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Staycations are on the rise. Part of it is due to stay-at-home orders and the necessity of social distancing, but staycations have always had some popularity. “One of the greatest benefits of a staycation is the savings,” says Seri Kertzner, Chief Party Officer at Little Miss Party Planner. “You’re not spending on a hotel or travel so you can splurge on hiring a masseuse, fitness instructor, or chef.” The economical appeal of staycations doesn’t mean that you have to be limited in their level of relaxation or rejuvenation, either.
Since every person has their own idea of what it means to relax, that gives you a lot of creative control in recreating your ideal vacation at home. Kertzner suggests finding ways to make it special—like adding scented candles and fresh flowers to your living space for a day of aromatherapy or splurging on brand new bed sheets and robes for movie night in bed. Your staycation can be tailored as you need to make it enjoyable. If you’re planning yours, here’s how to use the time to refresh your body, mind, and spirit.
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Determine what you want to do.
A staycation means more than just sitting on the couch and streaming your favorite shows (although that can certainly be a big part of it!). You can do a number of different activities from the comfort of your own home, such as a virtual museum tour or a online game night with friends. You can also turn your backyard into an island getaway replica and pretend that you’re in Bora Bora. You can pitch a tent and pretend you’re camping. The key is to know what you want to do so that you can prepare for a relaxing time.
Budget and gather your supplies.
You don’t want to have to run everyday errands on your staycation. Kertzner suggests stocking your fridge with both your favorite meal staples and any fancy treats you want to enjoy on your staycation. Prep your meals ahead of time to minimize cooking or prepare a budget for ordering out and having food delivered.
If you need to create an atmosphere at home, you’ll want to get the decorations you’ll need to make an at-home replica of your dream vacation. That might mean purchasing a camping tent for the backyard, additional lounge chairs, a small pool, or even a jigsaw puzzle. Once you have everything together and ready to go, pick a date and put it on your calendar. Our lives tend to be busy so it’s easy to forget to take time for ourselves, so remember: No errands, no housework, nothing.
Indulge in an at-home spa.
A staycation is not complete without at least one spa evening. You can put together a self-care kit that includes essentials like a facial gua sha or a jade roller for glowing skin, a knotted silk headband, homemade bath salts, and a manicure kit with your favorite nail polish. Set the mood with your favorite scented candles.
Make an itinerary.
Vacation packages from your travel agent will typically include an itinerary. You’ll want to make one for your staycation, too. “You don’t have to stick to it but if you have a plan in place, then you have the option to follow it or just chill and you’ll be sure to avoid the stress of not knowing what to do next,” Kertzner says. Preparing an itinerary helps you to visualize your staycation.
