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What should new geocachers know about trackables?


OpinioNate

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SSO JOAT summarizes a lot of the basics on the cache page for his new Travel Bug Resort.

 

That cache page is written very well! Maybe that is the format more people should use when setting up a TB Hotel.

 

Ok here is my stupid question. What is a travel bug Hotel?

A travel bug hotel is simply a cache that is used as a point to drop off/pick up travel bugs to help keep them moving. Usually placed in a well traveled location so that the TBs move through quickly.

You can go online and see what TBs are supposed to be in the cache and check out their missions. If one says it's mission is to go to mountain caches, and you happen to be going skiing the next weekend, it would be one you could pick up and take to the mountains and drop in a cache there, helping it along on its travels.

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:wacko: Ok so I'm a total newb and all of this information is a little overwhelming, I wanted to comment on the "Too wordy" Post... I was thinking about getting a toy dragon and putting the travel bug on him and then sending him on a mission to say, California. I was also thinking people post their experience when finding the cache would it be crazy to try and create a chain story log? An imaginative fantasy adventure about where the dragon has traveled? Is the goal to eventually get your TB back? Is there some way to get memorabilia from my TB's travels? I just think it would be nice to feel like I went places that I'm not physically capable of going to myself and travel vicariously through my TB... :signalviolin:

 

OK so I bought the kit, I got the Travel bug which comes with another tag that says "Keep me" is that something I leave in the cache that the person who finds it keeps or is it something I keep? I got a travel coin with a code on it from my starter kit, is that the same as a travel bug? Now since there's no chain or way to attach it to something else does it travel alone, do I give it a goal too? Where do I write my goal? I know I've got to sound retarded I wish there was someone in the area to help me get started

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1. How to log a Trackable, can the info be placed in plain view?

2. Is it OK to start my Trackable in my own cache?

3. Is it OK to revisit a cache for a Trackable?

3. How does a vehicle TB work?

4. How long can I hold onto a TB?

5. How long should I wait before contacting someone holding my Trackable?

6. What do you do when someone steals your Trackable?

7. What's the oldest Trackable?

8. Do I have to trade when I take a Trackable?

9. Why isn't my Trackable mileage showing up?

10. I logged it wrong, can I fix it?

11. What do "grab", "retrieve", and "discover mean"?

12. Why does it say my tracking number doesn't match?

13. how do I mark my Trackable missing?

14. What is dipping? And can I do it with someone else's Trackable?

15. How long can I hold on to a Trackable?

16. What kinds of caches can I log a Trackable through?

17. I found an unactivated Trackable, now what?

18. My Trackable met its goal, now what?

19. How does a personal Trackable work?

20. I need help with an activation code for my Trackable, where do I get it?

 

More later, I have to think some more. I'm sure others can add to the list.

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SSO JOAT summarizes a lot of the basics on the cache page for his new Travel Bug Resort.

 

That cache page is written very well! Maybe that is the format more people should use when setting up a TB Hotel.

 

Ok here is my stupid question. What is a travel bug Hotel?

 

Basically a TB hotel is a cache large enough to hold a large number of travel bugs. They are usually placed in areas that are well traveled. i.e... Rest stops, hotels, etc... This way cachers can pick up and drop off TB's while traveling and get them closer to their destination.

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As A new geocacher we picked up our first TB I thought i had logged it on the TB's web page but no. When i went to put in a cache today i discovered i had not logged it correctly. I post dated (the day i took it) and removed it from the GC it orignally belonged to and it is now listed in my inventory. I had already logged my visit to the next GC that i have placed it in and when i went to re edit it hoping that now it was in my inventory i would be able to place it in the GC online but i am not able to. What should i do know. I had read the Trackleables page but still did not get it right any suggestions from here. Thanks :rolleyes:

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As A new geocacher we picked up our first TB I thought i had logged it on the TB's web page but no. When i went to put in a cache today i discovered i had not logged it correctly. I post dated (the day i took it) and removed it from the GC it orignally belonged to and it is now listed in my inventory. I had already logged my visit to the next GC that i have placed it in and when i went to re edit it hoping that now it was in my inventory i would be able to place it in the GC online but i am not able to. What should i do know. I had read the Trackleables page but still did not get it right any suggestions from here. Thanks :rolleyes:

 

I see that you got it placed. Instead of another Found it log you should have posted a Note to fix the drop. Now you have 2 find counts for the same cache.

 

You can delete that second Found it. The bug will stay listed in the cache and the cache page will show your one find.

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As A new geocacher we picked up our first TB I thought i had logged it on the TB's web page but no. When i went to put in a cache today i discovered i had not logged it correctly. I post dated (the day i took it) and removed it from the GC it orignally belonged to and it is now listed in my inventory. I had already logged my visit to the next GC that i have placed it in and when i went to re edit it hoping that now it was in my inventory i would be able to place it in the GC online but i am not able to. What should i do know. I had read the Trackleables page but still did not get it right any suggestions from here. Thanks :rolleyes:

 

I see that you got it placed. Instead of another Found it log you should have posted a Note to fix the drop. Now you have 2 find counts for the same cache.

