Introduction to Geocaching

Introduction to Geocaching

Geocaching is probably one of the most inexpensive fun activities you can do as a family.  Check out these tips for having the best possible time while geocaching.

Sign Up

Before you head out on your first geocaching adventure, head on over to www.geocaching.com.  You can register for a free account and begin your geocaching adventures right away.  You can also download the official “geocaching” app on iTunes, Android, or Windows.

Understand Your GPS

If you’re going to go geocaching, then you need to understand your GPS.  Geocaching is all about entering the exact coordinates to find the exact location of a geocache.  Most people have a GPS on their phone, and all it takes it a little time to get used to it.

Find Geocaches

After you have signed up for geocaching.com, you can start searching for geocaches near you.  After you find a geocache you want to search for, you’ll enter the coordinates on your GPS or use the app to find its location.  Most people love using the “old way” of geocaching (coordinates) to find their treasure, but you can use the app too!

Log Your Experience

Keep in mind that a geocache isn’t something you take and move.  After you find the geocache, you should leave it exactly where you found it.  After you’ve found it, you can even log your experience online, and tell others what it was like.  Of course, when you’re done, always always always leave it like you found it!

Real World Adventure

Many would explain geocaching as real world adventure.  It’s a great way to get outdoors and experience something out of the ordinary.  Typically, there are many people who participate, so you never run out of geocaches to find.  If you’re willing to do a bit of traveling, you can also explore new cities this way!

Great Learning Experience

I would encourage parents to allow their children to learn about latitude and longitude through geocaching.  Geocaching is also a great way to get your family active this year.  Geocaching does involve some walking and hiking, so keep this in mind as you schedule your family’s adventure.

Start Your Own Geocache

After the excitement of finding geocaches has worn off, start your own geocache.  You can hide your own geocache by following these guidelines from Geocaching.com.

I’d love to hear your stories of geocaching and how many you have found. What has been the most exciting geocache experience you’ve had?