travel deals december

18 Best Cheap Places to Travel in December

Written by Shandley McMurray and Joni Sweet Updated Nov 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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.

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.

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

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.

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Belize
• Best Things to Do in San Pedro, Belize

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

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.

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.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Budapest

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

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.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

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

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

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

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 .

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

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.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Banff National Park

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.

Read More: Best Attractions & Places to Visit in Québec City

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.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Costa Rica

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 .

Read More: Best Attractions in Chicago

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.

Read More: Best Places to See Snow in Texas

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.

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.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Juan, Puerto Rico

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Cheap Holidays and Destinations: If you are someone who is looking for deals, be sure to see our articles on Cheap Ski Holidays in the US and, if you are traveling the Europe, see our piece on Cheap Places to Visit in Europe .

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26 Cheap destinations in 2024 with great weather in December

December is an interesting and unusual month for choosing holiday destinations. Many of the world’s favorite tropical beach areas and cities have the best weather of the year in December, but because most people can only take that last week of the month off work, the prices from one week to the next can be vastly different. The first two weeks of December are some of the cheapest weeks of the year in most of the places listed below, while the last week of the year is often literally the most expensive week of the year. In other words, if you can go in early December you can save a fortune or stay in a much nicer place than if you go for Christmas week.

We have a separate list of cheap and warm places to spend Christmas and New Years and there are similarities with the list below, but the prices are more in line with what you might expect to pay. On the other hand, if you can do a trip early in the month of December, you’ll get basically the same weather and the hotels (and flights) will be half the price. The important thing is to book early if you are going over the big holidays. Room rates in 2024 are mostly looking even lower than in 2023, especially in Asia. This could be a good year for a trip and a splurge on something you didn’t think you could afford.

This article was updated in July, 2024.

Important December 2024 holidays

• December 2 and 3 – National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates (major public holiday)
• December 6 – St. Nicholas’ Eve and Day (major public holiday in many European countries)
• December 8 – Feast of the Immaculate Conception (public holiday in many Catholic countries)
• December 10 – Constitution Day in Thailand (major public holiday with celebrations on 12-Dec)
• December 24, 25 – Christmas Eve and Day (major public holiday)
• December 26 – St. Stephen’s Day and Boxing Day (major public holidays in many countries)
• December 31 – New Year’s Eve (major public holiday, celebrations)

New video of this article

Here’s a new video I made showing all the highlights of the article below with footage of most places on this list. Please have a look!

The Americas

If you are looking to save money you’ll find that the first week of December will be many times cheaper than the last week of December in the Caribbean and most other places on this list.

The Caribbean

If you are mainly looking for a place to relax on the beach and take a couple boat trips or water sports, you might consider just booking at an all-inclusive resort. There are hundreds of them in the Caribbean and they have to compete for guests by offering prices that can seem suspiciously low, but most of them actually deliver what they promise for those low rates.

• 17 Cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive destinations
• 32 Caribbean destinations from cheapest to most expensive

Cancun, Mexico

• December avg high: 83°F/28°C
• December avg low: 70°F/21°C
• December avg precip: 3.8″/9.5cm

When planning a trip to Cancun it’s important to choose the best area for your style. Cancun itself is mainly a long L-shaped strip of resort hotels and timeshares along a beach, with very few other restaurants or shops between them. If you want to stay in your resort the whole time, Cancun itself is a good choice. But about an hour south of Cancun by shuttle you can be in Playa del Carmen , which is an actual fun tourist town filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. If you want to sample different things on your trip, Playa del Carmen is a better choice. The island of Cozumel is just across the water from Playa del Carmen and it’s kind of a hybrid of the other two. And Tulum is a bit south of those and it’s a smaller and more artsy town that is gaining in popularity in recent years. All of these choices are served by the Cancun airport and are easy to reach from there.

You might also consider getting a Cancun Pass for your trip. It bundles a bunch of expensive attractions into one moderate price. It’s worth a look because some of the attractions are amazing and most people aren’t even aware of them.

>>>New: Guide to choosing where to stay in the Cancun area

• 3-star hotels from: US$35 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$65 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$195 per night for two people

>> Cancun prices and travel tips >>> Check current Cancun resort and package deals

Where to find the cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive resorts

In this new video below I’ll explain exactly how and where to find the cheapest all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean that are really good.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

• December avg high: 84°F/29°C
• December avg low: 73°F/23°C
• December avg precip: 0.8″/2.0cm

Unsurprisingly, the end of December is the beginning of the peak season for resort prices, so those who are able to come earlier in the month will be getting better deals. Still, the all-inclusive resorts are locked in heavy competition all year so this area can be a great deal compared to the alternatives, even in high season. If you are looking for where to go in December for an all-inclusive beach holiday, this is your best option for most people. Punta Cana is also on the list of our best Caribbean destinations for families with kids , by the way.

• 3-star hotels from: US$46 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$190 per night for two people

>> Check current Punta Cana resort and package deals

Montego Bay, Jamaica

• December avg high: 85°F/29°C
• December avg precip: 1.6″/4.0cm

Montego Bay’s busy airport has cheap flights from most major hubs including many in Europe, so it’s one of the easier places to reach as well. If Montego Bay itself doesn’t sound perfect then you might instead consider  Negril  or  Ocho Rios , both of which are about 90 minutes from the same airport and each has a different feel. Two of our 11 best luxury all-inclusive resorts in the entire Caribbean are in Jamaica, and one is near the Montego Bay Airport so it’s easy to reach.

It’s worth noting a couple more points about Jamaica if you are considering a visit. On a positive note, many people enjoy the fact that it’s a place where all of the locals (and therefore the hotel staff) speak English. In Mexico and the DR you’ll find that only the key hotel employees can speak English very well. On the other hand, Jamaica has a pretty bad reputation for aggressive vendors on beaches and sometimes even in shops. If that bothers you then Jamaica will probably be more annoying than most other places in the Caribbean. Room rates in 2024 are looking higher than last year so it’s probably wise to book early or perhaps go somewhere else.

• 3-star hotels from: US$84 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$198 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$281 per night for two people

>> Check current Montego Bay resort and package deals

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• December avg high: 86°F/30°C
• December avg low: 64°F/18°C
• December avg precip: 0.9″/2.3cm

The December weather is pretty much perfect and dry, and airfares and hotel rates are very reasonable up until Christmas itself. If you are in California you might also consider Los Cabos (see below), although Puerto Vallarta is more interesting and usually cheaper as well. This is definitely one of the best places to go in December if you are anywhere near the Pacific Ocean.

It’s worth noting that while the hotel prices listed below are real, those are not typical of larger chain hotels on the beach. If you want to stay in, say, a Marriott on the beach in Puerto Vallarta, you are going to be paying much closer to US$200 per night for two people if not more. The 3-star places in PV tend to be small and family-owned while the 4-star places are more similar to international chain hotels.

• 3-star hotels from: US$48 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$141 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$218 per night for two people

>> Puerto Vallarta prices and travel tips >>> Check current Puerto Vallarta resort and package deals

Los Cabos, Mexico

• December avg high: 80°F/27°C
• December avg low: 58°F/15°C
• December avg precip: 0.6″/1.4cm

Los Cabos is the name for the whole area, but it’s really two towns that are also quite different. Cabo San Lucas is in the west and it’s built around the large and somewhat glamorous marina. This is also where you’ll find the famous Land’s End arch that is in every photo of Cabo. About 30 minutes away by car to the east is San José del Cabo , which has a newer and more modern town center and is close to the airport. There are also really nice beach resorts stretching along the coast between the two towns, so if you don’t want to go bar hopping or do much shopping, you might be better booking at one of the stand-alone resorts in between. There are quite a few all-inclusive resorts in the Cabo area, but they tend to be more expensive than those in Puerto Vallarta or even the Cancun area.

• 3-star hotels from: US$63 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$185 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$250 per night for two people

>>> Check current Cabo resort and package deals

Mexico City, Mexico

• December avg high: 69°F/21°C
• December avg low: 44°F/7°C
• December avg precip: 0.2″/0.5cm

As Christmas approaches the city will fill up much more, so if you can go early in the month you’ll be much better off. But even if you can’t go before the last week of the month you’ll still find Mexico City to be a tremendous bargain compared to pretty much anywhere else in North America. It’s a great shopping destination, and not just for goofy souvenirs, so that’s something to think about as well.

• 3-star hotels from: US$23 per night for two people

>> Mexico City prices and travel tips >>> Check current Mexico City hotel and package deals

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

• December avg high: 91°F/33°C
• December avg precip: 0.5″/1.3cm

Tamarindo and Smara are two of the most popular beach areas, but there are other good choices in the area as well. This part of Costa Rica is known for large chain resorts on the beach, and the 4-star resorts can be pricey, while the more traditional 3-star hotels are still very reasonable. Costa Rica is obviously one of the hot countries in December in both temperature and popularity, so book early. Each of the beach towns also has smaller and cheaper family-run hotels that also have the advantage that you can try different local restaurants for every meal. They are very different experiences and you probably know which one suits you better.

As you can see in the prices below, there is a huge difference even between the 4-star hotels and the all-inclusive beach resorts in the Guanacaste area. Generally speaking, you get what you pay for so you can expect that the all-inclusive places will be very nice for those rates, but it’s worth considering the normal hotels if you can save so much and still get a nice place.

• 3-star hotels from: US$53 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$81 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$338 per night for two people

>> Guanacaste prices and travel tips >>> Check current San Jose hotel and package deals

Cartagena, Colombia

• December avg low: 76°F/24°C
• December avg precip: 1.3″/3.3cm

Cartagena is becoming a very popular winter beach destination for people from North America, and it’s still a fantastic bargain compared to better known places, but it might not stay that way forever. As Colombia gets more popular (and as long as it stays safe) then prices should keep going up at these resort towns. The gorgeous and historic walled city in Cartagena makes for a great cultural and culinary visit, and there are nice beaches just a few blocks away. Very few tropical destinations have both in one place.

There are only a few all-inclusive hotels in Cartagena, but they do look to be good value so we thought we would include the minimum price to help guide your choices.

• 3-star hotels from: US$33 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$84 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$167 per night for two people

>> Cartagena prices and travel tips >>> Check current Cartagena hotel and package deals

• December avg high: 76°F/24°C
• December avg low: 66°F/19°C
• December avg precip: 0.0″/0.0cm

The food, including its famous ceviche dishes, is a particular highlight here, and the tourist district of Miraflores is packed with interesting and cheap restaurants. Basic and cheap hotels are in the same neighborhood, so it’s a better alternative to the historic center of Lima for most people. By the way, the rainy season in  Cusco  starts in December, so the trails can sometimes be cut off, although many people go anyway.

• 3-star hotels from: US$30 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$57 per night for two people

>> Lima prices and travel tips >>> Check prices on Peru hotels and resorts

Santiago, Chile

• December avg low: 54°F/12°C
• December avg precip: 0.1″/0.3cm

It’s true that Santiago is not considered a top-flight destination by everyone, but it’s a fantastic base for a trip involving several stops in Chile, especially this time of year. There’s the Colonial town of  Valparaiso  and many adventure towns in the mountains, so you can get a bit of everything in at very reasonable prices.

