Fun, Affordable Staycation Ideas for Every Home

Updated June 2026

Not traveling this summer? You can still make it feel like a getaway. Here are simple, low-cost staycation ideas for kids, roommates, and anyone living in a smaller space.

Ideas Perfect for Kids

Keep kids busy and entertained without leaving the house.

  • Treasure Hunt. Draw a simple map of your home. Hide a "treasure" somewhere and add clues that lead the way. For an extra challenge, have kids complete a small task to unlock each clue.

  • A Night at the Museum. Many zoos, museums, and landmarks offer virtual tours and livestreams. Pick one and explore it together from your living room.

  • Backyard Olympics. Split your family into teams. Pick 3 to 5 activities for your backyard or kitchen "course." Hold a small award ceremony when you're done.

  • Backyard Camping. Pitch a tent, or make a fort with a rope, tarp, and blanket between two trees. Add flashlights, lanterns, and camping snacks. Stay up for games, stories, and stargazing.

Ideas for Roommates and Neighbors

  • Cooking Competition. Pick one ingredient everyone has to use. Set a timer and see who makes the best dish before time runs out. Add judges for extra fun, and the loser does the dishes.

  • Tasting Night. Dreaming of wine tastings or vineyard trips? Recreate the experience at home. Pick a few wines, beers, sodas, or seltzers to try, and look up the story behind each one.

Ideas for Small Spaces and Apartments

Limited space doesn't mean limited fun. Try these ideas while staying mindful of your neighbors.

  • Themed Dinner Party. Make invitations and pick a theme, like a place you've always wanted to visit or your latest binge-watch. Works for one person, roommates, or the whole family.

  • Spa Day at Home. Take a few hours for yourself. Try a face mask, a longer walk, or a yoga video on YouTube. Clean your space, rearrange a few things, and set aside real time to relax.

Setting Up for a Stress-Free Summer

A great staycation doesn't have to strain your budget. If you need a few things to pull off game night, backyard camping, or a spa day at home, the Perpay Marketplace lets you shop now and pay over time, straight from your paycheck.  Know you’re shopping smarter for your staycation without hidden fees or interest, and you’re building credit along the way. No matter what you choose, a great summer at home doesn't have to cost you all at once.

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