1. Research the cache location – buy a map of the area you are about to visit and log the co-ordinates of the cache in your GPSr.

2. Prepare for the trip – make sure you are ready for surprises. Bring appropriate hiking/climbing gear, and always have a friend with you so that you do not risk getting lost in the woods while looking for a cache.

3. Get as close to the cache location as you can – note that your GPSr can only be that reliable; the smaller the distance between you and the cache waypoint, the more difficult it becomes to read the GPS unit measurements – which means you usually have to use a compass for the last five to 10 meters.

4. You have reached the possible location (or as close to the cache as possible) – now is the hard part; you have to look through the entire area carefully; it may take you a while to find the cache, as sometimes other players will hide the containers very skilfully and inconspicuously blended in with the surroundings.

5. You found it! Now sign the logbook, take your prize, leave something for the next player and place the cache back where you found it. Be sure to follow any instructions the cache has – and transport trackable items (travel bugs) on to the next location, if necessary. Try not to attract the attention of muggles, for they might get curious and steal the cache once you leave.