Taking a vacation doesn’t always mean hopping on a plane or escaping to an exotic destination. A staycation—enjoying a break from your usual routine right in your own home or nearby—can be just as rejuvenating, if not more so. After all, a staycation allows you to recharge while saving money and avoiding the stress of travel. But, as with any vacation, planning is key to making it truly enjoyable and meaningful. Here’s a guide, crafted with years of experience, that walks you through how to plan a staycation that will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to take on life with a renewed spirit.
Why Choose a Staycation?
Before we dive into the details, let’s answer the most important question: Why even consider a staycation?
For many, the idea of a vacation is synonymous with travel—plane tickets, hotel bookings, long waits in airports, and the typical travel hustle. However, not everyone has the time, budget, or even the desire to travel far. A staycation allows you to step out of the usual grind without stepping far from your doorstep. There’s no long flight or time zone adjustment—just pure relaxation in the comfort of your own home or a local getaway.
Research by the American Psychological Association shows that people who spend time away from their work and daily routine, even if it’s just by staying home, report lower levels of stress and higher life satisfaction. In fact, staycations can have the same health benefits as traditional vacations, according to studies conducted by the University of Pittsburgh. The key to recharging is not necessarily the destination, but the break from your normal routine.
Step 1: Set Your Staycation Goals
What do you want to achieve during your staycation? This is the first question you need to answer. Your goals will guide the entire planning process.
- Relaxation and rest? Perhaps the goal is to rest your mind and body. No need to check emails, answer calls, or run errands. Pure, uninterrupted relaxation.
- Reconnecting with family? A staycation is a great time to bond with loved ones. It can also be a great opportunity for quality time with your partner, kids, or even pets.
- Adventure at home? If you’re looking for a bit of excitement, consider turning your home into a mini resort or exploring local attractions you’ve never visited.
- Rejuvenating hobbies? If you have hobbies you’ve neglected (gardening, painting, reading), your staycation can be an opportunity to dive back into those activities.
Step 2: Declutter and Prepare Your Space
A staycation is more enjoyable when you’re not constantly surrounded by clutter or household chores. Set aside some time to clear up and organize your space before your staycation begins. Clean your living areas, change the sheets, and make your space as inviting as possible. If your goal is to relax, consider creating a cozy, serene atmosphere with candles, comfy throws, and perhaps some ambient music.
Tip: A little bit of decluttering can go a long way toward reducing mental clutter. The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health reports that decluttering reduces anxiety and helps improve focus.
Step 3: Plan Activities
Now, let’s talk fun. Planning activities is where the real magic happens. You can choose activities that mirror those you’d do on a traditional vacation or get creative and think outside the box. Here are a few ideas:
1. Spa Day at Home
A luxurious spa experience doesn’t require a fancy hotel. Create your own home spa by running a bath with bath bombs or essential oils, lighting scented candles, and listening to calming music. A DIY facial, manicure, or pedicure can be a fun way to pamper yourself.
2. Outdoor Adventure
Explore the great outdoors, even if it’s just a walk in a nearby park or hiking a local trail. A staycation is a perfect time to reconnect with nature. Research from the University of Queensland suggests that even brief exposure to nature has profound effects on reducing stress and improving mental clarity.
3. Cooking or Baking Marathon
Take the time to cook a multi-course meal, try a new recipe, or bake some of your favorite treats. Invite family members or friends to join you. Not only does cooking serve as an activity, but it’s also a way to bond and make delicious memories.
4. Local Tourism
If you’ve never fully explored your own city or town, now’s the time! Be a tourist in your own area. Visit a museum, check out local art galleries, take a day trip to a nearby historical site, or enjoy the hidden gems in your town. You’d be surprised at how much you may have missed!
5. Unplug and Unwind
Sometimes the best way to unwind is by disconnecting. Take a break from your phone, computer, and social media. This will give you a real sense of freedom and relaxation. Studies by Harvard University suggest that prolonged screen time can negatively impact your sleep and mental well-being, so unplugging is a great idea.
Step 4: Treat Yourself (and Your Family)
No staycation is complete without a little indulgence. Whether it’s enjoying your favorite foods, having an ice cream day, or watching a whole season of your favorite show without interruption, make sure you treat yourself and your loved ones.
1. Take a Day Off from Cooking
Order in from your favorite local restaurant or try something new like a food delivery service. This helps reduce the stress of meal prep and gives you more time to enjoy your staycation activities.
2. Enjoy Takeout or Local Delights
Support local businesses while enjoying your time at home. Perhaps your town has a popular bakery, café, or international cuisine spot you haven’t tried yet. A local culinary adventure can make your staycation feel special.
Step 5: Budgeting for Your Staycation
While a staycation generally saves you a lot of money compared to a traditional vacation, you still want to keep track of your budget. According to the US Travel Association, Americans spend on average $1,200 per person for a week-long vacation. For a staycation, this can be cut down significantly.
However, costs can still add up, especially if you’re planning special activities, treating yourself to takeout, or purchasing items for your home spa. Set a budget for your staycation so you can relax knowing that financial stress won’t ruin your relaxation time.
Step 6: Set Boundaries
One of the challenges of staycations is that it’s easy to let work, house chores, or other responsibilities creep in. Set clear boundaries to help you focus on your vacation. For example, you can:
- Set specific “work hours” if you absolutely must check emails or take calls.
- Delegate household responsibilities to other family members, or simply put them off until after your staycation.
- Keep your calendar clear to avoid any unplanned interruptions.
Step 7: Reflect and Reconnect
On the final day of your staycation, take some time to reflect on your experiences. Did you achieve your goals? How did you feel during your time off? Reflecting on your staycation can give you valuable insights into how you want to structure future breaks. And, if you’ve used this time to reconnect with family, take a moment to appreciate those moments together.
Common Staycation Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
While staycations can be incredibly rewarding, they do come with a few potential pitfalls:
- Over-scheduling: Don’t fall into the trap of over-planning. A staycation should feel relaxed, not like a packed itinerary. Leave room for spontaneity.
- Household Distractions: It’s tempting to use your time off to tackle home projects or chores. However, this defeats the purpose of a staycation. Set a firm rule—no housework allowed during your break!
- Not Disconnecting: If you stay glued to your phone or computer, it can be hard to fully unplug. Try putting devices in another room or using apps that block distractions.
What People Are Saying About Staycations
Sarah, 45, USA: “I’ve been doing staycations for years. It’s a great way to unwind without the added hassle of travel. I love the fact that I can sleep in my own bed and not deal with airport security. Plus, it gives me a chance to rediscover my own city. It’s become my go-to option for a quick reset.”
Javier, 33, Spain: “I started doing staycations during the pandemic. At first, I thought it was just a necessity, but I realized how valuable it is to simply enjoy my home. I can spend the day reading, exploring nearby parks, and eating my favorite foods without the stress of going anywhere.”
Chloe, 57, UK: “Staycations are perfect for me now that I’m retired. I take the time to visit museums, enjoy walks in the garden, and even try some cooking classes. No flights, no packing, no stress. Just a relaxed holiday close to home.”
Nina, 28, South Africa: “At first, I wasn’t sure about staycations. I thought I had to travel far to truly ‘vacate.’ But once I tried it, I was hooked. I treated myself to a spa day and spent time with family—best decision ever.”
Conclusion
Planning a staycation isn’t just about staying home; it’s about creating a space where you can relax, recharge, and reconnect with yourself or loved ones. By setting clear goals, preparing your space, and engaging in activities that inspire relaxation, a staycation
