Finding a geocache is always an experience, but finding a geocache at night can be a real adventure! More and more cachers are trying their searching skills in the dark, and some have even hidden caches solely dedicated to be found at night. As with any cache adventure, you want to make sure you are prepared for what the night brings to a cache hunt. Here are some good things to consider.

First and foremost, be prepared. Always take extra batteries, and at least two sources of light with each person. It's also important that you let someone at home know where you will be and when you plan to be back. Carrying a mobile phone is always a good idea on any cache hunt, and especially at night. Set a waypoint at your vehicle. It's easy to get turned around and confused during the dark of night.

Wear clear protective lenses. These will prevent your eyes from getting damaged by low hanging limbs. You can get clear protective lenses from most sporting goods stores (they sell them as eye protection for sports like racquet ball, basketball, etc) and you can also get them fairly cheap from most hardware stores. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and many of the higher end sports sunglasses offer a clear lens that is interchangeable with the frame.

Some caches are just more fun to find at night whereas other caches are solely designed to be found at night. For these truly night caches, usually the hider places reflectors along the route to help guide you to the cache. You will need a decent flashlight that is powerful enough to project a beam down a path. Flashlights with adjustable beams (like a Maglite) work well for this purpose. Another good type of light is a headlamp that is usually powered by smaller AA batteries. This type of light leaves your hands free for pushing limbs away and searching for the cache. Whatever you choose to use, be sure to carry extra batteries and one back up light. A chemical light stick also makes a good backup light in case of emergency.