It's no question that vacations are great. But sometimes, they can also be stressful — and costly. With the travel fare, the lodgings, and all the meals, a trip can really add up.
But you have another option when it comes to unwinding away from work. It's called the "staycation," and it means spending your time off right where you are: at home.
What's so great about spending your vacation where you already are? Well, as the saying goes, there's no place like home (although this teeny, adorable cabin in the woods is pretty close).
After all, people travel to all ends of the Earth, but still want the comforts of home. You probably already have some amazing memories there, so why not make more?
Below are some simple tips to make your staycation a memorable one. You don't have to fly to exotic locales or book luxury vacation packages in order to have a good time.
Sometimes taking time to appreciate and get reacquainted with where you already are is a deeply refreshing experience.
Check out these tips below, and start planning your staycation now!
1. Spend Time With Family And Friends
A busy work life means you might be missing out on some of your most meaningful relationships.
A staycation is a great way to get in some family and friend time — especially since you'll be in the same location. Think leisurely meals, movie nights, and more!
2. Explore Your Hometown
Sure, you live there, but have you really done everything?
Have you checked out that new restaurant? Have you been to the library lately? Have you walked down all the streets and stopped in all the shops?
Take some time to explore what's right around the corner, and you might be surprised!
3. Volunteer
If you're looking to spend your time in a meaningful way, consider using your time off to make a positive impact in your own community.
Help out at a local animal shelter or outreach program, and make a difference in someone's life!
4. Stay Away From The Devices
Put an "away from the office" message on your email accounts and resist the urge to check them. Also, log out of your social media accounts.
After all, getting sucked back into the daily grind kind of defeats the purpose of a vacation!
5. Get Out Into Nature
Nothing rejuvenates you like reconnecting with the natural world.
Even if you're at home, there are most likely some nature preserves, parks, or public land in your area. Check it out.
6. Appreciate Local Attractions
You don't really have to go far to find culture.
Visit your local museums, art galleries, landmarks, and theaters to see what kind of scene keeps your area buzzing. You might learn something new about your own community!
7. Go Camping In Your Own Backyard
This one's especially good if you have children too young for actual camping.
Pitch a tent in the backyard and have a night of storytelling and stargazing. Just be careful with building fires.
8. Do That Thing You've Been Meaning To Do
Have you been meaning to read that new book? To work on some crafts or art projects? To finally clean out your closet?
Well, now you can!
Since you're home, you now have time to do all those things you've been wanting to do, but never seem to have time for.
9. Skip The News For A Few Days
If negative news from around the globe is getting to you, just remove yourself for a few days.
It's great to be informed, but sometimes it can be overwhelming and really bring you down. Give yourself a break. The news will be there when you get back to it.
10. Have Your House Cleaned
Part of the joy of staying at a hotel is that someone else cleans your room. But you can get that at home, too.
Call a local housecleaning service and have them do your home. How extensive the clean is up to you, but it's a great little treat.
You don't have to travel far, or at all, to regroup and reconnect. Sometimes all it takes is a shift of your mind, not of your location.
What would you do on a staycation? Let us know in the comments, and SHARE this vacation alternative with your friends!
