So You Wanna Jump Out of a Perfectly Good Plane in Oklahoma: A Guide to Skydiving Costs (and Not Freaking Out)
Let's face it, skydiving isn't exactly your average Tuesday afternoon activity. It's a heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping leap of faith that separates the "wow, that's cool" crowd from the "hold my beer" bunch. But before you trade your sensible shoes for a jumpsuit (with a very important rip cord), there's a little number you gotta face: the cost.
Buckle Up, Buttercup: How Much Does This Wild Ride Cost?
Here's the skinny: tandem skydiving in Oklahoma can range from $240 to a cool $420. That's right, for the price of a fancy new gadget (that you'll probably break anyway), you can experience pure, unadulterated terror...I mean, exhilaration!
Looking for a basic jump? A 14,000-foot plummet will set you back a reasonable $240. Not bad for a chance to scream your head off while strapped to a professional (hopefully).
Feeling fancy? For $420, you can take the plunge from a glorious 18,000 feet. That's an extra 4,000 feet of "oh my god, I'm never doing this again" for the high rollers out there (though, let's be honest, by the time you open your parachute, you'll probably be begging for more).
Hold on, there's more! Some dropzones charge extra if you're, ahem, a little on the heavier side. So, if you've been indulging in too many Oklahoma onion burgers, be sure to factor that in before you whip out your credit card.
Don't Panic! Here's What's Included (Usually)
Now, before you hyperventilate at the thought of dropping that kind of cash, here's what you typically get for your skydiving dollar:
- The actual jump, obviously (with a licensed professional strapped to your back, because safety first...ish)
- All the necessary gear (don't worry, they won't let you jump in your pajamas)
- Pre-jump briefing (so you know what you're getting yourself into...kind of)
- In-air coaching (mostly screaming encouragement in your ear)
- A breathtaking (or vomit-inducing) view, depending on your constitution
Photos and videos are usually extra, so factor that in if you want bragging rights (or proof that you actually did this crazy thing).
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions (Because Let's Be Real, You Have Questions)
How to prepare for a skydive? Mostly deep breaths and a healthy dose of "I can do this!" (even if your voice cracks a little). A good night's sleep and a light breakfast are also helpful.
How to know if I'm too scared to skydive? If you're reading this and your palms are sweaty, that's normal. But if you're having nightmares about rogue squirrels stealing your parachute, maybe take up stamp collecting instead.
How to land after a skydive? Don't worry, your instructor will handle most of the landing. Your job is to relax, enjoy the view, and try not to look too goofy.
How to be the coolest skydiver ever? Easy! High-five your instructor, stick the landing, and walk away with a nonchalant shrug. Just remember, even the coolest skydivers were scared out of their minds at some point.
How to make the most of the experience? Soak it all in! The freefall, the views, the feeling of weightlessness. This is an experience you'll never forget (unless you faint from the adrenaline, but that's a story for another time).