Being out and about in the wild, breathing in the clean and fresh air, is a luxury very few of us can experience regularly. With work and family life taking precedence, every opportunity to enjoy nature is heaven-sent. While there are beautiful regions around the world that promise stunning sights, it is in Canada that we witness pristine, unmatched natural beauty that is the perfect escape from the chaos of our daily routines.
Visiting a national park or spending a day by a lake in Canada are ideal getaways, however, for a more immersive experience, the country offers locals and visitors some outstanding hiking opportunities that include adventure activities, quaint homestays in the mountains, and a chance to discover hidden trails that are often deep inside the forests.
Although hiking in Canada is no different from anywhere else in the world, due to its vast topography and wilderness, one does require a few essential components to be part of their packing list. Thanks to technology, there are many options available that make it easy to wander in the wild, but here are five gadgets that you must have when hiking in Canada.
GPS and Hiking Apps
It’s easy to get lost in new territories, and with no signposts or people around to help, you need to have GPS and hiking apps on your mobile to make sure you are on the right track. There are several Canada specific hiking apps for Android as well as iOS devices, which not only provide you with the best route to take, but also offer you reviews and suggestions given by people who have already walked the path you want to explore.
Entertainment Options
Depending on whether you are hiking with someone or solo, it can prove to be an enriching experience. But there are moments when you have little to do, and making the most of this spare time can prove to be fruitful when done right. Online casinos, thanks to their mobile options, are ideal for carrying along on hikes in Canada. Whether it is a site or an online casinos app, you can easily play around with exciting slot machines while taking in the scenic views of your surroundings. Moreover, picking up on bonuses and free spins means you have the opportunity to make serious earnings, and with no one around to hassle you, there’s ample time to spin away those slots to your heart’s content.
Flashlight
Most of us are used to the torch on our mobile phones when seeking light in our daily lives. While this is an excellent idea for emergencies, using the phone for lighting in the wilderness means you are not only draining its battery but also limiting the range of the light. Of all the modern-day hiking gear, a flashlight is the most important. Nowadays, you can buy one that is chargeable using a USB. However, if planning a long hike over a few days, it is worth going traditional and picking one up with batteries.
Camera
It might seem obvious, but because mobile phones have some really cool cameras in them these days, many people don’t bother taking a proper camera on holidays. In Canada, while hiking, that is a huge mistake. The astounding beauty of the mountains and the lakes is striking, and you will regret not having something to capture it. Whether it is a DSLR or an action camera, make sure you pack at least something other than your phone for taking photographs.
Bear Spray
Not so much a gadget, but the most vital piece of equipment you need to have while hiking in Canada. A bear spray shouldn’t just be in your backpack, but handy with you at all times. But before you think about using one, it is worth reading about ways to avoid bears instead, for prevention is the best medicine in this case.