Torches/ Flash lights:
It is usually best to have two or three torches and at least one per person. One torch should have a fluorescent tube, then I find it is best to have one really powerful, halogen style flash light and one small pocket size torch, I have one that fits in a small belt case.
Candles:
I cant stress enough how careful you should be with candles, especially if you are in someone's home, first there is the chance of wax spillage and then there is the fire risk.
Camera:
Though digital cameras are all the rage at the moment, I don't think you can ever beat a 35mm camera on ghost work. I use two 35mm cameras, I have an Olympus OM10 with an array of different lenses. I also have a Pentax with a 210mm zoom lens. The Pentax tends to get used more as it is easier and more convenient, I also have a Fuji s7000 digital camera.
Video recorder:
This is a case of get the best you can afford, some come with night vision and low light, Also tripods for the cameras is essential.
Cassette recorder:
The range of cassette records can be vast buy what you need, a small pocket size recorder with micro-phone can be useful if you are mobile in a building, a larger version can be better to leave recording in a room which is empty. Mp3 players can also be used but there are issues with the amount of memory and recording digitally.
Writing equipment:
A good supply of pens and pencils and a good note book is essential for making observations in. I have a couple of tables, which I can record peoples emotional state on, times, temperatures, weather and so on. I also carry a small pocket size note pad just in case the main one gets wet or damp.
Thermometer:
A minimum and maximum thermometer is useful, especially for confirming an instant drop in room temperature, as associated with hauntings. A normal thermometer can work equally as well though.
Blue tack and string:
When I say string I find that really fine fishing line is best, somewhere in the range of 1 pound breaking strain, it is really difficult to see even in the light. This can be used to check if objects have moved or if doors have been opened. By placing a small piece of blue tack on the door and the door frame then pressing a piece of the string into it, If the door is opened the string will break contact. Try to place it where someone cant see it though.
Flour or powder and a fine sieve:
The powder can be lightly sprinkled over areas to check for movement.
Equipment & Techniques for Investigation.
There is no limit to the amount, quality or diversity of equipment which can be used on ghost hunts. The basic rule of thumb should always be, do your research as much as possible before going. This would be look at maps of the area, if possible the layout of the area/building. Has the Haunting been investigated or published before? if so make notes to take with you about previous research.
If there is a group of you going try to keep any haunting information secret from some of the group, this way you will be able to get impartial and independent confirmation of any phenomena that happens. If you have a member of the group that seems more open to psychic phenomena or just has a little bit of extra sensory perception (ESP) or may be has acted as a medium, then this person would benefit from being kept out of the circle of information, for obvious reasons.
The list of tools and equipment can be endless, for most it is a financial matter of how much equipment they can afford. Buy what equipment you can afford, the list below is a rough guide to the basics you will require.
Mobile phone:
I would recommend that every member of the group carry a phone just in case. Generally on a ghost hunt you are in unfamiliar surroundings and so its better to be safe than sorry.
Sleeping bag:
You will appreciate this at around about 3 or 4 in the morning.
Warm Dry Clothing:
It may have been a warm summers evening when you began but at 4 in the morning and dew point, things can soon start to become uncomfortable.
Flask:
I find a flask of hot, sweet, strong coffee goes down a treat while on a hunt, (Avoid alcohol for several reasons, I don't think I need to go into).
