Ever hear the word “staycation?” Ever take a staycation and fondly recall the memories of your blissful 'vacation' 6, 12, 18 months later? No? Didn't think so. That's because 'staycations' are not vacations.
A few years ago, this new word joined our lexicon and gave a name to exploring one's own backyard instead of leaving town for a vacation. But let's be real, staycations are not nearly as fun as vacations, and you've known that all along.
There, I said it. Now if you'll just recite along with me we can all get back to vacationing the proper way.
Don't get me wrong – I firmly believe it is always a good idea to take time out of your busy schedule to enjoy local activities. However, the primary reason people want – and need – to leave town for vacation is the very reason why staycations are not a viable substitute. The purpose of a vacation is to change up the pace and turn your focus away from your daily responsibilities, whatever they may be.
Don't have the cash for a vacation? No worries. Find a way to slow down and take advantage of the activities and amusements close to home. But don’t be fooled into thinking you will have the same experiences – or find the same type of mental relief – as you would if you traveled to another destination.
My family and I went to Chicago last summer for four days (doing so on the cheap) and we still talk about the trip at least weekly. We went to the Boston aquarium (near my home) this past weekend. It hasn’t been mentioned once.
Here are a few tips for budget travel to consider before deciding you can’t afford a vacation:
1. Be flexible on dates and fly on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday.
2. Be flexible on destination.
3. Travel offseason (don’t go to Hawaii in May or December; go to ski areas in late April or September; you get the idea).
4. Stay in all-suite hotels (the kinds with full kitchens) so you can eat breakfast and lunch somewhere other than a restaurant (Homewood Suites even offers a free breakfast buffet in every location). Alternative to this would be either renting a private apartment or house-swapping, which can definitely be less expensive.
5. Seek out all the free activities a destination has to offer and let that help decide where you go.
6. Take local public transportation whenever possible.
7. Instead of expensive touristy souvenirs (t-shirts, toys, etc), let your kids choose something from a local grocery store for memories (my son still talks about the British chocolate I brought him from a recent trip to London).
8. Give each child a disposable camera and let them take whatever pictures they want. This creates great memories from their perspective.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with losing yourself in your own town for a few hours, but don’t let anyone tell you it is a substitute for the real thing.
Am I wrong? Am I missing something? Please share thoughts!
© Cheapflights Ltd Carl Schwartz
