Staycationing is a wonderful alternative to the traditional vacation concept. When you “go” on a staycation, you re-envision your home and outdoor space for the ultimate vacation experience minus the hassle of packing, traveling, or navigating unfamiliar terrain. Of course vacations can be a great way to explore new places and gain a fresh perspective. However, staycations provide the optimum unwind experience so you can return to your routines feeling refreshed and energized instead of jet-lagged.

Check out these staycation ideas to achieve backyard bliss for your next at-home vacation.

1. Rethink your small balcony space.

You don’t need a large backyard to achieve your staycation goals. A small deck, patio, or balcony can offer a variety of potential for an at-home resort feel. Create a relaxing outdoor area to enjoy the view and soak up the sunshine by adding small-space furniture pieces. You can play around with patio dining by including a bistro set which easily folds away to make more space available. You can also design your own sight-seeing deck with a pair of outdoor lounge chairs and side table from which to enjoy a cup of coffee and take in your view from a new perspective. For added comfort, add a cushioned patio chair.

Check out our guide 8 Small-Balcony Ideas to Spice Up Your Summer to learn how you can transform your balcony into the ultimate staycation, and read 12 Small-Patio Ideas for a Year-Round Vacation to get inspired on how to transform a small patio space.

2. Bring outdoor dining to your backyard.

Vacationing gives you the excuse to eat out instead of cooking and therefore, a staycation should be no different. Transform your patio space into a cozy outdoor seating area fit with a dining table and chairs where you can enjoy takeout from a local restaurant. To add to the fun of this staycation idea, try a restaurant you haven’t visited before. Fond of cooking? Master a new recipe to serve at your outdoor meal.

3. Maximize your time in the sun with an outdoor living space.

Bring your living room outdoors by designing an outdoor seating area where you can sip a glass of wine, read that book you’ve been meaning to read, or simply relax and enjoy time off. Choose sofas with plush cushions to maximize your comfort and complete the space with a cushioned ottoman where you can put your feet up and relax. Check out our guide Our Top Picks for Modern Patio Furniture, for more inspiration.

4. Invite rest by creating the ultimate lounge space.

Vacations give you permission to do absolutely nothing, and the same idea applies to staycations. Transform your backyard or patio into a lounge-worthy space by adding a chaise lounge that gives you permission to unwind and relax. Add a garden stool or side table to place your book or cocktail and start relaxing immediately.

5. Bring the bar to you.

Enhance the feeling of being on vacation by transforming a portion of your backyard or patio into an outdoor bar area. Bring in bar stools and a bar table or go all out with a counter space to store drinks and glassware.

Pro Tip:

Don’t want to mix your own drinks? Look at takeout options available at your local restaurants, breweries, or wineries.

6. Elevate comfort with outdoor pillows + accents.

Embrace vibrant colored accents with this staycation idea. Outdoor throw pillows add comfort to your outdoor sofas and lounge chairs while also enhancing the feel of being at a luxury resort. Not to mention added comfort for impromptu naps, reading time, outdoor movie nights, or sunbathing sessions.

Pro Tip:

An outdoor area rug also works well to add a pop of color and creates a warm, welcoming space for relaxing.

7. Embrace glamping with a fire pit.

Fire pits are a great way to add interest to your backyard staycation space while serving a dual purpose for cozy warmth and added brightness to take your staycation into the night. You can also test out your marshmallow-making skills by roasting marshmallows for backyard camping sessions.

Pro Tip:

Don’t have space for a fire pit but still want to enjoy your outdoor space at night? Add outdoor light fixtures or string lights to your pergola to amplify the resort-like ambience you deserve.

8. Transform your outdoor space into a tropical oasis with plants.

Convert your outdoor space into a relaxing tropical oasis by decorating with houseplants that remind you of an island paradise. Plants like monsteras, palm plants, or anthuriums do well to make you believe you’re a few steps from the beach. An array of these plants can also provide a sense of privacy to enjoy your staycation even with neighbors close by.

If you have a green thumb, DIY your own container garden for your backyard space. This way you can go out and pick cherry tomatoes, sprigs of rosemary, and fresh lettuce instead of going to the store on your vacation. Talk about a backyard oasis.

Pro Tip:

If you don’t want to take care of plants but still want to achieve the tropical look, you can add faux-plant accents to your outdoor area.

9. Make room for the activities you enjoy.

The key to a successful staycation is to ensure your outdoor space reflects your hobbies and the outdoor activities you enjoy most. For example, an outdoor seating area works well for board game sessions, while you can easily DIY the unused corner of your patio to transform into your own outdoor yoga studio. A chaise lounge or hammock positioned where your backyard gets the most sun makes it a preferable spot for sunbathing sessions.

Make your hammock or chaise lounge the best spot to watch day turn to night by situating it under a pergola strung with string lights.

Get your staycation started: