- Hotel pickup in early morning hours
- Light breakfast at launch site
- Safety briefing from your pilot
- Balloon inflation demonstration (often a highlight for spectators)
- Approximately 45-60 minutes in the air
- Landing and champagne celebration
- Return to your hotel
- Layered clothing—start with a light jacket or sweater
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes (the basket floor can be uneven)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen for the morning sun
- A camera with a strap—your hands will be needed for balance
- A small day bag that can fit under your seat in the transfer vehicle
- Glasses or contact lenses are both fine—there's plenty of room in the basket
- Check company experience and pilot credentials
- Read recent traveler reviews for current operational standards
- Inquire about group sizes and basket configuration
- Ask about what's included in the price
- Confirm cancellation policies given weather dependencies
