How to Go Letterboxing

Letterboxing is a fun outdoor activity, akin to a treasure hunt. It can be enjoyed solo, with family, with friends and in large groups. Letterboxing is a great way to get fresh air and exercise while challenging the mind with clues and puzzles. It takes only a few simple items and a little bit of curiosity to get started, but can launch a lifetime hobby. Ready, set, go!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Logbook
• Stamp or stamp making materials
• Small notepad or journal with unlined pages
• Inkpad
• Pen or pencil

1. Buy or make a journal for use as a logbook. A personal logbook (not for use in a letterbox) can be any size. It should be reasonable to carry, however.
2. Make or buy a signature stamp. Craft and hobby stores carry both ready made stamps and stamp making supplies. The signature stamp can be as simple or complex as desired, but should reflect its owner. Don’t be afraid to go a little wild with the design.
3. Purchase an ink pad that compliments the stamp and grab a pen.
4. Go online and collect clues to nearby letterboxes. Plot out the hunt for an individual box. Follow the clues and locate the hidden box.
5. Remove the letterbox from its hiding place. Stamp its logbook with your signature stamp and date. Write a short message if desired. Reciprocate in your personal logbook with the letterbox’s stamp.
6. Replace the contents of the letterbox. Be sure to verify the seal on zipper bags and the box. Carefully return the box to its hiding spot. Replace any rocks or other material that had been covering or concealing it when found.

Tips & Warnings

• Carry unscented wipes when letterboxing to clean used stamps. It is always okay to go ahead and clean off an inked up stamp.
• If you cannot find a letterbox, it is okay to contact the owner and say so. Avoid saying that it is missing, state only that it could not be found. Some owners will respond with an extra clue or two.
• Letterboxing is intended to be an eco-friendly activity. Take care not to disturb flora or fauna and to leave the hiding place in the same or better condition than it was.
• While fun, letterboxing carries risks similar to other outdoor activities like camping. Coming into contact with unfriendly creatures and getting lost are valid concerns. Be sure to let someone know when and where you will be searching before you go.