Be a tourist
What would you normally do on a vacation? Visit a museum? Ride your bicycle on beautiful back roads? Meet new people? A staycation gives you the chance to be a tourist in your own hometown. Just as many native New Yorkers say they have never been to the top of the Empire State Building, you may not have checked out all the historic sites, natural wonders, or cultural attractions in their own neighborhoods. Map out places you’ve never seen—or don’t visit as often as you’d like—within an hour of where you live, and explore what they have to offer.
Spruce up your great outdoors
Consider using your vacation budget for outdoor home improvements that you can appreciate year-round. A new set of lawn chairs or an outdoor dining area can make it much more fun to entertain or simply wind down in your own backyard. Consider upgrading your cooking space with a new grill or adding a fire pit that your family can gather around. Throw in a hammock and you’re ready for relaxation. Your enjoyment of these purchases will last longer than a short trip—and you may enhance your home value, as well.
Create your own spa
The many pleasures of a vacation often include a comfortable hotel room where you can kick back and relax. But why not use your vacation funds to create the same atmosphere right in your own home? For example, if you haven’t replaced your mattress in a while, it may be time to shop around to see if you can find one that offers better support, keeps you cooler, is allergen free, or otherwise makes it more likely you’ll have uninterrupted sleep. A new paint job and some cozy bed linens can make your bedroom and bath more inviting places to relax. Consider replacing your tub to make it a calming place to unwind at the end of the day. Once again, you’ll be able to appreciate your investment long after a typical vacation would have ended.
Consult Your CPA
There are many ways to have fun and indulge yourself while still making smart financial decisions. Be sure to ask your local CPA for advice on the best ways to budget for fun. Don’t have a CPA? Friends and family can be good resources for finding a trusted adviser. You can also visit www.picpa.org/moneyandlife to use the CPA locator and to find other valuable articles and videos.
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