How to Plan a 200 km Cross‑Country Paragliding Trip: Step‑by‑Step Checklist & Gear Guide

A 200 km flight feels like a dream, but without a solid plan it can quickly turn into a nightmare. Whether you’re chasing a sunrise over the Alps or a sunset over the coast, the right prep makes the difference between a story you’ll love to tell and a story you’ll wish you could erase. Below is the exact checklist I use before every long‑haul, plus a gear guide that has kept me safe and comfortable on hundreds of kilometres.

Why a Checklist Matters

I once launched from a ridge in the Pyrenees, confident in my instincts, only to miss the next lift and spend an extra hour fighting a headwind. The extra fuel (aka my energy) was gone, and the landing was rough. A checklist forces you to look at every detail before you even step into the launch zone. It also gives you a calm routine that steadies the nerves – something every pilot needs when the wind is whispering “good luck”.

The Planning Phase

1. Choose Your Route

• Identify launch points – Look for sites with a good take‑off slope and clear wind direction. Use tools like Windy or local weather apps to see the prevailing wind for the day.
• Mark waypoints – Break the 200 km into 30‑40 km legs. Each leg should end near a safe landing spot (a field, a road, or a known emergency zone).
• Check terrain – Use topographic maps (or Google Earth) to see ridges, valleys, and potential turbulence zones. Avoid steep cliffs that can create rotor.

2. Study the Weather

• Wind – Aim for a wind that is 2‑4 m/s from the direction you’ll be flying. Too strong and you’ll be pushed off course; too weak and you’ll lose lift.
• Thermals – Look for sunny days with clear skies. Clouds that form in the afternoon often signal strong thermals.
• Stability – Check the forecast for at least 24 hours. A stable high pressure system is your best friend.

3. Flight Plan Paperwork

• File a flight plan – Some countries require you to tell the local airfield or a flight service. Even if not required, write down your route, expected times, and emergency contacts.
• Share with a buddy – Send the plan to a friend or family member. Include your expected landing zone and a check‑in time.

The Gear Checklist

Below is the gear I trust on a 200 km trip. Feel free to swap items that suit your style, but never skip the safety basics.

1. Wing and Harness

• Wing – A high‑performance cross‑country wing (12‑14 m²) with a good glide ratio. Make sure it’s fully inspected and the lines are fresh.
• Harness – A back‑country harness with a built‑in reserve parachute pocket. Look for a comfortable seat and easy access to your gear.

2. Safety Equipment

• Reserve parachute – Pack it in the harness pocket, not in a separate bag. Check the expiration date.
• Helmet – Full‑face helmets give extra protection in case of a hard landing.
• Radio – A lightweight VHF or UHF set for 2‑way communication with ground crew or other pilots.

3. Navigation Tools

• GPS unit – A dedicated paragliding GPS (like the Flymaster) that shows altitude, speed, and waypoints.
• Smartphone with offline maps – Keep a backup map in case the GPS dies.
• Compass – Simple, but useful if electronics fail.

4. Clothing and Personal Items

• Layered clothing – Start with a moisture‑wicking base, add an insulated mid‑layer, and finish with a wind‑proof shell.
• Gloves – Light gloves for the launch, thicker ones for high altitude.
• Sunglasses – UV protection is a must; glare can hide thermals.
• Water and snacks – At least 2 L of water and high‑energy bars for each 50 km leg.

5. Emergency Kit

• First‑aid kit – Small, with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
• Multi‑tool – For quick repairs on the wing or harness.
• Thermal blanket – Lightweight, can save you if you land in cold weather.

Day‑Of Checklist

Cross each line off before you step onto the launch slope. It feels a bit like a pre‑flight ritual, but that ritual is what keeps you focused.

Tips from the Sky

• Start early – The best thermals are usually in the mid‑morning. Launch before the sun gets too high to avoid strong turbulence later.
• Stay flexible – If a leg looks weak, be ready to adjust your route on the fly. A small detour can save a lot of time.
• Watch your altitude – Keep an eye on the GPS altitude and the altimeter. Staying 300‑500 m above the ridge line gives you room to maneuver.
• Take photos, but not too many – I love snapping pictures, but pulling out the camera in the middle of a turn can be dangerous. Set the camera to burst mode before you launch.

After the Flight

When you finally touch down, take a few minutes to note what worked and what didn’t. Write down the wind speed, the lift you felt, and any gear issues. This simple log will make your next 200 km trip smoother.