Here are some tech tips to transform your next staycation.

Plan Fun Local Activities With ChatGPT

Free way to find local destinations and activities.

Customize your itinerary with additional restraints like budget and interests.

Using ChatGPT to play a staycation itinerary.

Massimo Ravera / Getty Images

it’s crucial that you double-check everything because ChatGPT won’t always be accurate.

ChatGPT may be working off old information, so attractions may have changed or not be there anymore.

Tour the World Through VR

Massimo Ravera / Getty Images

Visit interesting destinations without leaving your house.

A woman using VR to virtually visit world landmarks.

Massimo Ravera / Getty Images

More cost-effective than actually traveling.

Huge variety of options.

VR headsets can be expensive.

A Bluetooth speaker in the sand with pineapples.

Pineapple Supply Co. / Pexels

Some people feel motion sickness in VR.

Just because youre staying close to home for your vacation doesnt mean you cant also explore the world.

For the best experience, consider picking up aMeta Quest VR headset(or a similar VR headset).

Using an app to find local activities and destinations.

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

For a more budget-friendly alternative, you look for a VR headset that will work with your phone.

Easy to set up.

Helps you get into the vacation mindset.

Backyard movie night with a portable screen and projector

Roberto Nickson / Pexels

Limited immersion since it’s just music.

Can’t replicate the experience of actually visiting a destination.

There are lots ofplaces to listen to free music online; just pick one that fits your staycation mood.

A dad with his son and a teddy bear camp out in the backyard searching for stars in the sky.

RichVintage/Getty

Pair your phone or tablet with a Bluetooth speaker and take your destination staycation outside for extra fun.

Use an App To Explore Your Area

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

Discovery unconventional destinations and activities.

Learn new things about your area.

Learning a language with an app.

Ivan-balvan / iStock / Getty Images

Get outside your comfort zone.

User-generated suggestions may be incomplete or inaccurate.

Suggested destinations and activities can be expensive.

Trying a new streaming service while on a staycation.

FilippoBacci / iStock / Getty Images

Get some sun while binge-watching your favorites.

Good family and social time.

Requires usable outdoor space.

Roku and Fire Stick with remotes.

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

Weather may not cooperate.

Staycations are the perfect opportunity to binge-watch your favorite shows and movies, but why stay cooped up inside?

Try setting up a smallsmart TVoutside and soak up some rays while you catch up on your favorite shows.

A Kindle with other devices.

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

Failing that, you’ve got the option to always use your laptop, tablet, or phone.

it’s possible for you to find constellations, comets, and more with apps likeSky Map.

There are lots ofother stargazing appsto help you find and understand the celestial objects you see, too.

Checking out Kindle e-books from the library using an iPhone

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

Grants a feeling of accomplishment.

Several free options available.

Learning a language takes time, so you’ll need to stick with it after your staycation.

Audible on an iPhone with AirPods and a book.

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

Some people have more difficulty learning languages than others.

Learn new things, or just soak in the entertainment.

Free trials usually available.

A Nintendo Switch outdoors on a blanket.

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

Streaming subscription costs can add up.

May encourage excessive binge-watching.

If you are starved for content, consider picking up a free trial for astreaming serviceyou havent tried before.

Kids printing coloring pages from a laptop.

btrenkel / iStock / Getty Images

Grab an Affordable Streaming gadget

Provides access to streaming services.

Works with your existing TV.

Typically easy to set up and use.

Requires a high speed internet connection.

Initial purchase price plus subscription costs can add up.

Combine a streaming unit with a portable projector and projection screen, and youll have virtually unlimited entertainment.

The e-ink screen causes less eye strain than other screens.

Light and comfortable to hold.

Buying a Kindle and e-books can be expensive.

If you already have a Kindle, expand your horizons with aKindle Unlimitedsubscription.

Check Out Free E-Books From the Library

Get new books without leaving the house.

Lots of variety, so it’s possible for you to check out brand new things.

Access is free, so there are no extra costs.

Requires a library card.

Popular e-books may be on a long wait list.

If your library doesnt lend e-books, there are othersites where you’re free to download free books.

Listen to Some Audiobooks

You probably already have a compatible machine.

Listen wherever you want, inside or outside.

Good for day trips if you go out exploring locally.

Lose access to your audiobooks if you cancel your subscription.

Play a Portable Game System Outside

Frees you from being chained to the TV.

Play outside or from the comfort of your couch.

Lots of fun experience, including multiplayer.

Game systems are expensive.

Buying games adds an additional cost.

Potential for quality family time.

Good alternative to spending time with screens and devices.

Ink can get expensive.

Many activities require special printing materials.

For a bit of tactile fun, consider using a printer to create a variety of fun activities.

Here are some fun activities that use a printer: