18 Best Cheap Places to Travel in December

Written by Shandley McMurray and Joni Sweet
Updated Nov 13, 2023
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Let's face it, nothing's cheap in December. Have you ever wanted to escape it all and relax somewhere fantastic, without the pressure of endless gatherings and gift wrapping? We've got good news: December is a fantastic month to find travel deals—as long as you're planning to vacation before Christmas and New Year's.

Airlines and hotel companies want to fill up their seats (and rooms) prior to the holiday rush, so great bargains abound and cheap places to travel in December do exist. From a luxurious beach break to a week spent in the wonderful chaos of Vegas, this list offers an extensive range of vacation spots to suit even the lightest pocketbook.

The earlier you book, the better the price, so get moving! Plan your trip with our list of the best cheap places to travel in December.

On This Page:

1. Las Vegas, Nevada
2. Belize, Central America
3. Orlando, Florida
4. Oaxaca, Mexico
5. Budapest, Hungary
6. Salt Lake City, Utah
7. Los Angeles, California
8. Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica
9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
10. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
11. Stowe, Vermont
12. Banff, Alberta, Canada
13. Québec City, Québec, Canada
14. Costa Rica
15. Chicago, Illinois
16. Arlington, Texas
17. Charlotte, North Carolina
18. Puerto Rico
Map of Cheap Places to Travel in December

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

Step into the action with a trip to Las Vegas. Known for its unique atmosphere and non-stop buzz, this desert city takes you from New York to Paris, all in one strip. The best part: it's affordable. The cheapest December vacation on this list, Vegas wants you to visit so much that its hotels offer incredible deals.

Whether you've dreamt of staying at the Bellagio Las Vegas, Excalibur Hotel, or MGM Grand Hotel, you're sure to find an affordable rate in the lead-up to Christmas. Book your stay as part of a travel package, and the savings become even more attractive.

While you're here, make time for a walk along The Strip, a trip to the Mob Museum, and a tour of the nearby Grand Canyon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Las Vegas

2. Belize, Central America

Want fun in the sun without a giant price tag? Book a trip to Belize. Do it in December, and you won't Belize the deals (sorry, we had to)! From exploring Mayan ruins to diving in the Great Blue Hole (a massive marine sinkhole) to snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef (the world's second-largest reef behind Australia's Great Barrier Reef), there's plenty to do in paradise. Not a big swimmer? Visit the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve for a beautiful hike through pine forests, around waterfalls, and through caves.

Your wallet will welcome the load of extra cash you've saved by timing your trip for this perfectly warm (about 82 degrees), relatively dry time of year. Plus, the pristine beaches, dense jungles, and inviting turquoise waters will help you forget about any money (or other) woes.

It may not be the most romantic Floridian destination, but Orlando often offers the best deals, especially during the lead up to the holidays. At this time of year, many of Orlando's hotels are close to half price. You'll likely get lucky in the airfare department as well, particularly if you book early.

With all that money you've saved, why not treat the kids (and yourselves) to a pre-holiday visit to Disney World, Universal Studios, or Sea World Orlando? Not up for insane crowds and listening to "It's a Small World" on repeat? Snorkel in Discovery Cove or visit the sloths in Orlando's Exotic Animal Experience.

Alternatively, take a day trip to some of the beaches near Orlando and soak up a little sun and sand for an afternoon. Or drive an hour east to explore the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. It's home to the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and interactive exhibits on space missions.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Orlando

4. Oaxaca, Mexico

This Southern Mexican city has plenty to offer tourists looking for a good deal in December. Enjoy great savings on hotel rooms and at some local venues as well. You're likely heading to Mexico for some sol, so plan to spend quality time poolside.

When you're not soaking up the rays (while wearing sunblock, of course), Oaxaca boasts a ton of things to do to keep you busy and intrigued. Book a bike tour, soak up the history at the ancient ruins in Monte Alban, take a cooking class (who doesn't love Mexican food?), or visit one of the multiple churches in town.

