Hit the road for an awesome sports weekend and combine your favourite athletic pursuits while experiencing magnificent landscapes along the way. Whether it’s a hockey tournament, a 10K in the mountains, or a cross-country ski expedition—preparation is always the key to a hassle-free time. Here are 6 tips for an unforgettable and safe road trip.

1. Pick the right destination

An incredible sports weekend is all about where you spend it. Quebec has limitless possibilities for fans and practitioners of all things athletic. Here are a few ideas—try on these amazing places for size:

• Charlevoix: this region is tops for hiking, downhill skiing, and mountain biking.

• Estrie (Eastern Townships): this region’s many tranquil lakes and rugged landscape make it perfect for the beach and watersports, as well as woodland adventures of every sort.

• Lanaudière: this region features fabulous canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing with views that will take your breath away.

• Gaspésie: battle-hardened anglers and outdoorsy types up for a challenge will find their bliss in this rugged, unspoiled region.

• Mauricie: if there’s a paradise for snowmobiling, mountain biking, hunting, and fishing, this is it. If you’re wild for the outdoors, this is your summer—and winter—wonderland.

• Capitale-Nationale: whether it’s a hockey tournament, triathlon, or ultramarathon, the Québec City area has more athletic possibilities than you could shake a stick at—whatever the level.

• Laurentians (Laurentides): for competitive downhill skiing events or a good-old family holiday in the mountains, the Laurentians region is as good as it gets.

• Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean: the big attractions of this region are its snow-covered peaks and the Véloroute des Bleuets (a breathtaking cycling route).

Important: does your road trip take you to the U.S.? Make sure you have the right car insurance coverage and that each passenger has the required travel documents. If in doubt, ask your insurance representative.

2. Have the right equipment

A weekend sports road trip involves a lot of road time, so be ready. Here’s a list of essential equipment:

• A rack or car-top carrier: if you’re bringing bicycles, skis, or a kayak, you’ll need the right kind of rack or carrier.

• A travel bag: a light “weekender” bag is ideal for short trips.

• Podcasts and playlists: there’s no better way to get into the spirit of it all than a podcast about the sport you’re here for or playlists of rockin’ songs to inspire you once you’re underway.

Now that the car is ready, it’s your turn to gear up! Depending on what you’re going to do, consider the following:

• Hiking or running: proper shoes or boots, a walking stick, and a backpack with a hydration tank.

• Biking: helmet, gloves, protective clothing, bike tools, and a pump.

• Canoeing, kayaking, etc.: PFD, spare paddle, and a waterproof case for your cell phone or camera.

• Downhill skiing: ski suit, goggles, helmet, and mitts.

• Golf: glove, golf bag rain cover, balls, tees, and golf shirt, shoes, and clubs.

• Hockey: skates, helmet, stick, gloves, shoulder pads, elbow pads, pants, neck guard, mouthguard, and duffel bag.

It’s also best to choose technical clothing that dries quickly and is right for the weather (layers, raincoat, bathing suit, etc.). Lastly, slip some of the following into your bag: sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, high-energy snacks, a water bottle (reusable), and anything else you can’t do without on your 48-hour sports adventure.

3. Plan things out

Planning is the key to a smooth, hassle-free trip. Book early to get the best deals on accommodations. Look at interactive maps and tourist guides so you don’t miss the top attractions. Include breaks in your plan so you can recover and take a look around, but most importantly, be realistic.

4. Prepare your vehicle

Nothing spoils a sports road trip like an unscheduled stop at the garage. So make sure your vehicle is in perfect condition before hitting the road—your trip depends on it. Do the following before you head out:

• Do basic maintenance and an inspection: check the oil, tire pressure, tire condition, and fluid levels. If in doubt, go to a certified mechanic.

• Pack and load your car properly: follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using your rack or car-top carrier. Put smaller things like shoes and walking sticks in storage bags or boxes so there are no loose objects that can turn into dangerous projectiles if there’s an accident or sudden stop. Load your

owner’s manual for your car’s load capacity and make sure you stay under that.

• Put together a car emergency kit: always have an emergency kit in your car, no matter the season. Include a first aid kit, a flashlight, blankets, a portable battery for recharging your devices, and certain seasonal essentials (like a shovel and a bag of abrasive material in winter).

5. Safety first

For a hassle-free sports weekend, be vigilant on the road and after you get there, take the following safety measures:

• Let someone know: show a friend or family member your route and tell them when to expect you back.

• Drive safely: obey speed limits, avoid distractions, and drive safely at all times, especially in winter.

• Know where you’re going: use a GPS, but have a map as backup if you have problems connecting with a satellite.

• Find out about weather conditions: check the weather and road conditions before you leave. Be ready to adjust your plans as needed.

6. Check your insurance coverage

The last thing to do before you leave is to make sure you have the right insurance, for your own peace of mind.

• Your car: does your car insurance policy cover everything you need for a few days on the road?

• Your sports equipment: is it covered for theft or damage? Home insurance covers your property, whether it’s inside or outside your home, subject to the policy’s terms and conditions. You may need extra coverage for your sports equipment to make sure it’s properly protected at all times.

• Sports: to properly cover your equipment or civil liability relating to sports such as rock climbing, snowmobiling, ATVing, and certain watersports, you may need to take an extra look at your insurance coverage. Certain limitations and exclusions could apply, depending on the activity or sport you’re involved in.

Promutuel Insurance is THERE with advice and coverage tailored to your active lifestyle. Please feel free to contact one of our general insurance representatives for any questions about your upcoming sports adventure!