Here’s a summary checklist of all the gear, tools, and supplies you should bring on your one-day fossil hunting adventure. In many cases substitute tools have been suggested in case you don’t have access to purpose-built fossil hunting tools.

Use the checklist to double-check your backpack before you set out. (You can check the boxes once you’ve packed each item.) If possible, keep a knapsack filled with these items as a ‘Go Bag’ so that you’ll be ready to go whenever the urge hits you.

Tools & Equipment:

• Rock hammer – or a sturdy home hammer (with safety goggles to keep eyes safe from flying rock chips)
• Chisel – or a strong flat-head screwdriver as a substitute
• Small shovel or trowel – or a garden spade/large spoon for digging
• Brushes – e.g. a paintbrush and old toothbrush for cleaning fossils
• Magnifying glass – or a smartphone camera for close-ups (optional but fun)
  • Notebook & pencil – for notes, sketches, and recording where/when you found fossils
• Phone– or camera, to take pictures/videos of finds (and your fossil hunting adventure!)
• Plastic bags/containers – to hold fossils; include tissue/foil to wrap fragile pieces
• Marker or labels – to mark your bags with date and location of each find
• Safety glasses/goggles – must-have eye protection when hammering
• Gloves – work or garden gloves to protect your hands
• Sturdy shoes/boots – closed-toe, with good grip (no sandals)
• Sun hat or cap – to shield you from the sun
• Comfortable, durable clothing – long pants, and layered shirts suitable for the weather
• Optional extras: kneepads, small flashlight, ruler, tweezers/dental pick, bandana, etc.

Personal Essentials:

• Water bottles – plenty of water to stay hydrated (especially on hot days)
• Snacks/Lunch – energy bars, sandwiches, fruits, etc., for breaks
• Sunscreen – SPF 30+ and lip balm with SPF (apply before and during trip)
• Insect repellent – bug spray or wipes to keep mosquitoes and ticks away
• First aid kit – band-aids, antiseptic, any personal meds (just in case)
• Fully charged phone – for safety, photos, GPS (consider a portable charger too)
• Buddy/Adult – a friend, parent, or guardian to accompany you (safety in numbers!)
• Backpack – to comfortably carry all your gear and fossils
• Trash bag – or ziplock to pack out any garbage (leave no trace)
• Weather gear – sunglasses, rain jacket/poncho if forecast calls for rain, etc.
• Maps/Directions – saved on phone or printed, so you can find and return from your site
• Permission – if needed (for private land or supervised sites, have a plan or permission slip)

Once you’ve completed the checklist you’re ready to hit the rocks. Stay safe, have fun, and may you discover the coolest, oldest thing you’ve ever touched!

Check out The Time Eater: A Foster Raymond Fossil Hunter Mystery-Adventure for young teens.

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