• 3-star hotels from: US$50 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$75 per night for two people

>> Santiago prices and travel tips >>> Check prices on Chile hotels and resorts

Buenos Aires, Argentina

• December avg low: 65°F/18°C
• December avg precip: 4.1″/10.3cm

Hotel prices definitely go up in around Christmas so it’s best to come early in the month if that’s possible, but it’s still a pretty good bargain even during the peak weeks. Book early if you can because the better and cheaper hotels will fill up first, of course. Also consider a side trip to the  Mendoza wine region , Patagonia, or the amazing water falls of Iguazu.

In 2024 the Argentine peso has stopped dropping against the USD as quickly since the new government has promised and instigated some reforms. Things in the country are still quite cheap to international visitors, but at least as of summer of 2024 there is some hope that the country’s economy might stabilize. In other words, Argentina should be great value for the foreseeable future, and hopefully you won’t have to bring foreign cash as the only way to take advantage of it. It’s obviously worth checking the current situation before you book.

• 3-star hotels from: US$34 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$77 per night for two people

>> Buenos Aires prices and travel tips >>> Check current Buenos Aires hotel and package deals

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

• December avg high: 88°F/31°C
• December avg low: 72°F/22°C
• December avg precip: 5.1″/12.8cm

As with most on this list, hotels get very full and more expensive just before the Christmas holidays, so it’s better to come early in the month if possible. That way you’ll have your pick of places at some surprisingly good room rates, even at some high-end places on the famous beaches. If you are coming during Christmas then book a hotel NOW because they’ll be full and will keep getting more expensive the longer you wait.

Brazil was one of the more expensive countries in Latin America as of a few years ago, but its currency has dropped and stayed lower so it’s quite a bargain again for foreign visitors. The hotel prices below for December were checked in late July of 2024. Hotels near the beach with beach views start only a bit higher than the rates below, so you can splurge a bit again this year.

• 4-star hotels from: US$43 per night for two people

>>> Rio de Janeiro prices and travel tips >>> Check current Rio de Janeiro hotel and package deals

From December through February there are literally no European cities that could qualify as having “great weather,” except for the Canary Islands, which is listed below. So during the winter Europe is all about cultural tourism, and lower hotel prices make it especially appealing for those who like to stretch their travel budgets and avoid crowds at the same time.

If you are thinking about a city break instead you should check out our  recommended cheap London hotels , our  recommended cheap Paris hotels , and our  recommended cheap Amsterdam hotels ,  recommended cheap Rome hotels ,  recommended cheap Prague hotels , and  recommended cheap Berlin hotels .

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

• December avg high: 71°F/22°C
• December avg low: 61°F/16°C
• December avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm

Even if you can’t sunbathe, the weather is still reliably pleasant all the time, with almost no rain. Weekly and monthly apartment rentals here are very popular, but there are plenty of hotels and hundreds of restaurants for those coming for shorter periods. If you want to be with the most English speakers you’ll want to focus on the southwest area of the island around Los Cristianos and Playa de la America.

It’s also worth mentioning that Tenerife is only one of the Canary Islands and there are sometimes even better deals on the others including Gran Canary, Lanzarote, and La Palma. They are usually all shown together when searching ‘Canary Islands’ for hotels, but in Europe they are usually listed separately so you have to check each of them out on your own. There are all-inclusive hotels on most of the islands as well and the value looks good, but on the other hand, it’s easy to find affordable local restaurants and bars in the popular areas so it’s a matter of if you are interested in spending your entire trip in one small place?

• 3-star hotels from: US$73 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$106 per night for two people
• All-inclusive resorts from: US$206 per night for two people

>>> Tenerife prices and travel tips >>> Check current Tenerife hotel deals

December is ideal in much of Africa, though Morocco might be a bit too cool by this time. The list below is quite incomplete due to how few cities we cover in the region.

Cairo, Egypt

• December avg high: 68°F/20°C
• December avg low: 50°F/10°C

Fortunately, it rarely rains at all in Cairo, so even though December is one of the wetter months, that means nothing and you are unlikely to see even a drop of rain. Hotel prices do reach their peak in Cairo starting late in December, so it’s best to go early in the month if possible. Egypt is definitely one of the cheapest places to travel in December, and the weather is surprisingly nice as well.

• 3-star hotels from: US$28 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$67 per night for two people

>> Cairo prices and travel tips >>> Check current Cairo hotel deals

Cape Town, South Africa

• December avg high: 77°F/25°C
• December avg low: 59°F/15°C
• December avg precip: 0.7″/1.8cm

This is a fairly cheap city compared to Europe or North America, so at least bargains are not hard to find on the ground once you get there. The flights are of course long and usually a bit expensive, so the whole trip will add up for sure. Hotels will be cheaper in early December than during Christmas week, of course.

• 3-star hotels from: US$38 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$79 per night for two people

>>> Cape Town prices and travel tips >>> Check Cape Town hotel deals

Middle East

December is cool and even a bit rainy in most of the Middle East. An exception is Dubai and  Abu Dhabi , which both have perfect sunny weather.

• December avg high: 79°F/26°C
• December avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

The December weather is actually warm enough to sit on the beach, but most people who come to Dubai tend to just relax and do a lot of shopping at one of the enormous and modern malls here. The restaurant scene is very interesting as well, and you can eat cheaply if you follow the local workers, or go to one of the hotel restaurants and get world-class cuisine.

• 3-star hotels from: US$65 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$87 per night for two people

>>> Dubai prices and travel tips >>> Check current Dubai hotel deals

December is an ideal month in most of Southeast Asia, except for much of the coast of Vietnam, which gets rain this month. Crowds, of course, get big just before Christmas, and hotel prices go up accordingly. It’s too cold in China, Korea, and Japan to make this list.

For a longer list see our best  December destinations in Asia choices , which includes some of these but quite a few more.

Boracay Island, Philippines

• December average high: 82°F/28°C
• December average low: 75°F/24°C
• December avg precip: 7.1″/17.8cm

If you are looking for something far less developed than Phuket or any other Thai island, Boracay might be for you. This gorgeous strip of sand is a bit out of the way, but partly because of that it still feels somewhat undiscovered. You’ll spend your days relaxing along White Beach or walking up and down the sandy paths that serve as the only real form of transport for most people. Many visitors come every year, and quite a few of those never seem to leave.

The hotel prices here might seem a bit high for Asia at first glance, but that’s because the island is long and thin so almost every hotel is literally on the beach or within a block or maybe two of it. The value is very good and food is a bargain here as well.

• 3-star hotels from: US$42 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$69 per night for two people

>> Boracay prices and travel tips >>> Check Boracay resort deals

Bangkok, Thailand

• December avg low: 69°F/21°C
• December avg precip: 0.4″/1.0cm

There’s a massive range of quality and prices when it comes to hotels in Bangkok, and the city is enormous as well, so you really want to do your research for this place. Most people are happier paying a bit more to stay near the river and all the tourist attractions, or even in the infamous Khosan Road backpacker district, which is cheap and fun, if tacky. If you like to shop then Bangkok is a slice of heaven. There are close to 15 large malls in the Siam Square area, which is also central and convenient since the elevated metro system cuts right through it. Room rates in 2024 are looking even lower than in previous years so this could be a good year to visit and splurge a bit on something you didn’t think you could afford.

• 3-star hotels from: US$18 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$23 per night for two people

>> Bangkok prices and travel tips >>> Check current Bangkok hotel deals

Phuket, Thailand

• December avg low: 75°F/24°C
• December avg precip: 2.3″/5.8cm

The prices given here are on the low side, especially during the winter season, so you are going to pay more unless you are willing to stay in one of the simple hotels in Phuket Town. It’s not a beach resort, but it’s a fun place itself, cheaper than the beaches, and allows an easy way to cheaply visit multiple beaches during a visit. My favorite beaches are Kata and Karon beach, which are both a bit south of the adult-oriented Patong Beach area.

• 3-star hotels from: US$26 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$45 per night for two people

>> Phuket prices and travel tips >>> Check Phuket hotel and resort promotions

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Hotels in Chiang Mai are among the world’s greatest travel bargains, with decent private rooms available for under US$15 per night in the city center. Pay more and you get a lot more, so it’s fun to feel like a big shot in a US$30 room that is almost like a suite. It gets crowded around Christmas so prepare for that and book early.

• 3-star hotels from: US$17 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$36 per night for two people

>> Chiang Mai prices and travel tips >>> Check current Chiang Mai hotel deals

• December avg precip: 0.3″/0.8cm

Not surprisingly, the weeks around Christmas and New Years are literally the busiest of the year in Goa, so either book a hotel way in advance or be flexible once you arrive. Some towns, like Calungute, are lined with package hotels that fill up completely, but other towns, like Anjuna and Vagator, are usually booked in person or by email, so you can often find a place just walking around. If you are in the mood to tour around, Mumbai has great weather during December, and Delhi has warm days but cool evenings this time of year. Goa has some of the best beaches in December in all of Asia, so give this one a serious look.

• 3-star hotels from: US$29 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$72 per night for two people

>> Goa prices and travel tips >>> Check current Goa hotel deals

Luang Prabang, Laos

• December avg low: 58°F/14°C

Hotel prices definitely jump up around Christmas, so this is yet another place where you should come in the first half of the month if possible. Most people visit along with a trip to Bangkok and Siem Reap, but other cities in Laos are worth a stop as well, especially Vang Vieng (if you are a backpacker type) and Vientiane.

• 3-star hotels from: US$25 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$112 per night for two people

>> Luang Prabang prices and travel tips >>> Check current Luang Prabang hotel deals

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Those temples are all outdoor for the most part, so cooler and dryer conditions mean you can spend more time touring the temples and still being comfortable. Almost any other month of the year and you’ll be better off going back to your hotel for a few hours in the afternoon, but in December you can carry on all day if you like. The town of Siem Reap is a delight in itself, but of course it fills up near Christmas.

• 3-star hotels from: US$8 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$22 per night for two people

>> Siem Reap prices and travel tips >>> Check current Siem Reap hotel deals

Hanoi, Vietnam

• December avg low: 60°F/16°C

Hanoi is actually one of the cheapest tourist cities in the world according to our Backpacker Index, and that’s partly due to beer and museums being incredibly cheap. In reality, you’ll want to spend more money than the minimum because everything is great value. There are hundreds of family-run hotels with 10 to 20 rooms and a breakfast room in the basement serving surprisingly great food included in the rate. They tend to be spotless and well run, so it could be worth skipping a chain hotel and saving some money in the process.

• 3-star hotels from: US$15 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$27 per night for two people

>> Hanoi prices and travel tips >>> Check current Hanoi hotel deals

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• December avg high: 87°F/31°C
• December avg low: 71°F/22°C
• December avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm

HCMC is not quite as cheap as Hanoi, and it’s not as nice to look at either, but it’s definitely worth a visit for a combination of history and culture. This is a huge and sprawling city so it’s important to choose the location of your hotel carefully. During Christmas things do fill up and prices go up as well, so book early if possible.

• 4-star hotels from: US$28 per night for two people

>>> Ho Chi Minh City prices and travel tips >>> Check current Ho Chi Minh City hotel deals

Auckland, New Zealand

• December average high: 71°F/22°C
• December average low: 57°F/14°C
• December avg precip: 3.6″/9.0cm

You can also rent a car and drive to the same places where you can stay in cabins in holiday parks/campgrounds, and small hotels and guest houses are reasonably priced as well. But renting a campervan is the classic way to see New Zealand and it can be surprisingly cheap since you’ll only be paying a small fee to park for the night in the abundant campgrounds. You’ll also be cooking many of your own meals, which is helpful because New Zealand doesn’t have many cheap restaurants or take out joints outside of the bigger cities.  Queenstown  on the South Island is the adventure sports capital of New Zealand and not to be missed.  Rotorua  on the North Island is also very much worth a stop.

