By: Lindsey Davee, AFC®

Military Spouse

As a military family, you know how precious family time can be, especially when loved ones are often away on assignments. Over the years, my family has created unforgettable memories during our vacations — whether it was the magic of Disney, the WWII historical beaches of Normandy, France, or the cultural hub of London. These experiences brought us closer together sharing many happy moments; however, not every year’s budget allows for a grand getaway. That’s where the idea of a "staycation" comes into play — to keep expenses low, while still enjoying time together.  

Let’s face it: sometimes the thought of packing up the car, navigating airport security, and hearing the inevitable “Are we there yet?” from the backseat can make you question your patience. Whether you’re looking to relax at home or uncover hidden gems in your own backyard, here are ways to make the most of your time off — and your finances. The goal is to enjoy quality time with your family without breaking the bank — or losing your mind. Here are a few ways to create an affordable and memorable experience right where you are.  

Set Your Budget and Raise Funds 

Start planning your time off by determining a realistic budget that includes all expenses, including food, activities, and any specialty items. Categorize everything into areas like gas, food, and activities. Then, engage your family in the planning process by discussing the budget together, which not only helps everyone understand the financial limits but also encourages them to suggest affordable activities, fostering a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility in making the most of your down time and money. 

If your budget isn’t prepared to handle vacation expenses, set a savings goal and start contributing to it in the weeks or months before your staycation. Saving in small increments can make reaching your goal a bit more approachable. Remember: to stay on track, your financial goals need to be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound). Holding yourself accountable to achieving the goal in a way that is financially comfortable for you in the right amount of time will help get you there. 

Make the Most of an Experience at Home 

When you choose a theme for your staycation and use items you already have at home to create an enjoyable atmosphere, you avoid the cost of accommodations and travel. Organize low-cost or free activities that align with your theme, such as movie nights or backyard games, to keep expenses down while having fun. For example, if you’re trying to create a beach getaway atmosphere, haul out your sandbox, iron that old Hawaiian shirt, and buy some inexpensive drink umbrellas to include with some fruity refreshments.  

Research Local Deals, Discounts, and FREE Events 

Reach out to attractions and restaurants to ask whether they offer special rates or discounts for military families or check your local installation’s leisure and travel office for great deals. You could incorporate restaurants and activities that match your staycation theme into your schedule. Additionally, check local tourism websites, Groupon, or social media for discounts on attractions, dining, and activities in your community. And if you’re really looking to keep costs to a minimum, look for free local events, parks, hiking trails, or community festivals. Many cities offer free concerts or outdoor movie nights during the summer, while lots of museums offer free admission during specific days or times. Check out Blue Star Families for listings of museums in your area. 

Prep Food for Home and Away  

Preparing meals during a staycation can be daunting, especially when it’s already part of your daily routine. But there are many ways to make it fun, like organizing a friendly cooking competition among family members, which can include setting a budget for ingredients or seeing who can create the best dish using only what’s available at home. You could also visit a local farmers' market to pick up fresh produce and artisanal products, then create meals that keep costs reasonable. If you plan to go out for the day, pack snacks and drinks to avoid high costs at tourist spots. 

Plan for Unexpected Expenses 

Set aside a small portion of your budget for unexpected costs that may arise. Allocating 5-10% of your daily budget provides a cushion for any unforeseen expenses that may come up during your staycation. For example, if you planned a hike for a day it rains, you’ll have money to put toward an indoor activity instead. Additionally, being willing to adjust your plans if something unexpected comes up is a practical approach to staying within your overall budget. This flexibility allows you to continue enjoying your time off without the stress of overspending.  

Track Your Spending 

Even though you’re on a break and minding your budget, you need to stay accountable to the funds you’re spending and adjust, if needed. At the end of each day, take just a few minutes to review your expenses to ensure you’re still on track with your budget. If you need to shift funds out of one category into another, you can do so knowing exactly what is available.  Remember those little white pieces of paper in your wallet tell a story of your spending.  

Reflect on Your Experience and Expenses 

Once your staycation ends, review what you spent versus what you had budgeted. This will help you plan for future time off and understand what worked well and what didn’t. Whether you chose to explore local attractions, create themed meals, or enjoy a picnic in the park, the most important part will be the quality time spent together as a family.  Embracing the creativity of a staycation allows you to make lasting memories without the stress of travel or overspending. Your thoughtful planning and a budget-friendly focus provided a fulfilling experience, just like a traditional vacation.  

Get Peace of Mind to Enjoy Your Staycation — and Every Other Day, Too 

Knowing your family is fully protected by always-affordable life insurance options from Armed Forces Mutual gives you the freedom to breathe easier and enjoy every day more. Contact a Membership Coordinator at 877-398-2263 for expert advice about life insurance or get a free quote and apply online now.