Basic gear needed for a beginner?

cabinfever · 04-05-2013, 04:42 PM

I'm actually claustrophobic, so I'm not sure I'll be able to explore caves, but I've always wanted to try it. My buddy just bought a big piece of land in the White Mountains and he's found several caves on the back end of the property. He wants me to go exploring with him this summer. What should I have with me at a minimum?

Barney · 04-06-2013, 06:04 AM

Some people may be tired of answering these newbie questions but I like them because you get to learn new things all the time. As far as I know about caves exploration you need basic light/navigation/water/food stuff. But about specialty gear someone else may know more.

Hikenhunter · 04-06-2013, 08:13 AM

If your friend is experienced he should be able to help you with your gear choices. If he isn't then I would try to find someone who is and learn from them. If you choose to go spleunking with out an experienced person then I hope you will proceed with caution. Hope you have a great time.

bsmit212 · 04-06-2013, 06:41 PM

I agree with hikenhunter, if neither of you are experienced be careful. As to your comment as to being claustrophobic you might want to try a commercial trip first, specially if neither of you are experienced. Check Google for something in your area. I have done a few when I was younger. Some you never get vary cramped, like Ruby Falls, but I also remember doing one where we did have to make some squeezes, not really sure the name.

ppine · 04-07-2013, 10:33 AM

Three light sources apiece come to mind. Then climbing equipment for vertical shafts. Clothing like wet suits for the cold and wet. Caves are some of the most dangerous places a human can go. If you have an claustophobia it will show up quickly.

ChadTower · 04-08-2013, 08:34 AM

I don't think they're going to have that type of caves in the Whites, ppine. The caves I've seen in the Whites are more horizontal and gorge-like than the type of caves you find elsewhere.

My advice is to go on a whole lot of short afternoon trips until you start to understand what you're trying to do. Don't be foolish and think a couple headlamps and a water bottle will keep you safe on a two day trip. More trips = more experience = more understanding = good decisions.

cabinfever · 04-08-2013, 09:53 AM

I definitely wasn't planning a two day cave exploration! My buddy isn't any more experienced than I, but he's impulsive. I had to talk him into getting prepared as he wanted to just go in and start looking around.

No way I was doing that without some basic gear like a rope and lights. I just wasn't sure if I needed anything special.

A commercial trip is a good idea, actually. I'll look into that.

ChadTower · 04-08-2013, 10:01 AM

Helmets. That might be the least obvious thing I can think of. That NH granite is SLICK SLICK SLICK when wet and in a cave probably all covered in algae. It's so easy to whack your head on a low shelf or fall and crack your head on the rock.

ppine · 04-08-2013, 10:17 AM

Chad is right. Years ago I worked commercial construction. When the OSHA guy showed up anyone without a hard hat had to pick up their tools and go home. I wear one when trimming trees, cutting firewood and construction jobs around the house. People on home repair shows rarely wear one and that is just plain stupid. In the dark, your head is really vulnerable. You need a chinstrap.
edit-
Lots of day trips in caves turn into several day affairs. There is no daylight and it is hard to keep track of time.

**CozInCowtown** · 04-08-2013, 10:39 AM

Backhoe ?