• 3-star hotels from: US$71 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$78 per night for two people

>>> Auckland prices and travel tips

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26 Cheap destinations in 2024 with great weather in December " --> All Comments

family of 4 want to travel from Seattle to somewhere we can enjoy beach and city it can be a 2center destination what do you suggest we want to travel in mid december 2024Comment*

From Seattle and especially if you’d like at least a bit of a city in addition to a beach, I’d head for Puerto Vallarta. The historic center has a lot of great restaurants and interesting sights and things going on, and the nearby beaches are great. Los Cabos is another option, but from your short message I’d just go to Puerto Vallarta. I hope that helps and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

To celebrate his High School Gaduation, the hope is a father/son trip during his winter break from college ( 7 days between 16 Dec – 23 Dec). I’m a 100% disabled vet on a budget, so your counsel is most welcome. Thanks!

I’ll be happy to help and I’m sure we can find some great options for you. But first I’ll need to know your starting location and whether you’d like a beach, a city, or something else? If you are starting in the US I’d probably look at Mexico first, but it kind of depends on which city you’d start in. -Roger

Comment* I’m leaving from DFW or Lovefield. Yes I love beaches. We are trying to travel in December 8 to the December 11

If you are looking for great weather and an affordable beach I’d recommend Cancun that time of year. There’s lots more information on my article about Caribbean islands for all-inclusive resorts from cheapest to most expensive , including a video I just uploaded that explains it all. -Roger

Diana, NZ has perfect traveling weather in December, however bear in mind that it is the end of our academic year early/mid December and school goes back in February. This is a peak time of travel for families. But definitely a great time to visit 🙂

I read the questions and responses.

Do you still recommend New Zealand for December? Have your recommendations changed since 2014? Do you have blog? Where can I find more of your articles? I’m planning on a two week trip in December 2019 from Miami, FL. Thank you Diana

Yes, and interestingly enough, I just added that New Zealand thing to this article yesterday (5-August) so that is all fresh advice. I’ve added and changed quite a few entries on these lists and I update them each year, so everything is current. This IS my blog actually. So if you go to the homepage you’ll see links to many articles that contain links to many more articles and I’ve written almost all of them.

I lived in Miami myself a few years ago (in Midtown) and I’m still a big fan. New Zealand is almost the other side of the world so it wouldn’t be fast or cheap to get there, but it’s really lovely and it can be done at a reasonable price once you get there, especially if you focus on nature and the camping and RV scene. I’m happy to help if you have other questions. -Roger

This is a great blog! Stumbled upon it 2 hours ago and found it very informative. (I’ve spent 2 hours reading everything:)). My husband and I travel every year around the last 2 weeks of December. We’re based in Bangalore, India. We did Cambodia & Vietnam last year and really liked it there. This year we’ve really been wanting to go to Turkey. We’re ok to handle 8-10 degree weather. However, still debating if it’s a good time to go considering rains, availability of attractions etc. We’re very interested in culture, history, food and people. It would be great to know if you think December might be a good time to do Turkey? Thanks

Thank you so much for the kind words and I’m always happy to hear that people find this information useful. As far as Turkey in December is concerned, I wouldn’t recommend it. I actually lived in a small town near Antalya on the Mediterranean for a bit over a year and I was surprised by the fact that almost everything closed down around 1-November and didn’t start opening again until March or April. Actually, I think Istanbul would still be enjoyable in December and so would Bodrum or any of the other larger cities including Antalya. But anywhere on the coast will be a ghost town and I’m pretty sure that Cappadocia would also be mostly shut for the winter. Ephesus probably stays open, but similar to Cappadocia, the attractions are all outdoors and they can get pretty fierce rainstorms in winter.

So long story short, if you want to visit Istanbul and perhaps another city, I think December could be okay. But for almost anywhere else in Turkey I just don’t think it’s worth it. Fortunately there are plenty of other places to choose from and hopefully you can find time for Turkey another time of the year. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

I am travelling from Nigeria looking to take a break this december with my brother. I am looking for a cheap destination, rich in activities and shopping (apparal). Any suggestions please?

For a cheap destination in December that has great clothes shopping opportunities I can only think of two really good options. The closer of the two is Dubai . I’m not sure if you’ve been there before, but it has some of the best shopping in the world with every store imaginable and very good prices because duties and taxes are low. In spite of its reputation, Dubai can actually be visited quite cheaply if that is important. It’s famous for expensive hotels, but it’s got hundreds of more affordable hotels that can be pretty nice.

The farther, and cheaper, option is Bangkok . A flight would cost more and you might end up having to change planes in Dubai on your way, but once you get there you can find nice hotels starting around US$25 per night, although paying more for a better place is probably worth it. The whole central area of Bangkok around what is called Siam Square is surrounded by about 15 or 20 large shopping malls, many of which focus on clothing. It’s mostly chain stores and prices are good, although it’s not like they are much different from Europe except taxes are a bit lower. You can get locally made clothes at local markets for much lower prices than the chain stores in the malls. Also, Bangkok is a really fun city with plenty to see and do. For what it’s worth, alcohol is much cheaper in Bangkok than in Dubai, and much easier to get as well. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi.. We(2adults) are planning a trip by mid december(after15th). Can you suggest me some good places? My starting point is Cochin International Airport,Kerala.

December is a great month in most parts of southern Asia, so starting in India I would focus there. Here’s an article about the 16 best Asia destinations in December that should help more than the one above. If none of those are interesting you’ll need to give me more details about what you are looking for. -Roger

Hi…I want to travel in December(after 15th) for a month somewhere where it will be cheap to travel around the country. I am interested in beaches and scenic beauty and also places with a history like Machu Pichu and Greece. Can you recommend a good place?

I’ll be happy to try to help, but I’d really need to know your starting point because there are cheap places in different corners of the world, and it’s not worth flying halfway around the world to try to save US$20 per day. In mid December through January for beaches you should consider Thailand and perhaps also Vietnam. I’ll give you more information once I know where you are starting from. -Roger

Hi Roger, Appreciate you on your excellent and informative blog.

I am from India and I would be celebrating my 10th wedding anniversary in 2nd week of december 2018. We are family of four (2 adults and 2 kids aged 3 and 7) planning for a 5-7 days trip. Can you please suggest some good places where I can visit and also my kids feel involved too.

Regards, Bharth

If you’ve got 5 to 7 days and are starting in India I don’t think you want to fly halfway around the world, so it’s probably best to go somewhere between Dubai and Bali. Dubai has cheap flights from most places and it’s very family oriented with large play parks inside shopping malls and that sort of thing. You could get an apartment there in one of the many apartment-hotels for a reasonable price, and the December weather should be pretty good as well.

Another option is Thailand, and Phuket has the most family-friendly beach areas. You could get a family hotel room at one of the many beach resorts that has a Kids Club in addition to swimming pools and the beach itself. Those are my top suggestions for a family trip that is also suitable for an anniversary. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hi Roger, Appreciate your detailed and helpful input on all travel destinations. I’m planning to go in the first two weeks of December to Hawaii from Canada. Family of 4 (kids 3 and 9). Can’t figure out which island of 4 to choose. Looking for the best not crowded post-card looking beach, prefer to stay in small resort/condo. Would like to drive around island to see the culture. Don’t want to stay in big hotel in Honolulu. Any input on weather or islands is greatly appreciated.

This is a really interesting question. If you want to avoid crowds then you have already figured out that it’s best to avoid Honolulu and I would avoid Oahu completely. The Big Island is very interesting because of the volcano and some of the other scenery, but the most beautiful islands are Maui and Kauai. I haven’t made it to Kauai yet, but everyone I know has been there and they swear it’s the most photogenic, which looks right based on the photos I’ve seen. Maui is also really gorgeous and all islands other than Oahu are uncrowded even in high season. I drove all over Maui in a rental car and loved it and I don’t think there is as much to see on Kauai. So either of those will be great choices and the weather should be almost perfect in December with warm (but not scorching) temperatures and almost no rain. Have a great trip and let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Protect Your Trip »

Best cheap winter vacations.

Some destinations see prices skyrocket in winter, but U.S. News ensures that your dollars will stretch further with this list of the best cheap winter vacations. Our editors considered user votes in addition to factors like the cost and quality of accommodations, dining and attractions to narrow down the destinations with the best value – and weather – for a winter getaway. Help us determine next year's list by voting for your favorite winter destinations below.

Turks & Caicos

Quebec city, san miguel de allende, puerto rico, big sky, mt.

Hotels in Mérida, the capital of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, can cost as little as $50 per night in winter, so you'll have plenty of cash to indulge in the city's offerings. Dive far back into Mérida's history while visiting El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida and the nearby Dzibilchaltún ruins, both of which explore local Mayan history for inexpensive admission fees. Meanwhile, in the heart of the city, you'll find influence from Spanish conquerors at the free Catedral de Mérida. Don't forget to explore Mérida's food scene at one of its markets or restaurants.

The Turks and Caicos Islands are a popular vacation spot for a reason: Here, you'll find incomparable scenery, glistening white sand and turquoise water. When you're done basking on the beach, grab some snorkeling gear and head to the water; you'll discover an impressive barrier reef by these Caribbean islands that is ripe for exploration. To save money on your island getaway, skip staying at a luxury resort and instead reserve a vacation rental or a room at a smaller hotel. Save even more money by avoiding accommodations on Providenciales, where the country's priciest lodging options are located.

It's not hard to plan a cheap tropical vacation in Jamaica. Save money while still enjoying Jamaica's warm winter weather in the low 80s by staying at an all-inclusive resort that includes extras like water sports equipment and private beach access in their base fare. You can find even more deals on accommodations and airfare if you book a vacation package or time your trip for early winter before the snowbirds arrive. With the money you save, book a tour to see one of Jamaica's natural wonders, like Dunn's River Falls or the Blue Hole.

Located on the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum's status as a major tourist destination comes as no surprise. Its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches and fascinating Mayan ruins draw travelers in droves, and winter's pleasant temperatures in the low 80s only add to its appeal. But while this tropical paradise offers plenty of room for luxury, it's possible to stick to a budget. Beyond the favorable exchange rate ($1 equals about $18 Mexican pesos), you can also save money by dining in Tulum Pueblo and choosing accommodations away from the beach.

Those in search of a well-rounded winter getaway should travel to Taos, New Mexico. History buffs can spend their trip strolling through Taos Plaza or learning about Taos Pueblo, an adobe village that has been inhabited by the Taos Indian Tribe for more than 1,000 years. Meanwhile, skiers can zip down the slopes at Taos Ski Valley (save money by looking for winter packages and purchasing your tickets before the peak ski season begins). When travelers need to relax, they can head to Manby or Black Rock hot springs to rejuvenate in the naturally warm (and free) waters.

The cobblestone streets will probably be covered in snow, but that shouldn't discourage you from exploring neighborhoods like Old Québec and Quartier Petit Champlain. The Canadian city celebrates its way through the frigid temperatures with free or low-cost events and festivals that last from Christmastime to Carnaval in February. When you need to warm up, explore the splendid interiors of Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral and the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine, both of which offer free entry.

