Believe us when we say that you are not alone in counting down the days till your next holiday. The good news is that you do not have to spend a huge amount or travel a big distance in order to get away from your typical schedule. There are numerous enjoyable and reasonably priced ways to relax and unwind, all of which can be done from the comfort of your own home, or the surrounding areas – a staycation, as it were. These simple staycation ideas will help you to plan a staycation that is stress-free and just as exciting as a normal holiday away from home.
Why should you plan a staycation?
A staycation is a vacation that is spent at home or in the surrounding area. Staycations can be even more beneficial than expensive international getaways because they save you both time and money. Just because you are not lounging by the sea does not mean you can’t be kicking back and relaxing.
Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful locations in the United Kingdom where couples, families, or solo travellers can enjoy a short holiday trip away. Some of the top staycation destinations in the UK right now include the Lake District, Dorset & the Jurassic Coast, Cornwall, the Cotswolds, and many more. Here are some of the great ways you can spend your free time on your next staycation:
- Plan a relaxing at-home spa day
Although it may not be as luxurious as a true spa day, you can still create the illusion of a calm retreat in the comfort of your own home or accommodation. On your next holiday at home, put on some calming music, pop on a face mask, cut up those cucumber slices, and lie back and relax.
- Book a day trip to exciting locations
Are you looking for a little excitement? Take a drive and see what happens! Visit that town, hit up that restaurant that everyone has been raving about on social media or go to that new attraction you have always wanted to try. Staycations are a great way to explore your local attractions, as well as supporting the local economy too.
- Enjoy some of the great outdoors
One great part about staycations, or just holidays in general, is getting out of the house and enjoying some well-needed fresh air. In the UK, there are many perfect woodland locations to go for a hike, you could hire a boat on the river or enjoy a gentle stroll around the park. Make a day of it by packing a picnic and a football and enjoy everything the beautiful countryside has to offer.
- Recharge your batteries and catch up on lost sleep
With many of us working from home, and perhaps working 9-5 five days a week, a staycation is a great opportunity to catch up on some much-needed rest. Some me-time can be the perfect opportunity to finally get away from those electronic devices for a while and switch off from emails and social media.
Take a hot bath and relax or or read a book before bed to unwind. If necessary, you may also want to consider using some essential oils to guarantee a great night’s sleep. Don’t forget to turn off the alarm!
- Go on an adventurous camping trip
A staycation in the UK can also be a good opportunity to not just stay somewhere indoors but also outdoors too. If you’re the adventurous type, you can go on a camping trip in many great locations around the UK, or you could even camp in your own garden instead. Pitch a tent, safely light a fire, and whip up some tasty s’mores.
- Enjoy a cosy film night in with your friends
You do not even have to leave your house to see a decent movie these days. Rent a movie or use a streaming service to watch one. Use the opportunity to binge on film trilogies or to introduce your friends to renowned masterpieces for the first time. Do not forget about the snacks, though. Make yourself some popcorn and grab some sweets from the local shop and you will be ready to go.
- Plan an adult games night
Do you have board games that have been gathering dust in the cupboard? Whether your staycation is at home or at a cosy hideaway location in the UK, invite your friends around for a fun adult games night. If board games aren’t your thing, Cards Against Humanity is just one popular card game for adults to play.
Adults in the United Kingdom can also have a game night by gambling on online games too such as online slot games and table games such as roulette and blackjack. If you’re a fan of bingo, there are also plenty of online bingo rooms and games for 18+ players to play on the internet too.
- Go out for a fancy meal or have one delivered
Cooking might be a calming activity for some individuals, but it can also be a stressful chore for others. However you feel about cooking, it is crucial to take some time to treat yourself to a delicious dinner that you do not have to prepare yourself when you’re taking a staycation. Drop by that trendy restaurant you have been wanting to try, or order meals from your favourite takeaway and have it delivered.
Make your staycation memorable
In all, there are many different ways that you can spend your free time on your next staycation, it’s just up to you how you choose to spend it! Whether you want a relaxing time, fun time, quiet time, or one filled with laughter, there are plenty of UK staycations to enjoy. You could spend your time off work heading to your favourite UK city or you could even discover somewhere new to explore. If leaving home isn’t something you want to do, then you can still make a staycation enjoyable at home too.