I recently completed my AFF skydiving course with SkyHigh Adventures, and I wanted to share my cost breakdown. The initial course fee was $1800, covering all the ground school sessions and seven jumps. I found this to be competitive pricing compared to other dropzones. Rental gear was included in the package, which saved me a considerable amount. I opted for the GoPro package for an additional $200, capturing my incredible experience. This upfront investment felt worthwhile for the unforgettable adventure I was about to embark on.
Choosing the Right Course
Choosing the right Accelerated Freefall (AFF) skydiving course felt overwhelming at first! I spent weeks researching different dropzones near my home in Denver. I read countless online reviews, comparing instructor qualifications, course structures, and, of course, the cost. Initially, price was a major factor, but I quickly realized that the cheapest option wasn’t necessarily the best. I spoke with several experienced skydivers, and their advice was invaluable. They stressed the importance of choosing a reputable dropzone with highly qualified instructors who prioritize safety. I learned that a slightly higher upfront cost could translate to better instruction and a safer learning environment. I discovered that some courses included more jump training, while others offered additional equipment rentals or video packages. Ultimately, I chose SkyHigh Adventures because of their excellent safety record, experienced instructors like Marcus, who had over 10,000 jumps, and a comprehensive curriculum that covered all aspects of AFF training, from emergency procedures to body positioning. The slightly higher price tag for their course, which included seven jumps, felt justified considering their reputation and commitment to safety. Their detailed explanation of the course structure, the qualifications of their instructors, and the thorough safety briefing solidified my decision. I also appreciated their transparent pricing, with no hidden fees, which gave me peace of mind. It was a significant investment, but I felt confident that I was choosing a course that would prioritize my safety and provide me with the best possible training. Looking back, the extra cost was absolutely worth it for the exceptional quality of instruction and overall experience.
The Financial Commitment
Let’s talk money. The financial commitment to completing my AFF skydiving course was substantial, and it required careful planning. The base cost of the course itself, as I mentioned, was $1800. This covered the ground school, the initial seven jumps, and the use of all necessary equipment during those jumps. I opted for the GoPro package, adding another $200 to the total. This was a personal choice, but I felt it was important to document this incredible experience. Beyond the course fee, there were additional expenses to consider. I needed to factor in travel costs to and from the dropzone, which was about a 45-minute drive each way. Gas, tolls, and the occasional coffee stop added up. Then there were the less tangible costs, like time off work. I needed to take several days off to complete the ground school and the jumps themselves. This impacted my income, a factor I had to weigh carefully. Although I had saved diligently for the course, I also considered spreading the payments over several months, which SkyHigh Adventures thankfully accommodated. This allowed me to manage the financial burden more effectively. I even set up a separate savings account specifically for skydiving, which helped me track my progress and stay on budget. It was a significant financial undertaking, but the thrill of the experience made every penny worthwhile. The sense of accomplishment after successfully completing the course far outweighed the financial investment. The memories and the newfound confidence I gained are priceless.
Unexpected Expenses
While I meticulously planned for my AFF skydiving course, several unexpected expenses popped up. Firstly, I underestimated the cost of meals. Spending several days at the dropzone meant more lunches and dinners than I’d initially budgeted for. The nearest restaurants weren’t exactly cheap, and packing my own lunches every day proved more time-consuming than I anticipated. Secondly, I hadn’t accounted for the cost of additional gear. While the course included rental equipment, I found myself wanting to purchase my own gloves. The rental gloves weren’t quite the right fit, and I felt more comfortable investing in a pair that fit snugly. This small addition unexpectedly bumped up my overall cost. Another unforeseen expense was related to weather; A few of my scheduled jump days were postponed due to inclement weather. While this wasn’t a fault of the dropzone, it did mean extra travel costs and time off work, impacting my overall budget; And finally, there were the smaller, seemingly insignificant costs that added up⁚ parking fees at the dropzone, extra drinks to stay hydrated during long days, and even a small souvenir I picked up to commemorate the experience. These seemingly minor expenses, when added together, created a significant increase in my overall spending. It’s important to remember that while planning is crucial, unexpected costs are almost inevitable; Building a small buffer into your budget is a wise decision to ensure a smoother and less stressful experience. Looking back, I wish I had planned for these smaller, unexpected costs more thoroughly.
The Thrill of the First Jump
The anticipation leading up to my first jump was almost unbearable! After weeks of ground school, practicing body positioning, and learning the intricacies of the parachute system, the moment finally arrived. My instructor, a seasoned pro named Javier, gave me a final reassuring pat on the back before we climbed into the small plane. The ascent was surprisingly quick, the hum of the engine a steady counterpoint to the butterflies in my stomach. As we reached altitude, the view was breathtaking – a panoramic vista of rolling hills and distant towns stretched out below. Then, the door opened. The rush of wind was immediate and intense, a powerful force that momentarily stole my breath. Stepping out onto the edge felt surreal; one moment I was inside the plane, the next I was hurtling through the air, the ground rapidly approaching. The freefall was an indescribable sensation – a mixture of exhilaration, terror, and pure, unadulterated joy. The wind roared past my ears, the world a blur of colors and sensations. It felt like flying, a dream made reality. Javier’s calm voice in my ear guided me through the necessary steps, and soon, the gentle tug of my parachute deployed. The transition from freefall to the smooth, controlled descent was a welcome relief, offering a moment to take in the stunning landscape from a different perspective. The landing was surprisingly gentle, and as I stood on solid ground, a wave of relief and accomplishment washed over me. It was the most exhilarating, terrifying, and ultimately rewarding experience of my life. The cost of the course, while significant, paled in comparison to the unparalleled thrill of that first jump – a feeling I’ll carry with me forever.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Looking back on my AFF skydiving course, the financial investment was absolutely worth it. The thrill of freefall, the sense of accomplishment, and the sheer joy of conquering my fear far outweigh any expense. However, I do have some recommendations for future skydivers. Thoroughly research different dropzones and compare pricing. Don’t just focus on the base course cost; factor in additional expenses like video packages, travel, and potential extra jumps you might want to take. Reading reviews and talking to other skydivers can help you find a reputable and well-regarded dropzone that suits your needs and budget. Also, consider the overall experience. Did the instructors seem knowledgeable and supportive? Was the ground school thorough and engaging? A positive and well-structured learning environment can significantly impact your confidence and enjoyment. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and clarify any doubts you have before committing to a course. For me, the camaraderie amongst the students and the professionalism of the instructors at SkyHigh Adventures made the experience even more enjoyable. Finally, remember that skydiving is an inherently risky activity, so ensure you are physically and mentally prepared. Listen to your instructors, follow safety procedures meticulously, and never compromise your safety for the sake of a thrill. The cost of the course is a small price to pay for the incredible experience, but prioritizing safety should always be paramount. My advice? Take the plunge! It’s an adventure you won’t regret, and the memories will last a lifetime. The exhilaration, the freedom, the sheer beauty of the world from that perspective… it’s truly unforgettable.