It's no secret that Lake Tahoe is a great wintertime travel destination. This lake that straddles the California-Nevada border is known for its premier cold-weather activities, including cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating and snowshoeing. To save some coin during your trip, plan on booking your getaway early and staying at one of the lake's ski resorts. Though resorts can get pricey at times, they often offer vacation packages or multinight discounts to help you cut costs.

A winter vacation in San Miguel de Allende should include time spent exploring the city's markets and cultural institutions, including the Fábrica La Aurora, a textile mill-turned-art-museum and shop. Both El Jardín, the city's main plaza, and Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, an ornate church, are additional must-see sights that won't cost you a dime to enjoy. You'll also want to sample the vast foodie scene: This Mexican city offers everything from fine dining to cheap (but delectable) food truck meals.

Though the Southwest brings to mind deserts with scorching temperatures, Santa Fe, New Mexico, conveniently sits close to several different ski resorts. Not only can you schuss the slopes in 40-degree weather, but you can also spend less on lift tickets here than you would in more popular ski destinations. Back in Santa Fe, you can admire art at Canyon Road's 80-plus galleries or stroll through Santa Fe Plaza without spending a cent. If you time your visit for late February, you can also score deals on dining out during Santa Fe's Restaurant Week.

If all you dream about for a winter vacation is escaping to a tranquil Mexican beach, Cozumel is your answer. Turquoise water, great snorkeling and warm weather (think: average highs sit in the mid-80s) attract travelers in droves. For lodging, skip the expensive resorts and opt for a bed-and-breakfast or a vacation rental. Use the money you save on accommodations to visit Cozumel's parks, including Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park and Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, which both charge modest entrance fees.

Puerto Rico's warm winter temperatures (highs consistently sit in the low 80s) and robust calendar of free festivals and events make it an appealing choice for a cheap winter getaway. Although the winter months bring an influx of tourists to this U.S. territory's sandy shores – raising hotel and airfare prices – it is still possible to achieve an affordable vacation as long as you plan far enough in advance. Luckily, many of Puerto Rico's must-do activities are free, including hiking through El Yunque National Forest and exploring historic Old San Juan.

Boasting more than 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, Big Sky, Montana, is a winter sports enthusiast's dream. Here, you'll find a healthy mix of slopes for everyone from beginners to experts. While lift tickets will take up a hefty portion of your budget, if you plan early and book in advance, you can score deals on both your accommodations and lift tickets at Big Sky Resort. For even more savings on lift tickets, which cost more when demand is high, visit on weekdays in early December and opt to ski later in the day to cut down on fees for the popular Lone Peak Tram.

Winter in Banff is characterized by snow and skiing. This Canadian destination enjoys excellent skiing conditions with exceptional scenery. What's more, lodging and lift ticket prices are a bargain compared to other ski spots in North America, but you'll need to book them a few months in advance to ensure availability and the best prices. With the money you've saved, you can treat yourself to a sleigh ride or an extra après-ski drink. Though you'll need to purchase a National Park Pass to stay in Banff; this fee also covers access to off-slope wonders like Lake Louise, where you can skate and admire ice sculptures.

Thanks to its location in the Caribbean Sea, Martinique offers ideal weather for travelers seeking a warm respite from chilly winters. Temperatures sit in the 80s throughout winter, so you can spend your days soaking up some sun on Les Salines and Diamant (Diamond) beaches. If you plan on staying in Fort-de-France, the country's capital, book early to ensure you snag affordable accommodations during Martinique's peak tourist season. For additional savings, book a hotel farther inland.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee's wintertime highs sit in the upper 40s and low 50s, meaning you can still take advantage of the town's most popular attraction: Great Smoky Mountains National Park. After entering the national park, which charges a $5 daily parking fee, hike a section of the famous Appalachian Trail to Charlies Bunion, an outcrop with stunning mountain vistas, or trek the Rainbow Falls Trail for a chance to see the path's namesake falls frozen over. When you need to warm up, head back to town to sample the local moonshine at Sugarlands Distilling Company or Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine's "The Holler" distillery for a small fee.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Sanibel Island

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Best Places to Visit in Winter

Best Places to Visit in December 2024

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• Winter Vacations

11 Best Places to Travel in December

These are the best places to visit in December in the U.S. and around the world.

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The end of the year is incredibly busy with gift shopping, decorating for the holidays, and family gatherings. So before you run out of open days, take some time to book that winter vacation — even if it’s just a weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a warm-weather escape to end the year or a festive destination brimming with holiday cheer, we’ve got you covered. From ski towns to beach resorts, here are 11 of the best places to travel in December.

Lake Tahoe, California

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Snowfall usually begins in late November in Lake Tahoe, so you can be one of the first to hit the slopes when you visit in December. The destination’s sapphire blue lake, pine forests, and snow-covered peaks are gorgeous this time of year. Stay on the south shore at Edgewood Lake Tahoe , which hosts holiday festivities throughout the month; the resort’s new multi-bedroom Villa Suites are perfect for families or groups. On the north shore, Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe features ski-in/ski-out access and a mountainside concierge. Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe and Edgewood Lake Tahoe were both among Travel + Leisure’s Best Resorts in the Western United States in 2022. Nearby Reno Tahoe offers a wide range of winter activities and a convenient airport with flights from many major cities.

Palm Springs, California

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you’re looking for mild weather, superb restaurants, golf, plush hotels, spas, and great shopping, put Palm Springs on your December must-visit list. And at just two hours from Los Angeles and San Diego, the Greater Palm Springs area is easy to reach. Check the concert and sports events schedule at the new Acrisure Arena , which hosted Cirque du Soleil’s new Corteo this summer — a first for the desert venue. Lodging ranges from expansive resorts like the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort to boutique and adult-only properties. Stay just steps from downtown Palm Springs in a quiet and historic neighborhood at Auric House ; you’ll feel like a local as you stroll to restaurants, shops, and breakfast at nearby Korakia Pensione .

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston topped the T+L World’s Best Awards list this year for favorite cities in the United States, and it’s a perfect destination for the holidays, with gorgeous decorations adorning historic buildings, streets, and neighborhoods. Christmas markets, tree lightings, parades, and seasonal events inspire the holiday spirit during December. The Charleston Place gets decked out for the season, and the other best Charleston hotels include the Emeline , Planters Inn (a Relais & Châteaux property), and The Vendue , Charleston’s art hotel.

Newport Beach, California

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With weather in the 60s and lots of Southern California sunshine, Newport Beach is a great December destination for hiking, cruising the harbor in a Duffy boat, whale watching, visiting Balboa Island, or strolling along the beach. The city celebrates the holiday season with the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade each night from Dec. 13-17, when more than 100 decorated yachts, boats, kayaks, and canoes cruise the waterfront, along with music, fireworks, and glittering lights. Stay near the action at Lido House , an Autograph Collection hotel, or be among the first to stay at the new Pendry Newport Beach . For five-star luxury, two oceanfront golf courses, and stunning views, choose The Resort at Pelican Hill . Accommodation options here include bungalow rooms and suites with fireplaces and private terraces, as well as Mediterranean-style villas with two, three, or four bedrooms.

Branson, Missouri

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In Branson, the two-month-long Ozark Mountain Christmas celebration kicks off in early November, and it’s an incredible way to get into the holiday spirit. Known as “America’s Christmas Tree City” for good reason, Branson features more than 1,500 decorated trees, shows, parades, 6.5 million lights, drive-through displays , and photo opportunities with Santa Claus. Throughout December, there’s caroling by the fire, story times, and a candy village displayed in the lobby of the Chateau on the Lake . At Big Cedar Lodge , guests can sip hot cocoa, see twinkling holiday lights, skate at the Winter Wonderland ice rink, make wreaths, and bake gingerbread — and that’s just a few of the property’s annual Home for the Holidays activities.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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December is considered one of the best months to visit Dubai thanks to moderate weather that’s ideal for being outdoors exploring the city. Visitors will find a festive atmosphere and myriad seasonal events , from elaborately decorated Christmas trees and holiday markets to shopping malls decked out for the season. See public art in the Dubai Design District, lounge at the beachfront in La Mer, or visit the historic Al Fahidi District. Stay at the elegant Habtoor Palace , LXR Hotels & Resorts, or the plush Burj Al Arab Jumeirah . Welcoming guests starting Dec. 1, One&Only One Za’abeel is located in the heart of the city near the Dubai World Trade Centre. The Lana , Dorchester Collection, Dubai, will also open in December beside the Dubai Canal.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Caribbean, Riviera Maya is 30 minutes south of Cancun and offers calm seas, sandy beaches, sunny weather, and lodging for all tastes, from boutique hotels to lavish resorts. Maya archaeological sites are fascinating to explore, and cenotes — caves or underground holes filled with cool water — are another intriguing feature of the Yucatan. Mayakoba , a private community with nearly 600 acres of lagoons, jungles, and beaches, includes El Camaleón Golf Club , luxury residences, and four resorts: Fairmont Mayakoba , Andaz Mayakoba , Banyan Tree Mayakoba , and Rosewood Mayakoba . Celebrate the new year with legendary Mexican musician Luis Miguel in concert on Dec. 31 at the nearby golf course. Also in Riviera Maya is Maroma , A Belmond Hotel, now open after an extensive renovation and redesign led by Tara Bernerd & Partners . 

Vienna, Austria

Ambika Verma/Travel + Leisure

While Vienna is lovely year-round, it is dazzling in December, with holiday decorations, lights, markets, and Christmas trees galore. Delicious Austrian food is part of the celebration, and mugs of Christmas punch (made with rum and/or brandy) keep shoppers warm as they browse or sample wiener schnitzel, sausage, apple strudel, or traditional roasted chestnuts. Or, stop into a café for coffee and Sachertorte, a famous Austrian chocolate cake. T+L readers recently voted for their favorite Vienna hotels , and The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna took the top spot. The Rosewood Vienna , which just opened last year, and The Amauris Vienna , a Relais & Châteaux property, are also fine options. Note that river cruises are a great way to see Europe’s many Christmas markets, and itineraries are offered through several companies, including AmaWaterways , Viking River Cruises , and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises .

Fort Worth, Texas

Think about this lively Texas city for an end-of-year vacation or weekend getaway, when the weather is in the comfortable high 50s and there’s so much to do. The Fort Worth Zoo features holiday decorations, lights, falling snow, and visits from Santa in December. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District , where ranchers once traded cattle and cowboys drove the animals to market, is still in action with a daily longhorn cattle drive, restaurants, rodeo shows, bars, and tours of the original wooden corrals. Stay at Hotel Drover , in the heart of the District, where holiday decor and activities add to the fun. Near the downtown Sundance Square entertainment area, Kimpton Harper Hotel is set in a historic building that was once the tallest in Fort Worth. The Crescent Hotel, Fort Worth opens this autumn and features a Canyon Ranch Wellness Club with a full menu of fitness classes and spa treatments.

U.S. Virgin Islands

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea, St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you travel to the Caribbean for the beaches, water sports, outdoor adventures, shopping, or nightlife, these islands have myriad options. Join the fun at St. Croix’s Crucian Christmas Festival, which begins Dec. 10 and combines Caribbean, African, Spanish, and Dutch influences in traditional carnival events. The closing parade happens on Jan. 6, when thousands of masqueraders fill the streets. Among accommodation options are the waterfront King Christian Hotel in downtown Christiansted, St. Croix and The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas , which hosts holiday activities throughout December. Passports are not required for travel to this United States territory.

