Plan the ultimate staycation - how to turn your home into a retreat
When you think of a holiday, it's easy to picture sandy beaches, long flights, and hefty accommodation bills. But what if you could enjoy all the relaxation and indulgence of a getaway without leaving your driveway? Welcome to the magic of the staycation!
A staycation isn't just about saving money, though that's definitely a bonus. It's about slowing down, finding joy in the everyday, and appreciating the comfort of your own home. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can turn your house into the ultimate retreat. Here's how.
Step 1: Set the mood
A staycation should feel different from your usual routine. Begin by creating a calming environment through decluttering. Remove those piles of paperwork and washing baskets, as a tidy space immediately helps you feel more relaxed. Refresh the space by adding a vase of flowers, lighting a candle with your favourite scent, and opening the windows to let fresh air circulate.
Small touches can significantly influence how your home feels, and you can establish a soothing ambience by playing soft background music (consider acoustic, jazz, or nature sounds) to set the tone.
Step 2: Plan your activities
Holidays often come with an itinerary - why not plan one for your staycation? This doesn't mean scheduling every minute, but mapping out a few key activities will keep things special. Not sure what to plan? Here are some ideas:
- Have a DIY spa day and treat yourself to face masks, foot soaks, and a long, relaxing bubble bath. Add fluffy towels and a robe for extra indulgence
- Try a cooking adventure by selecting a cuisine you love and spending the day making it. From homemade pasta to Thai curries, cooking can be both fun and rewarding
- Indulge in a movie marathon and turn your lounge into a mini cinema with popcorn, dimmed lights, and a line-up of your favourite films
- Take a creative break - try painting, writing, or photography. You don't need to be an expert; it's all about fun and self-expression!
Step 3: Go tech-light
One of the best parts of a proper holiday is disconnecting from emails and to-do lists. Apply the same rule to your staycation. Limit screen time, silence work notifications, and avoid endless scrolling on your phone. Instead, read a book, write in a journal, or take a long walk. The more you detach from daily stressors, the more revitalising your staycation will feel.
Step 4: Make your home feel like a resort
Think about what makes a great hotel stay memorable and recreate it at home. Luxurious bedding is synonymous with high-end resorts, so change your sheets, add fresh pillowcases, and consider upgrading to high-thread-count linen. Climbing into crisp bedding feels instantly indulgent.
A delicious breakfast spread always makes you feel like you're on holiday, and it's easy to prepare a continental-style breakfast with fresh fruit, pastries, and good coffee. Presenting it nicely on a tray or platter elevates the experience.
Don't forget those outdoor vibes - use your backyard, balcony, or local park as your private resort. Add fairy lights, outdoor cushions, or even a hammock to create a holiday atmosphere. These details can help turn the everyday into something extraordinary.
Step 5: Explore locally
Just because you're on a staycation doesn't mean you can't venture out. Chances are, there are hidden gems in your local area you've never discovered. You could explore a nearby walking trail, national park, or beach, or visit local attractions like a gallery, farmers' market, or historical site you've never been to. Foodie treats are always popular, so book a table at a restaurant you've always wanted to try (after all, your staycation is saving you a lot, so you deserve it!). Exploring close to home gives you that holiday feeling without the need for flights or long drives.
Step 6: Treat yourself
On holidays, we often indulge a little – whether in food, experiences, or relaxation. Allow yourself the same at home: buy that fancy bottle of wine you've been eyeing, order a grazing platter or cheese board delivery, or arrange for a massage therapist or mobile beauty service to visit your home. These small luxuries make your staycation feel even more special.
Step 7: Involve the family
If you're not staycationing alone, get the whole household involved. Bring out the board games or try a trivia challenge for a fun family game night, or have a backyard campout - pitch a tent, toast marshmallows, and stargaze. Theme nights are also entertaining. Choose a country (like Mexico, Italy, or Japan) and plan food, music, and activities around it. Staycations are a great way to bond and create memories without the stress of travel logistics.
Step 8: Capture the memories
Holidays often leave us with hundreds of photos - so why not do the same at home? Take pics of your meals, movie nights, or outdoor adventures. Later, you can compile them into a photo book or digital album. Looking back, you'll realise your staycation gave you just as many happy memories as a traditional holiday.
The benefits of a staycation
Beyond saving money, staycations provide flexibility and comfort. You're not bound by flight schedules, you don't need to pack, and you can do precisely what you feel like. They're also eco-friendly, since no flights mean a smaller carbon footprint. And perhaps best of all, a staycation allows you to rediscover your home and local area all over again.
Final thoughts
The best staycation is about mindset. Treat your time at home as special – just like a trip away. With a bit of planning, creativity, and intention, your house can become the perfect retreat. So, swap your suitcase for slippers, set some boundaries with work, and enjoy a holiday without the fuss.
Your dream escape might be closer than you think – right in your own home. Creating a relaxing retreat at home doesn't have to stay on your wish list. A small cash loan of up to $5,000 could help fund upgrades, décor, or experiences that make your staycation memorable, while allowing you to repay it in manageable instalments. It's quick and easy to apply, and once approved, the funds are usually in your account within a few hours!