PERRIS VALLEY DZ – LOCAL TIPS No 1

From those who have been there ……………………….

Greg,

I’ve heard a lot of negative things about public transport to and from Perris but you should talk to Amanda Lewis who’s done it recently – she will have good current info.

Best tip for transport from me is arrange car pooling from LAX, coordinating arrival and departure times.

Great deals on AirBNB in the area around Perris, Sun City and Menifee though again you will need transport, I’ve heard that uber and local buses are not always dependable.

Get travel insurance that includes skydiving, not all do (Covermore does) and cost of uninsured US medical care and repatriation in case of injury is horrendous.

Get orientation jumps in at least a day early.

This year’s first 2 camps are Thursday to Sunday. If your time is limited,  fly into LAX leaving Wednesday mid morning, arrive Wednesday 6 am, get to the DZ by late morning for a good 3 to 4 orientation jumps before the camp kicks off. Leave Sunday night for an 11.10 pm or so flight out that gets in around 6 am Tuesday morning.

Bring US cash for packers and use them. Conserve your energy, these camps can be pretty intense. Eat well and drink lots of water.

Take at least one of the 3 days between the two camps off and don’t go to the DZ, even though all those Skyvans and Otters are enticing.

Both the DZ (around manifest) and the Bomb Shelter have free wifi.

8 am starts most days, some 7 am if there have been weather delays.  Don’t get caught in the party trap.  Don’t be “that guy” (or girl).

Be at briefings and dirt dives early, with jumpsuit on.  Again, that guy / girl etc.

These camps require real self discipline.

Get a buddy in every group you’re in and let them know where you are at all times, even if you just go to the car park.

Don’t let it overwhelm you.  The Perris people are great fun and they love Aussies.  Get to know them.