Thinking about hiding your first geocache? You’re not alone! Placing a cache is a great way to give back to the game and connect with the community—but it also comes with some responsibility. To help you get started, we asked geocachers to share their tips for first-time cache hiders.

From choosing the right location to writing a great cache page, here’s what they had to say!
Note: some of the responses have been edited for clarity and brevity.

“I tell newbies to log onto the main website, check out tutorial videos and use the Help Center.” – Kevin A.

“Doublecheck your coordinates and stand by to respond to problems and maintenance needs for as long as your cache is active” – Cornflakes

“Just because it was a ‘container’ in a previous life – does NOT make it a good geocaching container.” – Roseanne T.

“Attend Events often. Events are the heart of geocaching, and it is at events where the geocaching community is built.” – Michael R.

“Make sure the cache container is in place before sending it in to be reviewed” – Jane R.

“Get permissions. Reach out to local land management to get permissions. Besides, the conversation could end up making your hide that much better. When the manager is excited about the cache, it makes it more fun for everyone.” – zumby65

“1) Read the guidelines
2) Read the guidelines
3) Read the guidelines
4) Try and hide the largest cache you can in a location” – Wayne D.

“Attend Events and ask questions from veteran cachers. Most of us love to help!” – Carol A.

“Find lots of different types of caches–50 or so before you do your first hide. Make sure your coordinates are accurate.” – Marge H.

“Think of your hides as a tour guide to visitors. What would entice the finder to look back on your hide with fond memories. Look back on your past 200+ finds & hide what will give that feeling to others.” – John C.

“Attend Events and ask others how they hid their caches and seek advice. This will save frustration with the geocaching community volunteer reviewers, who are amazing people that volunteer their precious time for Geocaching.” – Aditi M.

“Take your time picking the right location! A well-hidden geocache in a scenic or interesting spot makes the find more rewarding. Use durable, waterproof containers, and always test your coordinates multiple times before publishing. Most importantly, maintain your cache—regular upkeep keeps the game fun for everyone!” – Tonertime7

Ready to get started? Visit geocaching.com/play/hide to learn more and begin the cache submission process.