Itching to enjoy the beautiful weather? Geocaching is a fun activity that lets you stretch your legs and get some fresh air while easily following social distancing recommendations.

The world’s largest treasure hunt, geocaching involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden containers called geocaches. There are thousands of geocaches hidden around most major cities, and plenty to find in remote areas as well. It is a great hobby for both individuals and families.

One of the best parts of geocaching is how easy it is to get started. You just need to create an account on Geocaching.com or through the Geocaching app available for both Android and iOS smartphones. Now you’re all set to begin searching!

Finding Your First Geocache

To find your first geocache, all you have to do is get the coordinates and directions from the app or the website. Geocaches come in a range of different sizes and appearances. Some even have small treasures inside that you can swap out with your own trinkets for the next person to take. They will also typically have a logbook for you to sign and date.

It is best to start your search for a traditional geocache with an easy difficulty and terrain rating. Initially, you will want to follow your GPS until you are in the vicinity of the cache. You should be able to get within around 30 feet, depending on your reception and device capabilities. Then, it’s time to put your phone away and search the area until you find it!

Once you get the hang of geocaching, you can test your skills on smaller and harder-to-reach containers.

Placing Your Own Geocaches

When you want to start hiding your own geocaches, there are just a few simple tips to keep in mind. Most importantly, make sure you follow all local laws and do not place geocaches in prohibited locations. Check your city’s policies or ensure that you have permission from the landowner to hide your geocache before submitting it.

The cache itself must be accessible and clearly marked as a geocache. Your chosen container should also be waterproof so that it can stand up to the elements and protect the logbook inside. While clever hiding spots are encouraged, a geocache must not be buried. Lastly, make sure that you provide accurate GPS coordinates so that other geocachers can successfully find your container.

Tips for Geocaching Safely

In addition to keeping your distance from others while you are out finding geocaches, there are some more steps you can take to geocaching safely.

The first is to bring your own pen for signing the logbook. If you often have trouble remembering to grab one, consider getting a pen that clips to your keychain. You can also help protect yourself and others by wearing a mask and gloves when handling a geocache. It is a good idea to carry some disinfectant wipes for sanitizing the cache when you are finished with it, as well as hand sanitizer to help ensure you don’t carry any germs away with you.

With how easy it is to maintain social distancing and proper cleanliness, geocaching is one of the best new hobbies to try right now. It’s a great way to get outdoors, get some exercise, and discover the world around you.