What are the Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget?
September 25, 2024In this post we will focus on the best places to travel in december on a budget including affordable winter vacations, destinations for couples,
destinations for families on a budget, places to travel all inclusive, etc.
Where to travel in December?
Top 10 December Travel Destinations
Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica
For a tropical beach escape on a budget, Jamaica is the perfect choice. Both Montego Bay and Kingston offer fantastic deals in December, making it an ideal time to visit. Relax on sun-drenched beaches, explore scenic hiking trails, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or unwind by the pool. With affordable airfare and hotel options, plus plenty of local transport like shuttles and taxis, you won’t need to spend extra on a rental car.
Opting for an all-inclusive resort might be the best way to keep your costs down, covering both your accommodation and meals upfront so you can enjoy everything without worrying about the bill.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana is a dream destination for those seeking warmth and beauty without breaking the bank. Known for its stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, it’s a budget-friendly gem in the Caribbean. The area offers affordable all-inclusive packages and boasts a range of activities from ziplining through rainforests to windsurfing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the pool.
In December, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures around 85°F and less rainfall compared to the rest of the year. With the peak tourist season approaching, you’ll find great deals on hotels and airfare.
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
If you’re looking for a memorable Caribbean getaway, St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a top pick. This charming island offers an array of activities such as swimming with turtles, snorkeling, and diving in its vibrant blue waters. Visitors can also enjoy golfing, shopping, and savoring delicious local cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort or a cozy bed and breakfast, St. Thomas has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets, ensuring a fantastic vacation experience.
Budapest, Hungary
Embrace the winter charm of Budapest in December, when cooler temperatures bring lower prices and fewer tourists. The city, dusted with snow, transforms into a winter wonderland, ideal for visiting landmarks like Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building. Explore Budapest’s Christmas Markets, or warm up with indoor activities at the Museum of Fine Arts or the Hungarian National Museum. For a relaxing break, take a dip in the famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
Belize, Central America
If you’re looking for a sunny escape that won’t break the bank, Belize is your ideal December destination. The weather is pleasantly warm at about 82°F, and it’s a great time to snag fantastic deals. Discover ancient Mayan ruins, dive into the Great Blue Hole, or snorkel along the Belize Barrier Reef. If water activities aren’t your thing, enjoy a scenic hike in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
With these savings, you can fully enjoy Belize’s stunning beaches, lush jungles, and turquoise waters.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca offers fantastic value for December travelers. The city provides great hotel deals and a range of activities to enjoy. Spend your days soaking up the sun by the pool or explore the city’s rich history. Consider a bike tour, visit the Monte Alban ruins, take a cooking class, or explore local museums like the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca. Don’t miss the Noche de los Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) on December 23 for a festive celebration with fireworks, music, and radish carvings.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Whether you’re into skiing or cultural experiences, Salt Lake City offers a budget-friendly December getaway. With affordable accommodation and public transport options, you can save money while exploring. Check out the impressive Mormon Temple from the outside, enjoy a free performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, or visit Big Cottonwood Canyon for hiking and nature.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is another great choice for an affordable December vacation, thanks to its pleasant weather and lower hotel rates. Catch a game with the Lakers, Kings, or Rams, or enjoy free attractions like the Griffith Observatory, The Broad museum, and the outdoor art installations at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate Runyon Canyon Park and other trails offering stunning views of the city and beyond.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando might not be the epitome of romance, but it offers some of the best holiday deals. In December, many hotels drop their prices significantly, and airfare often follows suit if booked in advance. With the money saved, you could treat the family to Disney World, Universal Studios, or SeaWorld. If theme parks aren’t appealing, consider snorkeling at Discovery Cove or visiting the exotic animals at Orlando’s Exotic Animal Experience.
For a change of pace, head to the nearby beaches or drive to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to explore space history and interactive exhibits.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Dive into the vibrant energy of Las Vegas this December. Renowned for its electric atmosphere and endless excitement, this desert metropolis can whisk you away from New York to Paris all along The Strip. The best part? It’s budget-friendly. December offers some of the most affordable vacation deals, with hotels like the Bellagio, Excalibur, and MGM Grand providing great rates. For extra savings, consider booking a travel package.
While in Vegas, stroll down The Strip, explore the Mob Museum, and take a day trip to the majestic Grand Canyon.
FAQS
Is december a good time to travel?
December is an excellent time to travel, offering a diverse range of experiences. In Europe, the enchanting Christmas markets in Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic are particularly captivating. Cities like Munich and Berlin in Germany, Vienna and Salzburg in Austria, and Prague in the Czech Republic provide a magical winter ambiance with their traditional markets and festive decorations. For those seeking tropical warmth, Southeast Asia offers a perfect escape. Thailand and the Philippines, with cities such as Bangkok and Manila, provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. This blend of winter charm and tropical warmth makes December a versatile month for travel, catering to a variety of holiday preferences.
What are the best cheap snow destination trips in December?
