Can I share something with you guys? Staycations are my jam! As much as I enjoy globetrotting, staycations are just as fun and can typically be an inexpensive way to create a vacation-like experience without traveling too far from home.

Recently I planned a staycation in Richmond, Virginia for a few days, which is about an hour away from where I live in Williamsburg. My trip to Richmond was a short getaway and exactly what I needed. The main goal of a staycation is to take a break from your daily routine. I work from home and changing up my environment helps to get my creative juices flowing and gives me inspiration for my blog.

Check out these 4 ways to help you plan your next staycation:

1.Figure out what you like to do

One of the main things to keep in mind when planning your staycation is figuring out what you enjoying doing when you travel and then recreating those same experiences, even if it’s in your city or a city nearby. If you enjoy going to the spa or you’re a foodie and you like trying out new restaurants, you can include these experiences during your staycation.

2.Book a Hotel room or Airbnb

Staying in a hotel or Airbnb can make your next staycation feel like you’re on a regular vacation. There are some hotels that will give locals a discounted residents rate if you book a room in your area. Another way to save on accommodations is to take advantage of reward programs or check out local Airbnb’s. Booking an Airbnb can be a nice way to explore your city because a lot of times the host will have printed handouts/brochures filled with things to do locally.

3.Meet new people

If you’re like me, I love going to events and meeting new people. It doesn’t matter if I’m traveling to another country or going to a city nearby. It’s one of my favorite things to do. During my last staycation in Richmond, I drove an hour away to attend a networking event to meet other bloggers in the area. Meeting new people in your city or in a city nearby has become increasingly easy with the help of sites like Eventbrite or meetup where you can meet new people who share similar interests.

4.Do Something You’ve Never Done Before

I used to live in New York City for several years and I was recently telling a friend that I’ve never visited the Statue of Liberty, which sounds crazy because so many people from all over the world come to New York City just to see it. It’s a historic staple in the New York City skyline. Often times we take for granted the amazing attractions that are in our backyard. Doing something you’ve never done before in your city or in a city nearby can feel like you’re on a regular vacation. You can find a list of must-see attractions by checking out travel blogs or connecting with other travelers in Facebook travel groups.

Have you taken a staycation? If so, how was your experience? I’d love to hear from you in the comments. Xo