3 Things to Expect When Flying in a Hot Air Balloon 

Are you getting ready to take a hot air balloon flight? This is such an exciting and amazing experience, so it’s best to make sure you’re as prepared as possible to get the most out of your trip. 

Keep reading to learn more about what flying in a hot air balloon will be like, as well as how you can prepare for the trip. Make this ride one you will always remember with these tips. 

1. Clothing Matters 

When dressing for the day of your hot air balloon trip, being mindful of what you put on is important. Wearing boots or sneakers with high socks will help you during landing. You will also want to make sure you are wearing clothes that allow you some flexibility, such as stretchy pants that will allow you to get in and out of the balloon basket with ease. 

Wear a hat and sunblock to avoid sunburns, and pin your hair back so that it isn’t flying around midflight and obstructing your view or irritating your eyes. Sunglasses will also help you enjoy your view without needing to squint. In the winter, make sure you bring your layers, as the higher the altitude, the colder the weather. 

Bring a purse or wear pants with secure pockets that will allow you to bring a small camera or cell phone so that you can capture the moment. 

2. It’s a Peaceful Flight 

It often comes as a surprise to passengers that flying in a hot air balloon is so peaceful. The hot air balloon glides with the wind through low and high altitudes. This allows you to feel little wind as breezes will only happen when you change altitudes or the wind speed shifts. 

3. An Exciting Landing 

Many are surprised to learn that the landing of your hot air balloon ride is one of the most exciting parts of the experience. Typically, the pilot will choose a landing spot based on the time of day and the geological landscape. Landings will differ depending on the terrain and the wind speed. 

If the day of your ride has calm winds, then you will likely be able to do a standing landing, where the balloon will calmly land on the ground with little impact. In moderate winds, the pilot may instruct riders to crouch down and turns sideways from the approaching ground, as bending the knees can help to soften the impact.

If the balloon lands upright and comes to a complete stop, passengers will be instructed to wait for some of the remaining air in the balloon to empty out. This is so that the balloon does not fly off when someone is dismounting. All in all, hot air balloon trips will differ depending on the weather and the location. 

What You Should Know Before Taking a Hot Air Balloon Flight 

If you’re getting ready to take a hot air balloon flight, keep these tips in mind so that you can be prepared. 

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