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A group of friends camping in portland oregon after storing their camping ger at Downtown Self Storage in Portland

Labor Day Camping Tips for PNW Adventurers (2026 Edition)

Labor Day is almost here! Between Memorial Day and Independence Day, Labor Day is one of the biggest camping weekends in the States! In our opinion, there’s no better way to cap off the summer! We are so lucky in Portland to have both the mountains and the ocean within a couple hours drive, that makes getting outside pretty accessible. 

And if lack of space in the home is preventing you from camping or getting out on the river, we have an easy solution. Downtown Self Storage has a variety of rental storage space - perfect for tents, sleeping bags, paddleboards and bikes - just what you need to store your outdoor stuff!

Now that your ready to head out and spend time in the wilderness over the holiday weekend, you’ll absolutely enjoy these tips and tricks to ensure your trip goes perfectly! 
Friends around the campfire outside of portland, oregon

Add Herbs to Your Campfire to Repel Bugs! 

Woodsmoke is already a mosquito repellent, and so are rosemary and sage! By periodically tossing a bundle into your campfire, you can keep bugs to a minimum. Not to mention smelling better! 


Woman sleeping happily in sleeping bag she stored at Downtown Self Storage

Stuff Tomorrow’s Clothes in Your Sleeping Bag to Warm Them Up for Tomorrow! 

Especially useful for those cold mornings in early September in the PNW! By keeping tomorrow’s clothes in your sleeping bag, you can give yourself some extra insulation while nice, warm clothes for the morning. 

Keep a Stash of Dry Clothes in a Waterproof Bag! 

In Portland, there's always a chance of rain. And the Pacific Northwest in early fall loves to keep us guessing. By keeping a cache of dry clothes, you can keep yourself prepared for rain, spills, or just a spur of the moment swim. 

Shaving down hand soap for use camping

Shave Down Your Soap!

By shaving off pieces of bar soap, you can keep a light, portable supply in a plastic bag without having to haul around a slimy brick. Super useful for backpackers and other folks who need to be cognizant of weight. 

Cotton balls, stored at Downtown Self Storage

 Light a Campfire with Cotton Balls!

As much fun as campfires are, starting them can be a pain. Cotton balls are actually very flammable, and by pulling them apart and placing them with your kindling you have a great, inexpensive fire starter! Make sure to check the campfire restrictions at your campsite before going: we’ve had enough wildfires this year and safe practices are critical. 

We're Here to Help!

Memorial Day, Labor Day, or spring break camping:  Downtown Self Storage has room for you and your outdoor gear! Check our website for current specials, and stop by either of our Pearl District locations for friendly, local advice on getting the most out of your space. 

Staycation

Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in the Pearl District

If our staying in close to town, we have a fun event for you! Downtown Self Storage is thrilled to be a proud sponsor of Art in the Pearl, the award-winning arts and crafts fair now in its 30th year, taking over the Pearl District's North Park Blocks for the Labor Day weekend. 

Explore the amazing array of local and national artists and craftspeople showcasing their work throughout the fair. Whether you're hunting for unique pieces, supporting creative talent, or simply soaking up the vibrant community atmosphere, it's an event not to be missed!

Discover more of what's happening in the Pearl District on Around the Pearl - your connection to art and events in our wonderful community!

Last days of summer sale at downtown self storage storage promotion

Grab a Unit Before Fall

Units are going fast right now, and summer is the busiest season. Lock in a deal before the crowds hit:

Davis Street: Tiered deal: 75% off Month 1, 50% off Month 2, 25% off Month 3 on select units. Starting as low as $11/month.

Johnson Street: 50% off for 2–3 months on select units. Starting as low as $25/month.

All units include web rates and contact-free rental options. Both locations offer U-Haul truck and van rentals too: handy if you're hauling your stuff in and out of your college housing or apartment.

Two Locations in the Pearl District

Downtown Self Storage — Davis Street

1305 NW Davis Street, Portland, OR 97209

971-277-4178

Downtown Self Storage — Johnson Street

1304 NW Johnson Street, Portland, OR 97209

971-277-3575

Follow us on Instagram @downtownselfstoragepdx for storage tips and local highlights.