The Gear You Need to find Bigfoot

Welcome to the exciting world of Sasquatch hunting! Before you rush out to grab all the necessary gear, let's clear something up. This isn't a list demanding you splurge all at once. Some items won't break the bank, while others might test your wallet's resilience. Over here at Wildman of the Woods, we've been piecing together our Sasquatch-seeking arsenal one item at a time. We reckon you should do the same—building anticipation, honing your skills, and, of course, saving up for those epic adventures!

Technology

Night Vision Camcorder

A night vision camcorder is a valuable tool in the search for Bigfoot, primarily due to its ability to enhance visibility in low-light conditions typical of the remote, densely wooded areas where Bigfoot sightings often occur. This technology not only allows for the clear recording of potential sightings during the night but also improves the quality of documented evidence. With features like infrared illumination, these camcorders can capture images and movements otherwise invisible to the naked eye, aiding in the observation and recording of wildlife activities in the dark.

Additionally, the portability and durability of night vision camcorders make them ideal for rugged outdoor expeditions. The ability to time-stamp footage is crucial for verifying the authenticity of any sightings. Moreover, the captured footage can be analyzed to understand the movements and behaviors of potential Bigfoot sightings, and shared within the research community for collaborative verification and analysis, helping to distinguish genuine encounters from hoaxes.

Audio Recorder

Audio recording devices play a pivotal role in Bigfoot research by enabling the capture and documentation of evidence, including the enigmatic vocalizations of this elusive creature. These devices prove particularly valuable for recording unusual sounds that often accompany Bigfoot sightings in areas of activity. Whether it's a spine-tingling howl echoing through the forest or a series of mysterious vocalizations, audio recorders are your ears in the wild, allowing you to document and analyze these intriguing auditory clues.

The importance of audio recording devices extends far beyond immediate evidence gathering. The audio recordings serve as a permanent record for in-depth review and analysis, potentially revealing critical details that may have been initially overlooked. Sharing these compelling audio findings within the Bigfoot research community fosters collaborative efforts in validating potential evidence. Moreover, these recordings have the power to educate and raise awareness about the Bigfoot phenomenon, captivating the public's interest and encouraging more reported sightings and evidence submissions. So, when you embark on your Bigfoot quest, don't forget your trusty audio recorder—it's your ticket to uncovering the auditory mysteries of the wild! A tried and true recorder we have used for years is the Zoom H1n. 

Thermal Camera

Thermal cameras are a vital asset in the search for Bigfoot due to their ability to detect heat signatures from living creatures, making them highly effective for spotting potential sightings in dense forests and during nocturnal searches. These cameras operate by capturing the heat differences between objects, allowing them to function in complete darkness, a critical advantage given Bigfoot's purported nocturnal activity. Additionally, thermal imaging can sometimes penetrate through visual obstructions like foliage, providing a clearer view in environments where Bigfoot is rumored to dwell.

The use of thermal cameras also aids in non-invasive wildlife monitoring, preserving the natural behavior of any observed creatures. This technology can distinguish between various heat sources, helping researchers avoid false alarms and focus on more credible leads. The capability to record and analyze thermal footage enables detailed examination of size, shape, and behavior of any captured heat signatures, crucial for verifying potential Bigfoot sightings. Furthermore, sharing this data within the scientific community promotes collaborative research and verification, enhancing the overall efforts in studying and understanding this elusive creature. An affordable and reliable thermal imager we have used, and was recommended to us by Aleks Petakov of Small Town Monsters is the AGM Global Vision Asp-Micro TM160. 

Gopro with Stabilization

A GoPro camera is a highly effective tool in the search for Bigfoot due to its compact size, rugged design, and high-resolution video and image capturing abilities. The camera's wide-angle lens offers a broad field of view, crucial for documenting potential evidence in dense forests where Bigfoot is rumored to exist. This portability and durability make it suitable for various terrains and weather conditions encountered during outdoor expeditions. GoPro's mountability on different equipment, including drones and helmets, allows for diverse perspectives and increases the chances of capturing elusive wildlife from various angles and hard-to-reach areas.

Additionally, GoPro cameras feature time-lapse and slow-motion capabilities, enhancing the ability to capture and analyze fast or subtle movements that might otherwise go unnoticed. While they don't have built-in night vision, GoPros can be equipped with external attachments for nighttime use, expanding their utility in nocturnal searches. The ease of use, extended battery life, and substantial storage capacity make GoPros ideal for prolonged field research. Some models also offer networking and live streaming capabilities, enabling real-time footage sharing and collaboration, which can be invaluable in immediate analysis and verification of potential Bigfoot sightings.

Professional Camera

A professional camera equipped with a zoom lens is a vital tool in the search for Bigfoot, primarily due to its ability to produce high-resolution images and videos, crucial for capturing clear, detailed evidence of potential sightings. The zoom capability allows researchers to maintain a safe distance while obtaining detailed shots, essential for documenting elusive creatures like Bigfoot. Fast autofocus and the ability to quickly capture images are key in responding to sudden movements or sightings in the unpredictable environments where Bigfoot is often reported. Additionally, these cameras perform well in low-light conditions, enhancing their effectiveness during dawn, dusk, or nocturnal searches.

The versatility of professional cameras, with interchangeable lenses and adjustable settings like shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, enables researchers to adapt to different lighting conditions and environments, from dense forests to open areas. Their durability is also critical, as Bigfoot research often takes place in rugged, remote locations. The powerful zoom aids in long-range identification, allowing researchers to spot and evaluate distant objects or movements. Overall, the high-quality evidence collected with these cameras is invaluable, providing credible material for expert examination and aiding significantly in the scientific analysis and verification of Bigfoot sightings.

Notebook and Pen

In the search for Bigfoot, a notebook and pen are essential for their simplicity and reliability, especially in remote or challenging environments where electronic devices might fail. They enable researchers to immediately record observations, sightings, and interview notes, ensuring that no details are lost. This includes recording date, time, location, and specific behaviors observed, which are critical for analyzing patterns and validating sightings. Additionally, sketching visuals in the absence of a camera can capture important details about appearance, size, or tracks, providing valuable visual records for later analysis.

Beyond mere data collection, a notebook serves as a comprehensive log of the research journey, documenting methodologies, locations explored, and any challenges encountered. It's also a tool for organizing and referencing research data systematically, crucial for long-term projects. For reflective journaling, researchers can note their thoughts, hypotheses, and experiences, fostering new ideas and approaches. Furthermore, the ease of sharing notes and sketches makes notebooks invaluable for collaborative efforts, enabling collective analysis and discussion among team members.

Clothing and Storage

Backpack

A durable and comfortable backpack is crucial in the search for Bigfoot, serving as the primary means for carrying essential gear and equipment needed for extended expeditions in remote areas. This includes not only cameras and recording devices but also vital supplies like food, water, first aid kits, and camping gear. The backpack's durability ensures the protection of sensitive equipment from harsh outdoor conditions, while its design, offering proper support and weight distribution, minimizes physical strain and enhances endurance during long treks in challenging terrains.

The practicality of a well-designed backpack extends to its organizational capabilities, with multiple compartments and pockets for efficient gear arrangement, ensuring quick access to tools and supplies. This is particularly important for responding promptly to unexpected sighting opportunities or emergencies. Moreover, features like rain covers, hydration reservoirs, and modular attachments allow for adaptability to different weather conditions and expedition needs. The inclusion of safety and survival equipment, along with space for documenting tools like notebooks and laptops, underscores the backpack's role as an indispensable tool in maintaining the well-being, safety, and research productivity of Bigfoot hunters in the field.

Boots or trail Running Shoes

Quality hiking boots or trail running shoes are fundamental for the search for Bigfoot, offering crucial support and stability on the varied and challenging terrains where sightings are often reported. These terrains can include dense forests, mountainous areas, and rugged trails, where specialized soles for increased traction and grip become essential to navigate safely. Comfort is also key, as well-fitted, cushioned footwear reduces fatigue and foot discomfort, allowing researchers to cover longer distances and remain focused on their search. Additionally, the protection these shoes provide against elements like water, mud, and potential hazards such as thorns and snake bites is vital for the well-being of researchers in wilderness areas.

Moreover, good hiking boots or shoes enhance mobility, facilitating quicker and more agile movement through different terrains, which can be crucial during rapid responses to potential sightings or exploration of new areas. They also offer temperature regulation, keeping feet comfortable in varying climate conditions, and are built for durability to withstand the wear and tear of harsh outdoor environments. Importantly, the shock absorption provided by quality footwear reduces the impact on knees and hips, which is essential for the physical well-being of those engaged in the extended, physically demanding task of searching for Bigfoot.

