How to Plan a Summer Staycation

I honestly can’t think of anything I love more than a good summer vacation.  There is just something magical about packing a suitcase, getting away and reconnecting with your loved ones.

The thing is though, you don’t really have to get away to reconnect with your family.  You can bring the vacation mentality home.  A staycation can be just as fun, not to mention less expensive and even easier to plan!

Planning the perfect summer staycation is all about doing things outside of your normal at-home-routine.  It’s all about unplugging, relaxing and enjoying the season.

1.  Look Local – Every community has special summer events, shows and festivals –  And the best part is more often than not these events are free!  Check your local newspaper to see what is going on in your area.  

2.  Make It a FUNcation For Everyone – I’m all about family time, but I also like to have one on one time with my husband.  Many communities offer fun kids day camps for a minimal fee.  This gives the kids an opportunity to engage and socialize with kids their own age, and mom and dad get some time alone  – win win in my book!  Check your local library, book store, YMCA, church and community center.  There are everything from craft camps to sports camps for kids of all ages.  It’s also a good idea to check with some of the private schools in your area as often their camps are open to all kids, not just kids that attend their school.  My own kids just attended a day camp last week at a local private school.  My daughter attended an American Girl day camp………

and my son attended a water activities camp.  It was an afternoon camp from 1-4pm.  They both really enjoyed themselves, and my hub and I enjoyed a few lunch dates.  I personally enjoyed a relaxing pedicure and some leisurely shopping.

3.  Ditch Your Normal Routine – Stay up late and sleep in.  Build forts, have a movie marathon or camp in your own backyard.

Let go of your normal routine, and just pretend you’re not at home.  It’s okay to let the house chores go during your staycation.  Every great vacation ends with a nice, big pile of dirty laundry, so why should your staycation be any different?

the sign of great staycation

4.  Splurge A Little – You’re already saving money by not traveling or staying in a hotel, so why not treat yourself to a fancy dinner or a spa day?  And you don’t have to go out to have a fancy dinner.  Prepare a seafood feast and mix up some fancy cocktails, invite some friends over and enjoy an evening of great food in the comfort of your own home!

When it comes right down to it, planning a great summer staycation is really just about planning ahead.  Get your family involved and make a list of things you’d like to do.

Whether you plan a whole week or just a day here and there, the most important thing is to enjoy your loved ones making special memories that will last a lifetime.

For more tips on how you can vacation at home including some great summer recipes and summer party theme ideas check out this FREE downloadable e-guide from Homes.com.  The guide is filled with all kinds of great ideas for planning the perfect summer staycation!  Be sure to check it out!
 

(*This post was sponsored by Homes.com but the opinions expressed are 100% my own.)