 

You can delete that second Found it. The bug will stay listed in the cache and the cache page will show your one find.

You can always place a traveler by posting a "note" log instead of a "found it" log, on the cache page. That way your find count does not inflate artificially.

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Is it OK email someone when they move your travel bug? I am getting some really neat comments as info is being posted about the movement of many of my trackables. These cachers are sharing about plans for my tag (drop it in next state), where they are heading (going to Bigtown, will drop), etc. I just want to tell the thanks and happy caching. Is this OK to do. I would do this through geocaching.com.

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Is it OK email someone when they move your travel bug? I am getting some really neat comments as info is being posted about the movement of many of my trackables. These cachers are sharing about plans for my tag (drop it in next state), where they are heading (going to Bigtown, will drop), etc. I just want to tell the thanks and happy caching. Is this OK to do. I would do this through geocaching.com.

 

Absolutely. People love being recognized for helping your bug.

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with regards if you think its gone missing and you email the recent cachers, if you find the person with it and they are having problems with logging it ask them if they need a hand. This way if they dont know how to you will be teaching them something of use. If they do know and havent, just be friendly and when they do place it in another cache thank them for their time in moving it for you. I always find this makes a cacher feel good knowing they have helped you.

o

 

I had just started one in a brand new plant and already the 4th person to find the cache says it not in there. the 1st person saw it but didn't take it. now i am waiting on the 2nd finder to see if they have it or saw it.

 

crossing my fingers...she's a cutie too. and she had a mission card with her.

 

armadillogal

Edited by armadillogal
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I have two trackables that have been logged in two different Event caches. One event was for Saturday, 03 July 2010 and the other was Saturday, 17 July 2010. Both event caches have many many trackables in their log. I don't understand what is happening. What will happen to these trackables?

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I swap it with a geocoin sometimes if I have one and if I pick up a TB from devon and I now in London then I would swap it as you build up the miles traveling And if you can cover the Geocoin and TB mission that is good also in the last 3 weeks I have post lot of Geocoins and TB and they have gone missing wish geocacher can sign them out in the log books or the website. Two have turn in Middlesex but the mlies have not be added as they was not sign out that a shame. .

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Hi

 

You need to log them in and then retrieve it and log on the website. That why I not happy as it not being covered.

 

It would be nice for someone to sign the log book says taken so we known that the Items in safe Hands.

There are Self Tracking System but for £200 to £450 would you risk it?

 

And I not sure if anyone use them in the past.

 

There are number of site like this on

1) http://geocoins.net/gcforums/index.php

2) http://www.tb-rescue.com

 

Which may help if missing but never use yet.

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Hi

 

Can you give a break down how to do the visit option and would like this work if you have cover the caches before or in the past?

 

:rolleyes:

 

You can backlog you bug by posting a Note on the cache page using the date of your previous Found it log. Before you hit submit scroll down to the bottom of the page and set the trackable in your drop inventory Action: Visited.

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:huh: Also if the geocoins or Travel Bugs was missing from the first cache then it was find by a other geocacher can the owner listed the miles from the first cache and log it to the new cache and add the miles again? IF so how would I do this>? All it says in the hands of geocacher which find it :rolleyes:

 

Yes, the owner can do this but I find it easier to wait until the bug has been dropped off into a cache listing.

 

From there you would Retrieve the bug from the current cache using the current date. Post a note on the original cache and drop the bug using the date the bug was at the cache. (You can immediately delete the cache log as it won't affect the bug tracking) Then access the bug page and Retrieve the bug back out, again with the original date.

 

Post a Note on the current cache using the current date and Drop the bug. (You can delete that cache Note too) Now access the bug page and delete the logs showing you Retrieving and Dropping the bug in the current cache. This will make it show the last cacher did the Drop.

 

Please let me know if you need clarification on anything.

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Has anyone considered assembling a flowchart for correctly logging caches and trackables? Ideally, it would be a step-by-step flowchart, but relying more on graphics to represent what to do instead of text. Each step would be phrased as a question (Did you find the geocache? Did see any travel bugs? Did you take any travel bugs? etc). Each question has two answers: yes or no. The "yes" arrow points to the next step appropriate for its scenario, and the "no" arrow points to the next step respectively.

 

For example:

Did you see any travel bugs?

YES - green arrow points to "Did you take any of the travel bugs you saw?"

NO - red arrow points to instructions on including this information in your log for the geocache, as well as leaving a message on the travel bug's page

 

Arrows either direct the geocacher to an action or set of actions to take, or another step/question to clarify the issue. (Colors only a suggestion, but selected because they relate to traffic signals: green means "go" to next step; read means "stop," you've reached your destion and have your answers as to what to do.)

