Creator guide
Create a trackable people will understand in seconds.
The best trackables are durable, easy to log, and clear about their goal. This page gives creators a complete preparation checklist.
1. Choose the right object
Pick something that can survive being handled, stored, moved, and occasionally forgotten. Flat surfaces are useful because the public QR code or printed code must remain readable. Tokens, coins, tags, laminated cards, keychains, small crafts, and sturdy toys can all work when they are prepared well.
Avoid anything fragile, sharp, messy, valuable enough to tempt keeping, or confusing enough that a finder may not realize it is meant to travel. If a child, teacher, club leader, or casual finder sees the object, the purpose should be obvious.
2. Write the mission before the release
A mission gives the item direction. It can be specific, like “visit every county park in Wisconsin,” or flexible, like “collect photos from trailheads.” A good mission is short enough for a finder to read on a phone but vivid enough to make them care.
Physical tag checklist
- Attach the printed public code to something durable before release.
- Use weather-resistant material when the item may be outdoors.
- Make the code large enough to scan and the text large enough to type.
- Include a short instruction such as scan, log, and move me along.
- Test the QR scan before the item leaves your hands.
Page setup checklist
- Add a clear title and short object description.
- Choose a category that helps visitors understand the use case.
- Write an opening note while the item is still with you.
- Add a starting photo if you want the page to look complete from day one.
- Explain what kind of logs, photos, or locations you hope to collect.
Public vs private
Put the public code on the tag. Keep secret controls out of public posts.
The public code can live on the tag because later finders need it in the field. Secret codes and private QR links should stay out of public cache text, public photos, social comments, and forum posts. Treat owner-only controls the way you would treat a password: useful for managing the item, not for broadcasting.
3. Release responsibly
Place the object only where it is allowed and welcome. For geocaching, follow cache rules, land manager rules, and community expectations. For schools, troops, and clubs, use approved handoff points and avoid publishing sensitive locations. For events, make sure the organizer understands whether the item should be moved, discovered, or returned.
4. Make the first log useful
The opening log is the item’s origin story. It can explain why the item was created, where it is starting, what its goal is, and what kind of help it needs. This first note gives future finders confidence that they are joining an active adventure.