What Parents Should Know Before Taking Kids Ballooning
A hot air balloon flight over Melbourne is a magical experience for the whole family — peaceful, exciting, and full of wonder.
If you’re thinking about taking your children for their first flight, you probably have a few questions about safety, comfort, and what to expect.
Here’s everything parents should know before booking a family balloon adventure.
1. The Minimum Age and Height Requirements 🎈
Children must be at least 6 years old to fly, and around 120 cm tall so they can see comfortably over the basket edge.
This helps ensure they can enjoy the full view while also holding on securely during take-off and landing.
Younger or smaller children might not be tall enough to see outside safely — and part of the magic of ballooning is watching the world drift beneath you.
👧 Tip: If your child is close to the height limit, check with our team before booking — we’ll help you decide when they’re ready.
2. Ballooning Is Gentle and Peaceful — Not Scary
Many parents are surprised by how calm and smooth ballooning feels.
There’s no sudden movement, no speed, and no turbulence — just gentle drifting with the wind.
Even children who feel nervous at first usually relax once the balloon lifts off and they see how quiet and steady it is.
💬 Parents often tell us their kids went from “a bit unsure” to “completely amazed” within minutes.
3. Prepare for an Early Morning Start ☀️
Balloon flights always happen at sunrise, when the air is coolest and most stable for flying.
This means your family will need to wake up early — usually around 3:30–4:00 a.m. depending on the season.
It’s worth it! Watching the sunrise from the sky is one of the most magical parts of the experience.
🥐 Tip: Pack a small snack for before the flight, or enjoy a champagne (or juice!) breakfast after landing.
4. Dress for Comfort and Warmth 👕🧢
The air can be cool before sunrise, especially in winter.
Dress your family in comfortable, layered clothing — long pants, closed shoes, and a jumper or jacket.
Avoid dresses, skirts, or anything loose that could catch in the breeze.
The burners create gentle warmth during flight, so layers make it easy to adjust.
🧤 Tip: Bring gloves or a beanie for younger children in colder months.
5. Listen Carefully to the Pilot’s Safety Briefing 🎧
Before take-off, your pilot will explain exactly what to expect and how to stay safe during the flight.
Encourage your children to listen — they’ll love learning how the balloon works!
During landing, everyone bends their knees slightly, holds the basket handles, and waits for the pilot’s “all clear” before moving.
It’s simple, safe, and always supervised by our experienced crew.
6. Bring Only What You Need 🎒
Space in the basket is limited.
Bring just the essentials: phones, a small camera, and maybe a light jacket.
Leave bulky bags, toys, or umbrellas behind in the vehicle or support van.
📷 Tip: Assign one parent to take photos while the others enjoy the view — that way, you’ll capture memories without missing the moment.
7. Health, Mobility, and Comfort Considerations ❤️
Ballooning is suitable for most families, but it’s best for children and adults who can:
Stand for around an hour during the flight.
Bend their knees slightly for landing.
Follow simple instructions from the pilot and crew.
If you’re unsure about a child’s comfort level or any medical concerns, our team is happy to talk through details before you book.
8. After the Flight: Celebrate and Reflect 🎉
Once you’ve landed, there’s time for photos, laughter, and (if you wish) a delicious breakfast.
Ask your children what they noticed — the colours, the quiet, the tiny cars below — and you’ll see how much they’ve learned from the experience.
It’s not just a flight — it’s a moment of discovery they’ll talk about for weeks.
9. Why Parents Love It
Parents often tell us:
“It was calm, safe, and surprisingly educational — the kids haven’t stopped talking about it!”
That’s the beauty of ballooning: it combines excitement, learning, and peace in one extraordinary morning.
It’s a shared memory — not just for the kids, but for you too.
Ready for Take-Off?
A family hot air balloon flight is one of Melbourne’s most magical experiences — safe, educational, and perfect for families with children aged six and up.
Because the best family memories aren’t made in front of screens — they’re made above the clouds.
✨ Ready to plan your first family flight?
Book your sunrise hot air balloon adventure over Melbourne or the Yarra Valley, and let your children experience the joy of flying for the very first time.