This sunny island in the eastern Caribbean is a perfect December escape, whether you’re traveling with friends or family or looking for a romantic getaway. From relaxing on the beach or by the pool to active adventures like kitesurfing, diving, or playing golf, there are lots of fun things to do on Anguilla. Places to stay include boutique hotels, resorts, villas, and apartments at a range of prices. Consider the family-friendly Four Seasons Resort & Residences Anguilla , Malliouhana Resort , and Frangipani Beach Resort , where there’s fun for everyone. Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel and Altamer offer private villas. Zemi Beach House on Shoal Bay Beach features a spa set in a 306-year-old Thai house.

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10 Affordable Winter Vacations at Off-Peak Destinations

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected] !

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Weather-related airport delays and the holiday travel period notwithstanding, winter is a great time to travel. Plenty of destinations in the U.S. and around the world have their shoulder season or low-season in winter, and the corresponding lower prices make it more affordable to visit some normally pricey destinations. Of course, weather varies from mild to downright cold in winter, but the big savings may make up for it.

Best Off-Peak Places to Visit in December for Affordability

Napa valley and sonoma county, california.

A slower pace of life settles over the Napa and Sonoma valleys after the grapes have been harvested and the new wines are safely tucked away to age in cellars and caves. Winter is dubbed “Cabernet Season” because chillier temperatures inspire a turn to heartier cuisine and bigger red wines. A visit during this cooler time of year still yields the many charms of both valleys, from wine tasting to soaking in thermal pools. But not only will you find a more intimate experience—one with fewer tour buses to battle and more room to linger over a tasting flight at a local winery—you’ll also be able to enjoy it all for less.

Winter is also yellow mustard season in Napa and Sonoma, a time when the valleys are blanketed in the vivid yellow blooms of wild mustard flowers. Restaurant Month—a time to sample world-renowned restaurants for a fraction of the usual price—takes over Napa in January and happens in Sonoma later in winter. And despite fewer visitors, Napa and Sonoma still offer a full schedule of events such as art shows and gourmet food tastings.

For more information about where to stay and what to do in Napa during the winter, visit the Cabernet Season section of Visit Napa Valley’s website. And check out Sonoma County Tourism for of winter-trip inspiration .  To find air deals to San Francisco International, Oakland International, or the Sonoma County Airports, head to our sister site, Airfarewatchdog .

Check Prices for Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa in Napa

Santa fe, new mexico.

Although winter is ski season in Santa Fe, rates for accommodations still drop by 20 to 40 percent because summer attracts the most visitors and is considered peak. Restaurants, galleries, and museums stay open year-round, but Santa Fe is free from the crowds that can clog its streets at other times of the year. Plus, you can save up to 40 percent on accommodations while having the city essentially to yourself.

Skiers looking for options outside the pricy resorts of Colorado and Utah will find affordable lodging in Santa Fe and good runs at  Ski Santa Fe in the nearby Sangre de Cristo mountains. If you’re not a skier, you can still find plenty to do in winter by touring the city’s art galleries, shops, and museums. Or, catch a performance of the Santa Fe Symphony , the  Santa Fe Concert Association , the  Santa Fe Pro Musica , or the  Lensic Performing Arts Center , all in session during the winter.

Native American and Christian traditions are both celebrated in Santa Fe around Christmas. On December 24, Canyon Road and the Plaza are decorated with farolitos , small sand-filled bags lit by votive candles, and residents and visitors enjoy the lights with caroling and hot cider.  Pueblos  near Santa Fe perform annual  animal dances  around the holidays that visitors are welcome to experience. January, February, and March are also good times to visit the pueblos and experience the various dances and ceremonies performed there each year.

Find accommodations, search for special offers, and learn about winter activities by visiting the  Santa Fe CVB website . Search for airfare deals to Santa Fe on Airfarewatchdog .

Check Prices for Bishop's Lodge Resort & Spa in Santa Fe

Tahiti and french polynesia.

Tahiti and the other 117 islands that make up the tropical paradise of French Polynesia are considered year-round destinations by many; but slightly warmer, wetter weather causes visitation to drop off somewhat between November and March. As a result, prices for airfare and accommodations also fall in the winter. Taking advantage of these deals won’t lead to a soggy vacation, however. Although afternoon rainstorms are common in winter, Tahiti still averages more hours of sunshine per day than Honolulu, according to research compiled by UCLA.

To get an idea of the savings you can expect by traveling to Tahiti in the winter, we researched rates for air-and-hotel vacation packages to the islands from three different providers. Overall, per-person rates for weeklong vacations in the winter months were about $100 to $200 cheaper than travel during the summer. Many hotels offer low-season rates, and tour providers and cruise lines may discount their services. For a list of current deals, visit the “specials” page on the website for Tahiti Tourism North America .

To learn more about travel to Tahiti and to find listings of accommodations and vacation specials, go to the  Tahiti Tourism website . Find air deals by browsing the websites of airlines that service Tahiti, including  Air New Zealand , Air France (a SkyTeam partner),  Air Tahiti Nui (an American and Delta partner), French Bee ,  Hawaiian Airlines ,  Qantas , and United .

Check Prices for InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa in Faa'a

Bonus Destinations for Affordable Travel in December: Morocco; Chicago, Illinois; and the United Kingdom.

Best Off-Peak Places to Visit in January for Affordability

New york city .

Thanks to the tourism board’s NYC Winter Outing programming, there are major savings to be had in New York City in January, and the savings even continue into February. To start, the city hosts NYC Restaurant Week, NYC Broadway Week, and NYC Must-See Week during which select Broadway shows, attractions, museums, tours, and performing arts venues offer two-for-one tickets and more than 350 restaurants feature discounted prix-fixe menus.

For accommodations, the tourism board partners with over 50 hotels to offer special discounted pricing, upgrades, or other perks on stays in winter. And with three major airports as well as easy access via rail and car, getting to New York City can certainly be budget-friendly.

Wintertime is an exciting time to visit New York City, especially for shopping, museum-going, theater-hopping, and more

Check Prices for Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Manhattan/Times Square South in New York City

According to a study using data from the Japan National Tourist Organization, winter is the slowest season for tourist arrivals in Japan, with about 40 percent fewer visitors than during the peak summer season. As a result, winter airfares to Japan can be over 50 percent less than summer fares.

For lower-priced winter sale fares, keep your eyes on United , which often has discounted last-minute fares to Japan from several U.S. cities. You can also check for air sales to Japan on the websites of carriers that serve the country such as  Japan Airlines  and  Delta . You can also use Airfarewatchdog to monitor fares to Tokyo , Osaka , and Sapporo .

Geographically a long, slender country, Japan reaches the same latitude as Portland, Oregon, in the north; while southern Japan is at roughly the same latitude as Florida. Which means that, similar to the weather in the U.S., Japan’s north is cold and snowy in the winter; its mid-latitudes are cold but sunny; and its subtropical south is warm all winter long.

Ski resorts, hot springs, snow festivals, and peak viewing of Japan’s national bird, the Red-crowned Crane, are draws for visitors to the north in winter. In the rest of the country, it’s still possible to see many of the usual cultural attractions, all with less competition from other visitors. Take Kyoto for instance, an old-soul city, with abundant World Heritage sites (17 in total), an authentic geisha district, ancient temples, and peaceful Zen rock gardens. In Kyoto, hotels generally have clear high- and low-season price disparities that work to your advantage in winter.

To learn more about winter travel in Japan, visit the websites for the  Japan National Tourist Organization  and  Outdoor Japan .

Check Prices for Cross Hotel Kyoto in Kyoto

Enjoy a slice of island life without paying the high-season prices of the Caribbean. Bermuda, which lies north of the Caribbean and east of the Carolinas in the Atlantic, offers mild winter weather (average of 70 degrees) and plenty of leisure activities, including sightseeing, tennis, and golf. However, since the water gets too cool for swimming (for most), travelers looking for a winter beach escape tend to overlook the island. And that translates to off-peak savings.

Lower-season prices on accommodations become an even better deal with the island’s Pink Sale promotion, which offers up to 50 percent off at participating hotels and resorts for travel between January and April (this promo also usually runs in the fall from September to December). With fewer visitors in the winter, rates for accommodations can drop by 40 percent or more, making this affluent British territory affordable for more budget-minded travelers.

Popular events throughout winter offer even more reasons to visit: The Bermuda Marathon weekend happens in January, the six-week Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts begins in January, and whale-watching tours start in March.

Visit the  Bermuda Tourism website  to find other accommodations and special offers. To find sale fares to the island, head to Airfarewatchdog .

Check Prices for Willowbank Resort in Somerset Village

Bonus Destinations for Affordable Travel in January: San Diego, California; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Best Off-Peak Places to Visit in February for Affordability

Yellowstone national park, montana.

Yellowstone was the first national park in the U.S. and remains one of the most popular. It receives more than four million visitors per year, but only 83,00 of those come during the winter (December thru February). Winter offers smaller crowds, and rates for accommodations drop for the season, making it an appealing and affordable time to visit. However, be warned: Though the park spans parts of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, there are more closures in winter. Check the NPS website for the most up-to-date information.

Wildlife viewing is particularly good in winter. Visitors can easily spot gray wolves, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelopes, moose, and bald eagles, among other animals.

Other wintertime activities include alpine and  cross-country skiing , snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and  touring the park  by snowcoach. Equipment can be rented in the park or from providers and hotels outside the park.

Winter temperatures are very cold, from zero to 20 degrees in the daytime to sub-zero temperatures at night, with an average snowfall of 150 inches per year. However, plenty of warming huts are located around the park, some of which have snacks and hot beverages.

Xanterra Parks and Resorts  operates the in-park hotels, and two of its properties typically offers winter specials throughout the season. Hotels outside of the park—including the  Gray Wolf Inn  and  Three Bear Lodge —tend to also offer winter packages that feature discount accommodations and winter activities. You can save as much as $50 per night on accommodations by visiting Yellowstone during winter instead of the peak summer season.

Check Prices for Gray Wolf Inn and Suites in West Yellowstone

By visiting Greece in winter, travelers can save big on airfare and accommodations, and also experience the country as the locals do. Visitation drops off in fall, and by winter, there are very few tourists, leaving hotels and archaeological sites such as the Acropolis nearly empty. Convinced? Check out fare deals to Athens from Airfarewatchdog .

Greece’s Mediterranean climate remains sunny and pleasant, with temperatures in the 50s in Athens and the islands—although it will be colder and even snowy in the mountains. Contrary to popular belief, the islands don’t shut down completely, though fewer hotels will be open.

Carnival , known as Apokreas in Greek, is observed in Greece as much as in New Orleans and the Caribbean. For nearly a month in January and February, Greeks celebrate nightly with eating, drinking, and dancing. Events heighten on the weekends, with outdoor music, dance performances, and float parades. Celebrations occur all around Greece, particularly in Athens, Patras, Tyrnavo, and the islands Skyros and Thassos.

Although it’s mostly overlooked by foreign visitors, skiing has become popular in Greece. The country has 19 ski resorts in destinations including Kalavrita, Pelion, Delphi, the Peloponessos, Macedonia, and Epirus. Downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding are all available.

Check Prices for Herodion Hotel in Athens

In general, the entire continent of Europe is considered to be in its off-peak season in winter, so you’ll see significant savings in comparison to peak summer prices around the region. Check out our article on travel to winter off-season travel Europe here .

