Spring Break is here! It's time to pull out the backpack or suitcase and head out for a much needed vacation.
Pulling the tropical wardrobe a few months early out of those nicely stored bins or loading up the Subaru with campaign gear, the canoe, and the dog takes a bit of planning.
Fortunately, your local storage specialists know a thing or two about packing as well as storage.
The Downtown Self Storage team is no stranger to spring break. Since the 1980s, we've been the go-to storage for Portland State students headed out for the holidays and the Pearl District's choice for storage (on and off breaks).
Sticking Closer to Home
If you're looking to stay within road trip distance of Portland for Spring Break, we've listed a few of our favorite Oregon vacation destinations. Bear in mind that this is early spring in Oregon. The weather can change quickly, and it can still get pretty chilly. Sunscreen, rain gear, and warm clothes are recommended wherever you go. Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!
Cannon Beach
For many of us, the Oregon Coast is as nostalgic as it gets. Cannon Beach is a spectacular destination for an outdoorsy Spring Break. Salted caramels, scenic views on the beautiful beach, and all 235 feet of Haystack rock await on the misty Oregon Coast.
35 miles of hiking trails. Ten waterfalls. Silver Falls State Park is less than two hours from Downtown Self Storage, and it's one of the best hiking locations in the state. If you're looking for an incredible day trip spot for a beautiful hike, look no further! Day-use permits can be purchased on-site. Learn more at the state park's website! If you want to stay the night near the park, there are some beautiful accommodations near the park!
Check out Smith Creek Village, for example!
A Bit More of a Drive but Worth It
Bend
Bend is a great weekend getaway. It boasts a brewery scene to make even the most dedicated Portland hipster huff. Bend is also an incredible outdoor location. In spring, we recommend spring skiing, mountain biking, and visiting the High Desert Museum.
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument
For the paleontologist in your life, there's nothing cooler than finding a fossil of your very own! Located in Fossil, Oregon, the John Day Fossil Beds allow you to search for your own ancient creatures preserved in stone. It's also a great change of scenery and just a road trip away from the city.
Crater Lake is an incredible vacation spot. It's a unique Oregon landmark, and a dip in those icy waters is something you'll remember for years to come. It's a great outdoor option, with ninety miles of trails and 30 overlooks. Check the National Park Service website to get your camping pass and check for inclement weather!
Headed to Tropical Shores?
If you plan on heading for warmer weather, we have some tips to make sure your beach trip goes exactly as planned.
Pack Essentials in your Carry On
It's better to be overprepared. Every so often, a checked bag gets lost, and no one wants to have to buy a new toothbrush on holiday. Keep the essentials (some cash, a phone, charger, headphones, an overnight bag, and toiletries) in your carry-on just in case you lose access to your checked bag.
Use Reef Safe Sunscreen
The sun can be a real issue. Even if you don't burn, UV radiation can be dangerous. Per the American Academy of Dermatology, SPF 30 is a safe minimum to stay safe at a sunny beach. Unfortunately, many sunscreens can be exceptionally damaging to wildlife, especially reefs.
Swimsuit
If you plan on swimming multiple times, having at least two swimsuits is a good idea. That way, you can rotate between them, allowing one to dry while using the other. Play with variety! Different swimsuits are good for a variety of things, from water sports to lounging. Test-driving your bathing suit is always a good idea. Test your bathing suit at the local pool or even in your bathtub before you travel.
Hydrate
Spring break shenanigans in the summer sun can leave you high and dry. To avoid potentially dangerous dehydration, doctors recommend 2.5 liters of water per day. If you struggle to drink that much (it can be a lot), hydration packets can go a long way. If you're traveling with pets, especially if it's somewhere warm, remember water for them too!
Prep A Beach Bag
Remember the motto: Always be prepared. We recommend packing your beach bag with all the essentials: swimsuits, cover-ups, and possibly a change of clothes, as well as a bag for your wet swimsuits.
Renting a Unit
Whether you're headed to Cancun or Newport Beach for an ocean getaway this Spring Break, we hope you have a blast! And when the weather starts to chill, Downtown Self Storage will be here to store your swim trunks, beach towels, stand-up paddleboards, snorkels, and flippers!
Specials
Specials are listed on the Downtown Self Storage website, and you can conveniently rent and pay online.
What Size Unit Do I Need?
We've got you covered with a complete guide to various unit sizes on our Downtown Self Storage Blog: What Size Unit Do I Need? and the Downtown Self Storage Unit Size Guide. And, of course, our fabulous self-storage professionals are on hand to help out with any questions or suggestions you may have.
Rent a U-Haul
Moving and need a truck? We have U-Haul for rent. Contact Downtown Self Storage at either location for U-Haul rental reservations and information. In our U-Haul Packing Guide, we have a few tips to make your move easier.
Downtown Self Storage
Locally owned and serving the Portland community for over 30 years, with two convenient locations in the heart of the Pearl District.
DOWNTOWN SELF STORAGE, DAVIS STREET
Website: Davis Street
1305 NW Davis Street
Portland, OR 97209
503-388-4060
DOWNTOWN SELF STORAGE, JOHNSON STREET
Website: Johnson Street
1304 NW Johnson Street
Portland, OR 97209
503-388-4061
Follow our blog for storage tips, and connect with us on social media at @downtownselfstoragepdx.