There are few things more exciting than participating in a Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the national park from the sky is a unique and magical experience unlike no other.

Travelling in a chopper is a thrilling, memorable and fun way to sightsee – it’s something that all people should try out. If it’s the first time you’re doing it, it’s fair if you’re feeling a bit anxious. Going up high can be a bit scary, especially if you have a fear of heights.

This article provides some useful tips that can help to ease your nerves while preparing you for an enjoyable Grand Canyon helicopter tour.

 

Safeguard against travel sickness

It’s definitely a good idea to take preventative measures to avoid getting sick on your chopper ride. Regardless of whether you’re particularly prone to motion sickness or not, going on a chopper for the first time can make even the sturdiest of people feel pretty queasy. It’s an odd way to travel and your body is unlikely to be used to it. Thankfully, there are many remedies you can take to prevent or alleviate travel sickness, including:

Medication

There is a wide array of medication options available for travel sickness on your Grand Canyon helicopter tour. Have a chat with your doctor or pharmacist for personalised advice. Common motion sickness medications are antihistamines like Dramamine (these are most effective if consumed 30 mins before the flight) or transdermal patches like scopolamine.

Ginger

People have used ginger for thousands of years as a remedy for nausea. It’s a great option for those seeking a natural remedy for motion sickness and can be purchased from a pharmacy as a tablet, lolly or liquid. You should start taking it a few hours before your trip.

Wristband

Another medication-free remedy is the acupressure wristband, which presses acupressure points on the wrists to alleviate motion sickness. This is a good option for kids who don’t want to take medicine.

Pack light

Your Grand Canyon helicopter tour will have both weight and room restrictions due to the size of the vehicle. This means you’re limited with what you’re allowed to take on board. Leave your bags at home – your phone, camera and sunglasses are all you’ll need. Things like food and water should be supplied by your service provider.

Take a camera

A Grand Canyon helicopter tour provides a wealth of incredible photo opportunities, so do bring along your camera! Ensure it’s ready for the trip by charging the battery and clearing plenty of space on the memory card. Finally, make sure both are inside the camera before you pack it!

Use the toilet prior to take-off

Regardless of whether you need to go or not, try to relieve yourself before the Grand Canyon helicopter tour begins as there probably aren’t going to be toilets on the chopper. There are few things worse than needing to go to the toilet mid-flight and not being able to fully enjoy the trip. This is especially important for anyone travelling with kids.

Avoid chatting with the pilot

Given that your pilot will be busy getting the chopper safely through the national park, they probably won’t be free for a chat. Distracting them by asking about their life could put the safety of those on board at risk, so wait until you’ve concluded the trip, or ask a Grand Canyon helicopter tour guide.

 

Conclusion

Take travel sickness precautions, use the bathroom before your chopper ride, pack smartly and relax and you’re likely to have an awesome experience.