Quick Dry Clothing

Quick-dry hiking clothing is an essential aid in the search for Bigfoot. These specialized fabrics offer comfort and durability by efficiently wicking away moisture, keeping researchers dry during strenuous hikes and wet conditions. Their adaptability ensures that researchers can remain comfortable in various weather conditions, a critical factor when exploring diverse terrains where Bigfoot sightings are reported.

Moreover, quick-dry clothing helps reduce odor, minimizing the risk of wildlife detection and increasing the likelihood of encounters with Bigfoot. Its ease of maintenance ensures that researchers have clean and fresh attire for each expedition, promoting hygiene and well-being during extended searches. In essence, quick-dry hiking clothing is a practical and versatile tool that enhances comfort, temperature regulation, odor control, and ease of maintenance, making it an invaluable asset for researchers in their quest to uncover the mysteries of Bigfoot in diverse wilderness environments.

Packable Coat

A synthetic packable coat is a valuable asset for Bigfoot search expeditions. These coats provide lightweight and efficient insulation, ensuring researchers stay warm and comfortable in cold conditions frequently encountered in remote wilderness areas. Their packable nature allows for easy storage in backpacks, ensuring that insulation is readily available without adding bulk.

Moreover, many synthetic packable coats offer water-resistant or waterproof features, keeping researchers dry during rain or wet conditions, which are common in forested environments. The ability to layer these coats over other clothing provides flexibility in regulating body temperature, further enhancing comfort and safety. Additionally, coats with high-visibility colors improve researchers' visibility, especially in dense forests or low-light situations, promoting safety and coordination within the team. In essence, synthetic packable coats are versatile tools that offer insulation, portability, weather resistance, layering capabilities, and visibility enhancements, making them essential for researchers in their pursuit of Bigfoot's mysteries in diverse outdoor conditions.

Rain Jacket

A rain jacket is crucial for Bigfoot researchers, primarily for its ability to provide protection from the elements. In the unpredictable weather conditions typical of areas known for Bigfoot sightings, a rain jacket keeps the wearer dry, reducing the risk of hypothermia in wet and cold environments. This aspect of maintaining temperature is essential for safety and comfort during extended periods in the wilderness. Modern rain jackets are designed to be lightweight yet durable, offering the necessary protection without restricting movement, which is crucial for navigating through challenging terrain.

Additionally, the breathability of quality rain jackets prevents overheating and the buildup of perspiration, a key factor in maintaining comfort during physical exertion. The flexibility of layering body rain jackets over other clothing allows for adaptation to changing weather conditions, enhancing their utility in the field. Practical features such as pockets for storing essential items like GPS devices and cameras, and design elements that improve visibility, such as bright colors or reflective materials, further underscore the importance of a rain jacket in ensuring the safety, readiness, and effectiveness of researchers in their quest to find Bigfoot.

Explorers Hat

While it may be somewhat humorous, an explorer's hat can actually offer a touch of practicality and fun to the search for Bigfoot. Its earthy tones and rugged appearance can aid in camouflage, allowing researchers to blend into their surroundings more effectively. Additionally, the wide brim provides sun protection and acts as a barrier against insects, enhancing comfort during expeditions. The hat's brim can also serve as a convenient attachment point for small gear items, and wearing matching explorer's hats can foster team spirit among researchers. Furthermore, the hat's unique appearance can serve as a conversation starter, potentially leading to valuable insights about Bigfoot sightings from locals or fellow explorers. While not a critical tool, an explorer's hat adds a touch of adventure and style to the search for Bigfoot, making the experience more enjoyable and intriguing.

Fresh pair of underwear

On a Bigfoot expedition, it's absolutely crucial to pack a fresh pair of underwear. Why, you ask? Well, imagine this: you're trudging through the dense forest, your heart pounding with anticipation, and suddenly, you stumble upon a real-life Bigfoot! The sheer shock and excitement might just lead to an involuntary change of attire. So, in the interest of fashion and hygiene, it's best to be prepared. Plus, who wouldn't want to be remembered as the researcher who met Bigfoot and still looked dashing in their fresh undies? It's the stuff of legends, my friend!

