How to Plan an Extreme Vacation: BASE Jumping
Looking to add some extra thrills to your next vacation? Try BASE jumping. BASE jumping is an acronym that stands for the four categories of objects that you can jump from: Buildings, Antenna (such as an unused tower), Span (such as a bridge) and Earth (such as a cliff). BASE jumpers jump from an object and deploy a parachute on the way down. BASE jumping is really only recommended for experienced sky divers. If you're looking to add some spice to your next vacation, follow these steps and BASE jumping could just become your new passion.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Meet all the prerequisites for BASE jumping. BASE jumpers should already be experienced sky divers and have strong freefall skills, canopy skills and a thorough knowledge of how to deal will all possible malfunctions. You should also be proficient at packing a parachute because most BASE parachutes have no reserve.
-
2
Learn as much as possible about BASE jumping. Visit the BASE jump website (see link) for articles, frequently asked questions and a forum where you can talk with experienced BASE jumpers. Try to meet people in your area that are already experienced BASE jumpers so you have someone to jump with and learn from after your training.
-
-
3
Take a first jump course. Choose a company from which to take your first jump course. Consolidated Rigging is in Oregon, Apex Base and Morpheus Technologies both teach classes in Idaho (see links). The courses are approximately two to three days in length and cost around $1,000 or more. The curriculum includes information on packing, equipment and parachute rigging.
-
4
Contact the company that you choose for specific requirements, equipment and information on accommodations. Be sure to pack extra underwear and you will have a vacation that cannot be matched by any other.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
It is a good idea to have a mentor already arranged where you live so when you get back from your trip, you have a jump partner.
BASE jumping is not for the faint of heart, so make sure you and your family are comfortable with your decision before committing to such a lengthy, costly and risky adventure.
