In all honesty, traveling during the holidays can be chaotic — and you know that is true. Crowded airports, overpriced flights, and the stress of packing? No thanks. But just because you’re skipping the trip doesn’t mean you have to miss out on vacation vibes. Enter: the holiday staycation—aka turning your home into a dreamy, stress-free retreat.
Here’s how to make staying home feel just as exciting (if not better) than a getaway.
✨ Step 1: Set the Scene
Think about what makes vacation feel like vacation—beautiful spaces, relaxing vibes, and a break from routine. Now, bring that to your home!
- Declutter & reset – Start fresh! Tidy up, add cozy touches (hello, twinkle lights), and maybe even get fancy with fresh flowers.
- Switch up the space – Move your furniture around, add comfy throw blankets, or turn your bedroom into a spa-like retreat.
- Get that vacation scent – Light a tropical candle, burn some pine-scented incense, or diffuse lavender for a zen feel.
🍽 Step 2: Eat Like You’re on Vacation
One of the best parts of traveling? The food. Recreate that at home with:
- A themed dinner night – Italian pasta feast? Sushi night? Breakfast in bed? Go all out!
- Fancy drinks – Make holiday cocktails, craft mocktails, or sip on a luxe coffee creation.
- Zero cooking days – Order from that cute local café or try a new takeout spot—because vacations don’t include dish duty.
🎥 Step 3: Plan Fun “Vacation” Activities
Who says you need a plane ticket to have an adventure?
- Spa day at home – Face masks, fluffy robes, and an extra-long bubble bath = instant relaxation.
- Movie marathon with a theme – Pick a destination (Paris? The beach?) and watch movies that match.
- Virtual “travel” – Take an online cooking class, explore a city via YouTube vlogs, or listen to music from different cultures.
💆♀️ Step 4: Fully Unplug & Relax
The golden rule of a great vacation? You don’t check emails. So set your OOO (even if it’s just for yourself), put your phone on “Do Not Disturb,” and truly soak in the moment.
At the end of the day, a staycation is all about perspective. It’s not about where you are, but how you experience it. So dim the lights, put on your favorite playlist, and let the holiday magic happen—no suitcase required. ✨
Would you try a holiday staycation this year? Drop your dream at-home getaway ideas in the comments! ⬇️