Safety

Hydration

A hydration bladder or durable water bottle is a vital tool in Bigfoot searches, primarily for its role in ensuring proper hydration and safety in remote wilderness environments. Staying hydrated is essential for the physical well-being of researchers during long expeditions, as it prevents dehydration, fatigue, and impaired cognitive function. In emergencies or unexpected delays, having access to clean water from these containers is critical for survival, allowing researchers to stay hydrated while waiting for assistance or navigating back to safety.

Furthermore, these water containers contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the reliance on single-use plastic bottles, aligning with responsible practices in wilderness conservation. Their convenience, hands-free drinking systems, and versatility for equipment maintenance or wound care add to their utility during active searches. Overall, hydration bladders and durable water bottles play a pivotal role in ensuring that researchers remain hydrated, alert, and well-equipped for their rigorous and often prolonged expeditions in search of Bigfoot.

Knife

A sharp full tang knife is an indispensable tool in the search for Bigfoot, prized for its versatility, durability, and strength. The full tang design, where the blade extends throughout the handle, ensures reliability and robustness, essential in the demanding conditions of wilderness exploration. This type of knife is multifunctional, serving various field tasks such as clearing paths, preparing food, and setting up equipment. Its utility extends to emergency situations, proving invaluable for first aid applications, survival tasks like fire making, and even as a last-resort self-defense tool in remote areas.

Additionally, the ease of maintenance and sharpening of a full tang knife ensures its continued functionality throughout an expedition. It’s also crucial for food preparation during longer trips, enabling efficient and safe handling of different food items. In the context of research, a sharp knife can be used to collect samples of plants or other materials, contributing to the broader study of the environment. The combination of its practical applications, safety features, and contribution to survival and research tasks highlights the significance of a full tang knife in the challenging and unpredictable terrain of Bigfoot searches.

Compass

A compass is an indispensable tool in the search for Bigfoot, primarily for its navigation and orientation capabilities. In the remote wilderness areas where Bigfoot sightings are reported, where landmarks may be scarce, a compass provides researchers with a reliable sense of direction, preventing disorientation and ensuring they can navigate back to their starting point or campsite. It is instrumental in establishing systematic search patterns, helping researchers cover areas thoroughly and avoid overlaps or gaps in their search efforts.

Moreover, a compass aids in recording precise directions of sightings or significant locations for later analysis and mapping, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of potential Bigfoot activity areas. Its role in ensuring safety during low visibility conditions, such as fog or darkness, cannot be overstated, as it prevents researchers from becoming disoriented or lost. Overall, a compass enhances the effectiveness and organization of Bigfoot search efforts, providing researchers with a critical tool for navigating challenging terrain and maintaining accurate records of their findings.

Map

A map and the skill to interpret it are essential aids in the Bigfoot search. Maps offer critical benefits, starting with navigation. They provide a visual guide to complex wilderness terrains, enabling researchers to reach specific Bigfoot sighting locations accurately. Prior to expeditions, maps aid in route planning and site selection, enhancing the chances of successful research.

Furthermore, maps promote safety by assisting in orientation and route retracing if researchers get lost. They also document vital information, such as evidence locations, and serve as communication tools among team members. In essence, maps and map-reading skills are foundational tools, ensuring that Bigfoot researchers can explore remote wilderness areas methodically, efficiently, and safely, maximizing their chances of uncovering the elusive creature's mysteries.

First aid kit

A first aid kit is a critical asset in the search for Bigfoot, serving as a comprehensive medical support system in remote and unpredictable wilderness environments. Its immediate medical care supplies, including bandages, antiseptics, and wound dressings, allow researchers to address injuries promptly and prevent minor issues from worsening. Proper wound management and access to pain relievers and antihistamines ensure the well-being of team members and enable them to continue their fieldwork.

Furthermore, a first aid kit goes beyond medical supplies, often containing emergency tools and survival essentials that enhance safety and preparedness in the wild. It provides researchers with peace of mind, knowing they are equipped to handle injuries, allergic reactions, or unexpected situations that may arise during their Bigfoot searches. Overall, a first aid kit plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and effective functioning of research teams in challenging wilderness environments.

Whistle

An emergency whistle is a vital tool in the search for Bigfoot, primarily for its role in enhancing safety and communication in remote wilderness environments. Its loud and distinct sound serves as a crucial signal for help, allowing researchers to locate each other over long distances or in challenging terrain. In situations where visual communication is limited due to fog, heavy rain, or low light, the sound of the emergency whistle can effectively cut through these obstacles, enabling researchers to maintain contact and coordinate their efforts.

