What's A Nearcation? Here's How To Make The Most Of Your Own Backyard
Nearcations might be particularly suited to people who feel too busy to plan the logistics of a trip during the workweek but still want to relax and explore new places over the weekend.
“Another advantage is that nearcations are cheaper and more carbon-friendly,” Lau added. “You’re not traveling by airplane, which can produce a lot of carbon emissions, so you can feel good about taking a trip that’s eco-friendly. And since you’re not going too far from home, you can save money on gas as well.”
Indeed, price is one of the biggest benefits of choosing a nearcation. You don’t have to make room in your budget for expensive airfare and Ubers or rental cars.
“Taking a nearcation is great because it saves you money,” Susag said. “So if you are in desperate need of some R&R but don’t want to fork out a lot of cash, exploring someplace close to home is a great alternative.”
You also get the opportunity to explore more of your hometown and region.
“A great thing about nearcations is that it really pushes you to fall in love with where you live and discover hidden gems right in your backyard,” Susag noted. “Most of the time, when we think of vacations, we think about getting as far away as we can from where we live, and sometimes that makes us forget that where we live can have beautiful spots to explore as well.”
Susag suggested asking friends and family for recommendations as you think about places you might want to go for a nearcation.
“Also, utilizing Facebook groups is a fantastic way to get some ideas on places you may have never even heard of,” she added. “If you do a little digging, you will find so many Facebook groups in your area of like-minded people ready to share places they’ve been and loved.”
If you’re on a tight budget, consider cheaper options like renting bikes or packing some food and a blanket and grabbing a bottle of wine for a scenic picnic in a new area. But if you have the funds, take advantage of the opportunity to try different restaurants.
“On a nearcation, you should explore your hometown or nearby cities in the ways that you normally explore cities that you vacation to,” Dengler said. “That means new restaurants, museums, tourist attractions, and hikes.”
But perhaps the most important tip for enjoying a nearcation to the fullest: Unplug and get away from the little stresses of everyday life so that you can feel present.
“Like a staycation, the point of a nearcation is to take a break from work, chores, and other potentially stressful aspects of daily life,” Dengler noted. “Ensure everything is done before the nearcation starts. Complete grocery shopping, mow the lawn, and ensure all of your work is done. During the nearcation, you should not be worrying about household chores or attending any appointments.”