BASIC CAVING GEAR Items to bring on a cave trip can be broken down into the "basic necessities" that each caver should carry on every trip. These basic necessities should be taken on even the "easiest two-hour" cave trip since unexpected events may lengthen your trip underground.The basics should be carried in a handy, easily reached place as they may be in frequent use. The following items are examples of these basic necessities.
		Primary Light Source: The light source should be helmet-mounted to leave your hands free and to always illuminate your line of vision. There are two types of light sources used for caving, electric and carbide. When using electric lighting, it is always best to bring spare batteries - at least twice the amount you would think you'll need and spare light bulbs are also a must.
		When using a carbide lamp, at least twice the amount of of spare carbide and water must be carried for the lamp. Also, an empty air tight container should also be carried for spent carbide - never dump spent carbide in caves.
		Caving Helmet: The helmet should have a chin strap, preferably a 3 or 4 point connection. The helmet should be sturdy enough to protect against rock fall and impacts. Most cavers use UIAA or ANSI approved climbing helmets for caving. They provide the highest level of protection and can be used in vertical caves.
		Extra Sources of Light: At least two independent sources of light must be carried with you. The most commonly carried are a flashlight, and a candle with waterproof matches. Often cavers carry chemical light sticks with aluminum foil to make a reflector.
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		Gloves: It is also a good idea to wear gloves in caves. Gloves help to protect your hands from abrasion. They also help protect the cave by reducing the amount of oils from getting on formations and cave walls from your hands.
		Boots: A pair of sturdy leather boots are also a must to wear in caves. Caves contain difficult terrain and often the footing can be loose and slippery. Leather boots provide superior ankle support and also provide better protection against cold and water.
		Clothing: Essentially, cavers wear clothing for two reasons: protection from the sharp, abrasive cave surface and as insulation from air, water, and rock. Cloths worn during active caving must be durable and warm. Coveralls, jeans, sweat shirts and military clothing are all good items to wear. Be sure to wear clothing that you won't mind destroying. It is usually best to carry an extra sweater or long sleeve shirt to wear for inactive times in caves.
		Food and Water: Staying hydrated is probably the most important thing to do while caving. Bringing enough water for the trip is important. Water must be carried in containers that can withstand tumbling and crushing. It is also important to bring some food in caves to maintain your energy level. Most cavers bring high energy bars which withstand the beating they can take in a cave pack.
		Pack: To carry most of the items needed in a cave a small rugged cave pack is a necessity. Most cavers use old military surplus packs sold at most Army surplus stores. There are also commercially available caving packs sold by mail or at your local climbing store.
<Back		Additional Items: In addition to the above listed items the following items are also important to bring: Space Blanket or Garbage Bag Pocket Knife or Leatherman Tool Small length of cord or webbing Small First Aid Kit Small Whistle for signaling Pencil and Paper for taking notes