Moreover, the whistle plays a key role in alerting team members to potential dangers, such as wildlife encounters or sudden weather changes, helping prevent accidents or mishaps. Its lightweight and compact design make it a practical addition to any researcher's gear, providing peace of mind and reassurance that communication and safety measures are readily available in the unpredictable and often rugged wilderness areas where Bigfoot searches take place. Overall, an emergency whistle significantly contributes to the safety and effectiveness of research teams during their expeditions.

Rain Tarp

A rain tarp is a must-have tool in the search for Bigfoot, offering crucial weather protection and versatility in the unpredictable outdoors. It keeps researchers and their expensive equipment dry and comfortable during expeditions, allowing them to maintain focus and effectiveness even in wet conditions. Beyond personal comfort, rain tarps also safeguard valuable equipment like cameras and recording devices, ensuring they remain functional. This extended field time is vital, as Bigfoot sightings can occur regardless of the weather.

Additionally, rain tarps contribute to safety by preventing issues like hypothermia that can result from wet clothing and gear. Their multi-purpose use, from providing shade to acting as windbreaks or dry cooking areas, enhances the overall functionality of the campsite. With quick and easy setup, rain tarps are indispensable tools that ensure researchers can stay dry, comfortable, and well-prepared for the ever-changing weather conditions they may encounter during their Bigfoot expeditions.

Lighter and Fire Starter

In the search for Bigfoot, fire starters and lighters are invaluable tools that serve multiple essential functions. Both tools excel at quickly igniting fires, providing warmth, cooking capabilities, and signaling abilities—a must-have in the remote wilderness where Bigfoot sightings occur. These capabilities are vital for ensuring the survival and comfort of researchers during their expeditions.

They can also serve as emergency signal devices and assist in wound cauterization. Furthermore, lighters simplify food preparation, maintaining researchers' energy levels during extended searches. In summary, fire starters and lighters are compact yet indispensable tools that enhance safety, survival, communication, and convenience during Bigfoot expeditions in the wild, making them essential assets for researchers exploring the mysteries of the wilderness.

Flashlight and Headlamp

Reliable flashlights and headlamps are indispensable tools in the search for Bigfoot, particularly in low-light or nighttime conditions in remote wilderness areas. They serve as beacons of illumination, enhancing visibility and safety during nocturnal searches or in dense forests. This extended field time ensures that researchers can continue their investigations without limitations, increasing the likelihood of encountering or documenting evidence.

Additionally, the hands-free operation of headlamps is particularly valuable, allowing researchers to utilize both hands for essential tasks. Flashlights and headlamps also double as signal devices in emergencies or for team communication over long distances. Their adjustable focus beams provide flexibility for different research scenarios. In essence, these lighting tools are essential aids, enhancing the efficiency, safety, and effectiveness of researchers in their quest to uncover the mysteries of Bigfoot in challenging lighting conditions.

Sleep System

A lightweight backpacking sleep system setup, consisting of a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad, plays a pivotal role in Bigfoot searches. Its lightweight and compact design enhances researchers' mobility, allowing them to access remote areas where sightings are reported. The system provides essential comfort and rest, ensuring that researchers remain well-rested and alert during expeditions, which is crucial for their effectiveness in the field.

Moreover, the setup offers protection from the elements, preserving researchers' well-being in adverse weather conditions. It serves as a secure space for evidence preservation, safeguarding potential clues from contamination or wildlife interference. Additionally, the sleep system acts as the core of a base camp, facilitating planning, equipment storage, and data analysis. With extended field time and a comfortable base, researchers are better equipped to explore remote wilderness areas efficiently, increasing their chances of uncovering the mysteries of Bigfoot.

Conclusion

In the search for Bigfoot, having the right equipment is essential for safety and effectiveness. Tools like night vision camcorders, recording devices, thermal cameras, and durable backpacks play a crucial role in documenting evidence and ensuring comfort during expeditions. Lighters and fire starters aid in survival, while maps and sleep systems enhance navigation and rest. Quick-dry clothing provides comfort and hygiene, and synthetic packable coats offer versatile insulation. These tools collectively empower researchers to explore remote wilderness areas with confidence and maximize their chances of uncovering the mysteries of Bigfoot.

Tell us your favorite squatching gear or if we are missing anything in the comments below!