Don't despair if going on a far-flung vacation to a beautiful locale isn't in the books for you this summer. Here are 4 ways you can maximize your staycation!
1. Take all the vacation you have coming
A new survey from Harris Interactive showed that the average American left nine days of vacation on the table last year. That's almost unbelievable. Compared to the Europeans, we get almost no vacation at all. And here we have people forfeiting almost two full work weeks!
We went through a phase where people were working themselves silly because they thought they'd be laid off if they took a vacation. While that may have been true in some cases, that trend has now mostly reversed and people should be availing themselves of what's called "paid time off" (PTO) at many companies.
My thing is, I take a good amount of vacation. I believe it makes me a better employee. I'm just fresher for the next six weeks or so when I come back from vacation.
2. Don't overlook free attractions in metro areas
I know money still remains tight for many. Yet you can find a way to get away without having to break the bank or remain tethered to your home or apartment. Popular options include going to state parks, renting a cabin or even staying at an inexpensive motel.
I recently spent a weekend in Boston with my son Grant. He had the best time ever. At the monument at Bunker Hill, Grant ran all 300 steps up to the top while all of us adults were huffing and puffing. The cost of Bunker Hill? Free.
We also went to the USS Constitution for free. We walked the Freedom Trail and went to Boston Commons for free. The cost of the carousel at Boston Commons and souvenirs? Three dollars and $15, respectively. My point is there's something to do for either free or very cheap wherever you are.
3. Get to know the local innkeepers
Ask local innkeepers if they have a "locals" mailing list that you can subscribe to for spur of the moment kind of deals.
Many lodging properties are more inclined to offer a discount last-minute than they are for a reservation made months in advance. They may have a mailing list divided up into several segments, including 'super locals.' If you can make a buying decision and be there within a very short period of time, you may get a deal.
In addition, many properties make special deals available for their Facebook and Twitter fans. Like the page of your favorites to get in on the action.
And don't forget local coupon books. Those kind of coupon books can actually work better for staycationers than for out-of-towners. Nobody can dine at 10 restaurants while they're vacationing for a couple of days, but they certainly can enjoy these coupons if they live in the area.
For more money-saving tips, visit ClarkHoward.com. Money in Your Pocket. Advice You Can Trust.