How to Hide a Great Geocache

Why Planting a Cache Isn't Always Easy

Geocaching is a high-tech hobby that uses a GPS receiver to find hidden containers in usually scenic locations. If you’re new to this hobby, I urge you to visit www.geocaching.com for more information on how to get started. I have been geocaching for 3 years now and have found close to 100 caches. Yet, I have only planted 3. That’s because there are a lot of things to consider before you just stick a container under a log. A good cache has a lot of different things going for it and you need to think about all of them before you buy your ammo can. All of the following information is based on a cache placed in the woods or other non-urban area. Urban geocaching has slightly different considerations which I don’t get into here.

A good cache will be memorable to find. We all want that experience when, as finders, we head out into the woods following that arrow. As planters, we want to give that to those who take the time to seek out our cache. In order to do that, I’d like to suggest a few guidelines to help you. First you need a good container and decent contents. Then, a good cache must be hidden well. You will need to accept certain maintenance responsibilities in order for this cache to provide fun for lots of cachers. 

The Cache: Container and Contents
Let’s talk about the container into which you’re going to put your cache. Containers can be anything that will hold a logbook. Trade items are desirable in large caches but not essential in micro caches. But choose your container wisely! Not all food containers are waterproof. I highly recommend ammo cans. They are designed to keep your contents dry and they are highly durable. My sister and I planted a cache in a small ammo can under a fallen tree. A huge pine tree came down in a storm right on top of its hiding spot. So now the ammo can was under two fallen logs. We had to dig the can out from under the trunk. I thought for sure the cache had been ruined but the ammo can came away with only a huge dent in the side. The contents were still bone dry with no interior damage as the top had stayed sealed. That is a container well worth the money.