Quebec Provence, Canada

Montreal and the surrounding destinations in Quebec make for an easy winter weekend getaway from the northeastern U.S. It’s a cinch to skip the airport security line (plus any possible winter-weather flight delays) and drive or take the train from the Northeast to the Canadian city. Monitor prices on Airfarewatchdog to Montreal or Quebec City for the latest air deals.

Nightly hotel rates at many properties are significantly more affordable during colder months. We spotted heavily discounted winter rates at the glitzy Ritz-Carlton Montreal on weekdays in January, February, and March. On top of those low-season rates, travelers can snag additional savings with deals offered on the tourism board’s website .

Here’s even more incentive to visit this season: There’s tons to do in Montreal during winter, from  Montreal en Lumiere (including the famous Nuit blanche a Montreal) to the annual family-friendly  Fete des Neiges de Montreal winter event. Nearby Quebec City also offers plenty of winter festival fun with the famous Quebec Winter Carnival .

Find abundant winter outdoor activities, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding, downhill skiing, and more at nearby mountains like Mount Orford and Mount Tremblant . Plus, the Canadians do après-ski best with Nordic spas, warming yurts, mulled wine, fondue, and more.

Check Prices for Hotel Ambrose in Montreal

Bonus Destinations for Affordable Travel in February: Paris, France; Austin, Texas; and Iceland.

Wave Season

While this isn’t technically an off-peak destination, we’d be doing you a disservice if we didn’t mention the most popular and best time of year to book a cruise for value. “Wave season” runs from January thru March, and is typically when seasoned cruisers book their trip for the year. You aren’t necessarily guaranteed to get the cheapest price; but during this period, many cruise lines offer hard-to-resist incentives like free upgrades, onboard credit, reduced fares, longer booking windows, and other free perks.

What to Wear Traveling in Winter

You don’t have to sacrifice style when it comes to dressing warm and comfortably. Check out some of our favorite styles this season that’ll keep you looking stylish (and warm) all season long.

Women’s Winter Outfit for Fun

Shop the look.

Blanket Scarf

Leather Tote

Oversized Crew

Winter Bootie

Men’s winter outfit for fun.

Classic Sneaker

Cashmere Hat

Editor’s note: This article has been edited from research and information from multiple older articles in order to give you the most up-to-date content. Ashley Rossi, Christine Sarkis, Jessica Labrencis, Molly Feltner, and Caroline Costello contributed to this article.

More from SmarterTravel:

• The 10 Cheapest Places to Fly Right Now
• 6 Reasons to Visit Europe in Winter
• 18 Winter Travel Tips for Flights and Road Trips

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on   Twitter   and   Instagram   for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

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20 Best Places to Visit in December, According to Travel Experts

Check out these top destinations for a winter wonderland or warm-weather retreat.

Holiday tourism is hot . Christmas markets, Santa-themed attractions, hotels that give off hygge vibes, light shows and festivals are popping up everywhere. In fact, according to a new report by PricewaterhouseCoopers , 47% of Americans are expected to travel this holiday season, and travel-related spending is expected to increase 12% over last year.

We plowed through a blizzard of options to land on these holiday-inspired places to visit in December, and then we added a couple of beachy, warm-weather spots in case that's more your vibe. Our picks are truly next level: Some long weekend locales will blow your kids' minds and cement their belief in Santa, while others are cozy couple's retreats where you can act out your Hallmark movie fantasies. A few even perfectly align with the brilliant trend of vacationing somewhere over the holidays rather than exchanging presents.

While tickets and rooms are still widely available now, it's likely that many of these places will sell out, so dash off to request your PTO!

Hotel del Coronado, San Diego

Ice skating with an ocean view? Not only is it a thing, it's an epic holiday tradition at Hotel del Coronado, winner of a 2022 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award. Skating by the Sea returns to the historic property from November 17 to January 7. After your 90-minute skating sesh, reserve seating with firepits (mmm, s'mores) at the Frostbite Lounge. Other holiday happenings at The Del include a light show and beachside igloos.

Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Highlands, North Carolina

Give yourself an early holiday present — the gift of a couple's or girlfriend's getaway to Old Edwards Inn & Spa. The adults-only destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains oozes cozy vibes. For a special deal, book its Comfort & Joy package, available Sunday to Thursday, November 1-17 and November 28-December 15.

It includes two nights of lodging, a three-course dinner for two and two 50-minute spa treatments. Lodging options range from an intimate historic room to a two-bedroom suite (perfection for the girls' trip).

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Santa Barbara, California

Not only does Santa Barbara get decked out for the holidays, it's also whale-watching season! Migrating Pacific gray whales pass through the Santa Barbara Channel as they head back to Baja California. Visitors can spot them on one of the town's many whale-watching tours. Fortunately, you won't feel too frosty on the boat or at the city's 37th Annual Parade of Lights on December 10.

Stay at The Steward , an all-suite property offering guests a secret hideaway tucked between the ocean and mountains on California's idyllic central coast. Not only does it boast a heated outdoor pool and sweet porch swings, but the hotel also offers many sustainable touches like solar-powered lights and water-filling stations.

Fort Worth Stockyards, Fort Worth, Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the Christmas celebrations. In its 22nd year, Christmas in the Stockyards on December 3 spreads cheer with a massive ice skating rink, photos with Cowboy Santa, strolling carolers and a holiday parade. Even if you can't make it that day, most of the activities (minus the parade) are available throughout the rest of the season. Stay at the nearby Hotel Drover , which will also be decked out for the holidays.

Nashville, Tennessee

The holiday season really makes the Music City sing. Both the iconic Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry feature festive concerts with superstar performers like LeAnn Rimes, Amy Grant and Vince Gill. As you explore Nashville's neighborhoods, one million twinkling lights can't help but put you in the holiday spirit.

If you're bringing the kids, stay at the Gaylord Opryland Resort , home to an elaborate Polar Express-themed ICE! attraction where kids can zoom down frozen slides. For a more grown-up adventure, stay at the Bobby Hotel. After a show, indulge in warm craft cocktails at the Rooftop Lounge where you can rent a heated igloo while taking in an incredible view of downtown Nashville from 14 stories up.

Salt Lake City, Utah

With spectacular mountain views at every turn, Salt Lake City wows winter sports enthusiasts and foodies alike and has incredible seasonal events to boot. Throughout December, visitors can stop by the holiday art market at Alta Ski Resort , hop on a full moon lift ride at Snowbird or take a self-guided tour of the ten striking murals by some of Salt Lake’s most renowned local artists.

Restaurants like downtown's SLC Eatery and White Horse have imaginative menus. Stay nearby at Le Méridien or Element downtown. "The two hotels are under one roof and we enjoyed them both," says a Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited. "The Element is more kid-friendly and includes free breakfast while Le Méridien is high-end and has a rooftop bar."

Biddeford, Maine

A hidden gem about a half hour south of Portland, Biddeford's downtown gives off Hallmark movie vibes. Come for the annual Holiday Festival on December 1, which includes a tree and menorah lighting, caroling and even free desserts prepared by the local cultural center. Make it a weekend with a stay at The Lincoln Hotel , which fills its lobby with Christmas trees and has gas fireplaces in every room. Don't forget to stop for lunch at the Palace Diner in a vintage railcar and the oldest diner in Maine.

Tucked away in the Eastern Caribbean, Anguilla is known for its magnificent beaches and easygoing atmosphere. With 33 beaches, most boasting soft, white sand, it's an undeniable paradise in December. From fun family activities like glass floor boat rides to romantic beachside dinners, the island has something for everyone.

Visitors can stay at the Frangipani Beach Resort , a luxury boutique resort set in the middle of Meads Bay, one of Anguilla’s most renowned beaches. Featuring 23 rooms and suites, travelers can take advantage of the plentiful amenities like beach and poolside service and complimentary water sports such as tubing and kayaking.

Tulum, Mexico

There’s more to Mexico than burritos and mojitos. Tulum's legendary ruins are a historic wonder and the third-most visited site in Mexico. What's more, Tulum’s breathtaking flora and fauna make it a prime destination for those who appreciate natural beauty.

Stay at an all-inclusive beach resort that appeals to all ages: the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort . With eight pools, 13 restaurants and bars, a luxury spa and an exclusive Family Zone, it has everything you need to be a home away from home. A Good Housekeeping staffer who recently visited with her family said, "The resort is beautiful and there are nice nightlife things for parents to do while the kids are in the kids club."

Snowflake Lane, Bellevue, Washington

Pick up gifts for everyone on your list and see a magical nighttime parade all in one place! That's multi-tasking at its finest. Every night from November 24 to December 24, a holiday parade with nearly 200 performers, floats and faux snow transforms this shopping and entertainment mecca near Seattle into a veritable winter wonderland. You can even stay overnight in the heart of the festivities at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue , which has an indoor pool and an amazing breakfast buffet.

Sydney, Australia

With summer heating up in the Southern Hemisphere, December is the perfect month to take a trip down under. For travelers who enjoy nature and wildlife, take an immersive walking tour with knowledgeable, indigenous guides to explore the city’s living world.

During your trek, visitors might get a glimpse of cute koalas sitting in treetops, spot a hopping kangaroo or experience other unforgettable creature encounters. For those who’d rather relax, the city has plenty of brilliant beaches to lounge on and sunbathe.

Beyond nature, Sydney is teeming with iconic sights and cultural attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, which offers kids' programming throughout the month.

Charleston Place, South Carolina

Visions of sugar plum fairies will be dancing in your kids' heads if you stay at the Charleston Place, which is embracing the Nutcracker as its holiday decor and programming theme for 2023. To say that the hotel goes all out for Christmas is an understatement: Decorations include more than 100 wreaths, 139 trees (including one that's 41 feet tall) and 10,000 ornaments. Local ballet companies even put on mini performances in the lobby. Sweet dreams are practically guaranteed.

Hersheypark, Hershey, Pennsylvania

Oh, what fun it is to ride at Hersheypark! Families can take a spin on select rides and attractions, including the newest coaster, at Christmas Candylane on select dates from November 10 to January. Santa and his nine reindeer also make special appearances at the park. Make it a weekend by staying at Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge , which also have a lineup of holiday-themed activities. Many involve chocolate, of course!

The Logan Hotel, Philadelphia

Celebrating the holidays in Philly? Book a suite that's already decked out for the season. The Logan Hotel's Holiday Lodge Suite will get you in the spirit with its twinkling lights, seasonal bedding and fully decorated tree. Room service is also included — a cart with hot chocolate and eggnog is rolled right into your suite, so your family can customize their own beverages. While you're in town, be sure to check out the Reading Terminal Market and the Christmas Light Show at Macy's.

Alexandria, Virginia

This historic town just outside of Washington, D.C. packs in the festivities all month long. It'll be tough deciding when to go — a Holiday Boat Parade of Lights takes place on December 2, while Christmas Illuminations with fireworks at George Washington's Mount Vernon light up the skies on December 15 and 16. Stay at a hotel in the Old Town area so you'll be near many locally owned shops and restaurants. The Alexandrian boasts a great location and an indoor pool.

It's never a bad time to visit Belize, but escaping the bustle of the holiday season for a place with pristine jungles, rainforests and exhilarating adventures sounds like a dream. Stay at Cayo Espanto , a private island that's an enchanting escape. With villas equipped with a personal butler, private dock area and customized meals, guests won’t soon forget the experience. To get in the holiday spirit, the resort even offers a holiday photoshoot for couples or families. Say, cheese!

