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Everyone deserves a night vacation after a stressful few days, weeks, or months. But vacations are not cheap! As much as I’d love to take four or five big trips a year, I stick with staycations. A staycation is a vacation from home.
I consider a staycation a break from chores and work while staying local. You might think going out in the local community is expensive. That might be true, depending on the area. However, there are ways to save money on a staycation regardless of location.
I’ve curated a list of 14 ways to save money on your next staycation. While on a staycation, I chose things I’ve done before and consulted social media for ideas. These are all cheap or even free ways to relax.
Check them out and see if you don’t agree they can save you money.
1. Pack Meals
If you aren’t careful, staycations can be just as expensive as out-of-state or international getaways. Honestly, I spend so much on food when I’m on vacation. Cooking is one of those tasks I love taking a break from. Some people love cooking, but to me, it feels exhausting.
Still, if you’re looking to save money while enjoying a few days off, consider packing snacks and meals for your days out. Sandwiches are easy to make. You can also get a cooler with drinks, snacks, and fruits.
2. Share Take Out
As I said, I struggle to cook on vacation, even during staycations. It’s so much easier to eat out. If you aren’t feeling a sandwich but need to feed a few people, consider splitting takeout.
There is a Chinese restaurant just across the street from me. When my partner and I take a weekend off, we always order a plate to split. This is perfect if you choose a spot known for its huge portions.
3. Plan a Weekend at Home
I’d be on a plane to a new location every week if it were up to me. But money doesn’t grow on trees, and international flights alone are pricey. Thankfully, staying at home is free once the bills are paid.
Instead of planning a local trip with a hotel or rental, plan a weekend. You can schedule movies, crafts, and more. Is there a video game you really want to play? Try it out!
4. Take a Hike
This doesn’t apply to everyone, but it’s worth a mention. Another way to save money on a staycation is to plan free or cheap walks. Hiking is one of my favorite activities. Most local parks offer free nature trails.
However, choose a spot you’ve never been to to make the staycation more exciting. State parks offer underrated trails and scenery for a low price.
5. Check out Groupon
As much as I love saving money, I love going out even more. I’m not gonna lie. I like experiencing new things. What better way to do this during a staycation than with a coupon?
Groupon is a great website for finding discounted tickets and offers. Through Groupon, I’ve toured wineries, chocolate museums, farms, science museums, and local mini golf.
6. Use Your Annual Memberships
This is another money-saving staycation tip that might not apply to you. But if you have an annual pass or local membership, use it during your staycation. This could be a year pass to the zoo, aquarium, art museum, state parks, theme parks, or more.
You’ve already paid it, so that expense is out of the way. If you visit on a weekday, the crowds are generally also low.
7. Use Gift Cards
I’m a gift card fiend. When saving for a vacation, I exchange gift card points on different websites. One of my favorites is Swagbucks.
Through Swagbucks, you can earn points, also known as Swagbucks, and exchange them for gift cards. The gift cards I’ve used include Airbnb, Southwest Airlines, Paypal Cash, AMC Movies, and more. You can pay for Uber, a trip to the movies, and takeout if you earn enough.
8. Enjoy Pool Time
Pool time only applies if youcan accesso one and the weather is just right. Imagine trying to swim during a thunderstorm or an icy cold winter. It’s dangerous and unpleasant.
Still, I thought it was worth a mention. For the most part, pools in apartments and homes are free. You don’t have to spend money on food either. Just pack and bring your favorite drinks and snacks and maybe a speaker for music.
9. Picnic Lunches
There is just something so romantic and sweet about planning a picnic. Picnics don’t have to be overly fancy, either. My husband and I try to picnic at least once a month. During a staycation, picnics are an excellent and inexpensive choice.
Go to your favorite park or lake with packed meals and a blanket. Enjoy the sunset and the wildlife. Maybe even pick up a book and read and relax.
10. Visit Local Festivals
You’d be surprised just how many events your city or town holds. Check out your hometown’s Facebook page or website if you have a few days off. Hopefully, they will update events.
You might get lucky and find one for free during the same time as your staycation. My partner and I spent a whole day at a spring market during our staycation, people-watching and talking with cool vendors.
11. At-Home Spa Day
Sometimes, all you need is a little self-care. But self-care, especially in the form of spa treatments, is expensive. A simple massage can cost $50 to $150 an hour, and prices vary greatly by location and service.
Instead of shelling out hundreds for massages, facials, and nails, I recommend buying the supplies yourself. Plan a day to binge-watch a show while wearing face masks, hydrating hand masks, and doing your nails. If you want a massage, just buy a cheap back massager.
12. Check in to an Airbnb
During a staycation, you aren’t stuck just in your home. You can also stay local. I recommend renting an Airbnb or hotel for a night or two.
This change of pace and scenery can do you good, even if your home is less than $20 minutes away. Find one with a relaxing pool and complimentary breakfast so you don’t have to work.
13. Resort Pass
Have you ever heard of Resort Pass? It’s an excellent way to pretend to be a tourist in your home without paying tourist prices. The website connects you with countless resorts and their pools for day and night passes.
This option is perfect if you don’t want to spend the night but also want to experience a relaxing day. I’ve found resorts with lazy rivers for as low as $35 a person. While food isn’t included, the resort usually has restaurants and bars.
14. Cook a Luxurious Meal
While I agree that you shouldn’t need to cook or work too hard while on a staycation, some people love cooking. If this is you, whip out your culinary skills and try to make a luxurious dish.
Instead of spending money on a pricey restaurant for convenience, challenge yourself. You can even make it a date by including your partner.
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