Options For Low Cost Staycation Ideas

In his book, The Great American Staycation, writer Matt Wixon posits that families can have fun in their own backyards for less. "Camping is a classic low-cost vacation idea that has always been popular," he says.

"The difference now is that we have a lot more options. We are so much more connected with the Internet. It's easier to research the possibilities in your city that you don't know about, as well as the attractions and destinations within about 100 to 150 miles."

Staycation ideas have many benefits. "A staycation allows a family to save money, while spending more quality time together and helping a local economy," says Wixon. "Avoiding the hassle of travel is another big benefit.

You'll be in control of the itinerary, instead of an airline that is rarely on time. You won't worry about what luggage you need to check and whether it will make it to your destination with you.

There will be no waiting in lines at the airport, no questions such as 'have you had control of your bag since you packed it?' and no chance you'll be randomly selected for a baggage inspection or body search. We've all heard someone say, 'I need a vacation to recover from my vacation.' The hassle of travel is the reason."

Staycation ideas can be tailored to an adult couple's interests. "I love sporting events, museums, comedy clubs, concerts, even just driving to a nearby town and exploring a little," Wixon says. Or stay-cations can be more family-oriented. "With young kids, some of the simplest things create the best staycation memories.

Riding the commuter train downtown is a huge thrill for my kids, and when the destination is the aquarium or a museum, it becomes a staycation day they talk about for weeks," Wixon adds. One of his family's most memorable staycations was a trip to an indoor aquatic center.

Afterward, they went to a store to get cookies and his son said, "Dad, don't you think this is the best special day ever?" Wixon recalls, "That was a reminder to me of how great a staycation can be. It might not be the vacation of a lifetime, but it's the right vacation for this time in my life."

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Couples Finding Nearby Staycation Places

Staycation places are defined by their proximity to your home. If you can drive there in just a few hours, you're technically "staycationing." During rocky economic times, more and more Americans are choosing to hop in the car to "get away from it all," rather than purchase an airplane ticket and take an overseas excursion.

The benefit of vacationing so close to home is that you don't have to endure all the logistical hassles of far-flung travel. Instead, you just pack up your car and leave your stress behind. Couples especially love the idea of the staycations, which allow them the time and opportunity to bond.

The Hilton Spa in Sedona is one of the nicest staycation places in the southwest. The European-style spa offers swimming pools, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and a fitness center, in addition to their wide range of salon and spa service options.

Another top-rated place to stay is The Enchantment Resort with its world-class restaurants, spas, rooms and activities. Tennis, biking, watercolor classes, photography, wine tasting and yoga are all fun activities for your Arizona staycation.

If you're feeling active, then you may elect to take a short, challenging hike to Cathedral Rock. For a pleasant evening, book a reservation at L'Auberge de Sedona, where you'll dine under the stars and enjoy an award-winning wine list, along with gourmet French-American cuisine.

No matter where you live, national and state parks make excellent staycation places. You may choose to camp overnight in a tent or cabin, or you may just make a day-trip out of it.

Some people pack picnics of sandwiches, fruit, champagne, cheese and crackers. Others like to take the barbecue approach, grilling up steaks and s'mores for dessert.

Many local service providers offer equipment rentals for kayaks, canoes and mountain bikes if you're the active type. Of all the staycation strategies, the key is to leave your cell phone, computer and work-related stresses behind.

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