Geocaching is known by many names. It has been called everything from high-tech hide-and-seek, global stash hunting to a more modern version of the Easter egg hunt. Geocaching is a very fun adventure game for GPS users. For your basic geocaching gear, all that you really need is a GPS unit and an internet connection. You need a GPS unit to look for or mark cache locations and an internet connection to share or find the coordinates where the cache is hidden.
Once you have purchased your own GPS unit, you need to search for cache locations. The official site for geocaching, www.geocaching.com, lists thousands of caches around the world. Geocachers, from many different countries, have hidden caches in various places and shared their locations on the Internet along with other clues. You can then download the location coordinates into your GPS and try to find the caches. After you have found the coordinates online and entered the waypoints into your GPS, you can now start searching for your very first geocache!
A cache can take on many forms, but every cache always has a logbook. There are hidden microcaches that contain only a logbook and nothing else. A logbook includes information from the maker of the cache and notes from other geocachers who have visited the cache. It can have information about nearby attractions, coordinates to more caches and even jokes written by the cache’s visitors. When you find a cache, at the very least, you should leave the date and time you visited the cache. Some larger cache also contains other more or less valuable items.
Larger caches which are usually made of a waterproof container, like an ammo can or a Tupperware box, contains items which turns geocaching into a fun treasure hunt. You will definitely be surprised to find out what the founder or other geocachers may have left for you. Just remember, it is only polite and fair to leave something in return if you take an item from the geocache. You can leave any kind of item as long as they are not dangerous or perishable goods. You should also make sure to return the cache to its original condition and location for the next geocacher.
Geocaching is quickly increasing popularity as an entertaining and even educational outdoor activity. It is both a hobby and a sport that can be done year round with very little expense. It is an activity that the entire family, people of all ages and even people with disabilities or handicap can participate in and enjoy. Basically anyone that enjoys the great outdoors can enjoy Geocaching. So, what are you waiting for? Get out and participate in the fun. Happy geocaching!