How Do I Become A Geocacher?

Geocachers are people who hunt for containers and log their journeys. The geocaching containers they find are sometimes so tiny that it barely fits a little roll of paper to log yourself on and sometimes so large you could fit a car in it. Geocaching is usually about the journey more than the treasure in the box. Although, many kids would disagree with me about that!

So how do you get started? Here's a quick start list!

First, you need a way to find the caches (containers). Handheld GPS receivers are by far the most common, but you do have other options. When picking one, you will want to consider the features verses your budget. I highly recommend buying a used GPS through ebay. Check the seller's feedback scores to make sure you buy from someone reputable.

Next, you should search for geocaches online. Geocache sites are usually free to search in. If you plan to download the waypoints (exact location of the cache) to your transfer-ready GPS then you will eventually want the premium membership benefits. This is where you will find the info on caches in your geohunting area, meet other cachers, and record your journeys and finds.

Then, you need some geoswag. No, that's not a special walk just for geo cachers! It's the stuff cachers will trade (if you take something, you need to leave something) inside the caches that are big enough to hold things.

Finally, a bag to carry these things in would be a good idea. Depending on how far you plan to venture into the woods or areas you don't know, you may want to bring some other things. A full geocaching kit is not needed when you are staying close to home or in familiar areas.

Antsy to be a geocacher before your GPS arrives?

For your very first cache, you can sign up to search one of the free databases. I recommend geocaching.com because it is the most well-known and therefore has the largest list. Next, look for caches in your area. Choose one that is large and rated very easy to find. One that has clues is even better. Even if they tell you exactly where it is, it will likely be a hunt without a GPS to guide you. Be sure the last few people logged that they found it easily so you aren't searching for one that has been muggled. All of this info is found on the cache's details page. Print out the cache details page and take it with you. Grab something neat in your house that is small to trade with. Go out without a GPS.

You can print out several caches that look promising and try them all. Even without a GPS, you are bound to find some. You'll become a true geocacher before you know it!