Keeping an eye on your budget during your time off from work can be a challenge, particularly during a sluggish economy. It used to be that families traveled on vacation, spending money on airfare, hotels, and restaurants while away from home, but more and more people are keeping it low-key. You might find that the answer for you is to look into a staycation this year instead of a vacation.

You’ll be amazed at how much fun you can have during a “renovation staycation.” Pick one room to make over completely and go to work with paint, polish up fixtures, and rearrange furniture. Try turning your bedroom into a romantic retreat by adding inexpensive touches like fuzzy pillows and cashmere throws. Updating lampshades and minor accessories can really make a world of difference in your decor.

Set off on a cultural journey by heading to the museum, local art venues, and your town’s library. Get in touch with the history of the area in which you live, and find out the back story of your town or state. For example, New Jersey is called the “Garden State” and Missouri is the “Show me State.” Find out why at a bookstore you love, and not only will you get some culture, you’ll learn something new as well.

During your week off, at least one day should be considered total “you-time.” Get self-indulgent for once and hit a day spa, and while you’re there, get a manicure and pedicure. Since you’re off the clock, how about a nice deep-tissue massage to really relax you? Consider getting your hair done in a totally new style, perhaps even changing the color. A bold gesture, if you’re up for it, is to try out a henna tattoo.

Set a theme to be followed on each night of your week off. ‘Picture day” would entail seeing a movie at the theatre, complete with popcorn and candy, then a rented movie for later that night. Before the day is over, get out your digital camera and capture that beautiful sunset. “Animal day” could start off with a visit to the zoo, then a night of watching animal shows on t.v. “Sports day” could be a day of throwing the football around with your kids, then renting “Rudy” to watch later on.

Check the local weather forecast and, if it’s going to be a nice day, get outside and get physical. Consider hiking, which will get you out into nature and will get your blood pumping, or camping out under the stars. Try to gather a group of friends who will camp out with you without the technological gadgets we’ve all come to rely on so you can be in touch with nature and each other while enjoying a night under the stars.

Money is always a factor when we think about a vacation, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to find fun during your time off from work. With a bit of research, you can find interesting sights to visit in your town and you can have a fabulous stay at home vacation you’ll really enjoy.

Ellen Parsons has written dozens of articles on accredited online colleges and online universities for mid-career professionals.