More and more families are enjoying the fun of riding a side-by-side. However, many still ignore certain essential aspects before heading out. Just like in a car, there are laws and regulations to follow, not to mention numerous safety elements that can’t be overlooked—especially with young passengers onboard.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the rules you need to know when kids are along for the ride, the essentials you should always pack, and some real-life anecdotes from my own family outings. Sometimes funny, sometimes intense, but always full of lessons.
My goal: inspire you to prepare better for your next side-by-side ride so every trip is about fun… and peace of mind.
Laws and Regulations: What You Need to Know Before a Child Gets Onboard
As with any motorized sport, wearing an approved helmet is mandatory. Make sure it carries the DOT or ECE mark, the two standards recognized by the SAAQ. The helmet must fit the child’s head properly—not too heavy, not too big—and nothing should be worn under it (no caps or fabric). Bicycle helmets are not acceptable, as they do not meet the standards.
There is no minimum legal age for a child to ride in a side-by-side. It’s up to the parent or driver to use good judgment. Consider the helmet’s weight on their neck, their stability in the seat, and their ability to stay buckled for the whole ride.
Note: child car seats and boosters are not allowed in a side-by-side.
According to Law 71, a child may be a passenger if they can hold firmly onto the provided handhold. Unlike traditional quads, it is not required that their feet touch the floor.
The Essentials You Should Always Have: My Family Survival Kit
When heading out—whether on a side-by-side, a boat, or a hike—we all dream of the perfect trip. But sometimes, one small hiccup changes everything. That’s why I’ve learned to be ready for anything. For years now, I’ve kept two bags always packed and reserved just for our outings. No matter the activity, they come along!
Here’s what I keep in my bags, summer and winter:
Kids’ kit
- Children’s Tylenol
- Children’s Advil
- Children’s Benadryl
- Inhaler (for asthma or allergies)
- Thermometer
Adults’ kit
- Adhesive bandages
- Alcohol wipes
- Gauze pads
- Adhesive tape and cloth roll
- Toothpaste, floss picks, mini brush
- Tylenol/Advil/Benadryl
- Lighter
- Hair elastics
- Tissues
And of course, some emergency snacks and plenty of spare clothes.
I always plan for the weather… but I also think about the unexpected. I have one child who loves pushing limits (and getting dirty). He can burn through three full sets of clothes in one day, including multiple pairs of shoes or boots.
Yes, in early December, I need two full outerwear sets just for him. No joke! Thankfully, I found the solution: insulated waterproof sets from Helly Hansen or Color Kids. They’re warm, tough, waterproof, and perfect even in a bit of snow.
Clothing to pack
- Long shirts and pants, even in summer
- Rain jacket if rain is forecast
- Extra mitts and socks in early or late winter
And of course, my must-haves
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Blankets for surprise naps (yes, kids fall asleep anywhere—even deep in the woods!)
My advice? Build your own kit and keep it always ready to go. You’ll see—it will save you more than once… mom-tested and approved!
Quad Mom Stories: Between Stings, Stunts, and Laughs!
In five years of riding quads with my kids, I’ve seen it all. Funny moments, intense ones… but all unforgettable. I could fill a book with stories, but let’s start with the worst.
The Wasp Attack (or How I Learned I Could Strip a Kid in 2.5 Seconds)
It was supposed to be a calm little ride—just a quick trip to visit my aunt and uncle in Lamarche. The kids were playing together, everything was fine. They went exploring in the woods behind the cabin.
A few minutes later, my oldest (barely 7 at the time) came running back, screaming, shaking all over.
“MOM, HELP ME!!! MOM, IT HURTS!!!”
My maternal instinct hit 1,000%. I instantly knew something was under his clothes. I stripped him in record time—probably tearing the collar a bit—and then I saw them: black wasps crawling out everywhere.
Result: 18 stings.
Luckily, I had Benadryl. My aunt pitched in with cold compresses. Everyone was in shock… and I broke down. Yes, I cried. I would have taken his pain in a heartbeat. After comforting him for a long while, we headed back. I kept an eye on him, and he fell asleep next to me.
And Now, the Stunts!
My middle child is a ball of energy. He is… unpredictable. On rides, I sometimes feel like I’m with a little acrobat monkey.
Some of his random feats:
- Climbing a sign 10 feet high
- Scaling trees or mountain slopes
- Jumping into every puddle (and sometimes falling in)
- Running everywhere, even through swamps, ending up with boots full of water
- Swimming in lakes and rivers
- Playing in the first snowfall
Verdict: no doubt I need to bring the whole list.
Before You Start, Double-Check.
Before you leave: think of everything. Yes, EVERYTHING.
Trust me: after so many adventures, I’ve realized my checklist isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.
- I even set up a storage bin in my side-by-side to keep everything: kits, clothes, snacks, blankets, etc.
- Not much space? Downsize the quantities, but keep the essentials.
And above all: before starting, make sure everyone is properly strapped into the right vehicle and wearing their helmet.
