Top 15 Staycation Ideas for the Budget-Conscious [2023]

Staycations are the result of combining vacation activities while staying in your home country, and it's getting popular these days.

Since travel restrictions during the pandemic, most people have gotten creative about finding things to do when free and needing to unwind. Our circumstances have redefined the idea of travel for many, and it no longer means hopping on an airplane to visit a new place. 

Now travel could simply be getting in your car and checking out a local hotspot or tourist attraction near you that you haven't been to before.

If you don't have plenty of time to spare for a vacation, no worries! These fun staycation ideas are perfect for those who only have a day or two or the weekend off. They're also great for those of us who don't want to splurge on a luxurious getaway. 

So, here are some great ideas to unwind, de-stress, and experience new scenery. Browse through the best activities to do on a staycation and start planning for 2023!

Best Staycation Ideas in 2023

15. Organize a Stargazing Night

It doesn't take a stargazing enthusiast to appreciate the beauty of the night sky. Find a spot for stargazing on a clear night to marvel at countless stars dotting the expanse above. 

A quick Google search in your area should produce a list of the best stargazing spots around. Plus, if you're going for a romantic evening, it's one of the best couple staycation ideas there is. 

14. Explore Local Attractions in Your City

You've probably heard of the phrase "being a tourist in your own city." Well, now's your chance to become one, and it's one of the cheapest staycation ideas on this list. 

Search for some free attractions in your city, like museums, art galleries, and beautiful parks. You can book a visit and take the day to appreciate the exciting attractions you can find in your local city while learning more about its culture and history. 

Be the inner tourist you never really got to be! And the best part? You can skip driving far to get to these attractions. 

13. Join a Yoga Retreat

If you're into fitness and yoga, why not search for a yoga retreat near you? You might think that yoga retreats are located in remote and exotic locales, but you can also find ones just outside the city. 

So, ask around about a yoga retreat or search for similar events online. These retreats can last for a few days to a week. So, book a package that suits your budget and the experience you seek. 

12. Take a Spa Day

A spa holiday is one of the best staycation ideas for women. Regardless of where you live, chances are there is a local spa near you. So, let the relaxation begin!

Many local spas have one-day packages you can book to enjoy the ultimate day of relaxation with your girlfriends. You can indulge in a mani-pedi session, treat yourself to a luxurious facial, or go to a sauna. And invite as many friends as you can so you can split the bill and have fun together!

11. Have a Cozy Picnic

On a nice day out, what's better than having food and drinks with friends in the open, chilling and unwinding? 

An outdoor picnic can be an excellent idea without spending a lot of money. You can find the best picnic spots in your area with a search online, then head over with some friends or your partner. Just pack some food and beverages to enjoy, and you're all set!

Bonus tip: head to the picnic site near sunset so you can enjoy the gorgeous view of the setting sun together. 

10. Go Camping in Mother Nature

If you enjoy the outdoors, another great staycation idea is to go camping! There is nothing quite as tranquil and grounding as spending time in nature. 

Search for campsites close to your city, and if needed, book a stay for a night or a weekend. And to ensure a relaxing experience, make sure to tick off all your camping gear essentials before heading off! 

However, if you're looking for a unique camping experience, check out this review of Hipcamp and see if their recommendations will lead you to your next great spot!

9. Hike or Cycle a Local Trail

If you want something more action-oriented while outdoors, exploring local trails is a great way to do something active while seeing new places. Whether that's through hiking or cycling local nature trails, it's a way to see your city from a whole different perspective.

Many trails can be completed in a day, but there might also be multi-day hikes and cycling trails around your area. So, choose your preferred adventure and enlist a friend or two to join you! It'll make quite a memorable staycation.

Also, remember to stay hydrated and pack your own water bottle. If you're considering getting a Hydro Flask, this review lays out if it's worth the hype! 

8. Book a Holiday Rental

Whether you want to stay in a cozy countryside cabin or a converted barn, Airbnb and other holiday rental services like Holidu make it easy to plan the perfect staycation. 

