Get road-ready to take on summer in safety and style!

With Memorial Day in our rear-view mirrors, the summer season has (un)officially begun.

For most of us, that means our road miles are about to go up — possibly WAY up, if past years can be a measure of what’s to be expected for travelers looking to get away in our home region. Whether you’re planning a road trip to any of Oregon’s incredible sites or just looking to ride out the flood of seasonal motorists, there are a few things you can do now to make this season a safe and comfortable one on the roads.

• Plan for traffic. This is a must in the Portland metro but it’s especially true in the summertime when construction is in full swing and people are out and about for their own recreation. Leaving a little earlier than usual may not be fun, but it could save your sanity when you’re stuck in traffic and on the verge of running late.

• Stay cool. Speaking of “stuck in traffic,” you’re really going to want to make sure your air conditioner is in working order before you set out for a long haul of summer driving. Check your air filters if the flow isn’t what it should be, and recharge as necessary to make sure your system has what it needs to keep you from sweating at the wheel. Of course, you’ll probably already be doing that if caught long enough in traffic, but at least you’ll feel a little more comfortable as you wait.

• Think mechanically. While you’re working on the AC, take a look at your fan belt and the levels of coolant and motor oil. The combination of hot summer temperatures and long miles on the road will tax these systems as you get from Point A to B. You’re not the only one who needs to stay cool!

• Kick the tires. This is good advice for any time of year, but checking to see that your tires are in good shape is especially important during season changes. From low tire pressure to the lingering effects of winter wear-and-tear, it’s not uncommon to see tire issues come to a head when temperatures rise and road miles increase. Take a look at your tires when you’re still close to home to make sure they won’t trouble you down the line on a weekend trip to the mountains or grandma’s house. Now is also a great time to make sure your spare is where it’s supposed to be, as is your jack, tire iron and whatever else you need to make a roadside swap.
• Pick your stops wisely. As a bonus tip, we found this breakdown from fuel price tracker Gas Buddy claiming to list the cleanest gas station restrooms for each state. Does Sinclair really offer the best bathrooms for your buck? Let us know if you find out!

It should go without saying that a regular wash is an excellent way to help your vehicle beat the heat. From commuting to traveling, or road-trip prep to vacation conclusion, a visit to Scrubby’s for a top-to-bottom, inside-out clean is a summertime tradition we can all get behind!