How to start Geocaching

  by  QuesterMark 

Lets get you started on your adventure.....

To begin your Geocaching hobby, there are just a few things you really need:

1. Create an account on one of the "cache listing sites". 

    A cache listing site is where you'll be able to find Geocaches close to where you live.
    Don't worry - you'll soon discover that Geocaches are pretty much all over the world.

    Here are a couple of cache listing sites you could register on:

    a) Geocaching

    b) OpenCaching

    c) Terracaching (As I understand it, Terracaching requires existing members to "sponsor"
        you to become a full member).

2. You will of course need a GPS device OR you could just use your smartphone and download
     an app for Geocaching from either the Android or the iPhone store, depending on your
     phone.

3. Login into the cache listing website you signed up on in Step 1.
    Go to their link for caches.
    a) In Geocaching, it will be under "Play => Hide and Seek a cache".
    b) In OpenCaching, there is a search box on the home page. Type your location in it.

4. Look for something simple to start with. Don't be tempted to go for the toughest cache
    listing you can find. Look for caches where people have put up information to help
    you with your geocaching. Also read up on whether people had trouble finding the
    cache lately - this may indicate that the cache is no longer there.

5. Download the cache data into your smartphone via the app or into your GPS.

6. Get your gear together. At the very least, your equipment (clothes, gear, etc.) should
    be suited for the terrain and climate. In addition, you might want to consider carrying
    the following too:

1. Snacks & quick eats.
2. Water - plenty of it.
3. Flashlights.
4. Extra batteries for the GPS & the flashlight.
5. Bug spray.
6. A souvenir to leave behind in the cache.