Winter in Québec can be considered a sport. However, the bus is there to get you where you need to go every day in total safety, in good or bad weather. Here are a few tips for a smooth bus ride.

1. Allow yourself more time for the trip
Taking the bus earlier on a snowstorm day could mean not being late. Like it or not, the bus must go slow to keep safe and it can get stuck in traffic. Giving yourself some extra time will certainly lower your stress level.

2. Plan your trip
Use the online trip planner to view your route and bus schedule. You can also locate the bus on the map to make sure you have enough time to get to the bus stop. Take the opportunity to create a passenger account, save your favourite routes and stops, and subscribe to alerts. You will then be alerted of any detours or delays by email or text for your bus routes.

3. Get real-time info
You can also track a bus if you don’t have a data plan. Text the bus stop number to 511785 to get the next bus arrival times in real time. You can also download the Chrono app to find bus schedules or plan a new trip.

4. Be ready!
If you don’t want to miss the bus, put the odds in your favour by getting to the bus stop five minutes early. Once you’re at the bus stop, get your OPUS card, cash or credit card ready, and clearly signal to the bus driver that you want to get on. Being courteous will make for a pleasant ride so consider moving to the back of the bus, removing your backpack and giving up your seat to any mobility-impaired person.

We don’t want to sound like your mom, but do not wear running shoes, even if they do look really cool. Waiting at the street corner during a snowstorm or in extreme cold weather is obviously not as pleasant as sunbathing on the beach. But when we dress appropriately and plan ahead, it’s not as bad.