Caving gear checklist: what beginners should bring

Thinking of trying caving? Here's what you'll need to bring as a first-time spelunker, including clothing, safety gear and essential supplies.



So, you want to go caving? It's a thrilling and fascinating hobby. But as days out go, it requires lots of preparation.

It's not difficult to see why. Done properly, recreational caving is relatively safe. But cut corners, and you could put yourself and others in physical danger.

That's one reason why caving should always be a group activity – and not just any old group. If you're new to caving, you must go with somebody who knows the ropes (literally).

The best route for a beginner is to look for an experienced caving group in the area you want to explore. Going solo or with other inexperienced cavers is a recipe for disaster. Don't put yourself at risk!

A safer option is to explore a show cave like Stump Cross Caverns. We've installed walkways, lighting and other safety measures so you can enjoy a real cave experience without the danger.

Still want to try full-blown caving? Here's a list of essential equipment for a beginner.

Beginner's caving gear checklist

Caves are sparkling specimens of prehistoric rock. They're filled with ancient wonders – those stalactites, stalagmites, columns and other formations that enchant people all over the world.

They're also tight, wet, muddy, jagged and often low-ceilinged. Every item on this equipment list is there to make these conditions safer to explore.

Safety essentials

1. □ Helmet

First off, you'll need a climbing- or industrial-style hard-shell helmet. Cave ceilings are often on the low side, so sturdy headgear will protect you from bumps, knocks and concussions.

Your hat can do double duty with a mounted headlamp. This will help you explore dark, twisting tunnels safely.

2. □ Light sources

Even if you have a headlamp, backup lights are a must. Cavers will often take a small flashlight, a spare head torch and spare batteries. Depending on the length of the trip, they may also take emergency candles or tea lights.

3. □ Whistle

One of the dangers of caving is getting separated from your team. For this reason, every group member should take a whistle.

4. □ First aid kit and blanket

The more experienced and well-equipped the caving team, the less likely you are to suffer injuries. Nevertheless, injuries are possible, so it's important to take a first-aid kit and an emergency blanket.

Clothing and supplies

Then there's the question of clothing. This needs to be protective and warm. Remember you'll sometimes be crawling through tight, muddy, rocky tunnels!

6. □ Synthetic base layers

Base layers tend to consist of synthetic thermal shirts and trousers. Cotton is a no-no. It traps moisture and lowers your body temperature.

7. □ Strong outer layers

Over their base layers, cavers will often wear hard-wearing overalls, trousers and a jacket that can handle mud and jagged rocks.

8. □ Protective pads and gloves

Caving often means crawling. Jutting, jagged rocks can make this uncomfortable without soft knee and elbow pads and work gloves.

9. □ Thick socks

On your feet, you'll either wear thick long wool socks or neoprene socks. These help prevent blisters and keep you warm.

10. □ Sturdy, waterproof footwear

Over your socks, you'll wear waterproof wellies with deep lugs and treads or sturdy, gripping hiking boots.

11. □ Emergency supplies

Last but not least, you'll need a small pack of supplies. This often means a rugged bag or bum bag. It should contain batteries, first-aid materials, snacks and drinking water.

A safer option: Stump Cross Caverns

It's important to note that all these items are must-haves, not good-to-haves. Cavers often explore tight, narrow, slippery spaces where safety is the number one priority.

All sounds too much like hard work? At Stump Cross Caverns, you can enjoy the beauty of prehistoric caves without any crawling or climbing. All you need is a hard hat – and we'll provide this when you arrive.

That said, there are certain things you could bring to make your visit more comfortable – plus a few items that aren't allowed for safety reasons.

What to bring to Stump Cross Caverns

At Stump Cross Caverns, caving is gentle and safe. Whereas many caving experiences require head-to-toe protective gear and safety in numbers, we provide a fun and family-friendly alternative.

The most important thing to note is that you don't need to bring any protective gear. Hard hats are mandatory, but we provide them for both adults and children. This is to protect you from bumps on the head – the only real risk in an otherwise safe and gentle environment.

If you come in summer, you may be surprised at how cool it is in the caves. The temperature of this unique limestone microclimate falls somewhere 7°C and 11°C all year round.

That means you should consider wearing some combination of a jumper, light jacket, trousers and long sleeves. This will keep you comfortable in the cool, damp environment even if the sun is blazing above ground.

Hiking boots, wellies or other sturdy, water-resistant footwear are recommended – especially after it's rained.

The chambers and passageways here at Stump Cross are beloved for a reason. We welcome visitors to bring a phone or camera to capture the rocky delights.

These guidelines exist to make sure you get the most out of your visit. Alongside these recommendations, however, come a few no-nos. These rules are also in place to keep you (and the caves) safe.

What's not allowed at Stump Cross Caverns

Before descending the 65 steps into the caves, you must make sure you're not carrying a rucksack or large bag. This is to protect the delicate rock formations. These are ancient structures that take thousands of years to form. So, if you damage one, it won't be replaced in a hurry!

Children of all ages are welcome, but baby back carriers are not allowed. This is to keep little ones safe from the low ceilings.

Food and drink is also not allowed. If you're feeling peckish before or after the tour, however, you can get refreshments at our Time Cafe.

These regulations are appropriate to the safety levels of the cave. We've created a great environment for caving beginners to explore and a safe alternative to more dramatic caving.

So, whether you're a curious adult or a family looking for an adventurous day out, Stump Cross Caverns is the place to be. We look forward to meeting you down in the caves.



Ready for an adventure underground? It's easy to secure your spot on a self-guided tour of Stump Cross Caverns. Simply book your tickets online.