Things You'll Need:
- A sense of adventure.
- A determination not to let the rising cost of gasoline ruin you family fun!
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Step 1
Call a family meeting and talk to your kids. Be honest about how the higher cost of gas affects everything from the cost of what goes in the tank to how much more a gallon of milk costs and why. Stress that although you may not be able to go away for a week long trip on vacation this year, you're not going to let that stop you from having a wonderful time with your family.
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Step 2
Determine exactly how much money you have to spend on family entertainment for the summer. Whether it's $100 or $1000, a solid budget will help you make good choices.
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Step 3
You can take your "staycation" all at once and do something each day for a week, or you can break it up into mini-staycations and do one thing each week all summer long.
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Step 4
Contact your state's tourism division. If you aren't sure where that is, visit http://www.usa.gov for a list of all the states travel and tourism sites. Look for events and destinations that are near you and don't require an overnight stay.
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Step 5
Consider investing in an inflatable or snap together above ground back yard pool (less than $400), portable gazebo or fire pit that will offer countless days and nights of fun right in your own backyard.
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Step 6
A camping trip is all about stories and time without TV and PS3's. Who says you can't camp right in your own back yard? Set up tents, bring out the fire pit and a bag of marshmallows and you're on your way.
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Step 7
Plan theme nights, like Movie Night, Game Night, etc. Your kids want your attention and will remember the laughter and silliness you had together longer than any ride at Disney World.
