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| Heading out to search for the geocache. |
When you go geocaching, think of yourself as an explorer trekking to distant lands - and be prepared. An explorer charts a course and also takes necessary supplies for the journey. You should do the same for your geocaching adventures.
Have a plan before you go. Pick geocaches that are in the same vicinity, or are of a particular type, such as micro, easy, and so on. Jot down any notes you need for finding the cache. And while you're at it, pack that pencil or pen for signing the cache logbook. Take trinkets or swag that you may want for trading when you find the cache. Take a buddy or tell a family member where you intend to be. And of course, pack your GPS.
The above suggestions are all basic things you want to think about when setting out on a geocaching adventure. But there are others to consider as well.
For example, the sport of geocaching is like a treasure hunt and you may find yourself exploring in unfamiliar surroundings. The terrain may be somewhat different than described in the cache owner's information. Or the walk to the cache coordinates may be farther than you realized. Also, you may be out longer than you had expected.
Taking that into consideration, it's a good idea to pack as if you were going hiking. A backpack isn't necessary, but having items in a small bag or on your person will make your geocaching adventure more fun if you find yourself in need of the following items.
- mosquito spray
- cell phone
- flashlight and extra batteries
- water
- multi-tool
- camera
In addition, please consider bear spray if you will be geocaching in bear country, as my family and I were on a geocaching adventure up the Northfork in Montana.
Happy Geocaching!