Little America Hotel North Pole Experience, Flagstaff, Arizona

If it's possible to get your kids even more hyped for the holidays, the North Pole Experience will do it. The attraction transports families through a "magical portal" to the North Pole where they'll feast their eyes on Santa's Workshop, a Toy Hall of Fame, the North Pole mailroom and even the famous sleigh. It's about an hour and forty minutes of pure magic! Stay at the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff, where the magical portal opens (via trolley service) for the journey "up North" on select days from November 17 to December 24.

Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida

If you're not sure what to get the kids for the holidays this year, may we suggest a trip to Disney? Instead of spending money on more stuff, put it toward a trip over the holidays where you can make lots of memories.

Float the idea by the kids to see if they're on board, and, if it's a go, start planning your trip, including tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party (shown), which runs through December 22. Other holiday must-sees including the gingerbread display (and cookies to purchase!) at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and the Epcot International Festival of Lights (running through December 30.)

Brussels, Belgium

European holiday markets are a bucket-list experience — and wouldn't it be marvelous to stop at several without schlepping your luggage (and souvenirs!) all around? The solution: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is launching a luxury river cruise from Brussels that includes stops at five holiday markets, plus chocolate tastings, cave tours and more. The boutique cruise line also offers options starting in Germany and Switzerland.

Great Wolf Lodge

This indoor waterpark chain with 20+ locations goes big for the holidays with storytimes, nightly snowfalls, crafts, Santa visits and decorations galore. The location in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania recently opened stylish woodland villas — a first for the brand and a boon for mult-gen families.

The villas can sleep 8 to 20 guests and have bunk-bed rooms for kids. Other thoughtful touches include hooks in the bathroom to hang wet bathing suits and outdoor tables that double as tic-tac-toe boards. The table idea is the brainchild of designer Nate Berkus, who masterminded the outdoor space.

The former senior editor at Parents who started the brand’s awards programs, Karen Cicero is a seasoned journalist who specializes in travel, book, lifestyle and food coverage.Cicero has visited almost every state with her family (look out Wyoming, she’s coming for you next!) She recently presented at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA and the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance. A mom who goes overboard for all the holidays, Cicero lives in the Christmas city itself: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with nearly two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping , Woman’s Day , People , Parade , BET.com. WebMD and more. Her coverage includes entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, parenting and fashion content. If she's not exploring New York City with her two young children, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears. 

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Welcome, Winter!

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Best Travel Deals of December 2023 – Save Big on Expedia, Priceline, & More

Looking to lock down late travel details for your winter or spring getaway? Check out these December travel deals to save on your next trip.

Best Travel Deals

U.S. News takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

If you're trying to find deals on a last-minute holiday trip or book a winter or early spring getaway, we've rounded up some December deals to help steer you in the right direction and save money on travel expenses to get you where you're going for less.

Planning ahead is a surefire way to save. Booking domestic flights about three weeks to three months in advance can yield the best savings. With that time frame, reserving one-way or round-trip air travel in December can save you money on late winter getaways, Spring Break travel, or even just a weekend getaway. For international trips, you'll want to book about three to six months in advance – or up to 10 months in advance during a destination's peak season – to get the lowest airfare.

Winter is a big time for travel to warmer climates, so it might be harder to find the best deals this month but be sure to check travel sites for last-minute discounts.

Sites like Priceline , Expedia , Booking.com , and Orbitz are offering discounts on flights, hotels, and travel bundles this month. Hotel and rental car companies are also giving exclusive discounts when you book through them.

Today’s Best Travel Sales

Current deals can be found on some of the most popular travel booking websites and brands. December deals include:

• Booking.com : up to 15% off Getaway Deals for stays through Jan. 3, 2024
• CheapOair.com : up to $30 off flight fees with code LD30
• Expedia : up to 30% savings or more on hotels
• Priceline : up to 50% savings on select hotels with Pricebreakers
• Marriott : 15% off or more on three-night or longer stays at select locations with coupon code
• Orbitz : savings up to 35% with Last-Minute Deals
• Budget Rent A Car : up to 35% off when paying for vehicle rental upfront
• Hotels.com : up to 35% off beach getaways

Best Travel Deals Going On Right Now

Some of the best deals happening now are available for a limited time, while others are offered year-round. Coupons for signing up for an account or email newsletter are typically always offered, while deeper discounts generally have an expiration date.

Here are all the best deals going on right now:

Booking.com

Booking.com 's Getaway Deals can save you up to 15% on accommodations for stays through Jan. 3, 2023.

You can search using your own parameters or peruse a list of Getaway Deals locations curated by Booking.com. This offer is good for participating hotels and other properties around the world.

Up to 15% off Getaway Deals for stays through Sept. 28, 2023

CheapOair.com

CheapOAir.com offers links to cheap flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. In December it is offering a promotion that gives you up to $30 off its own fees on flights with coupon code LD30, which you can apply during checkout.

Other savings you can benefit from are a $15 discount on fees when you join the travel site's email promotions list.

$30 off flight fees with code LD30

Expedia is offering 10% to 30% of hotel stays. It also offers special deals for members if you join the OneKey program with savings of up to 30% off.

The website also lists trip ideas, from one- to four-day trips and more, as well as recommended destinations that can help you save money on travel.

20% or more off hotel stays

Priceline 's new service, Pricebreakers , reduces the price of stays at top-rated hotels by up to 50%.

Here's how it works: Priceline will show you three deeply discounted hotel choices that are highly rated, but you won't know which hotel you've booked until the reservation is complete. The company says it's only able to offer these marked-down prices from certain hotels discreetly, so the exact accommodation isn't transparent until you've booked it.

Variety of special savings for Priceline’s 25th anniversary

Up to 50% savings on select hotels with Pricebreakers

Travelers booking through Marriott can save from 15% to 25% on three-night or longer stays at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and resorts. Reservations must be made by March 12, 2024, and you must use the promo code UK8 when making a reservation.  

This promotion is good at select Marriotts around the world, including luxury hotels and family-friendly options, and you can use filters on the website to find participating locations.

Families can also save by getting 50% off a second room for kids who are 16 or younger.

15% off or more on three-night or longer stays with code UK8

Orbitz is offering up to 35% off its Last-Minute Deals . You can save on all your impromptu travel needs with these last-minute travel deals, including finding cheap hotels, vacation rentals or packages, airlines, car rentals, and activities.

The website includes a variety of options for travelers to choose from, and most hotels have free cancellation.

Savings up to 35% with Last-Minute Deals

Budget Car Rental

Budget Car Rental is taking 35% off the price of vehicle rentals in the contiguous U.S. and Canada when you pay upfront at participating locations. Use the Budget Customer Discount promotion D822121 to find the lowest rates when booking. Some vehicle restrictions apply.

The company's other periodic promotions include free vehicle upgrades and markdowns on weekly vehicle rentals.

Budget Rent A Car

Up to 35% off when paying for vehicle rental upfront

If you are looking for some last-minute deals, you may want to check out Hotels.com . Currently, the site is promoting up to 35% off beach getaways for hotel stays in popular locations.

If you plan to be a frequent user of this site, you may want to consider joining the site's free membership program, as it allows you to earn discounts on future travel bookings.

20% off fall getaways

Find Travel Coupons Online

You can find more travel coupons online right here at U.S. News Deals . We round up active promo codes and discounts from popular travel sites and car rental companies and list them all in one place to save you time.

So when you're looking to save money on your upcoming trip, make U.S. News Deals your first stop.

Check out the current promotions and coupon codes for the following sites:

• Barcelo Hotels & Resorts »
• Booking.com »
• Budget Rent A Car »
• Budget Truck Rental »
• CheapOair.com »
• Enterprise »
• Great Wolf Lodge »
• Hotels.com »
• Priceline »
• OneTravel »
• Southwest »
• The Parking Spot »
• Travelocity »

For more coupons and promotions, many travel sites offer a discount when you sign up for their email newsletters. Free loyalty programs and paid memberships also include member-only prices, among other money-saving perks.

Travel Deals – Tips To Save

Having a coupon isn’t the only way to save money on travel plans. Finding the best price on top of a discount can mean significantly more savings. Here are tips to save:

Track prices

Monitoring the price of flights, hotels, cars, cruises, and other accommodations will help you find the best price. Many travel sites have a tracking feature or allow you to save trip searches so you can monitor prices of one-way and round-trip flights, rentals, or other accommodations you’re interested in and be notified when prices drop.

Use a travel app to find the lowest price

A number of apps can also track prices and give you options, letting you know which are the cheapest. Some examples are Scott's Cheap Flights, Skyscanner, Hopper, and Kiwi.

In addition, some booking sites offer discounts if you download and use their app for the reservation process. The website should note if this is an option, so be sure to look for it if you're interested.

Shop during sales

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are popular sale days for big discounts across the board, and that includes travel deals. And don't forget about Travel Tuesday, which follows Cyber Monday and features a variety of deals – from extra points on flight bookings to a free night stay and other discounts on accommodations as well as vacation packages.

For other times of the year, signing up for email newsletters from your favorite travel websites will keep you in the know of upcoming sales. Some have weekly or even daily sales.

Browse different sites 

Some sites may offer lower prices than others. By shopping around, you’ll see the different options and prices available for your trip. Don’t dismiss booking directly from an airline, hotel, or cruise company, as they may have offers not available through third-party sites.

Time your trip

Certain months yield lower prices. In general, January and August are known for cheaper airfare, so researching off-season months for your trip destination can keep more money in your pocket and help you avoid tourist-heavy periods.

Be flexible with your trip details if you can

This won't always be possible, but if you can keep your options open, you might find a great deal on a flight to a specific destination or a hotel in an area you might not have originally considered. Timing, too, can impact price, so if you can alter your travel dates, you may be able to take advantage of vacation deals.

Join membership programs

If you’re loyal to certain companies or websites, consider joining their membership programs to earn member-only discounts. Some may even give you a coupon or other reward, such as bonus points, for signing up. Plus, you'll be notified about sales, including hotel deals, cruise deals, and other promotions.

Consider using a travel rewards credit card

Some membership programs offer travel credit cards that you can use for everyday purchases like groceries and gas to earn points for future travel discounts. If you want more flexibility, choose a rewards card not affiliated with one travel company. If you travel frequently and generally use credit cards for purchases, this could be a good way to save on trip expenses.

One thing to check before signing up for a card is its annual fee. Some have no fee, while others may charge several hundreds of dollars per year.

Use your points

Similarly, if you collect points or miles, check to see if you've accumulated enough to save on your travel costs. Some programs also allow you to purchase points, which could be a cost-effective method to pay for your trip, depending on the point conversion rate.

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12 Last Minute Suggestions for a December Getaway

Treat yourself to travel for Christmas.

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Want to change up your annual Christmas routine and do something really different? Why not take advantage of some great December travel offers and escape with family or friends to a dream destination? Whether you like warm, sunny climates to chase the winter blues away or prefer a genuine Yuletide experience complete with snow, skiing and holiday festivities, here are some options starting with a Jamaica getaway to Bluefields Bay Villas . Located on the far west side of the island in an idyllic fishing and farming community, you can experience an unspoiled nature retreat on the water with this Jamaican holiday.

Quebec City, Canada

One of the more unique lodging options in Quebec City is the Hotel De Glace , a spectacular architectural creation made of ice and offering 44 themed rooms and suites (pictured). This ice hotel is the only one of its kind in North America and includes hot tubs and sauna amenities. While you are in Quebec City (a UNESCO World Heritage treasure), you can take a carriage tour, skate in Place D’Youville, browse the annual German Christmas market, stroll through the city’s Christmas Village and experience some of the season’s best festivals.

