Who doesn’t love summertime? Flowers are blooming, the sun is finally here after a very long winter, and it’s high time we escaped the city and headed to the cottage. Some of you may have already done a cottage weekend or two, but for those who are headed up for the first time this year, check out some of the Ford Escape tips for keeping your cottage clean.

1 –Pack a toolbox

When you use the Ford Escape’s available class exclusive* foot-activated hands-free liftgate and pack all the food and gear, make sure not to forget at least a few tools. You never know what the offseason may have done to your cottage while you were away.

_Escape_Cottage1_BlogPost

2 – Bring sunscreen

In order to truly enjoy some summer fun, it’s always smart to stay protected from the sun. We’re not saying break out the parka, but you should consider bringing some waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of about 50. Just apply it to your exposed skin, throw on the shades, and go have fun.

Pack Sunscreen

Pack Sunscreen

3 – Pack extra everything

Fold down one or both sections of the second-row seat for flat-fold storage and fit everything you might need. So take advantage of the extra cargo space and pack extra everything, including food, tools, and batteries. If you’re looking for versatility, pack extra lithium AA batteries as they are standard for most flashlights, cameras and small electronics and generally tend to last longer than alkaline.

Storage Capacity

Storage Capacity

4 – Scrub the BBQ

Open the Ford Escape trunk and load up a cargo organizer with the necessary BBQ cleaning gear. You’ll be grilling everything from hot dogs and hamburgers to peppers and corn; so pack grill cleaners, brushes and gloves to make sure your BBQ is ready to go for the entire season.

Clean the BBQ

Clean the BBQ

5 – Check your route before leaving

Whether you’re going to a new destination or you’re headed up to a cottage you visit often, you should always check the weather reports, traffic reports and plan out the proper route before leaving. With available SYNC® with MyFord Touch®** on the Ford Escape, you take advantage of the available Navigation System for the fastest, shortest and most fuel-efficient route.

SYNC® with MyFord Touch®**

SYNC® with MyFord Touch®**

6 – Clean, clean, clean

It may have been a while since someone took a broom to the cottage so when you’re planning your trip, remember everything you’ll need to disinfect, scrub and clean.

Time to clean

Time to clean

7 – Enjoy yourself

Whether it’s relaxing on the dock, sitting back in front of the fire or cozying up to those close to you, make sure you enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Thinking of escaping to the cottage this month? Got any tips you’d like to share? Let us know by commenting on this post, on Facebook or Tweet us.

Relax and enjoy

Relax and enjoy

Vehicles may be shown with optional features, upgrades, and accessories.

*Class is Small Utilities vs. 2013/2014 competitors. Some driver input required. Requires having available Intelligent Access key on your person. Not available with Class II Trailer.

** Some mobile phones and some digital media players may not be fully compatible with SYNC® – check www.syncmyride.com for a listing of mobile phones, media players, and features supported. Driving while distracted can result in loss of vehicle control, accident and injury. Certain MyFord TouchTM functions require compatible mobile devices. Some functions are not available while driving. Only use mobile phones and other devices, even with voice commands, when it is safe to do so.