Can’t afford a Staycation? Try a DAYcation!
I am sure you’re familiar with the term staycation. It came into vogue several years ago, as people were unable to afford a vacation away from home. Articles abounded about HOW to take a staycation (including one by yours truly). Basically, a staycation is exploring your own geographic area for a week (or weekend) – finding local festivals, heading to the beach, trying something new, living vicariously, and relaxing.
But in today’s economy, many families can’t even afford a staycation – a whole week of getting out and finding cool new things to do. But there’s no need to be stressed and feel bad about your finances – take a DAYcation instead! What’s a daycation? It’s a one-day vacation! It doesn’t have to cost much (in fact, it can be free) but it WILL get you in the right mood to celebrate time off, being together, and having fun. Along with saving money, you’ll create family memories of a great day.
The most important things in planning a daycation are: completely unplugging (no electronic devices, games, ipads, etc.) – you want to be doing this together and focusing on each other; planning – ask all the members of your family what THEY want to do together; and appropriate fuel – have a large breakfast, pack a great picnic lunch, and plan on grilling something easy when you get home.
Need ideas for a daycation?
A Daycation can be:
• A day at the beach (especially those beaches that are free!). Pack a picnic 
lunch, with lots of refreshing ice water and plenty of fruit. You’ll want to stay hydrated as you play in the sun and water! Bring your kites, umbrella, towels, Frisbees, and plenty of sunscreen.
• A day at a state park. In Michigan, check out the Park and Read pass from your local library. It allows free admittance to all state parks! I suggest heading to Lake Michigan and playing in the waves. You can also walk nature paths, learn from the park rangers, and explore all kinds of natural environments.
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