 

Here's the motivation:

I've released many geocoins and two travel bugs. I didn't add anything to the TB because I felt the metal tag did a pretty good job of telling the finder where to go. All of the geocoins have either a geocoin buddy (hole drilled and buddy attached with wire) or a paper information sheet inserted into the other half of the plastic flip. Despite the effort that went into providing instructions, I'm not sure anyone reads anything anymore. Whether you want to blame the internet, public education, or just a non-conscious refusal to learn how to do things the correct way, the end result is that people are not receiving the information. There is also the issue of people interpreting the same sentence in more than one way.

 

The information books are great, but they are mostly text.

 

I can't help but wonder if graphics, perhaps interactive(?), might be more effective at getting this information to a broader audience.

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Rule #1 Most important task is to make sure you do log as soon as possible the fact that you took or dropped off a TB.

 

Rule #2 Although this seems in conflict with Rule #1, don't be too quick to log your find. This rule is intended for the finder. You need to allow time for the person to log the drop before you log a retrieval. Just how long do you wait? Good question, just keep in mind that some people may travel for about 2 weeks before they can log activities. By grabbing a TB and not having it logged at the place of retrieval, you may deprive the owner of collecting proper mileage. This is an important aspect to some people.

 

Rule#3 If you are not prepared to spend the time to do logs don't take a TB. If you move it elsewhere without logging the fact then the owner has no way of knowing where it is. Also see note above regarding mileage. You can log finds without moving them by using the "Discovered" option.

 

Rule#4 Don't identify the TB with the tracking number on your log. This number is meant to be only known to the owner and the finder to ensure a legitimate find. If you want to make reference in your log then use the TB name or reference number. The reference number is TBXXXX which is assigned when you activate the TB and is meant to be public knowledge.

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Thank You for all the good knowledge

I am not logging it missing for some time now and just waiting for other geocachers told me. Also have made a missing page on my website with photo to keep a log

 

http://geocacherdunstanuk.yolasite.com/mis...travel-bugs.php

 

If your traveler has been reported as not in the cache, you should give it some time to be logged. After about 30 days you'll want to mark it as missing so people aren't expecting to find it in the cache.

 

You bug/coin/ can always be pulled back into circulation when found.

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Has anyone considered assembling a flowchart for correctly logging caches and trackables? Ideally, it would be a step-by-step flowchart, but relying more on graphics to represent what to do instead of text. Each step would be phrased as a question (Did you find the geocache? Did see any travel bugs? Did you take any travel bugs? etc). Each question has two answers: yes or no. The "yes" arrow points to the next step appropriate for its scenario, and the "no" arrow points to the next step respectively.

 

For example:

Did you see any travel bugs?

YES - green arrow points to "Did you take any of the travel bugs you saw?"

NO - red arrow points to instructions on including this information in your log for the geocache, as well as leaving a message on the travel bug's page

 

Arrows either direct the geocacher to an action or set of actions to take, or another step/question to clarify the issue. (Colors only a suggestion, but selected because they relate to traffic signals: green means "go" to next step; read means "stop," you've reached your destion and have your answers as to what to do.)

 

Here's the motivation:

I've released many geocoins and two travel bugs. I didn't add anything to the TB because I felt the metal tag did a pretty good job of telling the finder where to go. All of the geocoins have either a geocoin buddy (hole drilled and buddy attached with wire) or a paper information sheet inserted into the other half of the plastic flip. Despite the effort that went into providing instructions, I'm not sure anyone reads anything anymore. Whether you want to blame the internet, public education, or just a non-conscious refusal to learn how to do things the correct way, the end result is that people are not receiving the information. There is also the issue of people interpreting the same sentence in more than one way.

 

The information books are great, but they are mostly text.

 

I can't help but wonder if graphics, perhaps interactive(?), might be more effective at getting this information to a broader audience.

 

That's a good idea!

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Hi

As a newbie to trackables I was unsure what info I needed to record to be able to log it in etc, so many Numbers, Codes and abbreviations, very confusing but I must admit necessary, but take some getting used to. I was unaware that before the item was dropped off elewhwhere it needed to be logged as found which must have been frustrating for the owner who was logging it.

I have now printed off the instruction and put them in a prominent place

I get the feeling that some over keen geofizzers think its only necessary to pick up a Bug mention it in passing when they log the cache and do nothing more about it except mention that they put it in another cache. I have recently picked up two trackables that had no clue as to how they got to the cache where they were picked up so I did my best to point this out to the owners,

Is there a list of abreviations used somewhere that I can print off? ;):(

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Rule #1 Most important task is to make sure you do log as soon as possible the fact that you took or dropped off a TB.

