Paragliding is an intimidating extreme sport to get into for several reasons. Solo paragliding requires expensive gear and lessons that are necessary to safely fly alone. So, how much does paragliding cost?
It costs $1,000 to obtain a solo paragliding license and another $3,000-$5,000 for the gear. Solo flights are free if you are licensed and have a paraglider rig. Tandem paragliding only costs $100-$180 per flight and doesn’t require a license. Licensed paragliders can rent gear for $200 per day or $700 per week for a solo flight.
It’s worth the cost to buy gear if you have a license and regularly go paragliding. Classes cost between $300 and $800 but are useful to get comfortable with paragliding. Follow along as we explore how much you can expect to spend on paragliding and highlight important cost factors.
How Much Does It Cost to Go Paragliding?
The price of gear and a license are the only costs of solo paragliding. Solo paragliding is free once you get your license and gear. Otherwise, you would have to spend $200-$700 to rent gear if you have a license but don’t have gear.
It is illegal to paraglide without a partner if you don’t have a license. The Federal Aviation Administration and the United States Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association regulate paragliding.
How Much Does It Cost to Go Tandem Paragliding?
You can expect to spend up to $180 to go tandem paragliding. On the low end, tandem paragliding costs $100. Costs vary based on the time of year, location, how busy they are, and whether or not you need to rent gear.
Tandem paragliding is the only option if you don’t have a license. It’s also a great way to prepare for a solo flight if you are trying to pursue paragliding further. You are attached to an instructor which can help alleviate any tension that you may have.
How Much Is a Paragliding Setup?
A paragliding setup costs at least $3,000. Paraglider rigs cost at least $2,000 before the necessary components such as the harness. Paragliding harnesses cost up to $1,000 and are just as important as the paraglider itself. The riser costs another $100 and is necessary and you’ll need a GPS which costs $200.
The Costs of Getting into Paragliding?
It can cost as much as $5,000 or more to get into paragliding. This includes the cost of lessons and gear. A basic paraglider alone can cost between $2,000 and $4,000 after the cost of shipping which can be quite expensive.
It’s also recommended that you take courses when you get into paragliding, and that can cost between $300 and $800. Lessons aren’t required, but they are worth the cost so that you are prepared. If you want to fly alone, you need to spend roughly $1,000 to get a paragliding license.
Where Can You Buy Paragliding Gear?
Facebook Marketplace is one of the best places to buy used paragliding gear. Paragliding Second Hand is another great website that sells used paragliding gear in good condition. If all else fails, you can usually find a reasonable deal on used paragliding gear through eBay.
Companies like Flybubble and Aerolight offer great deals on new paragliding gear if you don’t want to spend a fortune. Flybubble also offers used paragliding gear such as harnesses and wings.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent Gear for Paragliding?
It costs up to $200 per day to rent paragliding gear. Weekly rentals can cost $700 which is a great deal if you are going to fly as much as possible. However, it’s worth the cost to buy paragliding gear if you plan to go paragliding more than 5-10 times per year. This can save you a small fortune, and it adds up over the years.
Renting gear is worth it if you are dipping your toes into fully investing in paragliding. However, it costs so much to get a solo paragliding license that it’s worth it to buy gear if you will use it often. The only downside to owning versus renting is that you will need to pay for routine maintenance.
Read our related article: What to Wear Paragliding (The Ultimate Guide)
Do You Need a License to Paraglide?
You don’t need a license to paraglide, but you need to follow the FAA and USHPA regulations. For example, you may receive a fine if you fail to stay 500 feet from the clouds. This can also happen if you refuse to yield for a commercial aircraft while paragliding. A license is only required if you want to paraglide without a tandem partner.
In certain locations you will require a permit to paraglide, such as paragliding from Mount Everest.
How Much Are Paragliding Lessons?
You can expect to spend up to $550 for paragliding lessons. Paragliding lessons typically entail 2 days of classes that explain the basics and nuances of paragliding. Introductory classes can cost as little as $200-$300 depending on the time of year and instructor you choose.
