What To Wear for a Hot Air Balloon Ride
When flying high, high heels don't work all that well...
Dressing for Comfort and Safety
Because we launch and land in the national forest, we suggest wearing long pants year-round to protect you from our rather prickly plants.
Long pants will shield your legs from dry brush or cacti as you walk to and from the balloon and shirts with sleeves will protect your arms, shoulders, and back. Consider lightweight fabrics in warmer months or something thicker during Sedona’s cooler winter mornings. A comfortable, practical hot air balloon outfit is key to making your adventure enjoyable. When deciding what to wear for a hot air balloon ride, focus on clothes that allow you to move freely, as climbing in and out of the balloon basket requires flexibility.
Accessories also play a role in your comfort. Some elevation may expose you to direct sunlight, so consider bringing sunglasses to protect your eyes from the morning glare. Forget about bulky bags as space in the basket is limited!
Footwear: The Foundation of Your Adventure
You should be wearing sturdy, fully-protective shoes—no sandals, flip flops, slip-on shoes, or high heels. This advice is important for both comfort and safety. Closed-toe shoes like sneakers or hiking boots make an excellent choice of footwear. These options provide support and ensure that desert debris or uneven terrain won’t become an obstacle. A good hot air balloon outfit always starts from the ground up!
Proper footwear is also essential for assisting you while landing. Though our team takes every precaution, the ground might be a bit uneven when it’s time to touch down. Once in a very rare while, we must land away from a road, necessitating a short hike back to the trucks. You’ll want your shoes to support you throughout the adventure.
Layer for Changing Temperatures
Layered clothing works best, since it will get warmer as the morning progresses. The air might feel brisk on arrival at your meeting point, especially before sunrise. However, once you’re airborne, Sedona’s climate begins to warm quickly. A versatile outfit lets you adjust to these shifts. Consider starting with a light jacket or sweater that you can remove as the heat rises.
Another expert tip for what to wear on a hot air balloon ride is to bring a hat to protect your head from the radiant heat from the burners during takeoff, especially if you’re tall.
If you're looking for more hot air balloon outfit ideas, aim for practicality while keeping the weather patterns of the region in mind. Dressing in layers ensures you’re comfortable throughout the experience.
What To Expect During Your Flight
Contrary to popular belief, it will not be colder up in the balloon than on the ground. Instead, it often feels a bit warmer, thanks to the sheltered basket, lack of wind exposure, and burners overhead. Bring a small bottle of water for each passenger, especially in the summer. (Bring water with you whenever you go into the desert.) Staying hydrated is crucial and having water on hand helps you enjoy the ride to the fullest.
A common question regarding what to wear for a hot air balloon ride is whether you’ll need restroom access. There are no formal restrooms, so be prepared to visit a tree if needed. We encourage everyone to plan accordingly before meeting for the flight.
Don’t forget to fully charge your phones or cameras! The views above Sedona are something you’ll want to capture forever. From soaring above beautiful and historic scenery to soaking in the breathtaking sunrise, every moment will make great memories to look back on. A little preparation can make your adventure unforgettable, no matter your destination!
