Outdoors, sun and adventure: have you thought of everything for this summer?

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Outdoors, sun and adventure: have you thought of everything for this summer?

Temperatures are rising and summer weather is just around the corner. It’s time to plan your summer activities! Whether it’s for a weekend of camping, a picnic with friends or simply to enjoy some time outdoors, the right equipment makes all the difference. Here are a few tips and ideas to help you make the most of the season, whatever your plans.

Camping: Get Equipped Like A Pro!

For many of us, camping is a summer tradition. Whether you prefer to sleep under the stars, in the forest, in the mountains or on a 5-star campsite, there is something for everyone. The equipment you’ll need will depend on how autonomous and comfortable you want to be. If you are travelling on foot or by bike, lightweight equipment is preferable.

Basic Sleeping Equipment

Tent: choose a model that suits your situation
Sleeping bag: choose a lighter type for the summer, suited to evening temperatures
Air mattress or floor mat for more comfort

Lighting and Energy

Head lamp: great to keep your hands free
Camping lantern: providing light for your tent
External battery pack and portable solar panel: to recharge your devices

Outdoor Cooking

Portable gas or wood stove
Gas cartridges or suitable fuel
Compact pots and pans
Reusable tableware: bamboo or stainless steel plates, cutlery and cups
Multi-purpose knife or Swiss army knife
Cooler or insulated bag
Sponge and biodegradable soap: to wash your dishes in nature

Furniture and Comfort

Folding chairs or light stools
Easy to carry, foldable table
Camping hammock (lightweight and a great way to relax)
Tarp or ground mat to protect your tent’s entrance

Outdoor Meals: A Myriad of Delicious Options

Summer meals are an opportunity to be creative and enjoy fresh seasonal produce. Use local produce to liven up your meals and discover the culinary riches of your vacation destination.

The Barbecue, a Must!

Portable, small, large, solar-powered, charcoal or gas-fired, the barbecue is a must as soon as the sun comes out.

Vegetable and meat skewers - made with beef or chicken, they’re easy to assemble and perfect for grilling or cooking over a campfire.
Foil-wrapped potatoes - cooked over an open fire with butter and herbs, simply delicious!

Salads

Perfect as a side dish for meats or as a complete meal, salads are a great way to express your culinary flair.

Mediterranean salad: a vegetarian salad with tomatoes, olives, onions, capers and anything else that inspires you.
Québécoise salad: made with corn, red onion, arugula and apple. Add a drizzle of maple-flavoured vinaigrette for a truly unique taste.

Quick Bites

Here are a few handy ideas for easy-to-prepare, nutritious meals before you set off on your activities.

Tuna or chicken wraps: they’re easy to prepare and require no cooking
Vegetable omelet: simple, filling and easy to make in one pan
Egg sandwiches

Hiking – Don’t Forget Anything!

Quebec offers an incredible variety of breathtaking landscapes for hiking. But whether you are travelling by bike, on foot or by canoe, good preparation is essential to avoid any inconvenience.

Clothing

Appropriate footwear: choose ankle-high shoes to avoid sprains and blisters
Good quality backpack: to avoid shoulder strain and optimize comfort and storage space
Light, weather-appropriate clothing: don’t forget to pack a warmer layer or rain protection in your bag
Hat or baseball cap: to protect your head from the sun

Hydration and Water Filtration

Water bottles and thermos flasks
Portable water filter or purifying tablets: for greater autonomy
Foldable water container: to store more water

Snacks

Trail mix (nuts and dried fruit): compact, energy-filled and easy to carry
Cereal or energy bars: for a quick, delicious boost
Easy-to-carry fresh fruit: apples, bananas and oranges are great choices. A good option for natural hydration
Small sandwiches: choose whole-grain bread, peanut butter or cheese for a more fulfilling option
Cheese and dried meat sticks: a good option for replenishing mineral salts in hot weather

Safety and Orientation

Compass or GPS for hiking: to avoid getting lost
Hiking mobile apps: they can often be used offline
Map of the region: if you’d rather avoid using the phone
Distress whistle
Hiking poles: they reduce fatigue and help preserve your joints

A Few Other Ideas to Enjoy the Sun

While hiking and excursions are among the most popular outdoor activities in Quebec, here is a list of other options to help you make the most of your days, wherever you are.

Calm Activities and Hobbies

Card games or board games
Books (detective novels or self-help books), comic books, or even travel diaries
Fishing gear: if fishing is allowed
Binoculars for a closer look at nature

Sports and Active Ideas

Cycling: perfect for family outings or more strenuous circuits
Running and trail running - for those who love challenges in the great outdoors
Water sports: swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, or diving
Climbing and via ferrata: for those who enjoy an adrenaline rush
Aerial obstacle course (between trees and zip lines): to have fun, way up in the air
Scooters, roller skates, and skateboards: fun and convenient in the city and on cycling paths

Outdoor Games

Bocce and Mölkky (Finnish skittles): classics that appeal to all generations.
Frisbee and Ultimate Frisbee: perfect for the beach or parks
Spikeball: ideal for letting off steam, either in a duel or as a team
Kite flying: on the beach or in an open field
Water games: water pistols, slides, water balloons to cool off
Races and relays: potato sacks, skipping

Relaxing and Socializing

Picnic with family or friends: under a tree or by a lake
Napping in a hammock: there’s nothing like it for a real relaxing break
Stargazing: a blanket, a telescope and the sky becomes a magical place
Reading outside: under the shade of a tree or by the water’s edge
Outdoor yoga and meditation: to recharge your batteries in the heart of nature

This Summer, Don’t Forget to Protect Yourself

Regardless of your summer plans, it is essential to take a few precautions. Here is some advice to help you enjoy the summer safely.

Sun Protection

Sunscreen: SPF suitable for your skin type, water-resistant if necessary
Clear sun spray or mist: ideal for quick applications
Lip balm with SPF: prevents chapped and sunburned lips
Hats and caps: wide-brimmed or cap with neck protection for hikers
Sunglasses: with 100% UV protection, polarized to prevent glare
UV-protective clothing: t-shirts and swimwear with built-in UV protection
UV-protective parasol or tent: ideal for the beach and picnics

Heat Protection

Insulated water bottles: to keep your water cool all day long
Portable fans: handheld or USB battery-powered
Cooling towels: wet and place around the neck for a cooling effect
Car sunshades: to prevent the interior from overheating
Thermal water spray or cooling mist: soothing after sun exposure

Mosquito and Bug Protection

Mosquito sprays: containing DEET, icaridin or essential oils such as citronella
Repellent bracelets: handy for children or when hiking
Mosquito nets: for the bed, the tent or even the stroller
UV mosquito lamp: attracts and kills insects
Citronella candles: ideal for outdoor meals
Electric mosquito repellent diffusers: effective in a bedroom or covered terrace
Soothing after-bite creams: to relieve itching
Long, breathable, tight-knit clothing: protects without being too warm, effective against ticks

Allergy and Environmental Protection

Antihistamines: for pollen or insect bite allergies
Pollen masks: for sensitive people during high pollen count periods
Pollen nasal sprays: creates a barrier against allergens
Cooling cream or spray for feet and legs: reduces the sensation of heavy legs

And there you have it – you have everything you need to make the most of the summer. Enjoy!

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