20 Staycation Ideas
Josh okungbaiye
Staycations are a great form of entertainment when on a budget. Staying home or close home can be, at times, more relaxing and rejuvenating than going on an expensive trip. Here are 20 fun staycation ideas you might be interested in executing. These ideas will also help if you feel bored being stuck at home and want to try something different.
GO OFF THE GRID
Turning all your electronics off could be one of your best ideas ever. Most days are busy, filled with meetings and long hours of computer and paperwork. Turning off your phone and not getting on your computer will genuinely make you feel like you are on vacation.
2. GET CRAFTY
It is always a good idea to work the right side of your brain. With a friend, family member, or just by yourself, you can hit those projects you have been meaning to but did not have the time for in the past. Whether that be building a treehouse, painting, or creating pottery, all are fun and memorable.
3. CATCH UP ON A SHOW YOU HAVE WANTED TO
If you have not had the time to catch up on a show you have meant to because of your busy work schedule, now is the time. Take the weekend to enjoy what everyone has been talking about. Grab a snack and sit back and relax.
4. READ A BOOK YOU HAVE BEEN MEANING TO
Bring out that stack of books you have meant to dive into and pick one out. A staycation is a perfect time to wind down and enjoy a good book.
5. HAVE A BAKING DAY
A way to de-stress is to bake. You could bake some cookies or a cake and make it a fun activity. Looking through a big mess, you would be making an excellent memory and some delicious sweets.
6. HAVE A HOME SPA DAY
Turn your bathroom into a spa oasis by setting out some essential oils to fill the room. Scents like lavender, rose, and chamomile are calming that will get you in the spa mood. Let a warm bath running and play some relaxing music and let yourself sink in the tub. Afterward, you could give yourself a mani-pedi, face mask, or even a body scrub.
7. HAVE A MOVIE MARATHON
Prepare some popcorn and candy; enjoy your favorite movies with some company. Whether that be the whole family or a couple of friends, this bonding time can be accomplished in the comfort of your pajamas. You have options for streaming series online or renting a couple of DVDs.
8. HAVE A GAME NIGHT
Invite some family or a group of friends over and get into your competitive side. Bond over mafia, monopoly, cards against humanity, or even heads up.
9. BE A HOMETOWN TOURIST
When living so close to attractions, you might be too busy to enjoy them on a regular day. Spend a day or weekend enjoying what other people are drawn to in your city. That might entail visiting a museum, historic districts, and local attractions. If you do not know where to start, check out your city's tourism website, and you could find some more exciting attractions you never knew.
10. HAVE A PICNIC IN THE PARK
Lay down a blanket and pack some snacks in a basket, and you are good to go. There is nothing better than enjoying a good company with some goodies on a beautiful day. This would be an excellent time to people-watch or to read a good book.
11. GO FOR A BIKE RIDE
If you need some fresh air, go outside and enjoy a nice bike ride in the comfort of your hometown. If you don't have a bike, consider renting one for the day or borrowing a friend's.
12. GO ON A HIKE
Nature can be our best friend, especially when it can mean saving some extra bucks. Put on some hiking boots or a durable pair of athlete shoes and get a good exercise on a trail. There is no doubt you won't feel relaxed and replenished when out there.
13. GO FOR A WALK IN THE CITY
When you don't have anything to do and not wanting to splurge on so much, walking is the most accessible outlet. Find an area you wish to explore in your city and enjoy sightseeing and fresh air.
14. CAMP OUT IN YOUR BACKYARD
Borrow a tent or buy a tent. It is going to be one of the best ideas you will ever have. Pack some drinks and snacks in a cooler, then find sleeping bags, blankets, a flashlight, and possibly an insect repellent for everyone. Savor the time spent outside telling stories to the kids and looking at the stars.
15. SPEND A DAY IN THE WATER
If you have access to a body of water, use it to your advantage. Either that be the pool, lake, or beach, you are looking at an opportunity of a fun trip. You could go for a swim, cruise on the lake, or tan at the ocean. Pack with you some cold drinks, and you are set for a relaxing day.
16. TRY A NEW RESTAURANT
A staycation is a perfect opportunity to try out a new restaurant you might not usually gravitate towards. You could even jazz it up by dressing up to go out.
17. STAY IN SOMEONE ELSE'S HOME
Sometimes a staycation calls for a move out of the house. This does not necessarily mean you have to stay with a family member or a friend's house. The more creative idea would be to rent an Airbnb for a night or the weekend. A change of scenery and a new environment can help you be relaxed.
18. ATTEND A LOCAL EVENT
Google some events happening nearby or search them on Facebook. There is always something happening in every major city; you have to know where to look. Grab some friends, and you all can enjoy a day out bonding.
19. GO FOR A CRAWL
Grab your significant other or a couple of friends and hop around the city on a themed excursion. Your crawl theme could be pizza, cupcakes, beer, or anything you love.
20. SEE A SHOW
Find and attend a concert, play, musical, or other performances in your nearby city. Whether the performance is from Broadway, a local college, or high school, it is good to be supporting the performing arts.
Written by Nhi Nguyen