The Benefits of Staycations for Nurses: How to Recharge Without Leaving Home

My first ever staycation was when I was living near Washington, D.C. I was burned out and needed a break, but my job as a Trauma ICU nurse, working 12-hour night shifts, made it difficult for me to take days off.  I was eventually able to plan my schedule so that I could have a few consecutive days off. I spent those days having a relaxing staycation in D.C, which involved a nice hotel, a fun foodie event in Georgetown, and a visit to the National Zoo. After this experience, I felt refreshed, and I’ve been hooked on staycations ever since. 

Let's discuss what makes staycations so perfect for nurses and how they can help you recharge!

Check out my post on How to Plan A Staycation to Recharge for Nurses to help you start planning your perfect staycation!

Staycation at the Seabird Hotel Oceanside, CA

1. The Unique Demands of Nursing and the Need for Rest

Nursing is one of the most rewarding professions, offering countless opportunities to make a difference in people’s lives, explore a variety of specialties, and enjoy flexibility in career paths. However, the job also comes with intense demands that can take a toll on a nurse's overall well-being.

 Physically, nurses spend long hours on their feet, perform repetitive tasks, and often assist with lifting or repositioning patients—all of which can lead to fatigue and injury. Emotionally, nurses are constantly navigating high-stress environments, supporting patients and families through difficult moments, and managing their own emotional responses to trauma and loss. 

These physical and emotional demands contribute to the growing issue of burnout in the nursing profession. That’s why regular rest and recovery are not just beneficial—they’re essential. 

Staycations offer a practical and accessible way for nurses to pause, recharge, and restore their energy without the added stress of planning or traveling far from home.

2. Benefits of a Staycation for Nurses

Staycations offer a range of benefits that make them especially ideal for nurses. One of the most significant advantages is convenience and accessibility—there’s no need to worry about long travel time, which is especially helpful for nurses who have limited time off between demanding shifts. With no flights to catch or a lot of bags to pack, nurses can use their time to rest and reset. This ease naturally lowers stress levels by removing the mental load of coordinating transportation, accommodations, and itineraries. Instead of focusing on travel logistics, nurses can simply be present and enjoy their downtime. Staycations are also budget-friendly, allowing nurses to take a meaningful break without the financial strain that often comes with traditional vacations. 

3. Staycation Activities for Nurses

• Wellness and Relaxation:

  • Enjoying local spas and fitness classes to relieve stress and relax.

  • Engage in mindfulness practices or journaling at home to recharge emotionally.

• Outdoor Adventures:

  • Exploring nearby parks, beaches, or hiking trails to get fresh air and enjoy nature.

  • Taking a walk or biking around the city to discover new places close to home.

• Home-Based Self-Care:

  • Creating a spa day at home with bath salts, face masks, and relaxing music.

  • Engaging in hobbies like reading, journaling, or crafting to unwind mentally.

• Staycation Stay at a Local Hotel:

  • Treating yourself to a night or weekend stay at a local hotel or resort for a change of scenery without the need for long-distance travel.

  • Enjoying hotel amenities such as a pool, room service, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Check out my post on How to Plan A Staycation to Recharge for Nurses to help you start planning your perfect staycation!

4. How Staycations Promote Better Self-Care

Staycations provide nurses with a much-needed opportunity to step away from the high-stress hospital or clinical environment, thereby helping to reduce the risk of burnout by creating space for mental and emotional recovery. 

Without the pressure of travel or detailed planning, nurses can focus on what they truly need—rest. Time spent at home or exploring locally allows the body to recover from the physical strain of long shifts, including sore muscles and fatigue. Even a short change of scenery can do wonders for the mind, offering a mental reset that helps nurses return to work with renewed clarity, focus, and a stronger sense of balance. By making self-care more accessible and sustainable, staycations support long-term wellness.

5. Tips for a Successful Nurse Staycation

• Set Boundaries: Make sure to fully disconnect from work during your staycation. If applicable, turn off your work phone or silence the work email app on your phone to prevent work-related distractions.

• Plan Activities You Enjoy: Make a list of activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's pampering yourself, trying a new hobby, or exploring your local area.

• Create a Restful Environment: Make your home (or hotel room) a sanctuary—dim the lights, put on calming music, and eliminate distractions to create a peaceful atmosphere.

• Make Time for Rest: Don’t overschedule yourself. Leave room for naps, quiet time, or simply doing nothing to truly recharge.

Taking that first staycation in Washington, D.C. was a turning point in my journey as a nurse—it reminded me that I didn’t have to travel far to feel renewed. Sometimes, the best way to care for others is by first caring for ourselves. As nurses, we give so much of our time, energy, and heart to our patients, but we often forget to prioritize our own healing and rest. Staycations offer the perfect solution—an affordable, low-stress, and accessible way to decompress, restore your energy, and reconnect with yourself.

If you’ve been feeling the weight of burnout, know that you’re not alone, and you deserve a break. Even a few days of intentional rest can make a world of difference in how you show up at work and in life. Whether it’s a cozy night at a local hotel, a hike through your favorite trail, or a spa day, your staycation is what you make it.

Ready to plan your own recharging escape? Check out my post How to Plan a Staycation to Recharge for Nurses and start creating a self-care experience that works for you. You’ve earned it. 💛