Last month, I was lucky enough to join a wonderful paranormal research group based here in Springfield, MO. I’ve now been part of two investigations with this team, and boy, does it feel great to work with such a diverse, professional, and research-focused group of people. Each team member brings a unique skill set and unique background, but our interest in the paranormal and helping those experiencing activity is the basis of our bond.
As both investigations so far have entailed road trips, I’ve learned quickly that there are necessities beyond equipment (though that’s quite important as well!) that can make a long night of investigation more comfortable.
- Snackage!! – Go for easy-to-transport, low-mess options if at all possible. I personally love cheese and cracker packets, chips (the multi-variety packs are great), mixed nuts or trail mix, and I’m especially loving bringing along some Sour Patch Kids or Cherry Sours. Single-serving packets are good for quick refueling. Side note: Always be respectful to the location and its caretakers by removing all of your trash once you wrap up the investigation. Even if it’s no longer occupied and other people have left their trash behind, it’s not an excuse to leave more litter. It’s common sense, but worth noting.
- Hydration – Always, always bring plenty of water. Gatorade or other electrolyte-filled drinks can also offer a pick-me-up, especially if the location is multi-storied or just has a lot of ground to cover. You can ice down a cooler for the trip and have team members store their drinks for easy access during the investigation.
- Caffeine (if you’re into that sort of thing) – I, for one, can’t go anywhere (slight exaggeration) without some Diet Dr. Pepper. The 8 oz. mini-cans and 12 oz. mini- bottles are my go-to, and take up less room in the cooler. For the next hunt, I’m thinking a couple of bottled iced coffee drinks may be a good addition as well.
- Layers – Even if it’s scorching hot, it could cool down in the late night/wee morning hours. I like to bring along a lightweight fleece jacket just in case, or a long sleeve t-shirt at minimum. When it cools down, a bulkier coat will be great for outdoor investigations. In general, I prefer to wear jeans for investigations no matter the weather, especially because I can be klutzy anyway, and walking around in dark and sometimes dilapidated places at night could be dangerous.
- A second set of footwear – If you’ll be in an indoor location, this may not be necessary. I usually start an investigation wearing tennis shoes, but bring a pair of sturdy boots (and extra socks!) just in case. This is especially helpful if the location has multiple buildings you will be traveling between or if the weather is a tad on the wet/muddy side.
- Bug repellant spray – Whether the location is outdoors or a structure that’s been sitting empty for a while, you will likely encounter insects of varying levels of creepiness. Spritz on some Off! or something similar to keep mosquitoes, etc. from making you into a buffet.
- Camp potty, t.p., handi wipes – Not every location is going to have working plumbing, which makes those that do all the more wonderful. Portable camp potties can be set up near base camp (preferably in a separate room if possible!) or in a secluded area if you’re in an outdoor location. Remember to put a roll of t.p. nearby, as well as some handi wipes or hand sanitizer.
While you’re packing, it may feel like you’re bringing too much, but in my experience, it’s the small details that make the experience of investigation more enjoyable all around. Your group can coordinate on many of these items so you aren’t bringing along unnecessary multiples.
Any other items you have to bring on your investigations? Let me know in the comments, tweet me, or give me a shout on Facebook!
The Helpful Haunt 