When it's time for a family vacation, we often dream of exotic destinations, sandy beaches, and beautiful resorts. In reality, most parents know that planning a fabulous family holiday can be expensive (high cost of living), time-consuming, and stressful.
However, panic not; we're here to tell you there are plenty of ways to relax and make memories without traveling far from home. Welcome to the world of the staycation, where you can create lasting memories for the whole family from the comfort of home. In this blog post, we share our top staycation ideas and parent tips you can try without packing a suitcase – unless you want to, of course!
5 Top Staycation Tips for Parents
1. Campout in the Backyard:
There is nothing like an outdoor camping experience, but why travel far when you can have backyard camping with your little ones? You'll have all the convenience of home while experiencing the joy of sleeping under the stars. Pitch a tent, gather around the campfire, and unplug from the daily grind. Don't forget to pack marshmallows for a good ol' s'mores-making session!
2. Outdoor Movie Night:
Watching movies from home is relaxing but can be even more enjoyable in the right setting. Create a cozy outdoor movie experience where you can snuggle under blankets and eat popcorn while watching your favorite movies. All you need is a screen, chairs, a projector, and speakers. It's the perfect way to spend a fun-filled evening with family and friends. If you don't have access to a projector and speakers, you could always lug the tv outside and use an extension cable as its power source! Or ditch the movie entirely and get the kids to put on a sock puppet show or a short play.
3. Host a Family Game Night:
Board games are excellent for bringing family and friends together. Unleash their competitive spirit and have a game night where everyone can engage in friendly competition. You can even spice it up by playing games with prizes such as gift cards, snacks, or cute items. From card games to charades, there are endless options to explore so everyone can have a fun time.
4. DIY Spa Day:
Every family deserves a little pampering, and what better way to indulge in relaxation than with a spa day? You can create a home spa experience with your child by using DIY face masks, painting your nails, and having a relaxing bubble bath. It's an affordable way to bond with your child while enjoying some well-deserved self-care. Making time for you is important when implementing positive parenting strategies.
5. Take a Virtual Tour: Â
Since the pandemic, virtual tours have become extremely popular, but more than being a means of entertainment when one is ill, they're also a great staycation idea! You can explore many places via online videos and tours without having to visit them in person. In fact, with a bit of research and the use of technology (phones, tablets, or computers), you and your family can go on virtual tours of zoos, museums, parks, and landmarks worldwide. It's an easy way to experience different cultures and learn about history or nature without leaving home.
Tips for Parents Planning the Perfect Staycation
- Have a schedule
Just because you’re at home, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a holiday, fun-time schedule! Kids feel secure and happy when they know what to expect and besides, a fun filled activity calendar whether at home or away is sure to have them eagerly anticipating the day.
- Plan some downtime
While activities are great for summer fun, so is some very necessary down time. This could include quiet reading or drawing time, an afternoon nap (for little kids), or family story time. Why not take a trip to your local library and introduce your kids to the wonderful world of imagination?
- Explore your neighborhood
While staycations are all about staying at home, getting out and about is important for reducing what we like to call cabin fever! Head out to your local park, go geo-caching, go on a bear hunt around the neighborhood or head off to the ice cream parlour, simple activities are often the best!
- Staycations are great for DIY projects
Now we’re not talking about ripping out the kitchen or building a new extension onto the house. Instead, small DIY projects the kids can get involved in are the way to go. For example, creating a family den in the garden complete with fairy lights, decking and plants or redecorating your child’s bedroom. You could add fun wall décor,  purchase new bedding or repaint the furniture in their room.
Final Thoughts
Staycations are an excellent way to unite the family and make unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. By trying out our ideas, you can create a meaningful experience at home that will be enjoyable for everyone. Whether you're on a budget, have time constraints, or can't travel far, staycations are the perfect solution. Start planning your next staycation today, and make lasting memories from home.
