“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” -Henry Miller
We all have wanderlust from time to time, dreams of traveling to exotic places and meeting new people. But let’s face it, living in the midst of a global pandemic has left many of us without jobs. Our bank accounts are nearly empty, and our internal reservoir is filled with uncertainty and a sense of loss. I want you to know that not all is lost, there are plenty of places to explore within your budget.
Visit a new park
Whether you live in an urban setting or in a rural area, there is sure to be a park you’ve never explored. Pack a simple picnic, grab your loved ones, and head out the door. You can also give everyone a pencil and notebook (the dollar store is your budget friendly destination) so they can draw what they observe. This is a fun way to see everyone’s interpretation of your local area.
Spend the night in your backyard
If you’re lucky enough to have a backyard, this is a wonderful way to gain a new perspective on the world. Have a bonfire, roast some hotdogs and gaze at the stars.
If you have younger children, you can play what’s that sound. If you hear crickets, ask your children to listen closely and identify the sound. This may help them understand not everything that goes bump in the night is scary.
Hit the trail
I love discovering new trails. It’s exciting, plus it’s a great way to bond with your family. If you have children let them pick up a pinecone, fallen leaves, small pebbles, etc. When you return home, the kids can make an art project from the treasures they found.
Suggested for you: The Healing Powers of Nature
Take a walk around town
See your town through the eyes of a tourist. Your neighborhood can be a place of adventure and inspiration. Ask someone if they know of any hidden gems in the area. It’s amazing what you’ll discover. Take goofy pictures of your family or marvel at the old buildings. Don’t feel like walking around town? Cruise on your bicycles instead.
Let someone else make the plans
Set up a budget, figure out how far you want to travel and relinquish the controls. If you have children, this is a great way for them to learn the value of money and they may also gain decision making skills. As a bonus, it’ll be fun to see the world through their eyes.
What ideas do you have for exploring within your budget? I’d love to hear in the comments below.
Lovely suggestions. I’m all for a picnic in the park, and is one of my favoured outings when I’m able. It is true, there is a lot that can be enjoyed on a tiny budget. Thanks for sharing such a cheery post.
Penny,
Thank you so much! It takes a little bit of imagination, but there are so many outings that can be achieved with a tight wallet.
Very nice ideas! Yes, I am hoping for that trip to Italy in the future! We love to hike and explore the Greenways here in NC. I enjoy being outside, so that has been enjoyable and we do take our 2 shih tzus on trails and woods with us. I love the idea about the sounds in the backyard with kids and I have thought about getting out the tent and having my niece over for “campin”.
jess xx
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Jess,
I hope you can take your trip to Italy, that would be such a fun adventure! I’d love to visit England. Camping in the backyard is an inexpensive all around fun time for the whole family.
These are great suggestions Isabella! I love to explore my city and go hiking on trails too! It’s so important that we get outside, especially during quarantine!
Michelle,
I love seeing my town through the eyes of a tourist, it’s such fun. With everything going on the world getting outside and breathing fresh air is a morale booster for sure.
Great tips! I’m doing a lot of close-to-home traveling myself!
Thank you Len! I’m always discovering new places to go close to home.
I do love all of your ideas – especially because they involve getting outside, and out of your four walls! I love a good picnic more than almost anything – hard to get the Hubs on board sometimes, though. And since we have only lived in this town for three years, we do have quite a bit of exploring left to do!
Lori,
Thank you! It’s so important to get out and explore. I love picnics in the park or lunch on a trail.
We love a day hiking the trails! We always feel so refreshed afterwards. These are all such great suggestions to help people get out of the house!
Sydney,
It’s amazing how spending time outdoors renews and refreshes our spirits.