If your summer vacation plans are up in the air, consider having a “staycation" this year!
A staycation is an affordable alternative to a traditional vacation. Instead of traveling, you get to be a tourist in your hometown. It's a great way to save money and stay close to home!
The key to a great staycation is to plan fun activities and outings like you would for a regular getaway. Need some inspiration? Here are three low- or no-cost ways to spend your staycation:
Go backyard campingBackyard camping can be just as enjoyable as camping in the woods, especially if you have young children. When you set up a tent in your yard, you can still experience the thrill of sleeping under the stars, but you'll also have the added convenience of being near your kitchen and bathroom. You can even use a grill or fire pit to cook hot dogs and s'mores! Hold a cooking or baking challengeTrying new food is one of the best parts of traveling, but you don't have to leave your kitchen to take a culinary adventure! Get creative with a cooking show-inspired competition. Choose a theme, international cuisine or “secret ingredient" and challenge your family members to a cook-off or bake-off. The tastiest dish wins! Not only will you stretch your cooking skills, but you'll also save money by eating at home. Explore your city like a touristDuring your staycation, embrace your inner-tourist and try to see your surroundings with a new perspective. Visit local parks, landmarks, museums and other tourist spots in your hometown. Or, drive to a nearby city. Be sure to take photos and learn about the area's history. You might be surprised at the hidden gems you discover!
Go backyard camping
Backyard camping can be just as enjoyable as camping in the woods, especially if you have young children. When you set up a tent in your yard, you can still experience the thrill of sleeping under the stars, but you'll also have the added convenience of being near your kitchen and bathroom. You can even use a grill or fire pit to cook hot dogs and s'mores!
Hold a cooking or baking challenge
Trying new food is one of the best parts of traveling, but you don't have to leave your kitchen to take a culinary adventure! Get creative with a cooking show-inspired competition. Choose a theme, international cuisine or “secret ingredient" and challenge your family members to a cook-off or bake-off. The tastiest dish wins! Not only will you stretch your cooking skills, but you'll also save money by eating at home.
Explore your city like a tourist
During your staycation, embrace your inner-tourist and try to see your surroundings with a new perspective. Visit local parks, landmarks, museums and other tourist spots in your hometown. Or, drive to a nearby city. Be sure to take photos and learn about the area's history. You might be surprised at the hidden gems you discover!
A staycation is a great way to take a break from everyday life and relax without spending a lot of money. No matter what you do during your staycation, the most important part is to have fun and make memories with family!
Looking for more money-saving tips and tools? Check out Wright-Patt Credit Union's online Education Center for a variety of resources, including helpful worksheets and interactive learning modules.