Summer is a time to slow down and enjoy time with our friends and family. Many folks take this time to vacation, but a trip may not be in your budget this year. Vacations can cost a lot of money, but you can still have fun without traveling or spending a lot of money. Here are some ideas for “staycations” – time off work and school where you can still have fun while saving money!
1. Rediscover your local towns.
Chances are, the local towns in your region have some pretty neat attractions like museums, art galleries, zoos, or amusement parks. Spend your summer staycation doing something new and different near where you live. You can check out live concerts, farmers markets, live theater, sporting events, or even cultural festivals. The possibilities are endless! You may even discover something new you love, right down the street from your home.
2. Go camping in the backyard.
Spend an evening under the stars! Start the afternoon by grilling on a firepit or grill in your backyard. Set up a tent, and enjoy time with your friends and family around the campfire as the sun sets. Roast marshmallows, share some scary stories, or catch lightning bugs. If you have one, set up a telescope to look at stars and constellations!
3. Have a spa day.
Your dream vacation might involve a getaway to a spa resort, but you can bring that spa experience right to your own home for a much cheaper price tag. Get with your friends and plan a spa party at home that includes facials, manicures, pedicures, or even massages. You can trade services with friends or even hire local aestheticians who offer services at private residences!
4. Try something new.
A staycation is the perfect opportunity to try something new. Take a instrument lesson. Try a cooking course. Try a totally new skill like archery, kayaking, or knitting. Take a BYOB painting or pottery class. Get your friend group together and hold a kickball tournament or softball game. Try a new do-it-yourself project in your home. You can even volunteer! This could offer a meaningful memory or experience for your family during your staycation.
5. Visit a National or State Park.
Take your family on a nearby National or State Park to enjoy the natural beauty of your region. Most of these parks offer free admission, and during the summer months, they have their own daily schedule of activities planned. Visit your park’s website to see what festivals, hikes, or events they may be holding during your visit.
5. Host a movie night.
Set up an outdoor movie theater. You can rent/borrow a projector and hang a sheet in your backyard for a screen. Invite over some friends. Set up bean bags, lawn chairs, or blankets for seating. Stock up on snacks like popcorn, soda, chips and salsa, fruit and veggies, and some candy. Spend a night under the stars watching your favorite flick. Don’t forget the bug spray!
These are only a few ways you can spend your “staycation” at home. And while you are saving money, open up a vacation savings account to help you save for the next time you want to take an out-of-town trip! This way, while you are kicking back on your staycation, your money is growing!
