Know Before You Go: Preparing for a Zip Line Tour
Published: 07/08/2009 by Zipline Directory
If you have never done a zip line before, you may be a bit apprehensive. Certainly, the thought of flying high above the ground suspended from a cable does sound a bit dangerous! If you take the time to prepare before you go, you will know better what to expect on the tour.
First, make sure that you are dressed correctly. Even if you are zipping in the summer, you should still dress in layers in case of inclement weather. Most tours run rain, shine, or snow, so it is best to be prepared. Also, it will be a little cooler in the tree tops than on the ground. Most tours recommend casual clothing with layers. Typically, short shorts and tank tops are not the best things to wear. Better choices are longer shorts or pants with a T-shirt and jacket. Also, no sandals, flip flops, or open shoes are allowed! In tours where a lot of hiking is involved, hiking shoes are recommended, but typically any closed shoe like a tennis shoe is a good choice. Also, just to be prepared, you will want to bring along sunglasses and sunscreen. A hat is not really necessary because you will be wearing a helmet.
Other recommendations are that long hair is braided or tied back and that jewelry and anything that dangles not be worn. These present hazards that could be caught on the zip line or in the pulley.
You will want to bring along a camera because you will be sure to see many picture-worthy scenes. Also, you are going to want to document how much fun you had on the tour. When bringing a camera, make sure that it has some sort of lanyard on it so that you can wrap it around your wrist. Also, make sure to bring a protective case.
Most tours recommend that you do not eat a full meal right before the tour begins. Typically, eating a meal two hours before the tour will provide enough time to let your food settle. If you tend to get hungry or have low blood sugar, then you should bring along an energy bar or a light snack. Many tours provide water and snacks, so check your tour’s Web site to see what is included in the tour.
If you have questions about your tour, check the tour’s Web site or call. Most sites have an FAQ section that will likely answer any additional questions that you have.
