Money Matters Monday

I've been reading, and writing, about staycations as of late. You know the term. It started out as a funny word to me, but has recently been added to the dictionary. It's true. We haven't been on an official vacation for a few years now and have been able to save a lot of money. These "staycations" are a nice alternative.

It's amazing how much there is to do in our own back yard, yet I don't take advantage enough. Take the Kennecott Copper Mines for instance--how many times have I driven past the blasting site on the mountain and never visited or took my kids there? We finally did last year with a bunch of cousins and the kids loved it, the boys in particular. Those trucks, and the tires on them, are enormous! Need a great staycation resource for those in Utah? Check out this site.

I thought the following information from Wikipedia was interesting:

A staycation (known in the United Kingdom as a stoliday or holistay) is a neologism for a period of time in which an individual or family stays and relaxes at home, or vacations in their own country, possibly taking day trips to area attractions. Staycations achieved popularity in the US during the financial crisis of 2007-2010. Common activities of a staycation include use of the backyard pool, visits to local parks and museums, and attendance at local festivals. Some staycationers also like to follow a set of rules, such as setting a start and end date, planning ahead, and avoiding routine, with the goal of creating the feel of a traditional vacation.

Staycations are far less costly than a vacation involving traveling. There are no lodging costs and travel expenses are minimal. Costs may include transportation for local trips, dining, and local attractions. "The American Automobile Association said the average North American vacation will cost $244 per day for two people for lodging and meals... Add some kids and airfare, and a 10-day vacation could top $10,000".

Staycations do not have the stress associated with travel, such as packing, long drives, or waits at airports.