 

Rule #2 Although this seems in conflict with Rule #1, don't be too quick to log your find. This rule is intended for the finder. You need to allow time for the person to log the drop before you log a retrieval. Just how long do you wait? Good question, just keep in mind that some people may travel for about 2 weeks before they can log activities. By grabbing a TB and not having it logged at the place of retrieval, you may deprive the owner of collecting proper mileage. This is an important aspect to some people.

 

Rule#3 If you are not prepared to spend the time to do logs don't take a TB. If you move it elsewhere without logging the fact then the owner has no way of knowing where it is. Also see note above regarding mileage. You can log finds without moving them by using the "Discovered" option.

 

Rule#4 Don't identify the TB with the tracking number on your log. This number is meant to be only known to the owner and the finder to ensure a legitimate find. If you want to make reference in your log then use the TB name or reference number. The reference number is TBXXXX which is assigned when you activate the TB and is meant to be public knowledge.

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Hi there

Thankyou you have cleared a point for me. The time lapse between picking up a Trackable and logging it in

which was my difficulty whilst on holiday and waiting until we got back home before doing anything about logging where we had dropped TBs. I have also found that having dropped a TB we are hardly home to do our logging and TB is already moving on. This happens when it is a popular cache and we have had to travel some way to find it

 

Regard to all

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hey, i found a TB today (it's my first week of geocaching too!) and I put that I "retrieved" it on the site and everything, and maybe this has already been answered, but I am wondering how to put a picture up with the TB? The TB has a bunch of pictures up on its site and I just don't know how to post a photo for the owner. Thanks!

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I have logged finding a trackable item, since then it shows "it was last seen in my hands",but I am having trouble registering the TB new home.

I have just put a question on the TB forum page, but any help is appreciated.

 

Russell

I am having a very similar problem. I dropped off my first TB but can't figure out how to make the official log. I don't still have it "in my hands", but don't see "drop off" as an option.

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I have logged finding a trackable item, since then it shows "it was last seen in my hands",but I am having trouble registering the TB new home.

I have just put a question on the TB forum page, but any help is appreciated.

 

Russell

I am having a very similar problem. I dropped off my first TB but can't figure out how to make the official log. I don't still have it "in my hands", but don't see "drop off" as an option.

 

Typically you would drop it along with your Found it log. If you have already posted a Found it, access the cache page and post a Note. Before you hit submit, scroll down to the bottom of the page and select action: Dropped off. Submit.

 

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58405b31-0562-4da0-b781-d458436ecdeb.jpg

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Maybe even that brilliant bit of insight I just learned from Coins And Pins that tracking numbers do not include Is and Os while Activation codes do not include 1s and 0s.

Unfortunately, that's not accurate. I have several coins that both have I's and O's in the tracking codes, and 1's and 0's in the activation codes. :)

I'd better check their quote 'coz it seemed so simple that it was brilliant.

 

This applies to coins that they manufacture. It does not mean other suppliers do the same

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Great answers. We are new to this. I think I logged the trackable wrong and will go fix it (hopefully) can you give us a rundown on the common abbreviations? Like FTF= first to find right? And how do we contact someone for a hint?? Thank you so much if you can help.

 

 

[quote name=Eartha' timestamp='1256079676' p

 

Post='4101514]

1. How to log a Trackable, can the info be placed in plain view?

Information can be found here,

and here, and here, and here.

 

2. Is it OK to start my Trackable in my own cache?

Yes, any cache at all.

 

3. Is it OK to revisit a cache for a Trackable?

Absolutely, as long as you can help it move, or towards its goal, go ahead, just post a note to the cache page and not another find. Check out this thread for more comments.

 

3. How does a vehicle TB work?

Just like any other Trackable, but you only get discoveries, unless you're willing to hand over your car to be moved to another cacher. Don't be surprised if you don't get a lot of logs on it.

 

4. How long can I hold onto a TB?

Two weeks is the suggested maximum, but not everyone can go out and play that often, so if you have it longer, it is common courtesy to email the owner and update them on the status.

 

5. How long should I wait before contacting someone holding my Trackable?

If they've logged it, wait at least three weeks, and always be friendly. Nothing gets a trackable thrown out faster than a nasty email. If it wasn't logged, do some research on logs from the last time it was seen.

 

6. What do you do when someone steals your Trackable?

Cry, stomp your feet, and THEN do some research by searching cache logs and make sure it is really stolen. Most often, it was merely taken by someone who didn't know how to log it (which is why this thread is here). There are thieves out there, and if your Trackable is truly gone, be it thief, muggled cache, fire, flood, death of a cacher, tornado, whatever, so if it's gone for good, you can send out the copy (in the case of a TB, it comes with two tags) or you can make a replica (in the case of a geocoin) but do not delete any previous logs, or you take credit away from anyone who helped move it along. This upsets people when their logs are deleted.

