Before diving into our detailed Quebec itinerary, here's a roundup of practical advice drawn from our firsthand experience planning a family trip to this stunning Canadian province.
Trip Overview: 3.5 weeks round-trip from Quebec City, highlighting the Gaspésie region. Season: Summer 2019.
Flying to Canada: We flew direct with Air Transat from Paris to Quebec City—my go-to choice after a positive blog trip experience in New Brunswick the previous year. Booked five months ahead for July 31 departure at €825 per person round-trip. Their Option Plus upgrade was a game-changer: seat selection (emergency exit row for adults; kids nearby), two checked bags per person, comfort kits (perfect for overnight flights), and priority check-in, boarding, and baggage claim. It shone at Montreal's security too. No delays either way, and the friendly Quebec crew made it memorable.
Getting Around Quebec: We rented a spacious SUV from Avis at Quebec City Airport—plenty of room for luggage and gear, which we appreciated. (Motorhomes are a budget-friendly alternative; check Marie Perarnau's family trip with six aboard.) Local driving quirks took adjusting: stop signs say "ARRÊT," traffic lights post-intersection, right-on-red allowed, and yield to the first arriver. After 3,500 km, we were pros. Pro tip: Check your fuel tank side—hoses are short—and enjoy attendant service and lower gas prices compared to France.
Shopping Smart: Taxes and Tips: Prices exclude taxes, added at checkout—remind kids to budget extra. Tips: Standard 15% in restaurants/bars (not included). Bills often suggest amounts; with cards, percentages apply to tax-inclusive totals, so calculate carefully.
Family Travel in Peak July/August: Book Ahead. Absolutely—accommodations are limited in Gaspésie and New Brunswick. With long drives and kids, avoid daily hunts. I booked in March and still missed some spots.
Packing for a Quebec Summer Road Trip: Layer up—northern areas swing from 15°C to 25°C. Pack longs/shorts, hoodies, wind/rain jackets. Laundry services were rare (one hotel exception upon arrival), so scout laundromats (found in Percé, Matane, and outfitters). Campsite chalets often have them too. Pharmacies like Jean Coutu stock everything (even lottery tickets and clothespins)—visit one for fun. Light meds suffice.
Mosquitoes: Skip organics; grab local repellents on arrival—they work. We weren't overwhelmed, but hikes in parks meant bites.
Hiking Gear: Kids got Decathlon pants/shorts (some secondhand via Vinted). Invested in sturdy shoes—like TEVA from FashionChaussure for our little one (fast shipping, great advice, free returns).
Jet Lag: Six-hour difference hit hard—three days to adjust outbound; return was tougher. Melatonin helped reset sleep.
Quebecois Charm: That accent stole our hearts (and caused mix-ups): "On the spot?" means "for here"; "Is it complete?" is "that's all?"; "pet" means stroke; "drop off" is just a ride. Ubiquitous: "It won't be long" (even with waits). Laid-back vibe everywhere—from airport smiles to helpful strangers. Kids loved the contrast to Paris life.
Got questions or additions? Fire away. Full itinerary coming soon!
