A staycation is a chance to rest, explore and enjoy your time off without the cost or stress of travelling far. There are no flights, no long drives and no rushing to catch a plane. But to really feel like you’ve had a break, it helps to plan it properly. Here’s how to make the most of a staycation.
ALSO SEE: Little travel luxuries that will elevate any trip
Set your intentions
Before your break starts, think about what you want from it. It could be rest, time with family, a book you’ve been meaning to finish or just feeling less tired. Write down one or two things and keep them where you can see them.
Knowing what you want makes it easier to choose the right place to stay and decide how to spend each day.
Choose the right place to stay
The place you book can make or break your staycation. Pick somewhere close enough that you don’t spend your break driving, like a guesthouse, hotel, lodge or self-catering spot in your area. Then choose it based on what you want from your break. If you want to rest, look for a pool, a garden or a view. If you want to cook, make sure there’s a kitchen.
Check what’s included before you book, like breakfast, parking and check-out times, so there are no surprises when you arrive.
Plan a few things, but not everything
A staycation works best with a loose plan. Pick one or two things to look forward to each day, like a long breakfast, a walk somewhere new or dinner at a restaurant nearby. Leave the rest of the day open.
If you plan every hour, it starts to feel like another full schedule. If you plan nothing, the days can disappear. A bit of both works best.
Allow yourself to do nothing
You don’t have to fill every day. Some of the best parts of a break are the slow, empty hours, like reading by the pool, sitting on the balcony or having a nap in the middle of the day.
If you start to feel guilty about not being productive, remind yourself that rest is the whole point of a break.
Be a tourist in your own city
Most of us only see a small part of the place we live in. Look up what’s on in your area, then go and see it like a visitor would. That could be a hike you’ve been meaning to do, a farm stall or market, a coastal drive, a museum or a restaurant that’s been on your list for months.
Try going on a weekday when it’s quieter. Popular spots are often more enjoyable without the weekend crowds.
Treat yourself without overspending
Since you’re not paying for flights, you can put a little of that money towards something nice. Book a massage, try a new restaurant or add a special breakfast to your stay. Set a small budget before you start so the treats stay enjoyable.
Keep your phone out of the way
It’s easy to fill your time off with screens. Try keeping your phone in your bag for part of the day, or turn off notifications for a few hours. You’ll be more present, and the days will feel longer in a good way.
Make a few memories
Take a few photos, write down a favourite moment each evening or keep a small list of things you loved. When your break is over, you’ll have something to look back on.
Enjoy your time off
A staycation is about giving yourself time to rest and enjoy what’s around you. With a bit of planning and some time away from your screen, you can come back feeling refreshed, without going far from home.
ALSO SEE:
Featured Image: Pexels
