No Budget For Vacation? Here’s How to Staycation Like a Pro

Life happens, and sometimes a big vacation just isn’t in the cards. But that doesn’t mean you have to skip out on fun and relaxation!

Staycations, local adventures, and creative home experiences can be just as refreshing and enjoyable as a traditional vacation. It’s an opportunity to unwind, explore, and reconnect without the stress or expense of travel.

How to Staycation Like You’re on Vacation

The key to a successful staycation is fully embracing the vacation mindset.

• Set up an out-of-office email and avoid work
• Resist the urge to do chores or errands
• Create a vacation-like atmosphere (shopping list below)
• Dress the part by opting for resort-style outfits
• Plan daily activities like you would on vacation
• Let yourself relax and enjoy the experience

The best vacations aren’t about the location; they’re about the feeling of escape and joy.

Recommended Staycation Must-Haves

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To make your staycation feel like a true getaway, here’s a shopping list of must-haves that will help to create a vacation-like experience right at home.

Visitor’s Guide & Tourism Website: Go to your city’s tourism website and order or download this year’s visitor’s guide to find new attractions and restaurants. Most tourism websites also list local events and festivals, so check there too!

Make a Vacation Playlist: Curate a mix of upbeat tropical tunes, relaxing spa music, and songs that bring you joy.

Set the Mood: Scented Candles or essential oils like coconut, lavender, or citrus can transport you to a tropical paradise.

Comfy Robe and Spa Kit: Elevate your at-home spa experience with a soft, comfy robe to lounge in. Get face masks, a neck and shoulder massager, and infused water for the full-on spa experience.

String Lights or LED Candles: Create a relaxing, resort-like ambiance indoors or on your patio with soft lighting.

Tropical or Fancy Drinks: Stock up on ingredients for fruity cocktails or mocktails to sip on like you’re beachfront.

It’s okay to splurge a little on your staycation to make it feel special, and the best part is that many of the essentials are surprisingly budget-friendly!

Next, consider creating a staycation plan filled with relaxation, adventure, and creative fun.

Day 1: Resort-Style Relaxation at Home

Start your staycation by bringing the luxury of a five-star resort to your home. This day is all about pampering, unwinding, and embracing a slow, indulgent pace.

Morning: Rise and shine—except there’s no rush! Sleep in and start your day with a homemade brunch and a sparkling mimosa. Fill your space with the soothing sounds of soft music, candles and diffusers, and the fresh scent of flowers to set the mood.

After breakfast, slip into a soft robe and treat yourself to a DIY spa session. Pamper yourself with refreshing face masks, body scrubs, and a long, steamy bath. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, ask your loved one for a massage or use a heated neck wrap for that authentic luxury spa experience.

Afternoon: Step into your personal paradise by heading outside to enjoy the sun with a book in one hand and a tropical drink in the other.

Whether it’s your backyard pool, balcony, or a simple sunny window, create a five-star resort vibe with comfy chairs, twinkling string lights, and soft island-inspired music. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and imagine you’re poolside at an exclusive retreat.

Evening: As the sun starts to set, dress up and treat yourself to a gourmet meal—whether you cook it yourself or order from your favorite restaurant. Set the table with elegant dinnerware, light some candles, and pour yourself a glass of wine.

After dinner, step outside to watch the sunset, letting the golden hues melt away any lingering stress. Wrap up the night with a relaxing movie, sinking into a cozy setup with soft blankets, dim lighting, and a feeling of total contentment.

Day 2: Explore Your City Like a Tourist

Step outside and experience your city (or a nearby town) with fresh eyes.

Morning: Begin the day by visiting a café or breakfast spot you’ve never tried before. Enjoy a slow morning sipping coffee and savoring a delicious meal before exploring a state park, botanical garden, or a simple scenic walk.

Afternoon: Visit your city’s tourism website and find this year’s visitors guide to find out what’s new in town. Kayak a new body of water, take the kids to a waterpark, hunt for murals and public art for the perfect staycation selfie, or even take a guided tour to learn more about your hometown. Shop for “souvenirs” at a boutique shop you’ve been eyeing but never found the time to visit.

Evening: For dinner, choose a restaurant that serves international cuisine and try something different. Wear something new or dress up like you would on vacation.

To wrap up the day, enjoy the sunset from a new location or check out local nightlife with a friend.

Day 3: At-Home Entertainment Day

Dedicate the third day of your staycation to fun and excitement right at home.

Morning: Ease into the day with a slow, relaxing morning. Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast, then set up a cozy nook to sip coffee or tea while reading a book. Pro tip: Avoid watching the news!

Afternoon: Start the afternoon with an at-home escape room challenge with your family by downloading a printable kit online. If you love competition, set up a mini Olympics in your backyard or living room, featuring fun activities like relay races, a frisbee toss, or an obstacle course, and invite your besties!

Evening: Host a themed dinner night inspired by a different country. Prepare an authentic dish, set the table, and dress up for the occasion. After dinner, watch a movie that complements the country. Fun tip: Make it an outdoor movie night!

If no one is ready for bed after the movie, break out the karaoke machine or play charades.

Day 4: Take A Day Trip

After a few days of home-based fun, it’s time to shake things up with a mini adventure.

Morning: Pick a nearby city or town within easy driving distance and spend the day being a tourist! Visit charming local shops, stop at a roadside attraction, or check out a landmark you’ve never seen. Pro Tip: Start the day early and pack supplies in a tote or backpack like you would on vacation!

Afternoon: Try a highly-rated restaurant or a local favorite for lunch. If you’re near the coast, enjoy fresh seafood; if you’re in a more rural area, check out a farm-to-table spot or a locally-owned diner.

Then, experience something unique to your destination, like an attraction, event, or epic hiking trail. Check to see if any guided tours are available to enhance your experience and learn more about the area. Snap photos, browse local boutiques and get into the getaway vibe.

Evening: Consider a sunset dinner cruise or restaurant with outdoor dining. If the place you are visiting is lively, check for outdoor concerts, rooftop bars, night markets, or a theatre show.

However you decide to end the day, embrace the feeling of escape before heading home.

Day 5: Creativity and Reflection Day

On the final day of your staycation, embrace creativity and self-expression.

Morning: Start the morning with a photo challenge! Set a theme and capture interesting shots around your home or neighborhood. Alternatively, create a vision board! Grab poster board, magazines, scissors, and glue, and make a fun collage filled with travel destinations, dream experiences, inspiring quotes, or personal goals.

Afternoon: Start the afternoon with a paint-and-sip party, where you can channel your inner artist while sipping coffee, wine, or tea. Make it a social event and invite a few friends!

Evening: As your staycation comes to an end, take the evening to relax and reflect in a way that feels meaningful to you. Let the final hours of your staycation be about soaking in the joy of an epic staycation.