Manitoba has great weather for outdoor activities from May to August. Many families like to travel, go on road trips, camp outside, or rent a small house near a lake.

If you want to go away for the weekend or more, here are some tips to help you plan a fun and worry-free summer trip:

Before you leave

1. Don’t share too much – Don’t tell people on social media that you’re going away. If you share a photo with your location or your address, you might be inviting thieves to your house while you’re gone.
2. Hold mail – If mail piles up, it shows that no one is home. If you’ll be away for more than a week, ask a neighbor or a friend to pick up your mail. You can also use Canada Post’s Hold Mail (ask for this three days before you need it). This can keep your important mail, like credit card notices or checks, safe.
3. Have a friend check your home – Ask a friend or neighbor you trust to look at your home sometimes. Make sure they know your alarm code so they don’t set it off by mistake.
4. Don’t forget to lock your door before you leave!

Packing

1. Pack light – Bring only what you need. A lighter vehicle saves gas. If you’re flying, you won’t have to pay for extra bags.
2. Bring proper gear – Bring the right safety gear for your activities. This includes hats, helmets, knee pads, goggles, and more. Also, bring sanitizing wipes or hand sanitizer. Consider bringing face masks just in case they’re needed.
3. Keep an emergency kit handy – For a road trip, have a flashlight, first-aid kit, cash, and extra batteries in your car. To learn what to put in a full emergency kit, visit Get Prepared .gc.ca: Basic Emergency Kit.

Drive safe!

1. Check your vehicle – Make sure your vehicle is ready for the road, especially for long trips. There are helpful online guides like 14 ways to get your car ready for a road trip from Canadian Living. Read 10 easy steps to prepare for a road trip for more tips. Remember to do this weeks before your trip. If your car needs big repairs, you’ll have time to fix it or get it fixed.
2. Plan your route and stops – Getting lost is not fun for your family. Since you may not know the area well, plan your route, bring maps, and use GPS. Ask someone who knows the way for help. Think about how long it will take to get there and plan your stops. Find out if there are places to stay along the way if you need more rest.
3. Observe road safety – Always follow traffic rules and wear seat belts! Get the latest information on road conditions on Manitoba highways (call 511 toll-free, visit Manitoba 511 or follow @MBGovRoads on Twitter). Never drive after drinking at a picnic or barbecue.

Have fun and have a great summer!
 
Article updated June 13, 2023.
 
Sources: The Government of Canada – Get Prepared.gc.ca, The Government of Manitoba Spring and Summer Safety.