Love museums? Soak up some culture and history at the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca and Museo de Filatelia de Oaxaca, A.C. Then, take to the markets in the city's central square, Plaza de Armas.

Don't miss Noche de los Rábanos (a.k.a. Night of the Radishes) on December 23. This historic festival began in 1897 and includes fireworks, music, dances, great food, and a competition for the best-carved radish.

5. Budapest, Hungary

Bundle up! Budapest's chilly weather keeps most tourists away in December, giving those who don't mind the cooler temperatures (ranging from -1.8 to 3.1°C) a break on both the cost of accommodations and the crowds at major attractions.

With the winter weather comes snowfall, blanketing the historic city and its beautiful sites in a magical dusting of powder. Take a look at photos of Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and Fisherman's Bastion to see just how dreamy Budapest can look in the winter. You can also shop for souvenirs at one of Budapest's Christmas Markets.

When you're ready to warm up, head to one of Budapest's wonderful museums for some indoor sightseeing. You can see works by Old Masters at the Museum of Fine Arts or royal regalia at the Hungarian National Museum. For an even cozier experience, take a dip at a local bathhouse. The famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath has a mix of steamy outdoor and indoor baths that will relax your muscles and leave your body warm for hours.

6. Salt Lake City, Utah

View of downtown Salt Lake City at sunset

Whether you're a ski bum or a culture buff, there are plenty of reasons to visit Utah's capital. The fact that Salt Lake City is a relatively cheap place to visit during December is another plus. Those who plan to stay in the city can save even more cash by dashing about on public transportation. The Utah Transit Authority has numerous helpful options to get you where you need to go. If you want to day trip out to nearby ski resorts in Utah, though, you're best off renting a car, which is also cheaper before the holidays.

Founded by Mormons (Latter Day Saints) in 1847, this capital city boasts an impressive Mormon Temple. Only Mormons are allowed inside, but the rest of us can marvel at the architecture from the sidelines.

All are welcome to visit the nearby Mormon Tabernacle, a large, domed auditorium that seats over 6,500 and boasts a pipe organ with 11,623 pipes. The famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir performs here. Bonus: it's free. Nature lovers and avid hikers won't want to miss Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Hotels in Salt Lake City

7. Los Angeles, California

With great weather and relatively low hotel occupancy rates, Los Angeles is another worthwhile spot for an affordable getaway in December. The City of Angels is particularly exciting for sports lovers this time of year, with basketball, hockey, and football all in season. Cheer on the Lakers and the Kings at the Crypto.com Arena, or head to SoFi Stadium to root for the Rams.

Book your flights and hotels early to score the best deal. Then, continue to reap the savings by enjoying some of the top free things to do in Los Angeles. You don't need to spend a dime to gaze through the public telescopes at the Griffith Observatory, marvel at world-class art at The Broad, snap photos in between the outdoor art installation of 202 antique cast iron streetlights at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or check out the Japanese architecture in Little Tokyo.

Another fun way to spend time in Los Angeles is hiking. Head to Runyon Canyon Park for steep climbs with amazing views of downtown. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities—this park's proximity to the Hollywood Hills makes it a hot spot for the stars. Other great spots to hike in Los Angeles include Paseo Miramar, Mount Baldy, and Los Leones Trail, where you can catch stunning vistas of the Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica.

8. Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica

Looking for an affordable beach destination? It's time to get jammin' in Jamaica. Both Montego Bay and Kingston are popular vacation spots for those who love to relax. And they both offer great deals in December.

Plonk your body on a beach chair, hike through mountains, snorkel, or chill out by the pool, warm with the knowledge that you saved on both airfare and hotel costs for this trip. Another bonus: with plenty of hotel shuttles and taxis on offer, you won't need to splurge on a rental car.

An all-inclusive may be your cheapest bet if you don't want to blow your budget on food. Plus, you'll have paid all the money upfront, which means you can rest easy and choose anything you'd like from the menu without guilt.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Montego Bay

9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is the place to be if you're dreaming of somewhere warm, bright, and beautiful. It's also a good deal by Caribbean standards, with affordable all-inclusive packages, and boy does it boast beautiful beaches.

