How To Have The Best Staycation Ever

The holiday season is almost here, which for many, is a time to take time off of work and school to enjoy a nice getaway. But this year, COVID has replaced these nice holiday vacations, with social distancing and more time at home. Luckily, we have some tips for how you can indulge in a staycation to recharge your batteries and escape reality for a few days. 

Schedule Time Off of Work 

Be sure to schedule days off from work to make time for your staycation, so that you can fully allow yourself to take a break. Now that many of us are working from home, the distinction between work and downtime is more blurred than before. This is why it is EXTRA important to completely avoid looking and responding to emails, answering calls, or doing anything work related. Just as you would hopefully avoid doing work on a real vacation, do the same for your staycation.

Disconnect & Disengage

On that note, let your friends and family know that you are taking a few days off work and won’t be available. Avoid looking at news, social media, or anything that hinders your ability to escape reality for a little while. Truly disconnecting from the news and the internet can help decrease stress and anxiety, helping you recharge your batteries during your time off. 

Let Most Of Your Planning Go Out The Window!

Our lives are always regimented and planned out these days, so, while you enjoy your staycation, avoid planning a rigid schedule. Let yourself do whatever you want to do, whenever you want to do it! You can think of ideas of things that would sound appealing to do on your time off (such as laying in bed all morning, taking a virtual dance class, having a wine and painting afternoon, taking a night hike with your partner, etc.) but don’t make a set in stone schedule that you NEED to follow. This is your time to just go with the flow and do what your heart desires. 

Do Plan Some Delicious Meals

One of the best parts about going on vacation is eating really delicious food! So, treat yo’self to some good eats during your staycation! Make a list of your favorite local restaurants or places that you’ve always wanted to try and order take out at least a few times during your time off! Of course, you can also use this time to experiment in the kitchen and try making some fun recipes. No matter what, as foodies, we think the food should be of top priority on your staycation!

Take Those Photos

On regular vacations, we take lots of photos for the memories, so why not do the same for your staycation? Take photos of things you are doing, of your family, or partner that your staycationing with, the food you eat and so on! Maybe get creative and take some artsy photos! As silly as it may seem to document your staycation, in the long run, you’ll appreciate being able to look back on your best staycation ever.

Make It Your Own

Ultimately, it’s up to you how you plan to staycation. There is no right or wrong way to do it. What really matters is that you allow yourself to recharge your batteries and live life for on your own terms for a few days doing the things that fulfill you (whether that's sleeping or trying a new hiking trail). Simply changing your perspective about your staycation can also help you have the best staycation ever! Get excited about your staycation (as you would a regular vacation), let go of your stress and worry, and enjoy your R&R time!