Geocaching with kids checklist
The app finds the cache; the planning is what keeps children walking to the next one instead of asking to go home after the first.
16 items
Makes your own editable copy. No account needed.
The items
- Route planned with caches suited to how far the kids will walkFewer, closer together, beats one big loop that loses their attention halfway round.
- Phone or GPS device with the geocaching app loaded
- Coordinates or clues downloaded before you lose signal
- Power bankA dead phone halfway round ends the hunt for everyone.
- Small trinkets to tradeTrade equal or better, and never take without leaving something in return.
- Pen, for signing the logbook at each cache
- GlovesFor reaching into a hide without knowing what's already living in it.
- Small backpack each child can carry themselves
- Water and snacks, more than seems necessary
- Sun cream and a hat, or waterproofs, depending on the forecast
- Comfortable, already worn-in shoes
- Hand sanitiser or wipes for after handling caches
- First aid basics, plasters especially
- Bag for litter picked up along the way
- Checked for ticks afterwards, if the route went through long grass
- Small reward for finishing the routeThe last stretch is easier with something to walk towards beyond the final cache.
Makes your own editable copy. No account needed.
Questions people ask
- How many caches should a route include for young children?
- Fewer than you'd plan for adults, spaced closer together. A route that's mostly walking with one distant reward loses a child's attention long before the end.
- What should we bring to trade?
- Small, cheap items — the rule is trade equal or better and never take without leaving something. A few coins or stickers from home are enough to get started.
- What do we do after finding a cache?
- Sign the logbook, put everything back exactly as found, and reseal it properly. A cache left open or badly hidden gets found by the wrong person or by weather.