Planning A Staycation In NJ This Summer? Here Are Some Tips.

NEW JERSEY — Some New Jersey residents were among the 39.2 million Americans who planned to travel more than 50 miles from home this Memorial Day weekend, AAA predicts.

That's right.

In spite of high gas prices and record inflation levels, about many U.S. residents will hit the road, take off in a plane or hop on bus, train or cruise as those who traveled over the Memorial Day holiday weekend in 2017, AAA said.

"People are getting out there because they've been cooped up for two years and want to get out and go somewhere and do something," said Robert Sinclair, senior manager of public affairs at AAA Northeast.

There are plenty of staycation — defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as "a vacation that you take at home or near your home rather than traveling to another place" — ideas in the Garden State.

Heather Pringle, Liberty Travel New Jersey's Network Travel Manager, says there are several important things to remember when planning a staycation.

"Think about how far are you willing to go too far in terms of driving? Are you open to taking a train? What kind of activities are important?" she said.

To find places that suit your interest, search phrases that describe your interest, such as "historical places in New Jersey," "theaters in New Jersey," "attractions with animals in New Jersey," and so on in internet search engines.

Once you determine your destination, and whether it is 30 miles away or 300 miles away, Pringle offers a few more tips.

"The biggest mistake people make is waiting too long to book their plans, especially now."

Sinclair agreed, adding that the number of trips AAA has booked, regardless of destination, are "25 percent to 50 percent higher for the rest of spring, into summer and into the fall."

That does not mean that there is still no time to plan a staycation for the summer, but the longer you wait, the more you will pay, Pringle says.

"Waiting it out, and just see if prices are gonna get better is really not the reality anymore," she said. "My biggest recommendation is if you see something you like, book it and to book it now because those prices may not be there tomorrow."

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