Staycations: The Vacation Alternative

If you are planning your next vacation, you may have to consider finding a cheaper and inexpensive one; why not consider a vacation without all the hassle and unnecessary spending. Staycations have become more popular these days due to our current economic recession and rising unemployment levels. Staycationing gives you a chance to take advantage of the things right in your own backyard... why deal with packing and plane fare, especially during one of the most crowded travel times of the year? Anyplace can be a vacation destination, and with a few tips and ideas, you can have a more stress free vacation that gives you better bang for your buck.

Be a local tourist

There are plenty of tourism spots in your local city that you may not even know to exist. If you call your local tourism center you can find loads of information that will better equip and prepare you. Most cities will have local museums, whether it’s the museum of natural history, a museum that shows historical views and history of that particular local area. Many capital cities will have tours of the state buildings and local legislative structures.

Pitch a tent in the backyard

You can have a great camp out in your own backyard, without the worry local critters snatching food and outdoor potty pursuits. You can even be a little lax when it comes to electronics. Plugging in radios and a television for movie entertainment can go over well. Sleeping outdoors in sleeping bags is a must when it comes to the true outdoor experience.

Create an outdoor retreat that mimics a beach resort

There are several ways to make your own backyard transform into an island oasis. Using beach cabanas, umbrellas and patio furniture is just a start. You can have great summer theme parties and barbeques with your friends and family. Add a fire pit and you can roast marshmallows and sing songs by the camp fire. The best part is that you can create a outdoor living area that you can have not only for your staycation experience but for many years.

Plan movie nights

Movie night doesn’t have to involve spending a whole lot of money at the local cinema. Choose DVDs that your family will enjoy and even family movies that will help bring you closer. Pick a date with a time and place throughout the summer holidays and mark them on your calendar, this way you and your family have something to look forward to.

Eat well

If you have time to plan meals, grill, and experiment then plan events where you can showcase new recipes, like barbeques and outdoor picnics. Choose restaurants that are not always your typical fast food choices and splurge a little. Another idea is to plan ice cream socials and potlucks with neighbors and friends because it cuts the cost down when everyone is contributing.

Take photos and video memories

And don't forget to take photos and video of all the fun things you’ve done throughout your spring and summer vacation. Just because you didn't travel hundreds of miles away to do them doesn’t mean they are not worth recording.