What is Geocaching?
Geocaching is a rapidly growing hobby consisting of a technologically aided game of orienteering. Beginning within a small group of enthusiasts in the year 2000, they decided to test the accuracy of their GPS receivers by hiding containers (caches) filled with small trinkets.
This is an example of a Geocache
The premise is as follows. Someone will create a cache using a weatherproof container. Within that they will stow some small items such as badges, coins and small toys. Along with that will be a log book and a pen. They will hide the container on public property, usually a place that they feel is particularly beautiful, or of local significance. Using a GPS device they will save the co-ordinates and then post them on one of the many Geocaching community websites.
Usually these coordinates are placed along with a clue to help indicate the hiding place exactly. Simple riddles such as 'Don't get Stumped' can be a clue to look around a tree stump at the co-ordinates. These can be as simple or complicated as the cache owner desires and sometimes involve solving logic puzzles first.
The lucky finder of a cache is then given the chance to 'take something and leave something' exchanging the items in the cache for a personal trinket. Also if a log book is present, finders are encouraged to leave a signature and note for the cache owner. Once the geocache finder returns home it is good etiquette to post back on the community forums to give an update on that Cache and possibly indicate if the cache is damaged or not found. Then the owner can check and maintain the cache if needs be.
While it may sound complicated, it is really quite simple with so many mobile phones featuring GPS receivers. To get started with Geocaching there really isn't too much you need.
Why Geocache?
Geocaching is a fun way to get out and experience your local city and also a way to find out of the way places of interest as a tourist. Cache owners can be very creative with caches and are often locals who know the best places to visit. It is a world wide hobby and caches are hidden all over the planet.
It is also a very cheap weekend activity that is suitable for any amount of people and also all ages. Caches are rated for difficulty to find and the harshness of terrain to expect, so you can accommodate for a day out with the kids or a mountain climbing adventure. Most caching communities do not require a payment to join, although to see the cache locations you do generally need to register. Additionally, as outlined below, many phones have all you need to get started.
What do I need to find a Cache?
First is a GPS receiver. Many people will have one built into their mobile phone. Particularly smart phones such as iPhones and Android devices not only have the GPS receiver but have access to Geocaching Apps to make it even easier to manage your cache hunting.
Second is a pen. Sometimes cache pens go missing and it is far more satisfying to find a cache and leave your signature as proof of your visit. If the log book is big enough then a comment on the location or thoughts on finding it are also encouraged.
Third, a print out of the cache details is handy to have. This will contain the co-ordinates as well as any clues the cache owner has provided.
Lastly is something to trade. These range from foreign currency such as pennies or yen, to even happy meal toys. Technically trading is not needed to geocache, but it does add to the experience. If you do not trade anything, common practice is to mark in the log book TNLN (Took nothing, left nothing)
Getting Started
So, if you want to Geocache next weekend then here are the steps to get you started.
Make sure you have a GPS receiver on your phone, grab a pen and maybe a few trinkets. It's a good idea to pick a few caches if you want to make a day of it so you don't run out of caches too fast. Some can be much easier then others to find.
Register on one of the many Geocaching websites. A good place to start, which lets you search by state and post codes is
Geocaching.
Search for caches close to you. It is a good idea to start with easier rated caches and also check what date it was last found. If it was found in the last week it is more likely the cache is still active than one found last year.
Don't give up if you don't find your first cache. Remember, Geocaching is about exploring and the journey, not the cache.
If you are impatient and want to create a cache, it is a good idea to do some hunting before you design your own cache.
Further Reading
Geocaching is a rich and rewarding hobby and there is a lot of information about it. If you would like to do further reading then the following links will be of interest.
Geocaching - Wikipedia Entry
How Geocaching Works - How Stuff Works
Geocaching Australia - Community web site
