All you really need is a good map and the skills to read it.  We advise against this method though because you will likely fail more often than not.

    A better way, obviously, is to use a GPS unit.  One of these will make it much easier.  They can be purchased relatively cheap.  We started with a basic device and then upgraded after we decided that this was a hobby that we would pursue for quite a while.  Our choice was a Magellan Meridian Gold as seen here.

     When we first started caching, we had to carry a note book with the print out of the caches.  Not too big of a deal really but certainly inconvenient.  This became painfully obvious when we took our vacation to Niagara Falls.  We eliminated the need for paper work when the Geocaching site began making searches available that one could use with a Pocket PC.  We availed ourselves to this with the purchase of an Ipaq. 

    Naturally some software is required to get the information onto the Pocket PC.  At first we used MobiPocket reader.  It's ok but not the best by any stretch.  We have since made the process a snap.  Here is what we use:

    MicroSoft Streets and Trips 2003.  This program cost $40 ($30 with the rebate).  It comes with a Pocket PC version and the program integrates nicely with the other programs we use.

   ExpertGPS.  This one cost us $60 but has been worth it's weight in gold when it comes to the time it saves.  With this you can send your caches straight to Streets and Trips and from that to the Pocket PC.  It has a ton of other applications as well (including sending coordinates to the gps), but that is the one we find most useful.

    GPX View.  FREE!!  This dandy little program sorts the caches nicely on the Ipaq just about however you like.  It is easy to use and read and generally just makes life nicer.  The devoloper would appreciate a donation - Let your conscience be your guide.