Surrounded by turquoise water and white, sandy beaches, this picture-perfect spot on the eastern side of the Caribbean's Dominican Republic is pretty close to paradise. Adventurers can zipline through the rainforest canopy, windsurf, kiteboard, sail, dive, or snorkel. Not up for all of that? Don't worry. You can golf, ride horses, walk the beach, or float in the pool.

Another plus? December is the time to catch good deals and fab weather. This month offers highs of about 85 degrees and less rain than you'll find from April to November. It's ramping up for high tourist season, so hotel and airfare prices will be on the more affordable end of the spectrum.

Accommodation: Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Punta Cana

10. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, the U.S. Virgin Islands offer an unforgettable and truly relaxing vacation. Those who visit St. Thomas can enjoy swimming with turtles, snorkeling, or diving in the bright blue ocean, golfing, shopping, and fantastic food—not bad for an island that's only 32 square miles.

This destination offers everything from luxury resorts to basic hotels and bed and breakfast lodging. It's easy to find something to fit your budget.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in the US Virgin Islands

11. Stowe, Vermont

While some ski resorts in Vermont offer big savings on lift passes at this time of the year due to run closures, Stowe does not. That's the bad news. Now for the upside: they don't have to because they get more snow than most resorts in December and have more runs open for you to ski. If you book lift passes online at least seven days in advance, you'll save money no matter when you plan to come.

So, what's making this a cheap holiday, you ask? The savings come in the form of hotel deals. Rooms in early to mid-December can be over $100 cheaper a night, which leaves you with plenty left over for shopping or lift tickets.

While you're still soaking up the high from saving your hard-earned cash, take time out to revel in the beauty that is Stowe. It's been dubbed one of the most beautiful small towns in Vermont for a reason, after all!

Non-skiers will love the spa amenities found in many of the resorts, and the town's shopping and restaurants are first-class. In addition to the unbeatable skiing and snowboarding, activity seekers can enjoy indoor rock-climbing at Stowe Mountain Resort or ice-skating at Spruce Peak Village.

12. Banff, Alberta, Canada

Banff truly shines during its best season: winter. From world-class skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skating, curling, and sledding, there's no lack of outdoor activities in this spectacular village.

Those who crave adventure won't want to miss the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. Conditions can be slippery and dangerous, so it's safest to book a guide. Want to relax? Book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy meadows or bathe in the Banff Hot Springs.

Skiing at Banff is expensive, no matter when you do it. That said, the longer you ski, the more deals you get, especially in early to mid-December. If you book a "Stay and Ski" package, you'll notice great savings, including cheaper room rates and discounted lift tickets at three resorts: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay. Banff loves early birds, so the sooner you book, the better the savings. Same goes for your airfare.

13. Québec City, Québec, Canada

The Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City during winter

July is the best month to visit Québec City for those who don't mind footing a hefty bill at hotels and restaurants, and elbowing their way through crowds of people searching for the city's best poutine. Traveling to this lovely Canadian gem in December, though, is magical and comparatively cheap.

This being Québec, you're pretty much guaranteed a dusting of snow or, more likely, a large dump that casts the historic buildings and parks in an enchanted light. Visit a German Christmas market at Le Grand Marché or another in Vieux-Québec. Traipse through festively adorned streets so European, you'll forget you're in Canada. Rue de Petit Champlain in particular begs to be photographed.

While you're in town, toboggan down Au 1884, a giant sledding run thought to be the oldest attraction in Québec City. It lies beside North America's most photographed hotel, the Fairmont Le Chateâu Frontenac. Booking this iconic hotel around Christmas is the most expensive time to stay. Choosing a room during the first two weeks of December, on the other hand, will cut your price by at least half. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railroad company in 1892, this lavish building offers remarkable views of the Saint Lawrence River.

