How does it feel to ride in a soft white fluffy cloud? Well, nobody knows the exact answer to that question since nobody could possibly set foot on a cloud. However, the nearest thing that could pass for riding on a soft white fluffy cloud would be to take a ride in a hot air balloon.

If hot air balloons are taken apart, you would notice that there are three major sections or parts that comprise this vehicle. The basket, which is also referred to sometimes as the gondola, is found at the bottom part of the balloon; this is where the passengers ride. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes as well as designs. There are big baskets that are used for public transportation, and there are small baskets as well that could only take in one to three people at a maximum.

The burner is considered to be the engine of the hot air balloon, for its job is to drive and force the hot air into the balloon itself. Since hot air balloons come in different shapes and sizes, there are also various sizes of burners to be found. You surely would not want to have a small burner for a huge balloon.

The actual balloon is called and known as the envelope. This is oftentimes made from the same material that as parachutes. The material could either be nylon or polyester. Since the envelope is necessary for the whole hot air balloon to float and fly, this part is made from very lightweight material, yet it is also durable and strong at the same time.

At present, hot air balloons are used not only as a means of transportation. There are various activities that employ hot air balloons. Some companies opt to use hot air balloons to advertise and promote their businesses through a message on the balloon's envelope. These also are used for competitions like hot air balloon races that are quite common in some countries.