Geocaching Slang: What Do TFTC, FTF, and Muggle Really Mean?
If you’ve ever read through cache logs and felt like you stumbled into a secret code, you’re not alone. Geocachers have built up their own lingo over the years — quick abbreviations and funny nicknames that make perfect sense once you’re in the know.
Whether you’re new to the game or just need a refresher, here’s a handy guide to some of the most common geocaching slang you’ll see in the wild.
TFTC – Thanks For The Cache
Probably the most common acronym you’ll see in logs. It’s a simple way of saying “thanks” to the cache owner for placing and maintaining the hide. Variations include:
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TNLN TFTC – Took Nothing, Left Nothing, Thanks For The Cache
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TNSL TFTC – Took Nothing, Signed Log, Thanks For The Cache
FTF – First To Find
This one’s a badge of honor. If you’re the first cacher to sign the log after a new hide is published, you can claim the coveted FTF. Some players even race to new caches as soon as they’re published, competing for bragging rights.
Muggle
Borrowed from Harry Potter, a muggle in geocaching is simply a non-geocacher. You’ll hear people say, “I couldn’t grab the cache because there were too many muggles around.” Translation: too many people nearby who might notice or tamper with the container.
DNF – Did Not Find
Nobody likes logging one, but DNFs are part of the game. When you can’t find a cache after searching, you log a DNF. Multiple DNFs on a cache can signal to the owner that something might be wrong.
SWAG – Stuff We All Get
This refers to the tradable items inside caches. Geocachers often swap small trinkets, toys, or stickers. The golden rule? Trade even or trade up — never leave junk behind.
CO – Cache Owner
The person who created, placed, and maintains the cache. Always good to thank the CO in your log!
MOC – Members Only Cache
These caches are only visible to premium members on Geocaching.com. Sometimes they’re higher-quality hides or placed to limit overuse in sensitive areas.
Trackable Terms
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TB – Travel Bug, a trackable item with a unique code that moves from cache to cache.
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Geocoin – A coin-shaped trackable, often collectible, with its own unique tracking code.
Other Quick Shorthand You’ll See
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BYOP – Bring Your Own Pen (because not every cache has one!)
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CITO – Cache In, Trash Out (events and practice of cleaning up litter while caching)
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SL – Signed Log
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LPC – Lamp Post Cache (a hide under those sneaky metal skirts at the base of parking lot lights)
Final Thoughts
Geocaching slang might look like a secret language at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll feel like part of the community. Next time you sign a log with TFTC, you’ll know you’re speaking fluent cacher!
👉 Want to add some SWAG to your next adventure? Check out our geocaching stickers and log strips at Big B’s Cache Supplies.