How to Hide a Geocache: A Step-by-Step Guide
Geocaching is a fantastic outdoor activity that combines technology, exploration, and a sense of adventure. Hiding your own geocache is a rewarding way to contribute to the geocaching community and share your favourite spots with others. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right container to maintaining your cache after it's published. Before you start, it's a good idea to learn more about Geocache and the overall geocaching experience.
1. Choosing the Right Container
The container is the most fundamental part of your geocache. It needs to be durable, waterproof, and appropriate for the environment where you plan to hide it. Here's a breakdown of common container types:
Micro Caches: These are the smallest type, often containing only a rolled-up log sheet. Common examples include film canisters, small pill bottles, or even magnetic bolt containers. They are best suited for urban environments where space is limited.
Small Caches: Slightly larger than micro caches, these can hold a logbook and a few small trade items (swag). Examples include small plastic containers, such as those used for storing food.
Regular Caches: These are medium-sized containers that can hold a logbook, several trade items, and perhaps a small travel bug. Ammo cans, plastic storage boxes, and larger food containers are popular choices.
Large Caches: These are the biggest caches and can accommodate larger trade items, travel bugs, and even small toys. They are typically large plastic storage containers or repurposed containers.
Factors to Consider:
Waterproofing: Ensure your container is completely waterproof to protect the logbook and contents from the elements. Use a container with a tight-fitting lid and consider adding a seal or placing items in zip-lock bags.
Durability: The container should be able to withstand the elements and potential handling by geocachers. Avoid flimsy containers that could easily break.
Camouflage: Consider camouflaging your container to blend in with its surroundings. This can be done with paint, tape, or natural materials.
Size: Choose a size appropriate for the location and the type of items you plan to include.
Material: Plastic is a popular choice due to its durability and waterproof properties. Metal containers can be used, but be mindful of rust and potential hazards.
2. Scouting a Suitable Location
Choosing the right location is crucial for a successful geocache. Here are some factors to consider:
Accessibility: The location should be accessible to geocachers of varying abilities. Avoid locations that require dangerous climbs, wading through water, or trespassing on private property.
Legality: Ensure that hiding a geocache is permitted in the location you choose. Check with local authorities or land managers if you're unsure. Avoid national parks or other protected areas where geocaching may be restricted.
Originality: Try to find a unique or interesting location that offers something special to geocachers. This could be a scenic viewpoint, a historical landmark, or a natural feature.
Safety: The location should be safe for geocachers of all ages. Avoid areas with hazardous conditions, such as cliffs, swamps, or areas with heavy traffic.
Concealment: The cache should be well-hidden but not so difficult to find that it becomes frustrating. Consider using natural features, such as rocks, trees, or vegetation, to conceal the container. Make sure the location isn't so obvious that it will be easily discovered by non-geocachers (muggles).
GPS Accuracy: Be aware of potential GPS interference in the area, such as dense tree cover or tall buildings. Take multiple GPS readings to ensure accurate coordinates.
Tips for Finding a Good Location:
Explore your local area: Take a walk or drive around your neighbourhood and look for interesting spots that would be suitable for a geocache.
Use online maps: Use online mapping tools to identify potential locations and check for existing geocaches in the area.
Consider the terrain: Choose a location that is appropriate for the terrain rating you plan to assign to the geocache.
3. Creating a Logbook and Swag
Once you have your container and location, it's time to prepare the logbook and swag (trade items).
Logbook: The logbook is an essential part of every geocache. It's where geocachers record their visit and share their experiences. Use a waterproof notebook or a roll of waterproof paper. Include the geocache name, GC code (assigned during submission), and date hidden on the first page. Provide a pen or pencil, preferably attached to the logbook with a string.
Swag: Swag refers to the trade items that geocachers can exchange in the cache. These are typically small, inexpensive items, such as toys, trinkets, or keychains. Avoid including food, liquids, or anything that could be considered dangerous or offensive. Remember the rule: "Trade up, trade even, or don't trade." If you take something, leave something of equal or greater value. Consider including a Geocache information card or a small note explaining geocaching to newcomers.
Important Considerations:
Waterproof Everything: Place the logbook and swag in zip-lock bags to protect them from moisture.
Include Instructions: Consider including a note explaining the rules of geocaching and encouraging geocachers to log their find online.
Maintain Quality: Regularly check the condition of the logbook and swag and replace them as needed.
4. Submitting Your Geocache for Review
Before your geocache can be published, it needs to be submitted for review by a local geocaching reviewer. This process ensures that the geocache meets the guidelines and is safe and appropriate for the community. Here's how to submit your geocache:
- Create an Account: If you don't already have one, create a free account on the official geocaching website (geocaching.com).
- Hide the Geocache: Place your prepared geocache in its chosen location.
- Record Coordinates: Accurately record the coordinates of the geocache using a GPS device or smartphone. Take multiple readings to ensure accuracy.
- Create a Geocache Listing: Log in to your account and create a new geocache listing. Provide the following information:
Geocache Name: Choose a creative and descriptive name for your geocache.
Coordinates: Enter the coordinates of the geocache.
Description: Write a detailed description of the geocache, including its location, difficulty, and terrain.
Container Size: Specify the size of the container.
Attributes: Select appropriate attributes for the geocache, such as whether it's wheelchair accessible, dog-friendly, or requires special equipment.
Hint: Provide a helpful hint to assist geocachers in finding the cache.
- Submit for Review: Once you've completed the listing, submit it for review. A local reviewer will assess the listing and the location to ensure it meets the guidelines. This process can take several days or weeks, depending on the reviewer's workload.
- Publication: If the reviewer approves your geocache, it will be published on the geocaching website and become visible to other geocachers. You will receive a GC code, which is a unique identifier for your geocache.
It's important to familiarise yourself with the geocaching guidelines before submitting your geocache. You can find these guidelines on the official geocaching website. If you have questions about the submission process, you can consult the frequently asked questions section of the website.
5. Maintaining Your Geocache
Once your geocache is published, it's your responsibility to maintain it. This includes:
Regular Checks: Visit your geocache periodically to ensure that it's still in good condition and that the logbook is full. Replace the logbook or swag as needed.Responding to Logs: Monitor the logs that geocachers post online and respond to any questions or concerns. Address any issues promptly, such as missing containers or damaged logbooks.
Addressing Maintenance Requests: If a geocacher reports a problem with your geocache, such as a missing container or a damaged logbook, address the issue as soon as possible. You may need to temporarily disable the geocache until you can fix the problem.
- Archiving: If you are no longer able to maintain your geocache, or if the location becomes unsuitable, archive the geocache. This will remove it from the geocaching website and prevent other geocachers from searching for it. Archiving is preferred over simply abandoning the cache. If you need assistance with maintaining your cache, consider our services which can help.
Hiding a geocache is a rewarding experience that allows you to share your love of the outdoors with others. By following these steps and adhering to the geocaching guidelines, you can create a geocache that will be enjoyed by geocachers for years to come.