A cache will contain:
- Logbook which is mandatory. It allows people to sign it when they find the cache.
- Larger caches may contain a logbook and any number of items. These items turn the adventure into a true treasure hunt.
- Trackable(s) which are physical game pieces that move from geocache to geocache. There are different kinds of trackable object sold on geocaching shop (international shopping location) and the trackable item could be validated on geocaching website. Prices vary from 6 to 25 US dollars. For more information: https://youtu.be/LjSbSsSSTIM
There are three main types of Trackables: Travel Bug® Trackables, Geocoins and other Trackables.
- A Travel Bug is a trackable tag attached to an item that geocachers call a "hitchhiker." Each Travel Bug has a goal set by its owner. Goals are typically travel-related, such as to visit every country in Europe or travel from coast to coast. Travel Bug Trackables move from cache to cache with the help of geocachers like you. See the "What do I do when I find a Trackable?" section of the guide for information on how you can help Trackables move.
- Geocoins are customizable coins created by individuals or groups of geocachers as a kind of signature item or calling card. They function exactly like Travel Bug Trackables and should be moved to another cache unless otherwise specified by their owners.
- Other Trackable items come in various forms including patches, key rings and more. A common feature of Trackable items is that they bear a unique ID code and text noting that they are trackable at Geocaching.com.
Geocachers are not required to do anything with the Trackable, but they can interact with it in two ways:
- Move the Trackable to another cache by taking it with them. They do not need to leave anything in its place as long as they are willing to help it on its journey. You can look up the Trackable's goal by entering its unique Tracking Code at geocaching.com/track or searching for the Tracking Code on Groundspeak's Geocaching Application. When the geocacher takes a Trackable from one cache and drops it into another, he must log the Trackable's movements.
- "Discover" the Trackable When geocachers have seen a Trackable in person, but have not moved it, they can log that they have "discovered" it. To do so, they will need to write down the Trackable's Tracking Code (the unique series of letters and numbers etched on the item).