While many people use spring or summertime for an annual vacation, that may not work for every family. Instead, you can opt for a staycation. This involves sleeping in your home and taking day trips to local attractions. While they may not involve as much travel as a traditional vacation, staycations can be just as fun.
Why Take a Staycation
There are multiple benefits of a staycation. One of the most common is that it is more economical. Without the expense of airfare, hotels, and car rental, families can spend their money on the activities they want to do. This is especially helpful if you are working with a limited budget.
Staycations are also easier to plan. You may not be able to get a full week off of work, but you could manage a few days—even if it is a weekend. A staycation allows you to fill those days with fun so you don’t miss the family time of a vacation. You also don’t need to worry about lodging and travel arrangements. You simply need to plan where you are going and know you will be back to sleep in your own bed.
Taking a staycation also provides a great opportunity to explore things in your area that you don’t normally see. Whether it’s activities, museums, restaurants, or parks, there are things you and your family can explore within driving distance.
The Key to a Great Staycation
If you want a staycation to be one you and your family remember, the key is to plan it. While it may be fun to be spontaneous and see where the day takes you, you still need some plans or the day may end up filled with household chores instead of a getaway.
Take the time off work, clear everyone’s schedules, and put it on the calendar, just like you would for a regular vacation. If you’re not sure what to do, keep a running list of places you want to go with your family on a note in your phone, in a folder on social media, or you could even create a visual board to display for the whole family to see. Keeping these ideas in one place will help you when it’s time to plan.
Make Your Staycation Memorable
You can make your staycation just as special as a jet-setting getaway. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your staycation:
Plan Together: Involve your kids in the planning process. Let them choose activities and destinations to visit around your local area. This will help them feel engaged and invested in the process.
Create a Schedule: Make a loose itinerary of activities to do each day. Include a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, as well as downtime. Be sure to schedule time for meals with ideas for where to go to avoid people getting cranky.
Theme Days: Have themed days such as “Adventure Day,” “Art Day,” or “Sports Day,” where all activities revolve around that theme.
Explore Local Attractions: Visit local parks, museums, zoos, or attractions you haven’t been to before. Check the calendar on page 13 for a list of summer events in Central California.
Backyard Camping: Set up a tent in the backyard, roast marshmallows, and tell stories around a campfire. Make sure all household chores and yard work are off-limits.
Cook Together: Plan and prepare meals together. Try making new recipes or cooking foods that the kids enjoy. You can even pack food to bring on your adventures.
Game Night: For a simple staycation that is less than a full day, have a family game night with board games, card games, or video games that everyone can enjoy.
Movie Marathon: Head to the movies or pick a series of movies to watch together at home. Create a cozy movie night complete with popcorn and blankets.
Arts and Crafts: Go to the craft store and pick up fun crafts to do together. Then have a crafting day where you can make art projects or DIY crafts.
Local Food Tour: Explore different local restaurants or food trucks. Let each family member pick a place to eat.
Plan a Day: Give each person in the family one day to plan for your summer staycation. You can do them all in one week or spread them over the summer.
Make Memories Together
The best part of a staycation is the time you spend together. At the end of your staycation, reflect on the memories you’ve made together. Ask everyone to share their favorite moments and pictures from the day.
By focusing on quality time together, exploring new activities, and creating a sense of adventure, you can make your family staycation memorable and enjoyable for everyone.