14. Costa Rica

Rio Celeste Waterfall in Volcan Tenorio National Park

December is a great time to visit Costa Rica if you're looking for a bargain and ideal beach weather. This month marks the tail end of the rainy season, welcoming a refreshing break from the humidity that plagued the area for many months before. The temperature highs at this time hover around the 77 degree mark, perfect for adventuring through the jungle, ziplining, or lounging on some of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches.

While some roads may be closed off and on due to residue from the rainy season, visitors usually experience dry skies at this time of year. They are also privy to competitive hotel and restaurant rates compared to other travelers who either don't want to risk the chance of rain by visiting in early December, or are hoping to travel for the holidays.

Speaking of holidays, the Christmas/New Year's season is one of the most popular (and expensive) times to visit Costa Rica. Some hotels book up months in advance, so those planning to stay over the holiday need to plan well in advance and be prepared to foot a pretty substantial bill.

15. Chicago, Illinois

Winter is one of the cheapest times to travel to Chicago. As long as you avoid visiting during the Christmas holidays, you'll be in for some serious savings. Hotel rates drop dramatically once the barometer begins to plummet, and early December visitors, in particular, can notice a more budget-friendly bill at the end of their stay.

While frigid temps can at times make visiting Chicago's best parks a bit challenging, winter guests to the windy city can enjoy plenty of indoor attractions. The Art Institute of Chicago boasts a vast collection of historic and modern masterpieces, while a trip to the Alder Planetarium will help you get closer to the world beyond. The Museum of Science and Industry is another must-see that features multiple hands-on exhibits.

Plus, you'll have the chance to witness some of the festive charm that makes spending the holidays in Chicago an enjoyable experience. The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival sets off at the end of November but lasts through the holiday season. December travelers can also take a twirl around the ice at Millennium Park.

16. Arlington, Texas

One of the lesser visited cities in Texas, Arlington is a super cheap place to travel in December. The massive sports venues are a major draw for this small city, located between Dallas and Fort Worth. Its AT&T Stadium is home to the Dallas Cowboys. Choctaw Stadium (previously known as Global Life Park) is worthy of a tour, even if baseball isn't being played while you're there.

Arlington is likely the only place you can visit an International Bowling Museum & Hall of Fame. Good news for amusement park lovers: the massive, Six Flags Over Texas is open weekends year-round and on holidays.

Arlington's Christkindl Market is known as one of the best Christmas markets in the US. In addition to all the tasty treats and handmade crafts you'd expect to find, visitors with kids will enjoy its family-friendly vibe.

Texas Live! is the city's entertainment hub. It boasts multiple restaurants, shops, and is home to the Live! by Loews - Arlington Texas resort. This is a chic and contemporary hotel boasting 300 luxury guest rooms and suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the view and there are many options to enjoy food and refreshments on-site.

17. Charlotte, North Carolina

While most tend to visit Charlotte during its warmer months, December is a cheaper time to explore the top things to do in this North Carolina gem. With highs hovering around the 50-degree mark, you'll be comfortable while you wander the sites and traipse around Uptown Charlotte or skate around the ice at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame, Billy Graham Library, and Discovery Place Science museum will keep everyone busy. When you're finished exploring, spend the money you saved on your hotel and airfare to enjoy a little retail therapy, or perhaps splurge on a fancy meal in one of the city's best restaurants.

18. Puerto Rico

There are few things as exhilarating as scoring a deal on a beach vacation, especially when you're leaving behind a cold, snowy winter. Although winter is the most popular time to visit Puerto Rico, travelers can still enjoy affordable rates and budget-friendly airfare to this cheap Caribbean destination.

Puerto Rico is a hot spot for lovers of the sun, sand, and surf. It's home to multiple beautiful beaches, so visitors won't be at a loss for somewhere fabulous to unfurl their towels. Wandering the colorful streets of Old San Juan is one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Rico–and it doesn't cost a penny unless you fall prey to temptation and buy wares sold in its charming shops.

El Morro Fort lies in Old San Juan, at the tip of a peninsula. This historic spot is worthy of a visit, as is the impressive Castillo de San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fort built in the New World.