Americans Plan On Spending More During Summer Staycations

This summer, plenty of Americans are planning on traveling or taking a vacation, but it seems like many may also be using their vacation days to stay closer to home for a summer staycation, but they're going to make the most of it.

Expensive airfares, hotels, and gas prices are keeping Americans local, but a recent survey shows that they'll be spending money on nearby activities during their staycation. Seventy percent of Americans are planning a summer staycation according to a new Harris Poll on behalf of Kalahari Resorts. Sixty-nine percent are planning to spend about the same or even more money on local getaways as last year.

Families with kids are especially preparing for a staycation, as 82 percent responded. Of those, 64 percent are going to keep their family getaways interesting by spending money on things like amusement and water parks.

It seems that families may not be feeling that effects of the recession too hard now and they're ready to play and enjoy local luxuries to make their local vacation exciting.

"We're glad to see that while consumers are still carefully considering their summer vacation plans in the current economy, most are choosing to spend a little more on destinations and activities that will bring families and friends closer together," said Kalahari spokesperson, Travis Nelson. "This survey shows that American families can still economize while creating quality, shared experiences and memories that will last a lifetime."

Besides theme parks, 46 percent plan to attend a festival or concert, 41 percent plan on checking out a local museum, and 36 percent are going to chow down at local restaurants more often.

Others plan on relaxing at the spa (20%), scheduling a golf outing (13%), and 11 percent have other activities set up. Some are still not comfortable with spending money on activities though, said six percent of respondents.

Kalahari Resorts caters to Wisconsin and Ohio, so they also noted that 70 percent of Midwest respondents plan on taking a staycation and of those, 45 percent plan on visiting a nearby theme or water park to add to the fun.

Kalahari also provides a great local getaway option for those who are staycationing. Their African-themed properties are home to America's largest indoor waterparks. Some of their parks include activities such as zip lining, gold, lazer tag, and much more for friends and family to enjoy while they get away without going too far from home.