Ghost Hunting Equipment: What Gear Do You Need to Hunt Ghosts?

Are you thinking about becoming a paranormal investigator? You know, hunting ghosts, chasing down spirits, communicating with the dead? Come on, you know you want to try it. You’ve been loyally watching shows like Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures for years. It looks like something you can handle. How hard can it be? You wander about in the dark, point some cool equipment around, ask a few questions and see what you can find. Then again, those guys on TV are pretty experienced, and the gadgets they use do seem complicated. Could they be making it look easy? Maybe you could forgo the fancy gear and go low-tech. Just you, a cassette recorder, and an old Polaroid camera.

Not hardly. If you want to be a ghost hunter, you need to have the right stuff. Paranormal investigation is quickly moving into a science. Groups from around the world are collecting compelling evidence every night. Do you really want to be known as the investigator who came face to face with an apparition willing to pose for a photo, but couldn't take the shot because the battery died on your smartphone? You gotta gear up!

But where do you start? What kind of equipment do you need, and how to do you make the best choice? This article will get you started with basic ideas for any serious paranormal investigator.

Digital audio recorders are possibly the most significant part of your arsenal as a paranormal investigator. These are important for recording EVP, or Electronic Voice Phenomenon, occurrences. EVPs may come as a result of a spirit attempting communication with you, or you may be lucky enough to catch audio spirit activity independent of your presence. These recordings are some of the most compelling pieces of evidence you can bring home, so you want to be ready.

One big reason you’ll want to go with a digital recorder instead of a tape recorder is the ease of file transfer to your computer. You’re going to want to review files on your computer, not only so you’re able to see the digital signature of the sounds you record, but because sometimes EVPs are easier to hear when cleaned up with computer software.

There is no reason to break the bank with a digital audio recorder, but do choose one that interfaces easily with your PC, and has good battery life and plenty of memory. You’ll also want to be sure to pick one that has an option for an external microphone. Many have a voice activation feature, which is handy should you want to leave it in a room for hours on end and not drain the battery.

In the past, many investigators faithfully used 35mm cameras, but digital cameras have improved significantly in recent years. You get an instant image of the shot you just took, so if there is anything funky going on in the room you’ll know immediately. Like the audio recorder, it’s super-easy to transfer files to your computer for review.

Obviously, the better the camera you buy the better your pictures will be, but you can get some good results with low-to-moderately priced digital cameras. Go with the camera with the highest megapixel number you can afford. The higher the megapixels, the better the image will look when you need to zoom in on details later on. A decent flash is also important. You’re going to be taking a whole bunch of pictures every time you go out, so make sure the camera you choose has a long battery life, or that you can purchase a better battery for that particular camera model.

Some of the larger, more expensive cameras may take better pictures, but you might find you prefer a smaller camera that fits easily in your pocket. These are no problem to carry around, and when things begin to get spooky you can pull it out and start snapping.

The digital video camera might be the most expensive part of your arsenal, so you do want to choose wisely. In recent years camcorders have become smaller and less expensive, and you should be able to get a decent one for a few hundred dollars. Some higher-level digital still cameras have great video functions, but you may want to go with a separate piece of equipment for your video recording.

You want to choose a camera with a big enough screen to clearly see what your shooting, but remember that the size and brightness of the screen will influence battery life. Of course battery life is important, so more than likely this is a piece of equipment for which you’ll want to purchase extra batteries to bring along on the trip. You want a camcorder with an external microphone jack too, as you never known when you may be able to catch EVP messages.

Like the still camera, good resolution is a must, especially under low-light settings. Some models even have infrared features, but they are increasingly hard to find. You can also find modified cameras with infrared capabilities for sale, but these may be somewhat advanced for a beginner.

The Electromagnetic field (EMF) detector, or gauss meter as it is sometimes called, is another important piece in your tool box. Electricians use them to diagnose electrical problems, but they can also help you track down ghosties. As it’s theorized that spirit activity will cause a localized spike in energy, this little gadget will help you note any changes in EMF readings which may tell you there’s a spook nearby. They can also help in your debunking efforts, as faulty household electrical wiring and conduits may give off high EMF readings. Sometimes these high EMF sources in themselves may be causing the people living in the home to feel strange and have odd experiences, but it's nothing pararnormal.

There are some very expensive EMF meters out there, but you should be able to find one for a low price. Paranormal activity is indicated by readings between 2.0 and 7.0 milligauss, so that’s what you’re looking for. Some EMF meters feature audio alarms, which let you know when readings are spiking.

Passive infrared motion detectors are a great, low-cost addition to you ghost hunting arsenal. Some motion sensors project infrared beams, and when something cuts the beam an alarm sounds, alerting you to movement in the room. These are not always useful to paranormal investigators, as you’d be counting on physical movement to set the alarm off. A better option is the type of sensor that detects infrared light radiating in the nearby area.

Motion detectors are cheap and can be used inside or outside. You can set several of them up around the location you are investigating, and it’s a good idea to place a video camera nearby so you can verify any sensor alarms with video evidence. Be aware of what’s around you when set up your motion sensors, as you don’t want some natural occurrence to accidentally set them off.

The equipment above will get you off on a good start on your paranormal journey. Everything listed is not mandatory, but at the least you'll want to go with a decent audio recorder and camera. Remember that no piece of equipment has ever definitively proven the paranormal. But then again that’s part of the fun of it. Each picture or EVP you collect serves as a piece of a greater puzzle, added to each night by investigators around the world. Good luck, and I hope you find something really freaky!

When investigating paranormal activity it’s important to be smart. Be sure you have the property owner’s permission to be there, and don’t put yourself in any dangerous situations. Bring your cellphone, try to go with a buddy if you can, or at least let someone know where you are. Have fun, but be safe!