How to find your first Geocache!

When I’m out Geocaching I often get asked what I’m doing as I dive into a bush! 

When I tell them, they look surprised and puzzled. Most have never heard of it and I suspect they thought I was going for a wee! 

To reassure them, I explain what Geocaching is, which gave me the idea for this post. 

What is Geocaching? 

Geocaching is a worldwide treasure hunt. You use a GPS device/phone to locate a Geocache. Once found, you log it.

What is a Geocache? 

A Geocache can be almost anything. There are several different types, but here we’ll focus on the most common: a traditional Geocache, which is a physical container.

A traditional Geocache can be as small as a fingernail or as big as an oven, occasionally they’re even larger! They can be hidden anywhere, but are usually located on public rights of way.

Traditional Geocaches always have a log book, which Geocachers sign and date to prove they found it. 

How do I become a Geocacher? 

The first step is to download the Geocaching app onto your phone. It’s free and can be found in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

It looks like this: 

Once downloaded, create an account. You’ll need to create a Geocaching name. Keep it short and easy to remember as you’ll use it to sign logbooks. Then, create a password. 

Do I need any special tools? 

The most essential tool is a pen for signing the log book. A pair of tweezers is also useful for extracting logs from tiny containers.

How do I find my first Geocache?

Log into the app. A map will appear. You’ll see a blue dot 🔵 showing your current location. Zoom out and you’ll see other dots on the map. 

Ignore the grey ones for now and look for a green dot nearby. Click it and the title of the Geocache will appear. Click again and open the Geocache page. 

You’ll now be able to see how big the Geocache is, how difficult it is to find (1 or 1.5 are the easiest). There’s also a hint button and a navigate button. 

Now go and find it!

Click the navigate button. The map will appear showing your location as an arrow with an orange line to the Geocache. 

Head outside and follow the direction of the arrow to the Geocache. The app shows the distance you are from it. Once you get within 1-2 metres, start looking. 

Click the hint button if you need extra help locating it. Note: Most caches have hints, but not all.

Cloud cover and tree cover can affect the accuracy of your GPS, so if you can’t find it, widen your search area. 

I’ve found it, how do I log it?

Once you’ve found it, open it, and sign and date the paper log. Then replace it, exactly as you found it. 

Finally, log it online. On the Geocache page you’ll see a green ‘Log Cache’ button. Click it, select found it and write a few words to describe your adventure. 

Geocaches are hidden and maintained by other Geocachers, so don’t forget to say thanks. The easiest way is: TFTC, which means Thanks for the Cache!

Then click post!

That’s it! Well done on finding your first Geocache! 

 

If you want to learn more, check out the official geocaching website here.

I will be adding more ‘how to…’ posts over the next few weeks, including how to find other types of geocache, so please visit again soon.