Skydiving is one of the most thrilling and adventurous activities that many people want to experience at least once in their lives. The sensation of freefalling from thousands of feet above the ground, the rush of wind against your face, and the stunning views of the world below are unmatched. If you’re considering skydiving in Illinois, one of the most common questions people have is about the cost. The price of a tandem skydive or a solo jump can vary depending on several factors. In this article, we will take a close look at the cost of skydiving in Illinois, what influences the price, and how to prepare for your first jump.
Factors That Influence the Cost of Skydiving in Illinois
The cost of skydiving in Illinois can vary based on several factors, including the type of jump you’re doing, the location of the drop zone, and the additional services you choose to include. Let’s break down the different factors that contribute to the overall price.
1. Type of Jump: Tandem vs. Solo
One of the most significant factors affecting the cost of skydiving is the type of jump you plan on doing. The two most common types of jumps are tandem jumps and solo jumps.
Tandem Skydiving: For beginners, a tandem jump is the most popular option. In this type of jump, you are securely harnessed to an experienced instructor who will guide you through the entire process.
This is the most straightforward and safest option for first-timers, as the instructor does all the hard work, from deploying the parachute to ensuring a smooth landing. The price for a tandem jump in Illinois typically ranges from $200 to $300. The cost may vary depending on the location and the company you choose, but most drop zones will charge a flat fee that includes the instructor, equipment rental, and training.
Solo Skydiving: If you’re an experienced skydiver or looking to jump solo, you will need to go through a skydiving training program. The most common training method for solo jumps is the Accelerated Freefall (AFF) program. The cost for AFF training can be much higher than a tandem jump, as it includes ground school, multiple jumps with instructors, and additional equipment. Expect to pay anywhere between $1,500 to $3,000 for the full AFF program, which typically includes 6 to 8 jumps and instruction. Solo jump prices may also vary depending on the number of jumps you want to make after completing your training.
2. Location of the Drop Zone
Illinois has several drop zones where you can experience skydiving, and each one offers different pricing. The cost can vary depending on the location, as some areas are more popular or have better facilities, which can influence prices.
Chicago Area: If you are near Chicago, you can expect slightly higher prices due to the proximity to a major metropolitan area. Drop zones near Chicago may charge more for their services. Tandem skydiving prices in this area may range between $250 and $300, with additional charges for video and photo packages.
Other Locations in Illinois: Drop zones located outside of Chicago, such as in smaller towns or rural areas, may offer more competitive pricing. These areas typically have lower overhead costs, so you might find prices for a tandem jump to be around $200 or slightly less.
3. Additional Services (Video and Photos)
Many people choose to capture their skydiving experience with photos and videos. Most drop zones offer these packages as an add-on to your jump. While optional, adding a video or photo package will increase the overall cost of your jump.
Video Packages: A professional video package can cost anywhere from $100 to $150. The video will typically include footage of your pre-jump briefing, your jump itself, and the landing. Some companies even offer “helmet cam” options, where the instructor wears a camera during the jump and records the entire experience.
Photo Packages: Similar to video, photo packages allow you to capture the entire experience. Prices for photo packages usually range from $75 to $100. Some companies offer combined video and photo packages for a discounted price.
If you want both video and photos, you can expect to pay an additional $150 to $250 depending on the drop zone.
4. Group Discounts or Special Offers
Many drop zones in Illinois offer group discounts if you are planning to jump with friends or family. If you have a large group (usually 4 or more), you may receive a discounted rate on your tandem jump. Group discounts typically range from $10 to $50 off per person, depending on the size of the group and the location.
Additionally, certain skydiving companies may offer seasonal promotions or special discounts for first-time jumpers. It’s always a good idea to check online or call ahead to inquire about any discounts or special offers before booking your jump.
5. Membership and Repeat Jumps
If you plan on skydiving more than once, some drop zones in Illinois offer membership options or discounted rates for repeat jumpers. If you join a membership program, you may receive a discounted price for each jump, as well as access to other benefits such as priority booking or free training sessions. The cost of membership typically ranges from $50 to $100 annually, with jump rates reduced by $10 to $20 per jump.
6. Weather and Seasonal Pricing
Weather plays a big role in skydiving, and unfortunately, there are some days when the weather simply isn’t safe for jumping. The best time to skydive in Illinois is during the warmer months, typically from April to October. During the peak season, prices may be slightly higher due to increased demand. On the other hand, if you choose to jump during the off-season (November to March), you may find lower prices or special promotions to encourage more bookings.
The Typical Skydiving Experience in Illinois
A typical skydiving experience in Illinois follows a specific process that begins well before you leave the ground. Here’s what you can expect during your skydive:
Booking Your Jump: Before heading to the drop zone, you’ll need to book your jump. You can often do this online or over the phone. When you book, be sure to ask about any additional fees for video and photo packages, as well as any discounts available.
Pre-Jump Training: For a tandem jump, the training process is usually short and straightforward. Expect to spend about 30 minutes learning how to position your body during freefall and what to do during landing. If you’re doing an AFF or solo jump, you’ll need to go through a more extensive training process.
The Jump: On the day of your jump, you’ll meet your instructor, suit up, and board the aircraft. The plane will take you up to the jump altitude, which is typically between 10,000 and 14,000 feet. When you’re ready, you and your instructor will exit the plane together and experience a thrilling freefall that lasts for about 60 seconds before the parachute is deployed.
The Landing: After the parachute opens, you will glide down to the landing area. Your instructor will guide you through the landing process, ensuring a safe and smooth touch down.
Post-Jump: Once you’ve landed, you can review your experience with the instructors and see if you want to purchase any photos or video packages.
Conclusion
Skydiving in Illinois is an incredible adventure that offers a unique and thrilling way to see the world from a whole new perspective. The cost of skydiving in Illinois varies based on several factors, including the type of jump, the location of the drop zone, and any additional services such as photos and videos. A tandem jump typically costs between $200 and $300, while solo training programs can be much more expensive. If you’re looking to capture the experience, you can expect to pay an additional $75 to $250 for photos and video.
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