Get online and find the best rental to stay in for a weekend, and it can be within driving distance from where you live too! Chances are you'll find ones that are just outside the city. 

The great thing about a holiday rental is that they offer many fun activities to explore the area. For example, cozy cabins might have a fishing site or hiking trails around that will make your experience fun and memorable. 

7. Rent an RV for the Weekend

If you're tired of the same old road trips, why not book an RV for the weekend? The great thing about renting an RV is that you can bring a bunch of people along for a fun time. Or, if you're looking for family staycation ideas, this one's a good one to bring the entire family!

Find a local RV site where you can set up for the night. After that, you can enjoy a warm outdoor BBQ or simply marvel at the local scenery. If you're looking to break away from the stress of everyday life, there's no better way than to escape on a mini road trip somewhere else.

6. Host a Scavenger Hunt

Alright, let's admit it, scavenger hunts can be fun and exciting, no matter what your age!

Suppose you're looking for a wholesome activity that you can enjoy with family or friends. In that case, a good scavenger hunt is sure to get the hearts pumping. Go wild with it too! You can gain a ton of inspiration online to design the ultimate scavenger hunt.

Ideally, host a scavenger hunt in an open, outdoor area. It could keep you and your friends or family busy for hours! This staycation idea for families will surely be a hit for those looking for competitive and wholesome fun. 

5. Hit the Local Beach

If you live near the water, you must take full advantage of it! Spending a day at the beach is a fun staycation idea that can be action-packed, relaxing, and everything in between. It's also an affordable yet fantastic idea for couples, families, and friends. And if it's a public beach, you won't even have to spend a dime to access the beach and its facilities. 

What's more, you can find beach resorts or staycation hotels that offer overnight accommodations for less stress all around. Aim for ultimate relaxation and book an overnight stay to enjoy the sound of the crashing waves while only a short walk away from the beach to take a dip anytime.

So, embrace the waves, get your tan on, or become a sand architect for a day. It's up to you, and plus, you'll get some good vitamin sea as well…

Before you go, though, check out this beach vacation packing list to make sure you'll make the most of the surf and sand!

4. Try Glamping

Find camping too rough for you? Why not book a glamping stay near you instead?

If you've never heard of it, glamping is a fast-growing trend that's an excellent alternative for those who want to enjoy modern luxuries and amenities while being close to nature. Think of them as hotel alternatives that can come in unique forms like a tree house, wood cabin, or teepees, but with luxury and style.

Why can't camping be glamorous, too, right?

3. Join a Volunteer Program

Joining a volunteer program is a great way to travel to a nearby destination and give something back to the local community. Many non-profit organizations host volunteer programs and offer different ways you can help. So, make sure to inquire about these programs and find one that suits your interest and supports a cause that you feel passionate about.

Plus, participating in volunteer programs not only allows you to travel but also meet new people along the way.

2. Check Out National Parks Near You

If you live near a national park, now is the perfect time to book a trip there. Walking around national parks is a great way to separate yourself from everyday stresses and bring your focus onto the natural beauty of your local area. 

Find a national park within driving distance from where you live so you can enjoy some time off and re-discover the beauty around you. Let me tell you—it's amazing how some fresh air and the sounds of rustling leaves can help a person reassess and recollect.

1. Swap Houses with a Friend

Here's one of the most unique staycation ideas you can try: swap houses with a friend! You can swap places overnight or over the weekend. It's up to you! The best part about this staycation idea is that you don't have to spend a dime.

You'll feel like you're staying at a new place, and changing up your environment is good once in a while. Remember to be courteous, though, and clean up so the home is in the best condition when the swap is over. 

Plan the Perfect Staycation with Pilot!

If you're looking for the best staycation ideas in 2023, look no further than the tips we've shared here.

These ideas prove that you can travel quickly and spend a lot of money to create lasting memories. And to keep your staycation planning organized while brainstorming for more ideas, you can try out Pilot!