips that will help you prepare for your helicopter tour!
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Know The Duration
One thing you’ll notice as you search for your helicopter flight is all the options. You can choose from a quick 15-minute flight to a loaded two-hour journey that includes landing and having a picnic! Knowing the duration of your helicopter tour is important not only when you’re selecting the flight but before you board the helicopter.
If you’re not a big fan of heights and are looking for a taste, then you’ll want to do a quick tour. This will still be an amazing experience where you can see a significant amount of the city but you know it won’t be a time commitment. This is also a great option if you’re trying to save some money, short tours are more affordable.
The longer tours are ideal for a special event or if you’re just looking to savor your time in the air. This might also give you access to landing in locations that are difficult to access otherwise, it’s a perfect choice for the more adventurous or for a big date night.
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Reduce Your Anxiety
Nervous flyer? Understandable. Before boarding your helicopter, try to reduce your anxiety.
Start the day with some tea, do some breathing exercises, maybe meditate a little bit. It’s completely normal to feel afraid and anxious, that’s part of the excitement as well. It might help you combat those worries if you begin to visualize the experience, knowing it will just be a thrilling experience.
Maybe you know someone who has done a helicopter tour, talk to them about it! They likely have a lot of wisdom to pass on to you that is sure to ease your nerves. If the fear is persistent, talk to your doctor about some medication that will help get rid of those jitters.
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Choose the Right Outfit
There’s no specific dress code when it comes to a helicopter tour but you want to make sure you’re comfortable and dress according to the weather. The last thing you want to be is feeling uneasy because you didn’t make the right clothing option.
During the spring and summer, be sure to wear loose-fitting clothes that will help you avoid the heat. Think comfortable tank tops and t-shirts paired with shorts or breathable pants. For the winters, be sure to bring a warm coat and wear multiple layers, especially since it will be colder at higher altitudes.
Wear close-toed shoes, sunscreen to protect your skin, and sunglasses to protect your eyes. All of this will make you feel both comfortable and safe.
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Prepare for Motion Sickness
Prone to motion sickness? This is something you’ll want to consider before taking a helicopter ride. The motion of helicopters can be a little unsettling for some people at first, especially since they change directions quickly – this can make anyone a little nauseous!
The good news is that there are ways to fight the feelings of motion sickness and enjoy the sights. If the weather looks like it’ll make for a particularly rough ride, reschedule and enjoy another time.
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Be Aware of Safety Measures
As far as safety goes, there are many in-flight measures in place. You’ll be told about all of them before you board but it’s good to do your research beforehand so you know what to expect.
You’ll need to wear a seatbelt, wear noise-canceling headphones to communicate with the pilot, and know where all the safety equipment is. That includes items like emergency kits, knives, flares, and other similar things.
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Determine Sitting Positions Beforehand
There are different sizes of helicopters and the number of passengers you’re flying with might vary. There are normally 1-2 people in the front and 2-4 people in the back. If you’re someone who might feel nauseous then sit closer to the front or by a window to help fight this.
Thinking about where you, or a group, will be sitting will help if you are concerned about motion sickness and it can help avoid any conflict on the day. Sometimes seating will be assigned based on weight distribution to ensure helicopter balance.
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Bring Your Camera
The last tip we got for you is to bring a camera! This is a unique experience that is sure to impress you. There’ll be spectacular views that you can’t achieve with any other tour.
You’ll be seeing the location from a birds-eye view, possibly with loved ones, it’s a memory you’ll want to save.
If you’re still curious to know more about helicopter tours, be sure to look at this blog page that will answer any burning questions.
Preparing For Helicopter Tour
Now that you’ve read through all the tips, take a deep breath, and go back to being excited about your helicopter tour! You’re ready to embark on a journey unlike any other. Make sure you have enough space on your camera for all the photos you’re about to take.
Remember that you’re dealing with professionals who have been flying in the sky for years. You couldn’t be in better hands. Now it’s up to you to enjoy your time with loved ones as you fly 1000 ft from the ground, taking in the spectacular views.
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