At the end of the month, Memorial Day weekend kicks off America's unofficial invitation to start spending more time outdoors. Whether you need some ideas for a themed cookout, a reminder to make your road trip playlists, or how to make a fresh start in a brand-new neighborhood, the team here at StorQuest has you covered. 

Here's how to plan a season that balances fun with flexibility—so you're ready for whatever summer throws your way. From surfing days to trekking mountains, and everything in between, the possibilities are as wide open as the blue summer sky. 
 

Host A Backyard Party 

Sometimes the best summer adventures happen right in your own backyard. Turn a classic barbecue into a memorable gathering with a fun theme and outdoor games like disc golf, cornhole, a giant tic tac toe, and lawn darts.  

• Party Theme. Whether it's a 'Smores Camping Party' for the kids (and kids at heart) or a 'Beach Bash & Boards' for a taste of the ocean, a themed barbecue is a surefire way to kick off the summer with a memorable party.

• Friendly Competition. Set up lawn games with a sporty edge. Who can resist cornhole? For the more adventurous, spikeball, slackline challenges, or a mini obstacle course are some popular choices. And don’t forget the prizes! Think carabiner keychains or reusable water bottles.

• Cozy Basecamp. Use string lights, hammocks, or camp chairs to create chill zones where guests can relax and swap stories about their epic trips and favorite gear finds.

• Potluck Picnic. If you're moving this summer and short on time, a backyard potluck is a great way to say goodbye to your current neighbors and meet new friends at your next home. Create a signup sheet beforehand with designations for appetizers, main courses, desserts, and drinks. A backyard potluck party is also a  great theme if you need to include sections for food restrictions or diets, ensuring everyone feels included.
   

Plan The Ultimate Road Trip 

Roll down the windows and turn up the music—summer is the perfect time to hit the open road. Whether you're exploring scenic byways or making your way to a beach town, a little prep turns a good road trip into a great one.

• Plan Your Route. Mapping out your general path is smart, but don't over-plan. The best road trips often include spontaneous stops at quirky roadside attractions, hidden hiking trails, or local diners.

• Prep Your Ride. Before heading out, give your car or RV a quick checkup—tires, fluids, brakes, and A/C. No one wants to spend a summer afternoon waiting for a tow truck.

• Pack Smart. Don't be tempted to overpack. Since you don’t have the constraints of airline luggage, it may be tempting. However, more stuff to organize will take time away from enjoying your trip. Keep essentials within reach—sunglasses, snacks, a refillable water bottle, and your phone charger.

• Sun Safety. Long hours in the car still mean a lot of UV exposure. Especially your face and arms while driving. Wear the best sunscreen you can afford and bring hats, plus high-quality sunglasses. 
   

Unplug and Spend a Weekend Off the Grid

Sometimes the most epic summer moments happen when you disconnect from the noise and reconnect with nature—and yourself. Whether it’s a rustic cabin, a remote campsite, or just a no-Wi-Fi weekend in the backyard, going off the grid is the reset your soul didn’t know it needed. Here are some off-grid destinations to add to your bucket list:

• Boundary Waters Canoe Area, Minnesota. Paddle through pristine lakes, camp on islands, and fall asleep to loon calls—no cell signal, just a serene silence that will calm your soul.
• Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas. Rugged, remote, and stunningly wild. Hike, bike, or stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country.
• Stehekin, Washington. Reachable only by boat, plane, or hiking trail, this remote village in the North Cascades is the ultimate slow-down-and-breathe destination near Seattle.
• Point Reyes National Seashore, California. Sleep in a backcountry campsite just steps from the Pacific Ocean. No service, no crowds, just crashing waves and salty air. Be on the lookout for herds of cattle and the region’s famous Tule elk.
   

Planning a Summer Move?

Summer is a season packed with sunshine, backyard barbecues, and bike rides—but it’s also one of the most popular times to move. Whether you're relocating across town or the country, a little smart planning can help keep your move stress-free and summer fun alive.

• Book movers early. Summer is the peak season for moving companies, so try to reserve your preferred mover well in advance. Waiting too long could leave you scrambling for availability—and potentially paying a premium.

• Keep your cool. Heat-sensitive items like wooden furniture, electronics, and delicate fabrics are especially vulnerable in summer weather. A climate-controlled storage unit can help protect your belongings from warping, melting, or cracking in high temps.

• Start early, hydrate often. Beat the heat by beginning the heavy lifting early in the day. Keep water bottles on hand for you and your crew, and watch for signs of dehydration like headaches or fatigue.

• Don’t forget self storage. Wherever your ultimate summer takes you, StorQuest offers climate-controlled units with consistent temperature and humidity levels all year round to ensure your household belongings and outdoor gear stay in excellent condition. 

So whether you're mapping out a road trip, planning a big move, or hosting a backyard barbecue, this is your season to make it count. By spending some time to organize and prepare, summer’s best moments  won’t get away from you.
 

Make Room for Your Ultimate Summer with StorQuest

For adventure lovers, summer is more than a season—it's a lifestyle. Every year, millions of Americans find relief in self storage, a solution that simplifies the moving process and lightens the load. At StorQuest, we pride ourselves on being more than just a storage company; we're your moving partners. Our unique offerings make us the ideal choice for your summer move and storing gear in between seasons.