As we discussed last week, summer can be expensive! A staycation is a perfect way to enjoy family time this summer while not breaking the bank. As defined by Wikipedia, a staycation is:
A period in which an individual or family stays home and participates in leisure activities within driving distance, sleeping in their own beds at night.
Though this definition says your staycation involves sleeping in your own bed at night I don’t think this is necessarily the case. I would define a staycation as:
A period in which an individual or family stays close to home and participates in activities and events within one’s hometown. This can include sleeping in their own beds at night but may include a few days away from home, but still within ones hometown.
Why Staycation?
When we told friends last summer that we were using our vacation time to plan a staycation they thought we were nuts.
Why wouldn’t you get away from here? Why would you want to stay here? Are you crazy?
We weren’t. If you’re a working individual whose time is consumed by work and family, it’s tough to get out and participate in all the events your city may offer.
Halifax isn’t an exceptionally large city, less than 300,000 people, but it is vibrant and a beautiful place to live. Know what though? We have lived here almost our entire lives and have only touched the tip of the iceberg in terms of exploring and participating in everything this amazing city has to offer.
The fact is that when you live in a city you tend to take it for granted. These places/people/events will ”always” be here so you tend to explore other places. A staycation is the perfect way to stay home, save money and really explore the place you live.
Step One: Think Like a Tourist
Getting in this mindset is the first step in planning the perfect staycation. Go to a local tourist kiosk or look online at things your city has to offer. Trust me, there are places and events you didn’t even know existed. New restaurants may have opened or the local museum may have a new exhibit. Together with your family, plan out the places you want to explore and eat at.
Step Two: Budget
A huge advantage to a staycation is the money-saving aspect. It won’t be free but a staycation is substantially cheaper than driving or flying anywhere for a family getaway. Once the family decides on the places they want to see, determine the costs involved and set a budget for your family’s staycation plans. If you’re able to, a night in a hotel (or alike) may be a perfect way to end an eventful day. For most, staying away from home, even for one night, is a great way to make it seem like a vacation even though your minutes away from home.
Step Three: Money Saving Deals
Once your budget is set see if you can find any ways to trim it down even more. Check online for things like hotel vouchers, restaurant coupons and event promos. It’s always nice to set a comfortable budget only to find additional savings later!
Step Four: Enjoy!
Vacation is about relaxing, exploring and reconnecting with yourself, family and friends. Not about money spent. A staycation is a great way to do all these things. Knowing you’re not spending a small fortune is a sure way to keep stresses low and enjoyment much higher.
Have you ever done a true staycation? Why or Why not?