 

7. What's the oldest Trackable?

Hard to say, some people had sent items out, requesting they be moved from cache to cache, long before there were tracking numbers. I don't have this answer, maybe Groundspeak does.

 

8. Do I have to trade when I take a Trackable?

No, no, no, a thousand times no. Travel bugs and trackable geocoins, that have been set out to travel, are not trade items, you do not have to put something in the cache to take a Trackable item, and you should not take something from a cache in trade for a Trackable item. If you should take something from a cache, you should make a trade, and you can place/take the Trackable item.

 

9. Why isn't my Trackable mileage showing up?

It's a glitch, you can wait and it will eventually, or you can go to your trackable page and in the top right corner, in the drop down menu choose "Recalculate mileage". Sometimes it takes a little while for the system to catch up with the TB.

 

10. I logged it wrong, can I fix it?

Yes, you can. Blue Deuce's instructions on how to correct a TB history when mislogged:

this is when the bug is sitting in a cache.

 

1. Retrieve the bug from the current cache.

2. On the orig/previous cache, log a note POST DATED and drop the bug. ( you can just say "logging bug")

3. Retrieve the bug from that cache POST DATED.

4. Post a note on the current cache and drop the bug.

5. On the current cache logs delete the note that says you dropped the bug

6. On the Bug Page, delete both the logs showing that you retrieved and dropped the bug in the current cache. This will leave it in the cache and show the last cacher was the one to drop it.

(Or contact the current holder and ask them do a back drop.)

 

11. What do "grab", "retrieve", and "discover mean"?

1. Retrieve it from "Cache name"

This is used to pull the TB from the cache you found it in.

2. Grab it from somewhere else

This is used when you've found a TB in a cache but it's listed as being in another cache. Or when you take it from another cacher.

3. Write note

This is used when you want to post a note to the TB page, but are not moving it. You do not need the tracking number to just post a note.

4. Discovered it

This is used when you are logging, but not moving, a TB that you see at an event, or one that someone uses as a personal TB and is not passing it off to you. Also used for logging a TB that you find in a cache, but cannot take or help it on its way, and you wish to log it. This also helps the cache owner, TB owner, and future finders know the bug is alive and well and still in the cache.

 

12. Why does it say my tracking number doesn't match?

You most likely typed in the number wrong. Check the number closely, don't mistake 1 for I, 0 for O, 5 for S, 8 for B, etc....

 

13. How do I mark my Trackable missing?

Log in, go to the trackable page, and in the drop down menu in the top right corner clcik on "Mark as Missing". Trackable owners can do this for their own items, and cache owners can do it if the item is missing from their cache, but shows as being there. Getting it back into circulation is just a matter of "Grabbing it" back.

 

14. What is dipping? And can I do it with someone else's Trackable?

Dipping is logging a TB into several caches. Say you go caching all day long, you visit 3 micros, a virtual, and then finally an ammo can. You can log the Trackable through all those caches if you want to show where it's been. You need to drop and retrieve for each cache. Dipping is fine, no problem. Just don't dip forever, eventually you have to let the Trackable go, so someone else can have fun with it.

 

15. How long can I hold on to a Trackable?

Oops, I already answered this one.

 

16. What kinds of caches can I log a Trackable through?

Traditional (any size, just don't ever leave a Trackable in a cache if the lid won't close tight with it in there), Virtual, Multi, Letterbox Hyrbrid, Puzzle, Event, CITO, APE, and GPS Maze Exhibit. You can't log them through webcam caches, or Earthcaches.

 

17. I found an unactivated Trackable, now what?

First make sure you haven't typed the # wrong. Then check the logs, see if someone mentioned leaving it. If something as attached to a TB tag, and it's not activated, the owner probably didn't know they were supposed to activate it. Try to find them. Post notes to the cache page and ask. If you never find the owner, you can ask Groundspeak for the activation code by sending an email to contact at geocaching dot com.

 

18. My Trackable met its goal, now what?

You can give it a new goal, but do not delete any previous logs, see #6.

 

19. How does a personal Trackable work?

Just like a non-personal one, only you keep it with you. You can let people discover it, and you can log it into every cache you visit with it, to keep track of your own miles. Only you can decide if you want the extra work it will take to keep up with it.

 

20. I need help with an activation code for my Trackable, where do I get it?

contact at geocaching dot com. The activation code for Travel Bugs comes on the packaging, don't throw it out until you've activated it and know it's correct. Geocoins are different though. We have a thread called the Activation Code Clearing House You can search that thread, or ask in the forums, or write to the company/person you got the geocoin from.

 

21. What's virtual logging and why do I get a talking to whenever I post a picture of coins I find or include the tracking number in the logs or in the forums? (Thank you, Droo)

If you log a bogus virtual log on a TB, or offer your own TB up for virtual logging you will risk having that TB page locked forever. This means, if you never saw a bug, but got the bug number and you log it, that bug is in risk of being taken out of the game. Don't do this to TB owners who inadvertently might post a photo, or someone else posts a photo, of their TB number. Don't log it virtually. It's considered abuse of the system. And it's not fair play.

