Carrying the essentials and proper equipment will ensure that you have a pleasant and exciting hike. The last thing you want is to find yourself stranded on a mountain or trail without water or a snack to keep you hydrated and energized. Much like when you play strategic casino table games like online poker, being well-prepared for your hike will mean you have more time to enjoy the full experience. 

Let’s take a look at how to pack for both a day and overnight hike.

Day hike essentials

A day hike is a beautiful way to spend some time out in nature with family and friends. Depending on the trail, it could be relaxed or challenging, so be sure to do your research and ensure the capabilities of each person joining. 

Here are some things to consider packing when packing for a day hike:

• A hiking backpack – 15 to 30 liters in size/ similar-sized waterproof backpack, in case there are large amounts of water on the trail
• Weather-appropriate clothing:
  • Buff/bandana
  • Sunglasses
  • Long-sleeve sun layer
  • Socks
  • Thermal jacket (waterproof)
  • Sun hat
  • Hiking boots
  • Spare pair of socks (we can’t recommend this enough!)
• Plenty of bottled water/a large hydration bladder
• Navigation tools such as a map and compass (don’t rely on a smartphone)
• Power bank (charge it up the night before)
• A first-aid kit (include a triangle bandage – to sling up a broken arm and dislocated shoulder in case of an accident)
• Knife or multi-tool
• A high-decibel emergency whistle
• Torch
• A lighter with cotton wool
• Sunscreen
• Chapstick
• Trekking poles/walking stick, if required.

What food to take

Your body exerts a lot of energy while you’re hiking, so it’s important to continuously fuel your body to stay energized enough to complete the hike. The following snacks will keep you moving without feeling sluggish:

• Peanut butter and bananas: Thanks to peanut butter, you’ll get a lovely dose of protein, calories and a healthy kind of fat. Combined with potassium-rich bananas, you’ll be loaded with some vital energy for your hike. You can prepare sandwiches or simply put some peanut butter in a small container and use it as a dip for the bananas.
• Beef jerky: Protein-packed beef jerky is a favorite among hikers who eat meat. It’s a great protein source that helps keep your blood sugar at a healthy level and your muscles working during your trip. 
• Fresh or dried fruit: With its naturally occurring sugars and extra dose of hydration, fruit will always make the perfect snack for any occasion and will be welcomed on your hike. Cut up some fruit (squeeze some lemon juice over it to preserve the freshness,) or for a lovely cold treat during your hike, freeze some grapes and mango slices the night before… just don’t forget to pack them at the last minute!
• Granola bars: The great thing about granola bars is that they won’t go bad, no matter how long your hike lasts. They’re a great way to get your fix of sugar and a boost of energy – and you’ll score on the fiber factor, too.
• Nuts and seeds: Nuts are a great source of plant-based protein and omega-3 fats. The variety of nuts also makes for a fun snack when you include cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts and many more. You could even add some antioxidant-rich pumpkin seeds (your sore muscles will thank you!)

Two-day hiking essentials

What’s better than a one-day hike? Well, if you’re looking to do something totally different from relaxing and playing online casino games, a two-day hike could be a fantastic idea. It’s a great way to clear your mind and reduce stress levels. A two-day (or longer) hike allows you to really immerse in nature – letting you take in the spectacular landscapes that are sure to take your breath away. You’ll return home tired but refreshed and with a new perspective on things.

But before you set off to get your wellness fix on a hiking trail, make sure you’ve packed all the necessary goodies for your trip. You’ll need a larger rucksack for this length of trip and will need to include all the items we mentioned above plus a few more.

Here are some essential things to pack for an overnight hike:

• A cooking system: A lightweight cooking set and system is ideal for having nutritious meals on your overnight hiking trip. The perfect on-the-go kitchen will depend on your eating preferences. However, if you’d like to enjoy a hot meal, getting a compact gas stove and pot will prove to be your best friend. You can heat up something as simple as a can of soup and it will transform how you feel after a long hike.
• Toilet essentials: A pocket trowel and a toilet roll holder are great tools to have on your overnight hike. These tools are affordable and shouldn’t take up too much space in your backpack. It’s important not to leave any trace on your hike to avoid disturbing the natural environment. Be sure to clean up after yourself. 
• Shelter: It might not be as comfortable as back home, but there are ways to make sure that your hiking shelter is secure and comfortable. Your best option is to pack a tent, which can provide privacy and protection from rain and bugs. When choosing your hiking shelter, factor in what is important to you. Do you want the lightest possible shelter? Or are you willing to carry a bit more weight just to prioritize privacy and comfortable sleep? (A good tip: before you set off on your hike, try putting up the tent in an open space near you because you wouldn’t want to start pitching camp and discover that you’d only packed the outer shell… and had forgotten the inner tent!)

Take some time out to catch up on the best online slots

If you’re lucky and can get internet coverage for your smartphone on your hike, you could kick back and play casino games online while you’re resting. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have an incredible view while playing your favorite games?

Luckily, Borgata Online has an easy-to-use mobile app, making it possible for you to play nature-themed online casino slots wherever you are! Below are a few more of our favorite titles:

• Great Bear
• Animals of Africa
• Wild Dodo
• Slingo Fishin’ Frenzy

Enjoy real-money casino games – wherever you are – with Borgata Online

Looking for some new and exciting trails? Discover the best nature and wildlife reserves near Atlantic City. And if you prefer to relax at home, Borgata Online, home to some of the best casino games on the market, will provide you with plenty of entertainment. When you register at our online casino, you’ll be able to access a wide selection of online slots, casino table games and live dealer casino games, as well as our popular online sportsbook. In addition to our fantastic list of titles, we also offer great welcome bonuses at Borgata Online, helping to make your casino-gaming experience extra special!