Clinics are more intensive and can last for weeks at a time, but they also cost up to $800. Lessons can help you feel as comfortable as possible while paragliding. Most lessons last for 2-3 hours and highlight everything from gear safety and navigation to landing techniques.
It is recommended that you take lessons for a week before tandem paragliding. This may be overkill for some people, but it’s worth the cost if you can get a good deal on 4-5 classes. Lessons are also the only way to earn a certificate if you plan to go paragliding without a tandem partner.
Paragliding age requirements may differ where you are located, that’s why you should read our paragliding age guide here.
Are There Different Types of Paragliding?
Different types of paragliding wing setups alter the experience. For example, sports paraglider rigs have unique wings that experienced flyers can use to steer with more precision. Novices are encouraged to stick with a “first paraglider” rig which is simple and smooth but offers less control.
Special wings exist for contest paragliders that aren’t ideal or easy to use if you are inexperienced. There aren’t necessarily different types of paragliding, but there are several styles based on your wing design and experience. Paramotoring is the closest thing to a different type of paragliding.
Flyers move through the air with a motor that propels them. It is the same concept as paragliding, but the addition of a motor makes the sensation and control much different.
Are There Ongoing Maintenance/Upkeep Costs for Paragliding?
Paragliding maintenance is a hidden cost factor that can be quite expensive. Specialists charge at least $80 per hour to repair paragliding wings. Paragliders only last for 300 hours of flying time in most cases, so you’ll need to replace your rig sooner than you may expect.
That depends on how frequently you use your paraglider. Luckily, the cost to replace a rig is closer to $2,000 or more because you don’t need to replace every part of your setup.
How Much Does it Cost to Travel with Paragliding Gear?
It costs between $30 and $90 to travel with paragliding gear at an airport. You can avoid charges if you carefully pack your wings and harness. Pack them in a wheeled bag or carry-on bag so that you can bring the gear on the plane. You only have to pay to fly with paragliding gear if you have to check it and can’t bring it with you on the plane.
It is unlikely that you’ll spend more than $45 to check a back with paragliding gear if it’s under 50 pounds. This is typically a better deal than shipping your gear to the location which will likely cost over $60. Paragliders don’t weigh nearly as much as they look, and they rarely exceed 45 pounds. That is reasonable for flying unless you need to check multiple bags.
Airlines typically let you check at least one bag and you have to pay extra for additional luggage. Ideally, you should bring your gear on the plane and check your luggage with your clothes and toiletries separately. This will protect your paragliding gear as well as your other belongings. Some airlines let you bring two carry-on bags, and that makes it easier to split up your gear so that it will all fit without having to pay extra.
Final Thoughts
It costs between $100 and $180 to go tandem paragliding. There is no official cost to go solo paragliding besides the overhead costs. You’ll have to spend $1,000 to get a solo license which requires several courses and $3,000-$5,000 or more for paragliding gear.
Otherwise, it costs $200 to rent paragliding gear per day or $700 per week. Paragliding is free after you buy all of the gear and acquire a license. You will need to repair or replace your paraglider after every 300 hours of usage which can cost another $1,000-$2,000 in many cases.
Paragliding lessons start at $200-$300 each and are worth the cost. You can spend $800-$1,000 for a full course if you want to earn a solo paragliding certification. It’s worth it to take even a few lessons before going tandem paragliding so that you aren’t overwhelmed by the experience.
Read our related paragliding posts here:
- 11 Best Places to Paraglide in California
- Skydiving vs Paragliding | What’s the Difference?
- Parasailing vs Paragliding | What’s the Difference?
Nick Durante is a professional writer that primarily focuses on extreme sports. Parasailing, paragliding, skydiving, and skateboarding are his particular areas of expertise. When he isn’t writing about extreme sports, he is catching up on the world of skateboarding and spending time outside.