 

Thanks to Castle Mischief for the following questions:

 

22. Do I have to attach the "dog tag" to an item to make it a trackable? Can I engrave, write, or otherwise brand an object with the tracking code?

No, you don't have to, but then you run the risk of people, especially newbies, not recognizing it as a Trackable item, and leaving it in the cache, or worse, keeping it as swag. Make sure it is easily identifiable as a travel item.

 

23. How may objects can I display the code on? Can I have a car TB and put one of the matching dog tags on another object?

Just one. Otherwise, you've got abuse of the system and risk the trackable page getting locked. If you lose the sticker, you can release the tag, if you lose the tag, you can release the copy tag.

 

24. What should I do if I see a "collector" at an event? The coins/TBs are not his yet he brought a ton of them?

Violence is never the answer. You should see if you can find someone who knows them well enough to explain how it works, or do so yourself in a very friendly manner.

 

25. What should I do if I see somebody passing around the tracking codes of coins/TBs?

Please explain to them that this is virtual logging and those trackables will be at risk of being locked. They should especially not be doing this with other peoples tracking numbers. Also, say "No thank you, I do not virtual log, it's abuse of the geocaching.com system, and it's wrong! Wrong, I tell you! Wrong!"

 

26. Are USB thumb drives acceptable as a travel bug?

Yes, but don't expect anyone to actually stick it in their own computer.

 

27. Are human remains (ashes/bones) acceptable as a travel bug?

Here's a thread on the subject. Some people will be freaked out, others will show compassion for the dearly departed.

 

28. Can travel bug/coins have a social/political agenda on their listing page?

Trackables are not regulated with a lot of rules and they do not go through a review process. While people do add them, not everyone is going to care about it the way you do. Don't be surprised if you get no help at all, not everyone will even read the whole page. All they want to know is the goal of the TB. Geocaching is meant to be fun, it's best to leave agendas at home when you go out to play.

 

29. Can a travel bug/coin be used as part of an advertising campaign?

They have been, Jeep and Unite For Diabetes, and Garmin all had promotions through Travel Bugs. But if you want to do that with more than one trackable, you should go through proper channels. This website was not put in place for others to abuse. Read the Terms of Use, the guidelines, etc....

 

30. Can I have have a TB tattoo with the tracking numbers?

It's your skin. How committed are you?

 

31. Should coins/TBs be placed in remote or seldom visited caches?

Any cache is a good cache for a TB as long as it fits, but are you helping the TB towards its goal? If it is in a race, NO, if it wants to visit remote locations, YES. Are you prepared to be asked to go back and get it, when it ends up stuck?

 

32. Does somebody at Groundspeak review the listings for coins/TBs?

No. But if someone posts something nasty and against the Terms of Use, Groundspeak reviewers, Lackeys, and Eartha, the volunteer TB and geocoin forum moderator, can edit that out.

 

And lastly, always teach your newbies well. If your going to show them the ropes, show them all the ropes.

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Hi there. I'm also quite new to geocaching and want to start with some trackables soon. I'm about to hide my first cache and I thought of putting in something nice for the first finder. So I found this "First To Find" Geocoin and ordered it right away. Now I'm not so sure anymore about what to do with it. If I activate it, it's trackable. But...

as a gift for the FTF-Guy who finds it, does it need to be trackable in the first place? Also the idea of a traveling FTF-Coin sounds kinda... strange. Any suggestions anyone? I know this might be a stupid question, but it got me really confused. :unsure:

Ed.

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Hi there. I'm also quite new to geocaching and want to start with some trackables soon. I'm about to hide my first cache and I thought of putting in something nice for the first finder. So I found this "First To Find" Geocoin and ordered it right away. Now I'm not so sure anymore about what to do with it. If I activate it, it's trackable. But...

as a gift for the FTF-Guy who finds it, does it need to be trackable in the first place? Also the idea of a traveling FTF-Coin sounds kinda... strange. Any suggestions anyone? I know this might be a stupid question, but it got me really confused. :unsure:

Ed.

 

You can do one of two things. Activate it and once it's picked up you can adopt it over to them http://www.geocaching.com/adopt/ (use the reference number located on the coin page on the upper left-hand side) Or you can simply provide the activation code along with the coin in the cache.

 

One thing might be is that the finder didn't want it activated, but hey it's your gift, you decide. As a finder I would say that even if you don't let it travel you should have it listed in your profile.

Edited by BlueDeuce
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1. How to log a Trackable, can the info be placed in plain view?

Information can be found here,

and here, and here, and here.

 

2. Is it OK to start my Trackable in my own cache?

Yes, any cache at all.

