How to Have Your Best Spring Break Staycation – EVER!
If the words “spring break vacation” have you seeing big, multiple, scary dollar signs, it’s time to try something different. A “staycation” can give you all the perks of a vacation—without the hassle and huge expense of traveling. You’ll save time in the car or on a plane, and you can even sleep in your own comfy bed or stay in a hotel in town. Plan the best staycation on a budget with our top tips on where to go, what to do, and even what to eat!
- Invite loved ones to visit you.
Looking to cut down on travel costs for spring break? Ask your friends or family to come visit YOU rather than going to them. Take this opportunity to show them around your hometown and create new memories together, all without breaking the bank.
- Check out places in your town you wouldn’t normally visit.
Even if you don’t have loved ones visiting, why not enjoy your city solo? Use apps like Groupon or LivingSocial to discover great deals at local restaurants, historic landmarks, and small businesses. Visit a museum, amusement park, locally produced play, or even a seasonal event or festival—anything to change up your routine and have a new experience.
- Plan themed food and movie nights at home.
Staying at home doesn’t mean the world can’t come to you! Try new kinds of food every night over spring break, whether its ordering takeout meals, heading to a restaurant (where kids eat free!), or even cooking a meal yourself. Let different family members pick a theme for each night and brainstorm a food and movie to match. Themes and recipes can be as creative as you want! Check out our examples below for a “taste” of what awaits…
Day One
- Theme: India
- Food: Chicken Curry
- Movie: Life of Pi
Day Two
- Theme: The color orange
- Food: Mac ‘n Cheese
- Movie: Pokemon: Adventures on the Orange Islands I-III
Day Three
- Theme: Burgers or spaghetti and meatballs
- Food: Build your own hamburger bar!
- Movie: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (remember burger rain?)
- Indulge in an at-home spa experience.
In need of some relaxation over spring break? Ask a friend or family member to watch the kids for a few hours and treat yourself to an at-home spa day. Find recipes for homemade sugar scrubs and facial masks online, or simply take a warm bath to soothe your nerves and relax your mind. To make your experience a little more authentic, purchase a fluffy white bathrobe to wear all day. Walmart and Amazon both carry super plush robes for less than $20. You’ll feel like royalty in the comfort of your own home!
- Rent a nearby room or home for a night.
Breaking up your routine even a little bit can work wonders and help you relax, but you don’t have to go too far away! Check Airbnb or VRBO to find rooms or entire homes for rent in your area. Book an inexpensive place close to your favorite coffee shop in town, then walk there in the morning and read a book while you sip your favorite drink. Or, find a home with a pool or game room where your whole family can kick back and relax for a night or two.
For last-minute planners, try the app HotelTonight. You can book same-day hotel rooms (often incredibly trendy hotel rooms) for a fraction of what it might cost to book ahead of time.
Ready, set, spring break!
Spring break doesn’t have to be an expensive ordeal. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery and routine. Keep it cheap with these creative staycation ideas and enjoy a fun-filled week right in your own hometown.
In the meantime, we can help you find other ways to save money on everyday expenses like car repairs, heating costs, groceries, and even cheap car insurance. With car insurance discounts and plans to fit every budget, Direct Auto Insurance has you covered—no matter how far you may travel this spring break. Take the first step to saving money (for your amazing staycation) with a free auto insurance quote from Direct Auto today!
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