Not everyone has the time or money to travel during the summer months. Fortunately, you don’t have to board a plane or break the bank to enjoy a relaxing and fulfilling staycation. A staycation is a vacation spent at or near home. It can be just as relaxing as a getaway, especially when you take the time to plan it. Whether you're single, a couple looking for fun activities, or a family with curious kids, here are some creative ideas to turn your summer staycation into something truly special.
Best staycation tips this summer
Explore nature
Take advantage of nearby parks, lakes, beaches, or hiking trails. Pack a picnic, bring a camera, and spend the day soaking up the sun. Nature has a powerful way of grounding us and offering perspective. Even just a few hours immersed in greenery can lift your spirits and improve mental clarity.
Backyard camping adventure
Bring the outdoors to your doorstep with a backyard camping experience. Set up a tent, roll out sleeping bags, and cook over a fire pit or grill. Sing songs, play card games by flashlight, and stargaze at the night sky. For kids, it’s an exciting change of scenery. For adults, it’s a nostalgic escape with none of the packing hassles.
If you don’t have a backyard or your idea of camping is more like glamping, then move things inside. Make some space and set up a tent, blow up air mattresses and add some fun lighting. Add rugs and beanbag chairs, blankets and other decorations to create a unique atmosphere. Whether inside or outside, camping has a positive impact on your emotional well-being and helps improve your mood.
Be a tourist in your own town
Many of us overlook the attractions in our own cities. Look up local museums, art galleries, botanical gardens, historic neighborhoods, or scenic walking trails you’ve never explored. Consider taking a walking tour, riding a bike around a new area, or trying out local cuisine at new restaurants. Rediscovering your city can feel like an entirely new adventure.
Plan a theme week
Pick a theme and shape your entire week around it. Try “Tastes of the World” with each night’s dinner inspired by a different country — Mexican Monday, Thai Tuesday, Italian Wednesday, and so on. Or go with a film festival theme, watching movies from different countries or by a favorite director, complete with matching snacks and drinks. It’s a fun way to add anticipation to your staycation.
Make your own festival
Organize your own mini festival in your backyard or living room. String up lights, make a playlist of your favorite tunes, and set up stations for food, games, or crafts. You can invite a few friends or keep it small with just family. Consider adding fun touches like temporary tattoos, tie-dye shirts, or a photo booth for extra fun and great memories.
Start a patio garden
Use your staycation to start that patio garden you’ve been thinking about. Choose planters in a variety of colors and textures. Consider adding hanging pots as well. Select a mix of herbs, vegetables, and flowers to brighten your space and give you a project to enjoy long after your staycation ends. Gardening can be a peaceful, grounding activity, perfect for slowing down and connecting with nature, even in the city.
Take a digital detox
Designate a full day or even a whole week to unplug. No phones, no emails, no social media. Instead, read a book, write in a journal, cook a meal from scratch, or play a board game. A digital detox helps reset your mind and body and can be more refreshing than an expensive trip.
Create a home spa day
Transform your home into a personal oasis. Light scented candles, diffuse essential oils, play soft music, and treat yourself to facials, massages, foot soaks, and meditation sessions. You can even set up a DIY juice or smoothie bar with fresh ingredients to complete the spa experience. The key is to slow down, unplug, and give yourself permission to indulge.
Master a new skill or hobby
Always wanted to learn how to paint, play an instrument, or do yoga? Use your staycation time to start a new hobby or deepen an existing one. Take an online class or find free tutorials and commit to practicing each day. The sense of accomplishment and joy from learning something new can be just as fulfilling as travel.
Set up a reading nook
If your idea of vacation is curling up with a good book, make that your plan. Gather a stack of novels, nonfiction favorites, or audiobooks and carve out quiet time to read. Set up a cozy nook with pillows, snacks, and your favorite drink. You can even take your book to the park or local beach for a change of scenery.
Unwind
A staycation is less about where you go and more about how you approach your time off. With a little planning and creativity, you can make your home or local surroundings feel new and exciting. The key is to take a break from your normal routine, set boundaries around work or chores, and give yourself permission to unwind.
This summer, skip the stress of airports and travel itineraries. Your best vacation might be right outside your door.
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Photo courtesy Pixabay/Shirley810
Barbara Bauer is a Georgia-based blogger obsessed with inspiring others in the pursuit of self-development. She enjoys exploring the outdoors, drinking way too much coffee, and speaking with a British accent whenever possible.
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