Sports

Steps to Preparing for Your Underground Adventures and Becoming an Experienced Spelunker

November 25, 2016 — by Richard Dawson

Headlamp For Camping

Being so pressed for time and living a fast paced life makes way for monotony. It’s no surprise you’d often hear people complaining they need some change in their lives, go to far off places and put their troubles behind for a little while. Who doesn’t like discovering the secrets of the world and visiting foreign lands? The problem is we may not always have the time or money which can really be the giving up point for most people, but if you’re really up for great adventures, you can find great places to explore even near you. Take caves for example, though not all of them are completely unexplored, they aren’t exactly the cup of tea for many.

Being the dark, wet places they are, with some bats here and there, rocks and holes on the way, one could easily get scared, and even lose the way following Tom Sawyer’s steps. The advantage nowadays is, unlike Tom’s few options of lighting sources, such as a candle, there are plenty of flashlights to choose from. However, the LED headlamp flashlight makes all the difference due to its durability thanks to the rugged construction and waterproof properties. Though there are other types of lights as well, and you may not wish to opt for the headlamp model, it’s crucial to consider it because lighting is your best friend during caving. Most accidents happen thanks to inexperienced cavers’ choices of inadequate lights which creates difficulties for rescuers.

Another reason to get your LED headlamp flashlight is the necessity to have your hands free, helping yourself with steadying and balance, climbing, taking pictures of breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, and even sending some bats away. If you want to prepare properly, the first step should be getting the perfect lighting source. Next on the list is getting the right helmet. Though with certain tours you can get one, it’s advisable to carry your own so you have the perfect fit and eliminate the risk of injuries in case of falling rocks or stalactites, and depending on the cave itself, ropes so knowing how to tie knots won’t hurt.

The next step would be your clothing choices. Most caves are part warm areas, requiring only thin layers of clothing but if you want to protect your clothing from wearing out, you might also consider thicker layers. If you get to pay a cold cave a visit then a fleece suit, or even waterproof, should be part of your caving equipment, and of course, needless to say, sturdy shoes to withstand the terrain. Ask any experienced spelunker and they’d tell you carrying a bottle of water and a few snacks is mandatory. You don’t have to load up your backpack, but have the “just in case” nutritious pack. Most times the only way out is the way back so you’d spend a lot of time walking and looking for the exit (if you’re lost) thus making a little break to increase your energy is essential.

Caving is your chance to discover worlds you never even thought existed, it’s a fun way to break out of the ordinary and makes for a perfect date with a dash of adrenaline rush. Always check out maps well beforehand, do all the necessary preparations and you’re good to go.