 

3. Is it OK to revisit a cache for a Trackable?

Absolutely, as long as you can help it move, or towards its goal, go ahead, just post a note to the cache page and not another find. Check out this thread for more comments.

 

3. How does a vehicle TB work?

Just like any other Trackable, but you only get discoveries, unless you're willing to hand over your car to be moved to another cacher. Don't be surprised if you don't get a lot of logs on it.

 

4. How long can I hold onto a TB?

Two weeks is the suggested maximum, but not everyone can go out and play that often, so if you have it longer, it is common courtesy to email the owner and update them on the status.

 

5. How long should I wait before contacting someone holding my Trackable?

If they've logged it, wait at least three weeks, and always be friendly. Nothing gets a trackable thrown out faster than a nasty email. If it wasn't logged, do some research on logs from the last time it was seen.

 

6. What do you do when someone steals your Trackable?

Cry, stomp your feet, and THEN do some research by searching cache logs and make sure it is really stolen. Most often, it was merely taken by someone who didn't know how to log it (which is why this thread is here). There are thieves out there, and if your Trackable is truly gone, be it thief, muggled cache, fire, flood, death of a cacher, tornado, whatever, so if it's gone for good, you can send out the copy (in the case of a TB, it comes with two tags) or you can make a replica (in the case of a geocoin) but do not delete any previous logs, or you take credit away from anyone who helped move it along. This upsets people when their logs are deleted.

 

7. What's the oldest Trackable?

Hard to say, some people had sent items out, requesting they be moved from cache to cache, long before there were tracking numbers. I don't have this answer, maybe Groundspeak does.

 

8. Do I have to trade when I take a Trackable?

No, no, no, a thousand times no. Travel bugs and trackable geocoins, that have been set out to travel, are not trade items, you do not have to put something in the cache to take a Trackable item, and you should not take something from a cache in trade for a Trackable item. If you should take something from a cache, you should make a trade, and you can place/take the Trackable item.

 

9. Why isn't my Trackable mileage showing up?

It's a glitch, you can wait and it will eventually, or you can go to your trackable page and in the top right corner, in the drop down menu choose "Recalculate mileage". Sometimes it takes a little while for the system to catch up with the TB.

 

10. I logged it wrong, can I fix it?

Yes, you can. Blue Deuce's instructions on how to correct a TB history when mislogged:

this is when the bug is sitting in a cache.

 

1. Retrieve the bug from the current cache.

2. On the orig/previous cache, log a note POST DATED and drop the bug. ( you can just say "logging bug")

3. Retrieve the bug from that cache POST DATED.

4. Post a note on the current cache and drop the bug.

5. On the current cache logs delete the note that says you dropped the bug

6. On the Bug Page, delete both the logs showing that you retrieved and dropped the bug in the current cache. This will leave it in the cache and show the last cacher was the one to drop it.

(Or contact the current holder and ask them do a back drop.)

 

11. What do "grab", "retrieve", and "discover mean"?

1. Retrieve it from "Cache name"

This is used to pull the TB from the cache you found it in.

2. Grab it from somewhere else

This is used when you've found a TB in a cache but it's listed as being in another cache. Or when you take it from another cacher.

3. Write note

This is used when you want to post a note to the TB page, but are not moving it. You do not need the tracking number to just post a note.

4. Discovered it

This is used when you are logging, but not moving, a TB that you see at an event, or one that someone uses as a personal TB and is not passing it off to you. Also used for logging a TB that you find in a cache, but cannot take or help it on its way, and you wish to log it. This also helps the cache owner, TB owner, and future finders know the bug is alive and well and still in the cache.

 

12. Why does it say my tracking number doesn't match?

You most likely typed in the number wrong. Check the number closely, don't mistake 1 for I, 0 for O, 5 for S, 8 for B, etc....

 

13. How do I mark my Trackable missing?

Log in, go to the trackable page, and in the drop down menu in the top right corner clcik on "Mark as Missing". Trackable owners can do this for their own items, and cache owners can do it if the item is missing from their cache, but shows as being there. Getting it back into circulation is just a matter of "Grabbing it" back.

 

14. What is dipping? And can I do it with someone else's Trackable?

Dipping is logging a TB into several caches. Say you go caching all day long, you visit 3 micros, a virtual, and then finally an ammo can. You can log the Trackable through all those caches if you want to show where it's been. You need to drop and retrieve for each cache. Dipping is fine, no problem. Just don't dip forever, eventually you have to let the Trackable go, so someone else can have fun with it.

 

15. How long can I hold on to a Trackable?

Oops, I already answered this one.

 

16. What kinds of caches can I log a Trackable through?

Traditional (any size, just don't ever leave a Trackable in a cache if the lid won't close tight with it in there), Virtual, Multi, Letterbox Hyrbrid, Puzzle, Event, CITO, APE, and GPS Maze Exhibit. You can't log them through webcam caches, or Earthcaches.

