Jump to content

Am I doing this right?


saltwatersoul

Recommended Posts

Hi!

I just recently started caching and am addicted! So, newb question here. I have so far just been using my iPhone together with the official app. I've been clicking on Navigate to Geocache and then simply using the compass and coordinates given on the next screen that comes up. Is this really as easy as it seems, or is there a better way to use my iPhone (i.e. putting the coordinates into a different app or map service, such as Google Earth or similar)? Do most people use it the app strictly? Mind you, I am not talking about comparing this with a GPS, just how to best use my phone. I've found about 6 so far. Mostly urban and some small treks through woods surrounding the community so far. Thanks so much!

Link to comment

Hi! Welcome to Geocaching!

 

Before a bunch of people jump on you, I see you posted this twice. In the case of forums, you only need to post once. People will see it, I promise! :) We all have to learn, and I hope that you find lots of patient people to help along the way.

 

I use a combination of maps on my Iphone and the official app. It works for me so far, but I tend to stay near urban caches since I typically cache alone. I'm interested in hearing other answers!

Edited by .LMN.
Link to comment

Thanks, and sorry for the second post. I put it up a second time because I thought I had put it in the wrong forum. Still exploring the site....it's big.

 

And for the record, I tried to go back and delete the original post but haven't figured that out yet.

Edited by amelmahaay
Link to comment

Well, you found 6 so you must be doing something right 😊

 

Welcome aboard! Some folks prefer to navigate with the map, some prefer the compass. I find the map is more useful when driving to the cache site, so you can see your way around streets and such (although still no turn-by-turn navigation 😠 ). Then when I reach the location and park, I'll switch to the compass mode once I'm out on foot. Occasionally if I'm at GZ and get stumped, I might switch back to maps and satellite images to try to pick out some landmarks.

 

But that's on the few occasions when I'm using the app. I generally only use the app for unplanned spur-of-the-moment quickies....if I'm doing several caches or a planned day trip I prefer to use my GPS.

 

If you don't have plans to purchase a GPS anytime soon, I would recommend investing in a good shock and water resistant case....geocaching can be rough on electronics (drops, dunkings, mud, dirty sweaty hands, etc. )

Edited by Chief301
Link to comment

Hi,

 

I've found all my 522 caches with my (old) iPhone 4. As somebody mentioned you have to be careful with the device, as it's not particularly keen on water and on falling, but it does the work perfectly.I may approach the caches with the street view, and when getting closer use the satellite view, but I guess that's just a personal thing.

Anyway, I haven't yet seen the need to buy any GPS device

 

Regards

Link to comment

When we are caching all we use is the oficial app. Not to fond of compass mode but hat is partially due to sensors in my smart phone being sticky. We use map mode and sometimes satalite if it is a tough one. We due a lot of rural caching so if its a planned day I save the really rural caches to offline because we tend to loose cell data coverage too. Like someone else posted above, if you're having fun and finding them . . . . . . .. . .

Link to comment

When my app was not working (Apple didn't let me reinstall after a factory reset) I put the coords into google maps and used that. It's certainly not perfect even in areas where the maps are properly georeferenced, but it works. Occasionally, I would simply find a cache without any gps, but both only work in urban environments. Mind you, I once got a ftf on a multi placed 3 minutes away from the office without a gps. I looked at where the different stations were and the questions. Returned to the office with the answers, put the coords in google maps and went out again for the find :laughing::P Basically, what I'm trying to say: there's no right or wrong. Whatever works best for you.

Link to comment

When I have network, I find the Official Geocaching app to work very well. Like some have said before, I like to use the map view when navigating to the general location of the cache and then the compass view as I'm getting close.

 

When I do not have network, I'm more likely just to use my handheld GPS but the compass function on the iPhone still seems to work fine, it just can't load any of the maps.

Link to comment

Anything you use: learn to use it! Really try to understand the concept of the app/unit and potential flaws as well as special features.

 

For smartphone caching you should be prepared for loosing cell coverage and power. Will you be able to find the cache (and your way back) without internet connection? Do you have a plan for low batteries? Are you prepared for totally loosing the phone?

 

Thus said, my preferred way to cache is with a smartphone (iPhone 4). I use offline cache data and offline maps, both downloaded prior to my search when safe internet connection (WLAN) is available. The app "Looking4Cache Pro" (fully licensed to use Groundspeaks database) is built for using in offline mode (cache data, maps) and with a special view on minimal battery need (lowering GPS usage as much as possible). For battery issues I carry an external power bar (loaded) plus adapter cable. In rugged terrain and/or rainy days I put it in a cover around my neck (be sure to learn how you type on the screen or switch on/off through the cover).

 

As backup on longer hikes I have a decent GPSr with me (plus spare batteries for that) AND a second cell phone (loaded). As a backup for the backup I have a simple magnetic compass and a real map or at least a basic understanding of the terrain including "catching lines" (easy to find topographic structures which will lead me out of the area). This all still fits in your pockets or on the belt.

 

On some hikes I leave the coordinates at home AND in my car. Usually someone at home knows where I'll be and when to expect me back. Caching with a friend is a good idea, in case something unfortunate happens. At least he/she can carry some of the backup equipment or preferably their own. :)

 

A lot of this are basic hiking rules I followed in former times when hiking in the alps, even without geocaching. For totally remote areas or extreme terrain there are additional tips, but then you really are supposed to know them if you try an expedition to the real outback.

Link to comment

I use the official geocaching app on my iphone and am very happy with it. Mostly I check the coordinates in the google maps app to see about where the cache lies and also to see if i can get there without using the geocaching app. So basically I try to find out a street name and number or a significant point that's easy to find. Once there, I follow the geocaching app, just like you, using the compass. When difficult to find, I look at the coordinates of my current location and those of the cache and see which way I need to move, that proved helpful quite many times.

 

When abroad or offline anyway, I save the caches on a list before I go geocaching and then let the app get me to the GZ.

As others already said, the most important is you're having fun while geocaching and do no harm to nature while geocaching. Enjoy!

Link to comment

I use the official geocaching app on my iphone and am very happy with it. Mostly I check the coordinates in the google maps app to see about where the cache lies and also to see if i can get there without using the geocaching app. So basically I try to find out a street name and number or a significant point that's easy to find. Once there, I follow the geocaching app, just like you, using the compass. When difficult to find, I look at the coordinates of my current location and those of the cache and see which way I need to move, that proved helpful quite many times.

 

When abroad or offline anyway, I save the caches on a list before I go geocaching and then let the app get me to the GZ.

As others already said, the most important is you're having fun while geocaching and do no harm to nature while geocaching. Enjoy!

- Then why this post?

Link to comment

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

Loading...
×
×
  • Create New...