Vacation funds a little tight this year? If so, a "staycation" might be right for you. A getaway without getting away can provide the fun of a vacation without the stress of long-distance travel or the cost of lodging. Planning a staycation has several benefits:
- Sleep in the comfort of your own bed.
- No packing necessary.
- Spend your money on fun.
Speaking of fun, Morale, Welfare and Recreation can help you find all the best local fun you can handle.
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staycation \sta-ka-shun\ n: a relaxing time off work spent discovering your local area and doing the fun things you like to do while avoiding the time, hassle and expense of travel
Staycation Ideas
Staycations can be whatever you want them to be, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation has the resources to help you as you plan a great one. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
- Have a field day. Set up games in your backyard, invite friends over and make a day of it. If you don't have the gear, check your Morale, Welfare and Recreation rental office for tailgate games, bounce houses and more.
- Enjoy a picnic. Your local Morale, Welfare and Recreation department manages the park and picnic areas on your installation. Pack a picnic lunch, or grill-out while enjoying a beautiful day.
- Try something new. Visit a rock climbing wall, take a golf lesson or enroll in a scuba class. Your Morale, Welfare and Recreation program offers lots of activities you can try.
- Discover a local attraction. Information, Tickets and Travel at your installation has the scoop on all of the museums, amusement parks, entertainment spots and sporting events happening in your own backyard. And, they sell discount admission tickets, too. A staycation is the perfect time to see what you've been missing.
Planning your staycation
Just like a vacation, a staycation requires a bit of planning — otherwise it's just a few days off. Follow these tips to maximize your staycation.
- Make a budget. Take advantage of local coupons and military discounts to make your money go further. Check with your installation's Information, Tickets and Travel office for discounted tickets to local attractions.
- Research local attractions. Amusements parks, aquariums or water parks may come to mind immediately, but don't forget museums, state parks and community centers.
- Take advantage of facilities on your installation. Many installations have bowling alleys, beaches with picnic areas or other recreational facilities. You may find out about a riding stable, or a marina that rents boats and ski equipment. Some installations rent out large grills, plus camping and other recreational equipment.
- Make it feel like a vacation. Take time away from work, email and your normal routine. Budget for a few meals out, or a cleaning service, to avoid stressing over every meal and mess.