Staycations have become more than just a trendy buzzword – they’re a real solution for those seeking a break from the daily grind without the hassle and expense of traditional vacations.
Whether you’re trying to cut down on costs, limit your carbon footprint, or simply avoid the stress of airports and travel plans, staycations are a fantastic alternative. And yes, they come with mental health benefits too! Here’s how you can plan the perfect staycation, guilt-free, so you feel just as refreshed as if you were lounging by the beach.
ALSO SEE: How to stop feeling guilty for using your annual leave
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The benefits of staycations vs. traditional vacations
Let’s be real: planning a vacation can sometimes feel like a job in itself. Researching flights, booking accommodation, creating itineraries – it’s exhausting! Staycations, on the other hand, strip away the pressure to “do it all.” And there are perks:
- Cost-effective: Without airfare, hotels, and dining out at every meal, you’ll save big. Plus, it’s kinder to your wallet, meaning you can indulge in local experiences guilt-free.
- Mental health boost: Traditional vacations, while fun, often come with travel stress – flights, delays, and navigating a new place. A staycation permits you to truly unwind in a familiar environment, helping reduce anxiety and improve mental well-being. You can easily focus on self-care, and without the pressure of a packed itinerary, you’ll feel more relaxed overall.
- Environmental impact: By cutting down on travel, staycations are kinder to the environment. Fewer flights and road trips mean a smaller carbon footprint.
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Different ways to “stay-cate”
There’s no one-size-fits-all for staycations, and that’s the beauty of it! Here are some creative ways to turn your home or local surroundings into the ultimate getaway:
Create a spa day at home
Break out the face masks, run a bubble bath, light some candles, and put on calming music. Treat yourself to an at-home spa experience with a DIY massage or mani-pedi. You can even order in your favourite healthy meals for the full wellness retreat experience.
Local adventure day
Visit nearby museums, parks, or nature reserves that you’ve been meaning to explore. Sometimes the best gems are in your backyard – it’s all about seeing your town with fresh eyes.
Turn off the tech
Consider a digital detox. Shut off the notifications, silence your phone, and dive into some deep relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, doing yoga, or simply meditating, this tech-free day can work wonders for your mental clarity.
Recreate a “travel” experience at home
Love Italian cuisine? Why not host a homemade Italian dinner, complete with a playlist of Italian classics? Or create a movie marathon night with international films, paired with themed snacks to mimic travelling the globe – without leaving your couch.
Staycation outdoors
If you love nature, consider backyard camping or a local hiking trip. Pack a picnic, set up a tent, and stargaze, all without the long drive to a campsite. Bonus? You still have access to your bathroom!
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How to not feel guilty when staycationing
Let’s face it: in a culture that celebrates “doing the most,” taking time to rest can sometimes feel indulgent or even lazy. But here’s a secret: you deserve it. Rest is not a reward, it’s a necessity. Don’t fall into the trap of feeling like you have to be constantly productive to be worthy of a break.
To kick guilt to the curb, try these tips:
- Remind Yourself Why You Need This: Whether it’s burnout, stress, or a need to reconnect with yourself, acknowledge that taking time to recharge is crucial for your well-being. A staycation is just as valid as any trip abroad!
- Set Boundaries: Make sure everyone knows you’re on a staycation – yes, that
- includes work! Set boundaries with colleagues, family, and friends. Let them know that you’re taking this time off and won’t be available for interruptions. Trust us, the world will survive without you for a few days!
How to feel truly rested after a staycation
Staycations are all about unplugging from your usual routine to recharge, but it’s essential to approach them with intention. Here’s how to make sure you feel truly rested:
- Plan: Just because you’re staying home doesn’t mean you should leave everything to the last minute. Set some loose plans or a schedule, whether it’s setting aside a day for self-care, a local day trip, or booking a restaurant you’ve been dying to try.
- Get into vacation mode: Treat it like any other vacation. Don’t clean the house, don’t run errands, and don’t check your emails! Set your out-of-office message and switch your mindset to rest mode.
- Create an at-home oasis: Make your space feel like a retreat. Whether it’s rearranging the furniture, adding a few fresh plants, or treating yourself to new bedding, transform your environment so it feels like a fresh, relaxing space – perfect for unwinding.
- Indulge “Me Time”: Use this time to focus on things that bring you joy. Whether that’s binge-watching your favourite series, finally getting through that book pile or practising mindfulness, do what fills you up emotionally.
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