Travel has changed so much in 2021, and many of us may be uncertain about a lot of things, including how we make the most of our vacation days. Though, I love to explore and travel around the world and if not far, at least around the States. But, since there is so much uncertainty and restrictions around traveling the world. Here are the top 7 ways to use vacation time in 2021 without having to travel out of the country or taking a flight.
According to CNBC, approximately 400 million vacation days are left on the table in the United States. And, regardless of whatever the reasoning is. Remember that taking a break from work (even if you are working from home now) is so important for our health and plus so refreshing. We deserve all the vacation we can get and some relaxing time.
Planning your vacation can be very therapeutic. I love planning places to visit, outfits, and picture ideas. The planning stage makes the vacation days even more exciting and something to look forward to. So before you request some time off, read this post – on the top 7 ways to make the most of your vacation time in 2021. And hey, you already have the mindset of planning, as you are reading this post.
Taking some time off from work and daily hustle is so important for our mental health. And, this post is to encourage you with the top 7 ways to use your vacation days in 2021; without taking a flight or traveling to another country
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Here are top 7 ways to use your vacation time in 2021:
Table of Contents
1. Travel to a neighbor State
Due to travel restrictions and travel ban on some countries, that includes most of the European countries. Europe probably is on most people’s top list to visit. But, cmon friends, let’s make 2021 about exploring our interstates (neighboring states).
Take a look at your neighboring states especially the ones within driving distance and do the following:
- Make a list of the top 10 tourist attractions
- Make a list of Famous foods you may want to try (New York Pizza, Chicago Deep Dish) don’t mind me I am a pizza lover and will give you all sorts of pizza advice! But you get the point right.
- Check out small towns to explore. And, top 10 things to do
From your research, pick out a couple of things that interest you in that specific interstate. Pack, go explore and be a tourist for your 2021 vacation. In addition, crowds may be much smaller due to travel and capacity restrictions. So, whatever you plan to do, don’t forget to reserve in advance
2. Travel within your state
hey! hey! don’t take your State for granted (just because you know it haha). Because we live here, doesn’t mean it’s less touristy. Plus, it may be safer in many ways to stay within your State. And, in this case, you won’t have to quarantine or take a test to travel within State (of course and unless you would like to or mandated by your State) Check your local state website for updates and CDC guidelines
In this case, pick a couple of tourist locations in your State (that you have not visited in the past, or taken it for granted because it’s home). Then, pick a nice, fancy hotel in the city. Book it for a couple of days, explore like a tourist (bonus tip: Turn off your work laptop and phone), and stay far away from where you work.
And, don’t forget planning for your state vacation is very important. Planning gives you direction (you should definitely plan this trip, even if you are a spontaneous traveler. Because you don’t want to end up at your regular weekend spot) unless that is the goal. But I recommend trying something new to make it more vacationy.
And, if you are like me, add planning your outfits to the mix and make the process even more fun.
Related article : Top 7 free things to do in New York
3. RV Trip/ Road trip
If you are still unsure about staying at a hotel due to uncertainty around the pandemic situation. No worries, you can rent an RV, sanitize it well and use it for a family trip.
An RV trip may have not been on your mind in the past, but it sure an exciting experience. Because you can carry your equipment and set up the RV to your liking. You could plan a trip to the Grand Canyon or some other attractions that have had on your list.
And, if for whatever reason, RV cannot make the cut to your 2021 trip. Then plan a road trip and explore a small town near you, eat local food, dress cute, and snap pictures. Road trips in 2021 are the best way to stay socially distant. You don’t have to wear a mask at all times (since you are in the car), you can still make stops to take pictures whenever you like. And most of all pack your own food or look for outdoor dining options
4. Camping trip
Hey! Who else here love camping trips.
sweet peach
Camping trips may sound daunting, but it truly only requires an amazing (easy to set up) tent, stove, or small fire to cook your own food. So, all in all, you can carry your own equipment. And would not have to worry about the hotel sanitization and social distancing. Plus what can be more fun than being around mother nature.
Now, if that doesn’t sound very fun to you, but still would love to experience a camping trip. Try Campgrounds, where you will be able to social distance but still have access to all the modern amenities,though for a cost, depending on location and resources available.
5. Trip to a Lake or Mountains
I know, I know!! In Summer 2020 we couldn’t get any beach. And still not sure about 2021. Many things are opening back up and the weather is getting better, And, so are the beaches getting crowdier (is that a word). We have all seen the beaches getting extremely full. And, it may not be a safe time to go there now. Plus authorities seem to mandate the Miami beach and others including capacity and curfew restrictions. So instead, plan a trip to the lake or mountains in 2021 and skip the beach
Take a vacation this year near a lake and mountains. Poconos in PA is a beautiful place with amazing cute resorts and a small-town feel.
6. Hike/Picnic/Garden
If nothing really works for you (in the first 5 options) because it involves traveling or staying at another place. Then, a great way to spend your vacation days is to plan a fun-filled week of activities in your city while maintaining social distance.
It will be ideal, to plan activities that are outdoors.
- Having a fancy picnic with family or close friends
- Exploring and hiking in your National State parks
- Visiting Botanical Gardens or museums.
Besides being able to social distance from others, these activities can be relaxing and safe. And for sure, you will be refreshed, and can return to work with a fresh mindset
7. Stay Home (Staycation)
If your state or country is still in Red. Plan to still make use of your vacation time in the best way possible. Here are some amazing activities and things you can try (Though don’t forget to keep your work laptop, and phones far away from you)
- Turn your house into a spa: Do this by trying to come up with a self-care routine, wear fluffy robes, light candles, and add some aroma. This will change you from work mode to bliss mode
- Picnic area – Ditch the garden/park and plan a picnic in your backyard or balcony
- Start a project/learn online – Learn a skill, photography, editing, blogging. There are so many options and you easily learn online or even on youtube
- Virtual tours – Due to the pandemic, a lot of attractions offer virtual tours. Besides those, you could also learn about a different country, its culture, food, and language in preparation for a future bucket list travel
Summary
Most of us may think of vacation as a time to travel to another country or state. But traveling has changed since 2020. So, this post is about taking your vacation in 2021 and the top 7 ways to use it without taking a flight or visiting out of the country. Including being a tourist in your own city, turning your house into a spa, or rent an RV, and many more.
Regardless of what you choose of these options. Do remember that taking care of yourself is important. And, those vacation days are a serious step towards self-care.
And, do let me know in the comments below what you end up planning for your 2021 vacation days
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Hello sweet peach box man thanks for being consistent
And thank you for being a consistent reader and supporter