As I prepare for Paracon 2024, the UK’s first paranormal convention, I find myself reflecting on my own ghost hunting adventures. Here in the UK, we are fortunate to have a rich history of haunted locations—old hospitals, castles, and abandoned buildings that are steeped in mystery. However, participating in organised ghost hunting events can be pricey, especially when factoring in equipment, travel, and ticket costs.

For families, especially those with teenage children, the challenge grows even more, as most official ghost hunting events have age restrictions. So, what do you do when you’re itching to explore the paranormal with your family, but your children aren’t legally old enough to attend these events? Don’t worry—ghost hunting doesn’t always need to be a formal affair. Here are my tips for getting started as an amateur ghost hunter, either solo or with your teens, all while keeping costs in check!

1. Start Locally—Investigate Nearby Haunts

You don’t have to travel far to find ghost stories. Most UK towns and villages have their own tales of hauntings, and local cemeteries, ruins, and old buildings are often rich with paranormal history. Check with your local historical society or library for information on nearby haunted sites.

Many areas have public footpaths that go through historic or spooky locations. These places can provide a great opportunity for a DIY ghost hunt, and they’re generally free to visit. Just remember to respect the area, particularly if you’re visiting cemeteries or private property, and always follow local regulations.

2. Use Basic Equipment—No Need for Fancy Gadgets

You don’t need to spend hundreds on ghost hunting gear to get started. Some of the most effective tools are ones you already have at home. A smartphone can serve multiple purposes—its camera can capture potential visual evidence, and there are plenty of free apps for measuring EMF (electromagnetic fields) and EVP (electronic voice phenomena).

Other simple tools you can bring along include:

– A notebook and pen: Document everything, from strange sounds to temperature changes.

– A torch: Always essential for night-time explorations.

– A digital recorder: Many smartphones have a built-in voice recording app, ideal for capturing EVPs.

If your teens are with you, they can help by noting what they observe or snapping photos of anything unusual.

3. Practice Safety First

Ghost hunting can be thrilling, but safety must come first. Make sure to follow these guidelines:

– Never trespass. Stick to public locations or get permission if you plan to visit private property.

– Don’t go alone. Always go with a group or a trusted partner, and let someone know where you are going.

– Bring the essentials: A first aid kit, extra batteries, and charged phones are crucial.

– Stay calm: Ghost hunts can sometimes evoke powerful emotions or scare younger participants. Ensure everyone is on the same page and comfortable with the experience.

4. Visit Haunted Locations During the Day

If your teenage children are too young for night-time ghost hunts or if you want to avoid the fear factor, explore haunted locations during the day. While it may seem less eerie, paranormal activity doesn’t only happen in the dead of night! Many hauntings are reported during daylight hours, and a daylight visit allows for a more relaxed experience, especially for first-time ghost hunters.

5. Make It Fun—Get Creative!

Ghost hunting can be a great bonding experience for families. Turn it into a fun learning opportunity by researching the history of the places you visit beforehand. Challenge your teens to find evidence or write up their own ghost reports. You could even turn it into a photography project, capturing eerie and artistic shots of the places you investigate.

6. Join Online Communities

Since many formal ghost hunts may not allow teens to participate, consider joining online paranormal communities. Sites like Haunted Happenings or the UK Paranormal Society often host virtual events, and there are plenty of YouTube channels and podcasts that share tips, investigations, and ghost stories. These can offer a family-friendly way to stay engaged with the paranormal world until your children are old enough for in-person events.

7. Respect the Spirits

Lastly, remember that ghost hunting isn’t just about capturing evidence—it’s about respecting the locations and any spirits that may inhabit them. Approach each investigation with curiosity and care, and always be mindful of the energy you bring into the space.

Enjoy Your Ghost Hunting Adventures

You don’t need to spend a fortune or attend formal events to experience the thrills of ghost hunting. With a little creativity and preparation, you can explore the paranormal with your teenage children or on your own. Start small, stay safe, and enjoy the journey into the unknown!

Happy hunting!

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