I love taking trips, but sometimes the thought of navigating through elbow-to-elbow airport crowds or patiently awaiting bumper-to-bumper traffic to inch forward—especially during the peak travel months—can induce more anxiety than enjoyment. Do you ever feel that way?

Not too long ago, though, I uncovered a simple yet effective solution to ease my tightly wound nerves. And the best part? It didn’t involve any packing. Nor did it deplete my travel fund. While I don’t know why it has taken me so long to jump aboard the ‘staycation’ bandwagon, I certainly now understand the spirited hype. A no-packing-budget-friendly adventure that includes the true comfort of your own bed? Sign me up any day.

Meandering around my own city with fresh ‘touristy’ eyes not only infused a newfound sense of appreciation for the place I currently call home, but also reawakened a childlike curiosity that has since led to further inspiring discoveries.

Meandering around my own city with fresh ‘touristy’ eyes not only infused a newfound sense of appreciation for the place I currently call home, but also reawakened a childlike curiosity that has since led to further inspiring discoveries.

What about you—have you ever embarked on a staycation? If so, I’d love to hear about your experience. And if not, I couldn’t recommend it enough. There’s something incredibly rewarding about acting like a tourist in your own city; I’d even go so far to say that a staycation is probably one of the easiest (and cheapest) trips that one can be plan. Below are five easy tips to help you get started.

1. Create a local bucket list

Before setting out to explore, scan the web to uncover what local gems other people have discovered around your area. Quickly skimming a few tourist sites, such as Lonely Planet, is another easy trick to uncover new things to add to your list that will stretch your comfort zone.

2. Join a free tour

Have you ever heard of freetour.com? Just as the name suggests, this site (and app!) is a great tool for finding free tours with local guides in over 100+ countries around the world—not to mention thousands of cities. Guides will walk groups around popular neighborhoods, weaving stories about attractions and historical tales you may never have learned before.

3. Get a room

If you’re yearning to make your staycation feel more like a getaway, consider renting a room in a nearby Airbnb. Not only is this an excellent way to meet new people, but it can also expose you to enchanting new-to-you neighborhoods you’ve yet to explore.

4. Just ask

The next time you’re looking for a place to grab a drink, head into the first pub you pass that you haven’t ever been to. After ordering a drink at the bar, ask the bartender for recommendations on where you should go next. Then, continue the night from there. Trust me, this trick is so much fun, and you’re guaranteed to discover a whole lot of newness.

5. Channel your inner tourist

As strange as it might seem, slow down your pace, marvel at even the smallest of beauties, and let your curiosity lead the way. Go down that street you haven’t walked. Venture into that corner shop you’ve been eyeing. Better yet, head into the local Visitor Center and strike up a conversation with a friendly staff member. You might be surprised at how wide your window for unexpected adventure will open.