Learn About the Place Beforehand
It always helps to learn about a place you plan to visit before you leave. Knowing about a culture, a place, or an activity helps avoid issues that can be embarrassing or even illegal. But the serenity of caves is something else entirely and offers a glimpse into something you won’t be expecting. Take Maeda Point Blue Cave in Okinawa, for example. Beneath the surface, there is a whole world just waiting to be discovered, but even these serene places come with dangers.
Use the Restrooms Before Entering
Whether you embark on a walking tour or a full-on cave diving experience, it can take some time to explore a cave system. There are often beautiful waters you can swim in in certain cave systems, with stunning natural colors such as reds and blues. And none of the management team would prefer if you added some of your own coloring! Because it can take so long to visit a cave, you could be caught short, so make sure you drink a bit less and use the bathroom!
Eat Before You Visit Underground Wonders
Like using the bathroom, it is also advised that you have some food before embarking on your cave expedition. In the US alone, the National Park Service manages over 4,700 caves spanning more than 135 miles. But sorry to say, there isn’t a McDonald’s in a single one of them! We all know that getting to eat amazing food is one of the best reasons for exploring the globe and what it has to offer. But it isn’t possible when cave-diving, so at least have a snack.
Pack Lightly with Smaller Bags
Do you really want to be squeezing through a cave between stalagmites only to get your bag stuck? Imagine how embarrassing this would be and how frustrated other guests could get. Not only will you ruin your experience, but you will ruin it for others, too. You are only exploring a cave, and it won’t be that long of an experience. You don’t need a backpack full of “what ifs!” In fact, it is recommended that you bring a bag only if it is absolutely necessary, such as medical.
Dress for the Experience
Like bringing bags, it also helps to dress for the experience. Learning about the cave beforehand is recommended because you will also get a good idea of what clothing to wear. Some caves are freezing cold, and others are hot and humid. Some are also pretty hazardous, with sharp stalagmites and stalactites, as well as crystal formations. Good quality footwear for caving is a great start, but also do some research into what to wear for the individual cave.
Summary
Learning about a cave will help avoid most of the problems when you want to visit underground wonders all over the planet. Some are pretty long experiences, so pee and eat before you leave on your adventure. Of course, you will have an easier time by also dressing for the experience.
