There are Many Benefits to Exploring and Investigating with a Group

One of the most rewarding aspects of paranormal investigation is that it’s rarely a solo journey. While it’s tempting to picture a lone investigator creeping through a dark corridor with nothing but a torch for company, the reality is that working with a group brings so many benefits, not just for safety, but for evidence gathering, learning, and the overall experience. Over the years, I’ve come to truly value the power of teamwork when exploring haunted locations, and I want to share why investigating with others can make all the difference.

Safety First

Let’s start with the obvious one: safety. Old buildings, cellars, tunnels, and forgotten rooms are fascinating to explore, but they also come with hazards in the form of uneven floors, steep staircases, and low ceilings, to name a few. Being with a group means there’s always someone looking out for you, a wingman (or wingwomen)! If anyone trips, feels faint, or encounters something unexpected, help is instantly at hand. This reassurance allows everyone to relax a little more and focus on the investigation rather than worrying about “what ifs.” During investigations it is usual to get headaches and feelings of nausea. At DS Haunts, all the main team are Reiki trained and a number are Master Practitioners - Healing is always on hand. 

Shared Experiences

One of the most magical parts of group investigation is the ability to share experiences in real time. When a cat ball lights up, or a sudden knock echoes through a corridor, being with others means it isn’t just your word, it’s a collective memory. Multiple witnesses lend credibility to what has been experienced, and the excitement of validation is contagious. A moment that might feel eerie or questionable alone becomes a shared story when you look around and see the same astonishment mirrored in your teammates’ faces.

Different Perspectives

Every investigator brings a different skillset and outlook. Some are methodical and scientific, carefully recording temperatures and EMF readings. Others are more intuitive, sensitive to subtle shifts in energy. Some have deep historical knowledge of the building and its people, while others are brilliant at asking the right questions at the right time. By combining these perspectives, the group paints a fuller picture than any one person could manage. Often, it’s the mix of sceptical voices and open-minded explorers that leads to the richest discussions.

More Effective Evidence Gathering

A group can cover more ground than one person alone. While someone monitors cameras, another can run an EVP session, and others can experiment with dowsing rods or motion sensors. By splitting tasks, you gather layers of evidence simultaneously, which makes analysis far more meaningful later on. It also ensures that unusual events are noticed, logged, and cross-checked from different angles.

Support in the Moment

Paranormal investigation can be emotionally intense. Feelings of fear, sadness, or even overwhelming energy can sometimes take you by surprise. Having a supportive group around you provides grounding. A gentle word, a hand on your shoulder, or even just knowing someone else has “got your back” can help you stay calm and centred. I’ve seen groups lift one another through challenging moments and celebrate breakthroughs together—it’s part of what makes investigating so rewarding.

Learning and Growth

Every time I’ve investigated with a group, I’ve learned something new—whether it’s a practical tip about equipment, a clever line of questioning, or a fresh approach to interpreting experiences. Working alongside others accelerates your growth as an investigator, because you’re constantly exposed to different styles and ways of thinking. And the more you learn, the better prepared you are for future investigations.

Building Lasting Connections

Finally, there’s the social side. Investigating with a group often leads to strong friendships. Spending hours in dimly lit halls, waiting for responses from the other side, gives you time to talk, laugh, and connect. Some of my closest friendships have been forged through investigations, and they continue to bring joy long after the night is over - events still talked about over coffee for months and perhaps years to come... 

"Anyone remember the Jamaica Inn when I looked away and all of you saw that Shadow Figure walk right through the group and I missed it!?" (Many smiles)... and yes it happened btw.

Final Thoughts

Exploring and investigating with a group transforms the entire experience. It’s safer, more credible, and much more enjoyable. It allows for shared learning, stronger evidence, and supportive connections that make even the eeriest of nights feel meaningful rather than frightening. So while the image of the lone ghost hunter may be romantic, the reality is that a group brings richness, depth, and lasting value. Paranormal investigation is, at its heart, a journey, and like all the best journeys, it’s one best shared.

Come and join DS Hampshire Haunts, aka Ghosthunting.uk for amazing experiences.