Walmart Ghostbusters: A Beginner’s Guide to Paranormal Investigating (On a Budget)
So, you’ve binged every episode of Ghost Adventures, and the local cemetery suddenly seems far more interesting. You’re itching to become a paranormal investigator, but professional ghost-hunting gear costs an arm and a leg… and maybe even a spectral limb. Fear not, intrepid ghostbuster, because you can assemble a respectable ghost-hunting kit with items found at your friendly neighborhood Walmart!
This guide will equip you with the basics for your first ghost hunt, all while keeping your wallet happy.
Essential Ghost Hunting Equipment (Walmart Edition)
1. EMF Meter:
- What it does: Detects fluctuations in electromagnetic fields, which some believe indicates ghostly presence. Basically, think of it like a ghost’s “Hello, is anyone there?” signal.
- Walmart Option: While a dedicated EMF meter can be pricey, a cheaper alternative is a simple compass. Ghosts can sometimes cause magnetic disturbances, making the compass needle spin erratically.
- Pro tip: Download a compass app on your phone for extra convenience!
- How to use it: Slowly sweep the area with your compass or EMF reader, noting any significant fluctuations.
2. Digital Recorder:
- What it does: Captures Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVPs), those creepy whispers and disembodied voices that might just be your ghostly companions saying “boo.”
- Walmart Option: Most smartphones have decent built-in voice recorders. Alternatively, a cheap digital recorder can be found in the electronics section.
- How to use it: Start recording in a quiet environment, asking clear questions like “Is anyone here?” or “Can you tell us your name?”. Listen back carefully for any anomalies.
3. Camera:
- What it does: Captures visual evidence of ghostly apparitions, orbs, or other unexplained phenomena.
- Walmart Option: Your smartphone camera is perfectly sufficient for beginner ghost hunting. For better quality, consider a budget-friendly digital camera.
- How to use it: Take photos and videos of the location, paying attention to any unusual blurs, light anomalies, or figures that appear in your shots.
4. Flashlight:
- What it does: Illuminates dark areas (and let’s be honest, ghost hunting is inherently a dimly lit activity).
- Walmart Option: A standard, bright flashlight will do the trick. Bonus points if it has different light modes.
- How to use it: Use it to navigate dark areas and illuminate potential evidence. You can also use it for communication by turning it on and off in a specific pattern, asking the spirits to respond in kind.
5. Notebook and Pen:
- What it does: Allows you to meticulously document your findings. Remember, a good ghost hunter is a meticulous ghost hunter.
- Walmart Option: You’ll find a plethora of notebooks and pens in the stationery aisle.
- How to use it: Record EMF readings, potential EVP timestamps, environmental changes, and personal experiences.
Safety First, Ghostbusters!
Always prioritize safety when ghost hunting.
- Never go alone: Bring a friend, not only for safety but also to corroborate your findings.
- Get permission: Don’t trespass! Always obtain permission before entering private property or cemeteries after hours.
- Be respectful: Remember, you might be dealing with someone’s final resting place. Approach with respect and avoid provoking or mocking potential spirits.
Happy Hunting!
There you have it, your Walmart-approved ghost-hunting starter kit! Now go forth, explore, and who knows? You might just encounter some friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirits along the way. Remember, the key to successful ghost hunting is an open mind, a healthy dose of skepticism, and a fully charged flashlight.
Have you ever tried ghost hunting? What was your experience? Share your stories in the comments below!