 

17. I found an unactivated Trackable, now what?

First make sure you haven't typed the # wrong. Then check the logs, see if someone mentioned leaving it. If something as attached to a TB tag, and it's not activated, the owner probably didn't know they were supposed to activate it. Try to find them. Post notes to the cache page and ask. If you never find the owner, you can ask Groundspeak for the activation code by sending an email to contact at geocaching dot com.

 

18. My Trackable met its goal, now what?

You can give it a new goal, but do not delete any previous logs, see #6.

 

19. How does a personal Trackable work?

Just like a non-personal one, only you keep it with you. You can let people discover it, and you can log it into every cache you visit with it, to keep track of your own miles. Only you can decide if you want the extra work it will take to keep up with it.

 

20. I need help with an activation code for my Trackable, where do I get it?

contact at geocaching dot com. The activation code for Travel Bugs comes on the packaging, don't throw it out until you've activated it and know it's correct. Geocoins are different though. We have a thread called the Activation Code Clearing House You can search that thread, or ask in the forums, or write to the company/person you got the geocoin from.

 

21. What's virtual logging and why do I get a talking to whenever I post a picture of coins I find or include the tracking number in the logs or in the forums? (Thank you, Droo)

If you log a bogus virtual log on a TB, or offer your own TB up for virtual logging you will risk having that TB page locked forever. This means, if you never saw a bug, but got the bug number and you log it, that bug is in risk of being taken out of the game. Don't do this to TB owners who inadvertently might post a photo, or someone else posts a photo, of their TB number. Don't log it virtually. It's considered abuse of the system. And it's not fair play.

 

Thanks to Castle Mischief for the following questions:

 

22. Do I have to attach the "dog tag" to an item to make it a trackable? Can I engrave, write, or otherwise brand an object with the tracking code?

No, you don't have to, but then you run the risk of people, especially newbies, not recognizing it as a Trackable item, and leaving it in the cache, or worse, keeping it as swag. Make sure it is easily identifiable as a travel item.

 

23. How may objects can I display the code on? Can I have a car TB and put one of the matching dog tags on another object?

Just one. Otherwise, you've got abuse of the system and risk the trackable page getting locked. If you lose the sticker, you can release the tag, if you lose the tag, you can release the copy tag.

 

24. What should I do if I see a "collector" at an event? The coins/TBs are not his yet he brought a ton of them?

Violence is never the answer. You should see if you can find someone who knows them well enough to explain how it works, or do so yourself in a very friendly manner.

 

25. What should I do if I see somebody passing around the tracking codes of coins/TBs?

Please explain to them that this is virtual logging and those trackables will be at risk of being locked. They should especially not be doing this with other peoples tracking numbers. Also, say "No thank you, I do not virtual log, it's abuse of the geocaching.com system, and it's wrong! Wrong, I tell you! Wrong!"

 

26. Are USB thumb drives acceptable as a travel bug?

Yes, but don't expect anyone to actually stick it in their own computer.

 

27. Are human remains (ashes/bones) acceptable as a travel bug?

Here's a thread on the subject. Some people will be freaked out, others will show compassion for the dearly departed.

 

28. Can travel bug/coins have a social/political agenda on their listing page?

Trackables are not regulated with a lot of rules and they do not go through a review process. While people do add them, not everyone is going to care about it the way you do. Don't be surprised if you get no help at all, not everyone will even read the whole page. All they want to know is the goal of the TB. Geocaching is meant to be fun, it's best to leave agendas at home when you go out to play.

 

29. Can a travel bug/coin be used as part of an advertising campaign?

They have been, Jeep and Unite For Diabetes, and Garmin all had promotions through Travel Bugs. But if you want to do that with more than one trackable, you should go through proper channels. This website was not put in place for others to abuse. Read the Terms of Use, the guidelines, etc....

 

30. Can I have have a TB tattoo with the tracking numbers?

It's your skin. How committed are you?

 

31. Should coins/TBs be placed in remote or seldom visited caches?

Any cache is a good cache for a TB as long as it fits, but are you helping the TB towards its goal? If it is in a race, NO, if it wants to visit remote locations, YES. Are you prepared to be asked to go back and get it, when it ends up stuck?

 

32. Does somebody at Groundspeak review the listings for coins/TBs?

No. But if someone posts something nasty and against the Terms of Use, Groundspeak reviewers, Lackeys, and Eartha, the volunteer TB and geocoin forum moderator, can edit that out.

 

And lastly, always teach your newbies well. If your going to show them the ropes, show them all the ropes.

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There was a email that a geocacher found a geocoin or Travel Bug but the Number is not working we check O and 0 found the right one but someone told me that Numbers to TB or Coins codes can go out of date or can be swop this this ture?? also some of my Geocoins was given to a geocacher but there have not move it on or report lost and on the website it is still in there name what can I do about this???

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