Mexico
Mexico is an excellent choice for a budget winter trip, with affordable flights from the U.S. Explore Cabo San Lucas on the Baja Peninsula, or head to Quintana Roo’s Caribbean coast to see Chichen Itza, relax on Tulum’s beaches, or visit vibrant Playa del Carmen and the stunning Lake Bacalar. Mexico City also offers top-notch museums and dining, with tasty street food and great car rental deals.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a great option for an economical vacation with its beautiful white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The cost of food and drinks is reasonable, and you can find nice accommodations for under $70 a night. Don’t miss El Yunque’s picturesque waterfalls and snorkeling opportunities in Culebra.
Paris
Experience Paris in winter for a more relaxed visit to its famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. With budget-friendly flights, Paris becomes an affordable option, and you can enjoy the city’s festive Christmas lights, ice skating rinks, and bustling Christmas markets. Warm up in cozy cafes and savor delicious food in a charming winter setting
What is the cheapest time to travel in december?
The most budget-friendly times to travel in December are often on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. According to Hipmunk’s historical data, flights on these dates tend to be the cheapest, with median round-trip fares for domestic flights falling under $400. Many travelers prefer to fly between December 21 and 23, which accounts for 68% of bookings.
For return trips, the days immediately following Christmas are similarly busy but offer good value. The most affordable travel windows, avoiding super-short trips, are from December 24-28 or December 25-29. Conversely, traveling during the entire week around Christmas, such as from December 21-29, tends to be more expensive, with median round-trip prices averaging $547.
Cheap winter getaways or affordable winter vacations
Best vacation spots for young couples on a budget
For young couples on a budget, there are several great vacation spots that offer both affordability and enjoyment. Here are cheap holiday destinations for couples:
- Best Overall Affordable Vacation: Mazatlán, Mexico
- Best Affordable National Park: Glacier National Park, Montana
- Best Affordable European Destination: Prague, Czech Republic
- Best Affordable Beach Vacation in the US: Destin, Florida
- Best Affordable Caribbean Spot: Jamaica
- Most Affordable Urban Getaway: Toronto, Canada
- Top Choice for Food and Drink: Phuket, Thailand
- Best for Budget Accommodations: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
- Most Romantic Budget Destination: Grenada
- Best for Active Couples: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Best tropical vacations on a budget
For a budget-friendly tropical getaway, you can consider these cheap beach holiday top destinations:
- Los Cabos, Mexico: Enjoy affordable all-inclusive resorts and vacation packages that combine airfare and accommodation. Free, beautiful beaches add to the value.
- Montego Bay, Jamaica: Known for its stunning white sand beaches and vibrant culture, Montego Bay offers discounted vacation packages and is ideal for families.
- Phuket, Thailand: With its striking landscapes, budget hotels, and inexpensive activities due to a favorable exchange rate, Phuket is a great choice for affordable tropical adventures.
- Zakynthos, Greece: This Greek island features affordable lodging, beautiful beaches, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy snorkeling and wildlife experiences without breaking the bank.
- Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia: Known for its affordability, Denpasar offers budget-friendly four- and five-star hotels and a favorable exchange rate, making it a great tropical escape.
- Curaçao: One of the more affordable Caribbean destinations, Curaçao boasts scenic beaches, unique Dutch architecture, and budget-friendly accommodations away from the resort areas.
- Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: With its soft white sands and a variety of all-inclusive resorts, Punta Cana offers budget-friendly options that include food, drinks, and activities, often starting at less than $200 per night.
- Pedasí, Panama: Located on the Azuero Peninsula, Pedasí offers a serene beach setting and delicious seafood. This traditional town provides excellent value with hotels and resorts available for under $100 per night.
- Belize: With direct flights from major North American cities, Belize is an affordable destination known for scuba diving, horseback riding, and cave exploration. Accommodations range from $75 to $150 per night, and local food and drinks are budget-friendly.
- Corfu, Greece: For a taste of Greek island charm without the high costs of Mykonos or Santorini, Corfu is an ideal choice. The island features stunning beaches, unique architecture, and affordable hotels for $100 or less per night.
Affordable island vacations
Here are some top affordable island vacation spots:
Palawan, Philippines: Known for its stunning beaches and affordable scuba diving, Palawan offers budget-friendly stays and breathtaking natural beauty.
Goa, India: This tropical haven features pristine beaches, vibrant markets, and budget-friendly accommodations and activities.
Bahías de Huatulco, Mexico: With its beautiful bays, snorkeling, and low-cost dining, Huatulco is a great eco-friendly choice.
Far North Queensland, Australia: Cairns is a budget-friendly base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and nearby rainforest.
Lombok, Indonesia: Offers affordable stays, surf spots, and stunning landscapes, with budget options in both Lombok and the Gili Islands.
Barbados: Known for its public beaches and affordable local food, Barbados offers a budget-friendly Caribbean experience.
Vanua Levu, Fiji: This less-traveled island features inexpensive lodging and delicious local cuisine amid stunning natural beauty.
