If you live or commute around Gaithersburg, MD, then you probably already know the stress that comes with driving on I-270. Between the frequent congestion, unpredictable lane changes, and aggressive drivers, this stretch of highway can wear down even the most patient driver. While you can’t control the traffic, you can definitely control how you approach it.

Here are some practical tips to help you stay calm, drive safer, and make your time on I-270 just a little less stressful.

1. Plan Your Route—and Have a Backup

One of the most frustrating things about I-270 is not knowing what’s coming around the next bend. A crash, construction, or even a stalled car can instantly throw your schedule off. Using a navigation app with real-time updates can help you avoid surprises. Better yet, always have an alternate route in mind.

Sometimes taking a parallel road might add a few extra miles but save you time and stress in the long run.

2. Avoid the Busiest Times When Possible

Traffic on I-270 is at its worst during weekday morning and evening rush hours. If your schedule is flexible, try shifting your commute by even 15–30 minutes earlier or later. That small change could make a big difference in how long you spend sitting in traffic—and how much tension you carry with you for the rest of the day.

Even if your work hours are fixed, leaving just a bit earlier can help you avoid the chaos of drivers trying to beat the clock.

3. Stay Out of the Left Lane Unless You’re Passing

It’s tempting to camp out in the left lane to avoid frequent exits and merges, but that strategy can backfire on I-270. The left lane often attracts aggressive drivers, faster-moving traffic, and tailgaters.

If you're not actively passing or maintaining the flow of traffic, sticking to the middle or right lanes tends to be more predictable and less stressful. Plus, it gives you more options for exits or pulling over if needed.

4. Keep Your Cool with Aggressive Drivers

You will get cut off. Someone will tailgate you. Another driver might make a dangerous merge. The key is not letting it get under your skin. Responding with your own aggression only raises your stress levels and increases the risk of an accident.

Instead, give space, let them pass, and focus on your own driving. Your goal is to get where you’re going—not to win a battle of egos.

5. Use Cruise Control to Avoid Speeding

If traffic is moving steadily, setting cruise control (where safe) can help reduce fatigue and prevent speed creep. It’s easy to accelerate without realizing it, especially on longer stretches of open road between exits.

Maintaining a steady speed also helps improve fuel efficiency, which is a small win when you’re stuck in a long commute.

6. Make Sure Your Car Is Road-Ready

Nothing adds stress to an already tense drive like a mechanical problem. A tire losing air, a flickering dashboard light, or squeaky brakes are easy to ignore—until they become a real issue in traffic.

Before regular drives on a busy route like I-270, check that your tires are properly inflated, your brakes are working smoothly, and your fluids are topped off. If your car hasn’t had a recent inspection, now might be the time.

7. Bring Comfort Into Your Cabin

You can’t control the chaos outside, but you can create a calm environment inside your car. That might mean keeping a bottle of water in the cupholder, playing your favorite playlist or podcast, or even using a soothing car air freshener.

Little things like this can help you stay centered during long commutes or when traffic starts to pile up.

8. Know When to Take a Break

If you’ve been stuck in slow-moving traffic for an extended time and feel your patience wearing thin, there’s no shame in pulling off for a short break. A few minutes at a rest stop or gas station can give you time to stretch, breathe, and reset your mindset before continuing the drive.

Sometimes, stepping away for a moment is all it takes to shake off the frustration and refocus on driving safely.

General Automotive Servicenter – Your Car Care Experts in Gaithersburg, MD

Frequent drives on I-270 can wear on your vehicle just like they wear on you. Let General Automotive Servicenter keep your car running as it's supposed to with reliable inspections, fluid checks, brake service, and more—so you’re always ready for whatever traffic throws your way.