What NOT to forget when taking a Helicopter Tour

Before boarding a helicopter for a tour through the skies of Las Vegas, you may want to consider packing a few things, as well as educating yourself on the dos and don’ts of a chopper ride.

First, it’s important to do a background check of the company you chose to take a helicopter tour with. Pilots have to be certified and are supposed to be tested twice a year. Also, it doesn’t hurt to read up on references.

With helicopter tours, you get what you pay for. It’s important to read up on a few different companies before deciding that the cheapest one is best. Check out blogger comments or even ask around during your stay in Las Vegas.

If the majority of people you’ve heard from took a dirt-cheap tour and didn’t have a good experience, consider flying with a tour company that is more reputable or, perhaps, a bit more expensive. Chances are, if you’re reading this, you’re interested in taking a helicopter tour that’s going to be worth while, so follow up to our advice and prepare to pay more for a better tour.

Try Las Vegas Helicopter Charters at (800) 615-6655
For a Grand Canyon tour, check out Papillon at (888) 635-7272

Now, before heading to your helicopter tour, let us remind you to pack a few token items. Unlike the cabin of an airplane, helicopters are loud and sometimes the vibrations combined with turbulence affect passengers negatively. Your balance comes from your ear canals, and if you tend to get dizzy easily, you may want to be prepared. We suggest bringing earplugs — the little cheap ones you can buy at the corner store should do.

If you are very sensitive, however, pack a set of noise canceling headphones. Also, for the fain of stomachs, some nausea medicine, either over the counter or prescribed motion sickness pills, are a good idea to bring along. More than likely, you’re taking a helicopter tour for the miraculous view below. Whether it’s just a tour over the Las Vegas Strip or through the Grand Canyon, don’t forget to bring your camera.

Not only is the view below beautiful, but it’s close enough to snap a shot of flashing lights, fancy cars, colorful rock formations and even wildlife, depending on where you’re hovering. Your helicopter tour will most likely be memorable — inside the cabin and out — so you won’t want to forget it.

If it’s the view you’re most interested in, a set of binoculars might also come in handy. Taking a day tour? A pair of sunglasses should help prevent any glaring from the sun.

When you get to the chopper, remember one important thing: approach it from the front. Never walk up to a helicopter from the rear. If the engine is on, it’s best to wait for a crewmember to escort you to the entrance. If there isn’t a crewmember there to guide you to the chopper, wait for the pilot or person in the cockpit to give you a thumbs up before approaching.

You want to make sure they know you’re there and don’t start the engine while you’re walking up. Once you’re on, pay attention to the safety briefing before take off. There aren’t usually flight attendants, so every passenger has to take care of their own in the event of an emergency situation.

Oh, and one more thing: Go to the bathroom before you board. There aren’t usually restroom facilities on touring helicopters.