Ko Wai and Bang Saphan Yai, Thailand: These spots provide cheap accommodations and beautiful beaches away from the crowds.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Features all-inclusive resorts and stunning beaches at budget-friendly prices.
Unguja (Zanzibar Island), Tanzania: Offers pristine beaches and affordable snorkeling in a less-crowded tropical paradise.
Southern Mozambique: Known for its soft sands and affordable activities, Mozambique is a great low-cost tropical destination.
Providencia Island, Colombia: A remote gem with golden beaches and duty-free prices, ideal for a budget-friendly tropical escape.
Cheap european destinations or inexpensive european vacations
For budget-friendly European vacations or inexpensive destinations where you can live for under $500 a month, consider the following cities:
Pula, Croatia – Enjoy Roman architecture and stunning beaches.
Heraklion, Greece – Experience Mediterranean charm and historic sites on Crete.
Palermo, Sicily, Italy – Embrace Sicilian culture and affordable living.
Constanta, Romania – Explore Black Sea coast beauty and historic sites.
Vlore, Albania – Live by the Albanian Riviera with picturesque sea views.
Sofia, Bulgaria – Discover vibrant city life with rich cultural heritage.
Riga, Latvia – Enjoy a lively city atmosphere with beautiful parks.
Pristina, Kosovo – Experience a mix of history and modern vibes.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina – Immerse yourself in a city with rich history and natural beauty.
Pecs, Hungary – Explore a city with diverse architectural influences and affordable living.
Kotor, Montenegro – Delight in medieval architecture and breathtaking bay views.
Bansko, Bulgaria – Enjoy mountain adventures and traditional Bulgarian charm.
Best spring break destinations for families on a budget
If you’re looking for the best spring break destinations for families on a budget, consider these affordable options in the U.S. and Mexico:
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee – Enjoy a family-friendly escape with attractions like Dollywood, WonderWorks, and The Island in Pigeon Forge, all at an average nightly hotel rate of $117.
Guadalajara, Mexico – Experience rich culture and history in Mexico’s cultural center, with an average nightly hotel rate of $117. Highlights include local cuisine and vibrant mariachi music.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Discover cowboy culture and exciting attractions such as the National Cowboy Museum and the First National Center, with an average nightly rate of $130.
Las Vegas, Nevada – Enjoy the city’s famous free attractions like the Bellagio Fountains and budget-friendly buffets, with an average nightly hotel rate of $142.
Kissimmee, Florida – Stay near Orlando’s theme parks and explore local attractions like Old Town and Kissimmee Lakefront Park, with an average nightly rate of $142.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy attractions such as the SkyWheel and boardwalk, with an average nightly rate of $150.
Portland, Oregon – Explore the city’s biking trails, breweries, and scenic parks like Multnomah Falls, with an average nightly rate of $151.
Houston, Texas – Visit the Space Center and museums, and enjoy diverse dining options, with an average nightly rate of $152.
Dallas, Texas – Experience pleasant spring weather and attractions like the Perot Museum and the Bishop Arts District, with an average nightly rate of $161.
Denver, Colorado – Enjoy the city’s art museums, breweries, and outdoor adventures, with an average nightly rate of $164.
These destinations offer great value for families looking to enjoy a memorable spring break without overspending.
Best places to travel in july on a budget
Here are some top budget-friendly destinations to travel in july:
Niagara Falls, Canada: Enjoy iconic views and affordable rates on accommodations and attractions. Great weather and bundled discounts make it a top choice.
Phuket, Thailand: Tropical beaches and vibrant culture at reduced prices, though expect some rain during monsoon season.
Phoenix, Arizona: Beat the heat with discounted rates on luxury resorts and indoor activities. Ideal for those who can handle the high temperatures.
Montego Bay, Jamaica: Enjoy beautiful beaches and significant savings despite the heat and potential rain.
The Bahamas: Lower prices on resorts and flights in summer, though it’s less crowded compared to peak winter months.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Fewer tourists and reduced prices, but watch out for daily rain showers.
Mazatlan, Mexico: A cheaper alternative to more popular Mexican destinations, with affordable lodging despite potential rainstorms.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Deep discounts on hotels and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring jazz clubs and historic sites despite the heat.
Belize: Lower rates and fewer tourists, with some rain expected. Ideal for exploring natural wonders like the Great Blue Hole.
Cairo, Egypt: Significant savings on accommodations, though the extreme heat can be challenging. Opt for shorter, cooler excursions.
Bali, Indonesia: Affordable year-round, with great deals available during the dry season. Enjoy beaches, temples, and lush landscapes.
Miami, Florida: Cheap hotel rates and fewer tourists, though the heat and humidity are intense. Great for beach lovers and cultural exploration.
Nha Trang, Vietnam: A more affordable Asian destination with less rain compared to other regions, perfect for beach and cultural activities.
Sydney, Australia: Winter discounts mean lower prices and fewer crowds at major attractions, with cooler temperatures and a quieter atmosphere.
Cheap places to travel all inclusive
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