How to Prepare for Your First Skydive at Skydive Chicago

Skydive Chicago runs tandem jumps for first-timers, and the preparation is straightforward: wear comfortable athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes, leave loose items behind, arrive early enough to complete paperwork and training, and expect to meet your instructor before the flight. The center is a full skydiving resort about 90 miles from Chicago, so plan the trip as a half-day or full-day outing rather than a quick stop.

What to wear and bring

• Clothing: Comfortable, athletic, form-fitting layers. Avoid anything that could flap or snag in freefall.
• Shoes: Closed-toe shoes that won't slip off. No sandals, flip-flops, or heels.
• Loose items: Leave jewelry, keys, phones, and anything unsecured on the ground. You won't be able to carry them in freefall.
• Weather layer: Conditions at altitude are colder than on the ground, so a light layer under your harness is reasonable depending on the season.

What happens on jump day

1. Arrive early. You'll need time to park, check in, and get through the front-end process before your slot.
2. Complete paperwork. Expect waivers and registration before anything else.
3. Receive training. First-time tandem jumpers get a briefing covering body position, exit, freefall, and landing.
4. Meet your instructor. You'll be paired with a tandem instructor who handles the equipment and the jump.
5. Gear up and fly. You board the aircraft, climb to altitude, and jump attached to your instructor.

The site's "First Time Skydiving" section covers preparation and what to expect, and the FAQ page is the place to check for questions specific to your booking.

Practical logistics

The campground has RV hookups, tent camping, a swimming pond with a sandy beach, and a shower house, though camping is described for skydivers and guests of specialty events. The Jumprun cafe serves food in the main hangar and opens the Sky Lounge or Tiki Hut by the pond after jumping hours.

Common questions to settle before you go

• Pricing: The site lists a pricing page, but no rates are published in the available material. Check that page directly for current prices and any deposit or payment requirements.
• Booking: The site's primary call to action is "Book Now," so reserve ahead rather than showing up hoping for a slot.
• Spectators: There's a spectator experience and an observer ride option if someone is coming along but not jumping.
• Weight and health limits: These are standard at any drop zone but aren't specified in the available material. Confirm with the center before booking.

What to expect from the experience

Skydive Chicago describes the jump as more than a thrill — a "perspective shift" and a memory that stays with you. One reviewer, Matt's student, noted that the instructor kept things fun while doing the job well. That matches the general pattern at a well-run drop zone: the instructor manages the technical side, and your job is to relax, follow the briefing, and enjoy the ride down.