We all need a break every now and then – this couldn’t be more true in today’s world. 2020 has been an especially unique year, and it’s hardly half over. Luckily, the season we often look forward to most just happens to be right around the corner – summer!

However, it might be a little different this year due to the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. With restrictions on international travel and provinces implementing their own out-of-province travel protocols, staycations appear primed to be the hottest trend this summer. Here’s some tips to make your summer 2020 staycation a memorable one.

Make a Staycation Plan
Just because you’ve decided to embark on a staycation this summer, doesn’t mean your planning should be any less thorough.

  • Set dates
  • Make sure you have time off work
  • Put together a budget
  • Plan out your activities Make an official itinerary

Give Your Staycation a Theme
When it comes to vacationing, everyone has their own style. Do you enjoy kicking back and relaxing in the sun? Are you a go-getter looking to get active and explore as much as possible? What about food – do you indulge or keep it clean? This is the beauty of a staycation, you can make it whatever you want.

Turn off the Digital
Just because it’s a staycation doesn’t mean you’re any more available to your work, school or other obligations. That means turning on your ‘away from’ email settings and turning off the push notifications on your phone. Be in the moment. Put away the phone – unless of course you’re using it to take amazing photos or videos!

Do Your Research
Even though you’re staying around home, it doesn’t mean you can’t do a little investigation of some of the local sites and sounds you don’t often experience. Chances are there’ll be plenty of communities, restaurants and sites you haven’t seen before. Be sure to check on any COVID-19 protocols that may be in place before you begin your expedition.

Explore Outside your community
Try to plan some activities just outside of your community. Look 30-45 minutes outside of where you live in all directions and plan some day trips. There are likely hiking trails, golf courses, lakes or mountains you can safely explore and visit while still following all social distancing measures.

Taking time to get away from the everyday grind is important. We often associate getting away with a destination holiday. But, a staycation done right can be a great way to escape the rigors of everyday life, while saving you some cash and having some fun right in your own backyard. It’s really all about what you make of it!