Your Guide to the best Adventure
There’s something undeniably magical about floating high above the landscape in a hot air balloon. The gentle ascent, the breathtaking views, and the peaceful silence make it a bucket-list-worthy adventure. If you’ve booked your first-ever hot air balloon ride, congratulations! You’re about to experience something truly unforgettable.
But before you take to the skies, there are a few things you should know to make your experience smooth, stress-free, and absolutely amazing. This guide will walk you through everything—from what to wear to what to expect—so you can fully enjoy your first hot air balloon adventure.
1. Dress Smart for the Ride
When preparing for your first hot air balloon trip, your outfit choice matters more than you might think. You’ll be outdoors for a while, and temperatures can change as you gain altitude. Here’s how to dress smartly for the occasion:
✔ Layer Up – Early morning flights are common, and it can be chilly. Wear layers so you can adjust as the temperature changes.
✔ Skip the Fancy Shoes – You’ll likely take off and land in an open field, so wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes instead of sandals or heels. Sneakers or hiking shoes work best.
✔ Avoid Loose Accessories – Hats, scarves, or anything that could fly away should be left behind or secured properly.
✔ Opt for Natural Fabrics – The heat from the balloon’s burners can feel intense, so wear breathable fabrics like cotton instead of synthetic materials.
Bonus tip: If you’re planning to take photos (which, of course, you are!), wear something that contrasts with the bright colors of the balloon for those Instagram-worthy shots!
2. Book the Right Flight Time
The best time for a hot air balloon ride? Early morning or late afternoon. These times offer the calmest winds and the most stunning views. Most balloon rides take off just after sunrise, giving you the chance to watch the world wake up from above.
Sunset rides are also an option in some locations, but the morning flights tend to have more stable weather conditions, making them ideal for first-timers.
When booking, consider these factors:
✔ Weather Conditions – Balloon flights are weather-dependent, so be prepared for possible cancellations.
✔ Duration of the Ride – Most rides last 45 minutes to an hour, but the entire experience (including setup and landing) can take 3–4 hours.
✔ Group or Private Ride? – Some companies offer private flights for couples or small groups, while others operate with larger baskets that fit 8–20 people.
3. Be Ready for an Early Start
Most hot air balloon rides start at the crack of dawn—we’re talking 4:30 or 5:00 AM meetups! While waking up that early might not be your idea of fun, trust us—it’s 100% worth it.
You’ll usually meet the crew at a designated location before heading to the launch site. Once you arrive, you’ll watch the fascinating process of the balloon being inflated. This part alone is an experience! The massive balloon slowly takes shape as the burners roar to life, and before you know it, you’re stepping into the basket.
Pro tip: Get a good night’s sleep before your flight so you’re well-rested and can fully enjoy the experience.
4. Know What to Expect During the Flight
If you’ve never been in a hot air balloon before, you might wonder: What does it actually feel like?
Here’s what you can expect:
✔ A Smooth, Gentle Lift-Off – There’s no sudden jolt or fast movement. It feels more like floating than flying.
✔ Incredible Views – Whether you’re flying over vineyards, deserts, or rolling hills, the views will leave you speechless.
✔ Complete Silence (Except for the Burners) – The ride itself is incredibly peaceful. The only sound you’ll hear is the occasional burst from the burners keeping the balloon afloat.
✔ No Feeling of Motion Sickness – Since the balloon moves with the wind, there’s no turbulence or jerky motion, making it ideal even for those prone to motion sickness.
The entire experience feels like something out of a dream. Many riders describe it as calming, almost meditative—so don’t be surprised if you get emotional while looking out over the breathtaking scenery.
5. Landing Can Be a Bit Bumpy—Brace Yourself!
While the takeoff is incredibly smooth, the landing can be a little unpredictable. Since balloons don’t have steering wheels (they go wherever the wind takes them), pilots rely on wind direction and open spaces for landing.
Here’s what to expect:
✔ Your pilot will guide you into a “landing position”—this usually means bending your knees slightly and holding onto the basket.
✔ The basket may tip slightly upon landing, but don’t worry—it’s all part of the experience!
✔ The ground crew will meet you and help stabilize the balloon before you exit safely.
Don’t be alarmed if the landing is a little bumpy—it’s totally normal and actually adds to the adventure!
6. Capture the Moment, But Be Present
Of course, you’ll want to document this incredible experience with photos and videos, but don’t forget to actually enjoy it in real time.
✔ Take photos before takeoff and during the ride, but also put your phone away for a few moments to soak in the beauty.
✔ Ask your pilot or crew if they can snap a picture of you in the basket before or after the flight.
✔ Consider using a GoPro or phone mount if you want hands-free filming without distractions.
7. Celebrate Your Adventure!
Many hot air balloon rides end with a fun post-flight celebration, often including a champagne toast and a flight certificate. This tradition dates back to the early days of ballooning in the 1700s, when pilots would land in unfamiliar areas and offer champagne to locals as a goodwill gesture.
Even if you don’t drink alcohol, this little ceremony is a fun way to mark the moment and share stories with your fellow passengers.
Final Thoughts: Is a Hot Air Balloon Ride Worth It?
Absolutely! If you’ve never done it before, a hot air balloon ride is one of the most unique and breathtaking travel experiences you can have. It’s not just about the ride itself—it’s about the entire journey, from watching the balloon inflate to floating peacefully above the world.
Here’s a quick recap of how to prepare for your first flight:
✅ Dress comfortably and wear layers
✅ Book a sunrise or sunset ride for the best experience
✅ Be prepared for an early wake-up call
✅ Expect a smooth, peaceful flight with stunning views
✅ Brace for a bumpy (but fun!) landing
✅ Capture the moment, but don’t forget to be present
If you’re considering adding a hot air balloon ride to your travel plans, go for it—you won’t regret it!
Would you take a hot air balloon ride, or is it on your bucket list? Share your thoughts in the comments! ✨