Staycations are all the rage these days. Whether you are single or married with children, avoiding long travel during your vacation is an ideal way to save time and money. Here are some tips for making the most of your staycation this year:
- Do Your Research
Start compiling a list of fun things to do in your area at least a few weeks in advance. This way you can discuss them with your family and vote on everyone's favorite ideas. You can also take time to research for coupons and other ways to save money on tickets and supplies.
- Make it Educational
Every city in the United States has educational opportunities just around the corner, whether it's a zoo or aquarium, a historic site, or a museum. Some cities even offer discounted city-wide attraction passes if you choose to visit more than one attraction within a certain period of time. If you have kids or even if you go it alone, check out some books from the library or rent a movie or documentary that relate to your local destinations, and learn about the place before you go. This will make your adventure even more enriching.
- Couple Up
If a friend or another family in your neighborhood is planning a staycation also, talk to them about doubling up on the fun. It is always more exciting to experience new things with other people, and it can help cut back on your expenses. If you ride together, you can split gas costs, or you can plan a picnic together and all pitch to make lunch.
- Visit a Park
Whether it's a free local park or a state or national park that charges a small fee for parking or entrance, consider checking out what your area has to offer for you staycation. Load up your family's bikes or walking gear and spend a day exploring nature. Pack a picnic lunch or come up with some ideas for games your kids can play outside.
- Do Things You Normally Would Not
When you travel for vacation, you probably relax the rules a little, so do the same for your staycation. Treat yourself and your family to ice cream for dessert at your favorite parlor one afternoon, or stay up late watching movies every night. You do not have to spend hours in a car or plane to have fun.
- Pay Attention to the Weather
If you decide to go to your local amusement park, you're going to be pretty disappointed when all the rides shut down because of rain. On the other hand, spending hours in a movie theater is kind of disappointing when you realize what a gorgeous day it is outside.
- Use What You Have
In some cases, you do not even need to leave the house or spend money to have fun. You can camp in your backyard, spend the days doing arts and crafts, or have a book marathon after a trip to the local library.
