Five Tips For a Summer Staycation

We’ve reached the peak of summer, and although we cannot enjoy it in the same way we have in years past, we can still make the most of the beautiful weather and extra free time by planning a staycation. Staycations are a great low-budget option to relax and unwind at home without too much effort. Many small business owners and employees have been facing high levels of stress lately, and it is important to take a step back and focus on your mental health too. These ideas and tips will help you make do that by making the most out of your summer staycation.

Bring the Outdoors to You

If you love being under the open sky and surrounded by nature, this staycation idea is perfect for you. Camp out in your backyard for the weekend with a tent, camping chairs, and a cooler of food. If there is a local park or greenbelt nearby, you can also head there to get a little distance from home. Be completely unplugged- no laptops or phones. Instead, try reading your favorite book, go on walks, grill, and tell stories. You’ll feel a lot more relaxed when you disconnect from the rest of the world for a while.

Pick a Theme

A staycation is a great opportunity to bring out your inner creative spirit. You can pick your favorite travel destination, movie, book, etc. to recreate in your home. For example, a Paris-themed staycation may involve putting on French music, learning French, and baking croissants and macaroons all day. You can take virtual tours of famous Parisian attractions like the Louvre, and finish off the day with a French movie. You’ll be able to escape your own world for a day and travel somewhere new without leaving home.

Pamper Yourself

People have been feeling stress and anxiety lately, and a staycation is a good way to combat that. Indulge in a spa day with facemasks, manicures, pedicures, and long baths. You can light a scented candle and dim the lights to create an authentic spa experience. Then order your favorite takeout and watch a movie you love. Doing little things like this that make you happy can make a huge difference in your mental health well after your staycation is over.

Make a Budget

You won’t be able to have much fun if you don’t allow yourself to spend a little money, but you also don’t want to go overboard. Budgeting is a great way to keep track of what you’re willing to spend and make the most of it. You can split up the money between food, souvenirs, and paid experiences. Think about how much you’re saving by not going on an actual vacation- the combined cost of plane tickets, accommodations, transportation, and food. Take some percentage of that and set it aside for your staycation so you can still have a good time and make fun memories.

Treat it Like a Vacation

To maximize the mental benefits of a staycation, treat it like a real break. Take lots of pictures. Tell your friends and colleagues that you are out of town or unavailable so they don’t rely on you to complete work. In fact, don’t check your work email at all, and don’t check your phone. You may still be at home, but you’re taking a much deserved break- enjoy it. Staycations are fantastic to relax and reset, so make sure you take full advantage of that.

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