Ghost Hunting

Ghost hunting isn't new, but it has experienced a resurgence in popularity over recent years. While this is partly due to more paranormal investigation reality shows, that's not the only reason people are drawn to it. Unlike most of the things we watch on television, this is something anyone can do in their real lives. If you want to start ghost hunting, this guide will help you prepare.

Choose Your Ghost Hunting Group

It's never a good idea to investigate a paranormal hotspot on your own. Aside from the spiritual dangers, there's the issue of your physical safety. It's a good idea to have help if you fall, get locked in a room, or injure yourself.

When picking your group, look for people who have a genuine interest in ghost hunting. It's okay if their interest is in debunking paranormal phenomena. Skepticism is healthy. However, you don't want to bring someone who will make light of the experience or engage in ignorant behavior that might anger the spirits. Every member of your group should approach the event as a serious scholar.

Pick a Site

The next step is to pick a location for your first ghost hunting experience. You probably won’t have to plan a haunted road trip. There are paranormal hotspots in every small town and big city. Some haunted locations might involve open land, such as a park or cemetery. Other locations are indoors; this includes homes, hotels, and theaters. Try to pick a location with a long history of hauntings.

You'll also want to avoid legal trouble. Even if a site seems to be on “free” land, do your due diligence. County records and real estate agents can help you find the owner of any property. Always ask for permission. Be sure you have any legal permits required for paranormal investigations. Try to keep your endeavor as legit as possible.

Prioritize a Safe Experience

Many first-time ghost hunters neglect safety. They only think of this issue when something occurs while visiting haunted sites. Preparing for an emergency will help you respond to it without panic and confusion.

Each person in the group should pack the following items:

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Compass
• Extra outerwear
• Matches or a lighter

You might need additional safety equipment if you expect your paranormal investigation to last more than a few hours. For a multi-day event, bring a tent, sleeping bag, blankets, and other camping supplies. Always have dry snacks and water on hand. A portable cellphone charger can make sure you always have access to your phone and life-saving apps.

Bring Ghost Hunting Gear

As you gain more experience as a ghost hunter, you'll create your own paranormal kit. This takes time because you'll try a variety of tools. Some will work well for you. Others won't. Every investigator's kit is unique.

Try these items to start:

Notebook/digital recorder - Make notes as you investigate.

Thermometer - Detect temperature changes.

Camera or video recorder

EMF detector - Identify changes in the electromagnetic field.

Voice recorder - Capture electronic voice phenomenon (EVPs).

You can also look for phone apps to replace some of these tools. The less equipment you have to carry, the better!

Know How to Entice or Motivate the Spirits

You might find it difficult to interact with the spirits. More precisely, the spirits may not feel motivated to reach out. Like any living person, ghosts are easily bribed. Bring coins, toys, or shiny items to catch the attention of entities on the other side. Often, ghost hunting involves making a trade-off. Let the ghosts play with the objects if they agree to communicate with you.

A more effective approach is to use items already on-site. Imagine you're trying to reach out to a woman who tragically ended her life when her husband was killed in war. Showing her the dress she wore to her wedding can coax an interaction from her. Even if your paranormal investigation seems like a failure, handling objects of the deceased can quickly turn things around.

Don't Let Unsuccessful Ghost Hunting Events Discourage You

Above all, a good ghost hunter needs the right personality and demeanor. It's very likely that you won't make contact on your first outing. Or your second or third time out in the field. However, you will reap the benefits if you can remain persistent and patient.