GPS Geocaching Tips Guide For Dummies
Essential GPS Features For GeocachingWhile there are no hard and fast rules for choosing the GPS you will be using in your geocaching expeditions, there are some bare-minimums you should look for:
1. Lightweight - As some of your caches may be located quite a distance from your starting point, you"ll want to get one that is lightweight. Even a few extra ounces, when carried over a long distance, can add considerably to fatigue.
2. Pocket Sized - Look for a geocaching GPS unit that will easily fit in the palm of your hand or in your jeans, shirt, or jacket pocket.
3. Sturdy - You can absolutely count on your GPS unit getting banged around all the time. Most likely, you"ll be going through brush, climbing, etc. It will get dropped many times.
4. Waterproof - Look for a GPS that is waterproof or at the very least water resistant. A bright sunny day can turn to rain very quickly. Additionally, the GPS will get dropped in a puddle or two at some point during some of your treasure hunts.
5. Bright Screen - A GPS with a good bright, easily readable screen will make it easy for you to see the information you"re receiving.
How Much Should You Pay For A Geocaching GPS?
If you"re just starting out, and you"re not yet sure if geocaching really answers your call to adventure, but you would like to give it a try without investing too much.
Some really great GPS units for geocaching can be found by shopping online.
Online is where you"ll find the best gps unit for geocaching, and there"s where you can find some really excellent ones at bargain prices.
GPS manufacturers are constantly changing a few features and putting out what they call newer and better models for more money.
To be very successful at geocaching, you really only need a basic GPS unit; last year"s model will work just fine.
As an example, one that sold last year for upwards to a $1,000 can now be purchased for around $150, so shop around and look for attractive deals.
Once you know that geocaching is going to be the sport of your dreams and one that you"ll actively participate in over the years, then you can always upgrade.
Where Are Caches Listed?
To get started in the adventure game of geocaching, you"ll first need to go online to look at a list of the many caches that have been hidden by individuals, clubs, and worldwide organizations.
A good place to start is www.geocaching.com. You"ll find caches of every description and difficulty listed there. If you"re just starting out, go for the easier ranked caches, just until you get the hang of it.
This particular site was started back in 2000 by the people that invented geocaching. It has a list of all active geocaches, a forum, and upcoming geocache events.
Happy Geocaching!