What is Geocaching? What handheld GPS is best for this type of activity?
Geocaching is the latest craze in modern day treasure hunts. Geocaching has been going on in the northeast for several years now and is starting to spread across the rest of the United States.
Geocaching is simply a great way to have bundles of fun playing the most modern version by adding a gadget (love those new gadgets) called a handheld GPS device to help you find the coordinates of the out door treasure hunt. This is why you need a handheld GPS.
There are two types of Geocaching, the original “traditional” consisting of at least a container and a log book. Normally you'll find a tupperware container, ammo box or a smaller container ("micro cache") too small to contain items except for a log book. The coordinates listed on the traditional cache page is the exact location for the cache. Second a “virtual” cache which is simply a location (no container) of interest. One type is a “multi-cache” (which is simply multiple containers or clues that lead to the final cache).
Yes, the coordinates are a combination of “Latitude” and “Longitude” referred to as “degrees” and “minutes”. Usually a description of what the “cache” container had in it (sometimes toys, dollar store items, but sometimes money yes, money or other items.
Also, there is a map showing the area of it’s location, and if the person who left the “cache” feels like it they might live leave a “hint” which can be decrypted if you find you need a little help. Last but not least there should be comments left by your fellow geocachers who have found or not found the cache.
Now you are ready to go out and do your own treasure hunting. You may find “caches” in your area by going to Geocaching.com. I would like to suggest one of the Garmin GPS Handhelds, some have the bright color screen and a “Geocaching” mode.
