Do You Tip Skydiving Instructors?

In Summary
Tipping skydiving instructors and videographers isn’t required or expected, but it’s a meaningful way to acknowledge the skill, care, and energy they dedicate to your experience. Many guests also choose to show their appreciation through kind words, personal notes, or positive online reviews. While there’s no standard amount, even a small tip or gesture of thanks can go a long way in recognizing the professionals who help make such a memorable moment possible.

Skydiving is one of those experiences in life that leaves you exhilarated, empowered … and maybe unsure about etiquette. One of the most common post-jump questions we get is: Do you tip skydiving instructors? The short answer: Tipping is never expected, but always appreciated.

At Skydive Paraclete XP, your tandem instructor isn’t just a crazed adrenaline junkie, they are a highly trained professional who has undergone rigorous training to get you to the ground as safely as possible AND to give you an unforgettable experience. While you’re certainly not required to tip, many people choose to say “thank you” with a little something extra.

Is It Customary To Tip Skydiving Instructors?

Tipping has made its way into all kinds of service-based experiences – and yes, that includes skydiving. While it’s sometimes unclear what you’re tipping for, a skydive is different. It’s not just a transaction; it’s a deeply personal experience. You go from total strangers to trusted teammates in a matter of minutes.

Skydiving instructors spend years honing their skills, gaining certification, and jumping many hundreds (and often many thousands) of times to become the calm, cool, collected pros you literally trust with your life. Your tandem instructor doesn’t just deliver a personal service, it’s as high-stakes as it comes. Our instructors at Skydive Paraclete XP bring not only technical expertise, but also a passion for the skies and the ability to guide you through your fears, keep you comfortable, and remind you to have fun while freefalling at 120 mph!

While tipping is by no means mandatory in the skydiving world, many jumpers choose to tip their instructors as a genuine way to say “thank you” to someone who went above and beyond to ensure you had an amazing experience. After all, you just shared an intense and emotional moment with them that you’ll never forget!

So, is it customary to tip skydiving instructors? Not in the formal sense. But in terms of gratitude and good vibes? Absolutely!

How Do Skydive Instructors Get Paid?

Instructors are usually paid per jump, not per hour. This means their income depends on how many tandems they do in a day – and tips can make a big difference in showing appreciation for the time and energy they’ve dedicated to giving you an unforgettable experience.

They also carry a ton of responsibility. Tandem instructors must be certified, highly experienced, physically strong, and mentally sharp. They’re often the first person to comfort you when your nerves are on edge and celebrate with you right after you land from your life-changing experience. They are deserving of all of the respect and love they can get!

How Much Do You Tip Skydiving Instructors?

There is no set rule on how much you tip skydiving instructors, and tips vary widely depending on budget and experience. If you feel moved to tip – because your instructor helped settle your anxiety, made you laugh, or just delivered a flawless jump – here’s a general guideline:

• $5 to $20 – A small token of appreciation
• $20 to $50 – A generous thank you for a fantastic experience
• $50+ – A statement of great appreciation after a mind-blowing experience

Of course, how much you tip a skydive instructor is always up to you, and no amount is too small when it comes from a place of gratitude.

Non-Monetary Ways to Say “Thank You”

Not in a position to tip but still want to show your appreciation? No worries! There are other powerful ways to show your gratitude. Skydiving instructors and staff love to know they made a difference in your experience, and a simple gesture can go a long way. Here are some ideas:

• Write a heartfelt thank-you note or email
• Shout them out on social media
• Leave a glowing review on Google or Facebook
• Refer friends and family – or better yet, bring them next time!
• Say a genuine thank-you on the ground

Contrary to popular belief, we skydivers have deep feels for the people we help achieve their dreams. Expressing any amount of gratitude means the world to us!

Do You Tip Skydivers Who Are Not Your Instructor?

If you added a video or photo package to your jump (which you totally should), know that your videographer worked hard to capture every adrenaline-packed second of your skydive. 

Videographers often jump with heavy camera gear, maintain perfect timing in freefall, keep your energy up with fun questions and thumbs-up assurance, and skillfully edit your footage to tell your skydiving story. So, yeah, do tip skydivers who are not your instructors if they’ve helped you have a phenomenal experience, especially your videographer!

Should You Tip Skydiving Instructors?

Skydiving isn’t just a ride – it’s a life experience that sticks with you forever and has the ability to change your entire perspective on life! And the people who make it happen pour their heart, body, and energy into every jump. One thing is for sure, you will never forget your tandem instructor. 

Tipping your instructor or videographer isn’t required, but if you walk away with a smile, shaky knees, and a video you’ll watch forever – consider giving a little extra love – especially if this is your once-in-a-lifetime jump. Whether you’re handing over $10, $50, or just a heartfelt thank-you, your appreciation won’t go unnoticed.

Planning your first jump? Come experience world-class skydiving with a team that truly cares. Book your jump today with Skydive Paraclete XP! Blue skies.