The Budget-Friendly Guide to Planning a Self-Care Staycation in Chicago

by Emma Grace Brown

Are you starting to dread heading into work? If so, it might be time for you to take some time off. The majority of American’s haven’t gone on a vacation in two full years — meaning they don’t get nearly enough time away from their usual routines. Your mind needs time away from the endless grind in order to recharge your batteries.

That said, Intuit Healing understands that traveling is complicated during the pandemic. That’s why we’ve come up with this list of budget-friendly ways to have a relaxing staycation right here in Chicago! Let’s get started:

Pick a Rental in a New Neighborhood

It’s easy to get around Chicago on foot, but that can mean you wind up only exploring the parts of the city near your home. A staycation is the perfect opportunity to get to know new neighborhoods and see more of what the city has to offer. Take a look at vacation rental sites to find something attractive, affordable, and near destinations you’d like to visit. Even a few days in a new environment can open your mind up to new parts of town you may have never gotten around to otherwise.

Track Your Expenses

It’s easy for spending to get away from you on vacation, even if you aren’t far from home. That’s why it’s so important to find some way to track your expenses during your time off. You can use any kind of budgeting app or software or even just keep track in a notebook. However, consider using some kind of vacation budgeting app. These are designed with travel in mind, but they can be the perfect way to plan and manage expenses on your staycation, as well.

Check Out Free Attractions

One of the many great things about the Windy City is that there’s an attraction for every price point — including free ones. For example, the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory (located right beside one another) are both world-class attractions that are open to the public free of charge. The Chicago Cultural Center offers free tours, as well as many free events throughout the year.

It’s hard to beat free when it comes to meeting your budget goals, plus you get the chance to learn, unrest, and unwind.

Make Time for Rest

One of the biggest mistakes that busy people make is planning time off and failing to rest while they’re away from work. For your self-care staycation, resolve to leave your schedule open so you can get a chance to unwind and recharge during your time off. By specifically including relaxation on your itinerary, you are guaranteed the opportunity to get the rest you need. Plus, time spent enjoying a good book or simply listening to the sounds of the city keeps your budget small, as well.

Plan a Treat or Two

Vacations get pricey when you have a schedule jam-packed with expensive activities. To keep things budget-friendly while still treating yourself, budget for one or two indulgences. For example, you might decide to get our healing massage in order to achieve deeper relaxation on your trip. This could also be a good opportunity to treat yourself to a nice restaurant you might not visit otherwise. With planning and saving, you can fit a nicer activity or outing into your staycation without breaking the bank.

If you’re feeling stressed and stretched thin, a self-care staycation might be just what you need.

We hope these tips help you figure out how to plan the perfect — and perfectly affordable —staycation you’ve been dreaming of.

Looking for more ways to relax and recharge? Take a look at Intuit Healing’s services for yourmind, body, and soul.

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