6 Things You Can Do On Your Staycation

Heading off on vacation is a great way to experience new things, have some fun, and take a well-earned break from the stresses of everyday life. Unfortunately, our budgets don't always allow for one. When money is looking too tight for an all-out holiday, staycations are the perfect alternative. Simply put, a staycation is spending your time off from work at home, rather than away. This might not sound particularly fun at first, but there are plenty of things you can do to make it so. Here are six options to consider.

6 Things You Can Do On Your Staycation

​1. Go To The Beach
When most people think “vacation”, the first image that pops into their minds are beach scenes and sunny shores. If you want your staycation to feel like an authentic vacation, then head to your local beach.   If you don't live on the shore, consider visiting a lake or state park.  Many have kayak or canoe rentals, hiking and walking trails, barbeque grills, picnic tables and pavillions.
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2.  Visit Local Attractions
When you’re holidaying at home, it's important to treat your city like you a tourist would. This means visiting all of the local museums, zoos, parks, free events, and other attractions that generally appeal to out-of-towners. You can also get dressed up for the night and go for dinner and a show. Visit Footsteps On The Globe to learn more about vacationing in your own hometown.

3. Hit The Shops
I don’t know about you, but for me, one of the best parts about going on holiday is shopping, especially when it comes to hokey souvenir shops and other tourist-y spots. You may be staying at home for your vacation, but that doesn't mean that you can’t hit the shops.   Every town and city has a main shopping drag, and to make your excursion even more genuine try shopping at local mom and pop shops instead of big box stores.  Skip the chain restaurants and dine at locally owned establishments.  Chat with the shop and bar keeps, and learn a little more about these special businesses that are right in your backyard.
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4. Host A Barbeque
Nothing says summer more than grilling, so if you're staycationing over the summer, consider hosting a barbeque or a potluck and invite all of your family, friends, and neighbors over for the afternoon.  Make a pitcher of hard iced tea, and play old school card games like canasta or cribbage.  After all, it might be your staycation, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spend time with those you love!

5. Pay It Forward
You might be bummed about having to stay at home during your vacation, but it’s actually a great time to, well, donate your time!  You can call your local church or ministry and let them know you have a few days to spare, and see what they suggest.   You can also clear the clutter in your home, and donate what you no longer want or need. This is also a great time to organize a tag sale for charity or visit an old folks' home!

6.  Play With Your Kids
​Bored kids and time off from school don’t always mix, so it’s important that you spend as much time with your children during a staycation as you can. Thankfully, you don’t have to be spending buckets of money to have a good time; simply playing board games, watching a film on Netflix, or even doing chores together offers the chance for talking, laughing, and goofing around.

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Taking a staycation probably wasn’t your first choice for holiday, but that doesn't mean that it can't be fun!
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