Cache Basic Supplies

Caching is the process of hiding equipment or materials in a secure storage place with the view to future recovery for operational use. Caching considerations that are vital to the success of the caching operation may be done in a variety of operational situations. For example, cached supplies can meet the emergency needs of personnel who may be barred from their normal supply sources by sudden developments and who may need access to supplies for a quick escape from a hostile or non-permissive area.

TC 31-29/A 'Special Forces Caching Techniques' (available as a PDF from Mick's Athenaeum - https://archive.org/details/@mick_s_athenaeum) details caching techniques used by the military. However, caching is not just to support military operations. A cache can be used to meet your own emergency needs, or simply be used to support an upcoming hunt, camping trip, or long-distance hike. Caching a few cans of high-calorie food, along with a some bottles of water can provide you with a couple days of food in the backcountry.

While cans are generally not the first choice for hiking (they're heavy), canned food is a good choice for a cache, as the cans protect against insects and rodents and when properly packed to protect against the environment canned food will last for years. 

If placing a cache of canned goods as an emergency supply, include a can opener (P38), means of lighting a fire (lighter / waterproof matches), and other basic survival items, such as a Mylar blanket and first aid supplies. Include a couple of plastic spoons, and maybe some wipes to clean your hands before preparing your meal. 

When choosing the specific canned food items for an emergency cache, include food items that have 100+ calories per serving / 300+ calories per can. Select food items that you like and will eat. A single can serves as the foundation for one meal, so choose something that offers variety.

Your cache may also include additional supplies of items such as batteries, ammunition, communications equipment, or anything else you may want access to at a hole-up site. Make the assumption that, if evading, you will have nothing more than what's in your pockets before you make it to your emergency cache.

While a properly emplaced cache can protect items for several years, it is generally a good idea to recover and replace personal caches every year or two. This ensures that caches are still in good condition, supplies remain fresh, and that conditions in the area have not changed in a way that restricts your access to the cache (i.e., what was once a heavily wooded area is now an active logging operation).