The right TOTT (Tools of the Trade) can turn an average geocaching outing into a fantastic one. With a well-stocked bag of essentials, you’ll be ready to find a cache whenever the opportunity arises and make the most of every adventure. Not sure what to include? Keep reading for a list of must-have TOTTs you won’t want to cache without.

Pen
A pen might be the most essential tool for a geocacher. Imagine reaching the cache location, finding it after a thorough search, only to realize you can’t sign the logbook because you don’t have a pen—every geocacher’s nightmare! Keep a pen (and a backup pen!) on hand to make sure this never happens to you.

Tweezers
If you’re planning to find micro caches, tweezers are a must-have. This simple tool makes it easy to remove tiny, tightly-rolled logs quickly and without damage.

Trash bag
Cache in Trash Out® (CITO) is more than an environmental initiative supported by the geocaching community, it’s a way of life. When you visit cache locations that could use a cleanup, having a trash bag on hand allows you to leave the area better than you found it.

SWAG to trade
Trading geocaching SWAG is one of the many joys of the game. The etiquette around geocaching SWAG is simple. If you take something, leave something behind of equal or greater value. Keychains, marbles, small toys, and trackables are all great options!

Portable charger or power bank
A full day of geocaching can drain a mobile device’s battery. By keeping a portable charger in your bag, you won’t have to worry about running out of power before you find that last cache on your list.

Many of the items mentioned in this post are available for purchase from Shop Geocaching. Are there other items that you like to keep on hand when geocaching? Share in the comments below!