06.07.2010 / Staycation Part 1
So you want to take some much needed time off work, and hang out with the family this summer. For many people, vacation conjures up images of sandy beaches, amusement parks or exotic locations. However, for many of us right now, the images we have of vacations and what we can afford, or want to spend, are very different. That is why many people are opting to stay home and create their own vacation experiences. This is getting so popular, its even got its own name... the Staycation!
The concept of a staycation isn’t new, but the current economy has made them more popular in recent years. How does a staycation differ from just staying at home for a week? Most families try to make the most of the time on their staycation – going to places and doing things in and around their towns that they’ve always wanted to. We’ve scoured the internet to find the best advice about planning – and enjoying – your staycation!
- Think ahead - Get your family together and brainstorm what you’d like to do on your staycation. Is there an event happening or a place you’ve always wanted to go in your area? Is there something you’ve all always wanted to do but never had the time? Put it on the list! Plan out your staycation ahead of time, and you won’t fall into the trap of treating your time off like just another weekend!
- Plan your meals - No one wants to get stuck in the kitchen while on a vacation. Either plan to sample some new (to you) restaurants, freeze some meals ahead or get the whole family involved with cooking – this way Mom or Dad doesn’t get stuck in the kitchen each night!
- Get in the “vacation” frame of mind – A staycation is NOT the time to paint the house, have a garage sale or clean out the basement. If you wouldn’t do it at the beach, don’t do it during a staycation! To make your staycation as relaxing as possible, make sure you cancel those regular commitments – dance lessons, carpools, sports practices – just like you would if you left town and don’t plan any big home projects. It also helps if you keep away from the phone and checking email too!
- Don’t overplan – The best vacations have a mix of touristy fun with some good relaxation time. Don’t cram your staycation with so many activities that you forget to relax! Plot out some down time for the whole family in addition to local fun!
If you are planning a staycation this summer – let us know what you’ll be doing! Also, stayed tuned for part 2 of this article, which focuses on some great staycation ideas in and around the Omaha area!