Sedona, Arizona

If you want a December getaway that combines scenic beauty with cultural and wellness offerings, then Sedona should be your mantra. From its healing spas and salons to a vibrant arts scene, the town is famous for its stunning location in a geological wonderland of red rock canyons, mesas and meadows. It is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts offering excellent biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing, rafting and other activities. To top it off, you can experience the world’s largest 3D holiday light show from December 14-17 and celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Sedona Arts Center .

The 50th state in the U.S. is always an ideal vacation choice if you are seeking a tropical paradise. You also have unlimited choices on how to spend your time there. You could go snorkeling and take a cruise around Kealakekua Bay and other scenic wonders with Fair Wind Cruises . Treat yourself to luxurious accommodations at the Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast and experience a side trip to Botanical World Adventures . Tour the rain forests of Hana and the breaktaking sea cliffs of Maui via Maverick Helicopters . Outdoor enthusiasts can opt for a whale-watching kayak tour while those seeking a restful spa vacation can find the perfect retreat at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in Lahaina (pictured above).

Lexington, Kentucky

Legendary bourbon distilleries, picturesque horse farms, historic estate tours by candlelight and the lovely scenic wonders of the bluegrass state await you in Lexington, Kentucky . Among the several hotels and inns offering special December packages are the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa , which includes a Bourbon Lover’s special, Gratz Park Inn in the historic downtown and 21c Museum Hotel , a former bank transformed into an 88-room boutique hotel and contemporary art museum with a private dining room situated in the bank’s former vault.

St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Florida

The warm, sunny shores of Florida are always a great choice for those who want to escape the cold in December and one of the most desirable areas is Western Florida on the Tampa Bay Gulf where you can find ideal waterfront lodgings in St. Petersburg or Clearwater . Among some of the top-rated accommodations that are offering special December-January rates are the historic Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club on the St. Petersburg bayfront and two Clearwater favorites, The Sheraton Sand Key (pictured) and the Wyndham Grand .

Baltimore, Maryland

One of the best-kept secrets among cities on the East Coast, Baltimore has enjoyed a cultural renaissance in recent years and is now a go-to place for its exciting culinary scene, arts community, historic districts and seasonal festivals, especially during the Christmas holidays. Take advantage of popular local accommodations such as the Hotel Monaco located near Baltimore’s inner harbor. Experience family-friendly events like the Santa Club buffet and train ride at the B&O Railroad Museum , skating at the Pandora Ice Rink or the 50th Anniversary of Kwanzaa Celebration at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture .

London, England

If you want to experience a Christmas holiday where old-fashioned tradition and contemporary culture blend together in delightful ways, London is your destination. Check out the dazzling holiday lights along Regent Street, Duke of York Square, Bond Street and other neighborhoods. Shop for gifts at Harrods or stroll the South Bank with a bag of roasted chestnuts. Go ice skating at Somerset House or join the carolers by candlelight at the Royal Albert Hall . Families will enjoy the Winnie the Pooh exhibition at the V&A Museum while theater devotees can attend definitive productions of "The Nutcracker" at the Royal Opera House and "La Boheme" at The King’s Head Theatre . Discounted lodgings can be found at Last Minute , Hotels.com and other travel websites.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Golf, tennis, biking, fishing and family-friendly outdoor excursions are just a few of the activities that attract people to this lowcountry resort that is southwest of Charleston, South Carolina and northeast of Savannah, Georgia. But an alternative lure that is becoming increasingly popular are wellness getaways. Hilton Head Health offers a December package that includes accommodations, meals, yoga training, cardio kickboxing, spa facilities, paddleboarding, fitness classes and other amenities in a laid-back, beautiful setting.

What could be a better gift for ski fanatics and winter sports fans than a trip to Colorado in December? Consider a ski package from Keystone that includes their Kidtopia Spectacular or the Snowmass 50th anniversary special that comes with a fireworks display, prix fixe meals, a cabin jump and rail jam and other festivities. Experience the four day Olympic Qualifier competition in Breck via Dew Tour . Take advantage of the Winter Nights & City Light package from the historic Crawford Hotel in Denver or enjoy pure luxury with a winter welcome offer from the newly-debuted Hotel Talisa in Vail.

Tuscany, Italy

Tired of dealing with the tourist crowds in the spring, summer and fall in Italy? Why not consider a December getaway? Toscana Resort Castelfalfi in the heart of Tuscany is offering a variety of vacation options from romantic weekend specials to culinary tours and tastings to unlimited golf and spa packages. There are also Christmas and New Year’s Eve specials that bundle the food and wines of the region with live music and luxurious accommodations.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Nightlife, fine dining, casinos and spectacular light displays offer a different kind of Yuletide holiday in Las Vegas. Visit The Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas where you can enjoy rooftop skating that overlooks the heart of the strip. Chose from various room offers at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino which include live show packages featuring Kelly Clarkson, Patton Oswald, Magic Mike, Nickelback or many others. Celebrate the first year anniversary of the Lucky Dragon Hotel & Casino (pictured) with a special deal that includes Asian dining, gaming and festivities such as Chinese Lion and Dragon dances.

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9 Last-Minute December Travel Deals

Los Angeles

Remember, this is an El Niño season, so temper your weather expectations. Luckily there's plenty to do in L.A. , even when it rains: Plan a visit to the Getty Center, attend a concert at the futuristic Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall, or watch a movie at the ArcLight Hollywood, where a friendly usher introduces every film. Airfares are higher in December, but with so many flights to L.A., you should find reasonable fares. Get away from the usual tourists spots in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood and stay for less than $200 at the new and modern The Line Hotel in frenetic Koreatown, L.A.'s most dense neighborhood. On some streets, you may even swear you're in Seoul.

The best thing about Cancun is competition. Nearly every large U.S. city has a nonstop flight, and the glut of options often leads to fare wars. That's not as true at holiday time, but there are reasonable options, like Denver-Cancun on Frontier for less than $500. Within an hour of Cancun's airport, there are hundreds of hotels of every type - luxury, budget, bed and breakfast and all-inclusive. Many are full, but some could get cancellations, and that may lead to last-minute deals. Availability changes daily, but if you're looking for a post-Christmas getaway, consider the boutique Hotel Cielo in Playa Del Carmen , with rooms under $300. Or just check your favorite hotel site for "Rivera Maya" and see what comes available.

British Columbia

You won't find deep discounts around Christmas, but the U.S.-Canada exchange rate is favorable for Americans, so British Columbia might be more enticing for skiers than a few years ago. If you're feeling adventurous, book a $500 roundtrip ticket on Philippine Airlines from JFK, even between Christmas and New Year's. (The flight continues to Manila.) The popular ski town of Whistler is nearly sold out in late December, but you try the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa , with some rooms for $500 a night, bookable on third-party sites. You'll do better renting a condo on Airbnb, though few remain on peak days.

It'll be dark before 4 p.m., and you may never see the sun. But London is vibrant at the holidays, and it's a cheap flight from the East Coast, even last minute. Fly coach from New York nonstop on several airlines for about $900 roundtrip or splurge on all-business class airline LaCompagnie, which has a "Winter Madness in London" deal that gets you two roundtrip tickets for $2,500 total. For lodging, consider the Christmas special at St. Martins Lane London . For about $430 a night, you'll get an English breakfast and three-course Christmas lunch for two. If you prefer hipster, try Shoreditch's Ace Hotel and its Christmas Shopping package that includes a room upgrade, food and beverage credit, and 15 percent off at some shopping boutiques in East London's trendiest neighborhood.

Mexico City

Many well-heeled locals leave for the beaches over the holidays, and some tourists spots and restaurants close, but do not let that dissuade you. This means you'll find deals in one of the North America's most exciting cities. For $475, you might stay in Las Alcobas , a stylish 35-room boutique in the posh Polanco district and Mexico's best hotel in 2015, according to Conde Nast Traveler readers . For less expensive luxury, book the five-star JW Marriott for less than $200. Airfares from California tend to be cheaper than from the East Coast, so this might be a better getaway from L.A. or San Francisco than New York.

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

You can thank JetBlue for this one. In late December, New York's hometown airline has as many as seven daily flights from JFK, and more seats generally means cheaper fares. You won't find any deep discounts - a roundtrip ticket may cost $700 or more, depending on dates - but Santo Domingo should be cheaper than Caribbean hotspots like Nassau, Bahamas or Montego Bay, Jamaica. One problem: Santo Domingo is not known for luxury resorts. Still, if you're creative, you can enjoy the sun. Book at the new JW Marriott for about $260, or try the Hostal Nicolas De Ovando , a 104-room boutique in Santo Domingo's Colonial Quarter, available many days for about $200.

Mammoth, California

It's not as posh as Vail or Aspen, but each winter, Californians flock to Mammoth Mountain about 300 miles north of Los Angeles. This is an El Nino year - a weather phenomenon that will bring extra rain and snow to the West Coast - and ski conditions could be the best in years. From L.A., fly Alaska Airlines in late December for less than $300, depending on dates. Flights from New York cost considerably more, but consider flying to L.A. and renting a car. Make plans soon, though, as hotel inventory is thin. At last check, a Queen bed room at the Mammoth Mountain Inn was $299 between Christmas and New Year's.

Napa, California

In Northern California's Wine Country , they call December "Cabernet Season." There is some spin here, as December, among the coldest months of the year, is not the perfect time to visit Napa. But off-season means deals. Many hotels have special offers between November and March, including The Silverado, where Cabernet Season means 25 percent off the best available rate and two-for-one wine tastings. If you're flying, San Francisco is the best bet for reasonable fares.

Port of Spain, Trinidad

Another warm-weather locale not known for luxury resorts or fancy beaches, Trinidad and Tobago's capital could be your best chance at an inexpensive tan. Depending on your dates, you can still fly from New York for around $600 on JetBlue or Caribbean Airlines. The Hyatt Regency Trinidad ($199 per night) is more of a business hotel, but it is on the Gulf of Paria, and from many rooms have a sea view. If you crave the beach, the hotel recommends four nearby.

15 Best December Honeymoon Destinations

Tying the knot in December opens up a wonderland of romantic possibilities for your honeymoon. Imagine intertwining the magic of your newlywed bliss with the enchanting spirit of the holiday season.

Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of snowy peaks or the warmth of a sun-kissed beach, your romance will be amplified by the festive ambiance that a December honeymoon brings. Twinkling lights, joyous carols, and seasonal delights add an extra layer of celebration, making your honeymoon not just a trip but a festive experience to cherish.

For the deal-savvy and practical couples, it’s worth noting that December often comes with the perk of off-season travel deals. Here’s a curated list of dreamy destinations that embody the perfect balance of romance and Yuletide joy, ideal for celebrating your December honeymoon.

Honeymooners looking for paradise in December need look no further than the Caribbean gem, Aruba . Arriving in December is extra special because Aruba celebrates not one but three Christmases.

The Dutch Santa, Sinterklass, comes between mid-November and early December, while Santa Claus waits until December 25, both bearing gifts. Couples staying through January will meet the Three Kings.

Arubans put up a huge display of Christmas lights, especially on Seroe Preto Hill, a favorite destination. It’s gorgeous, and the Arubans have become the Michelangelo of colorful Lights.

December Weather in Aruba

Aruba’s December weather is akin to a perfect summer day. Average temperatures hover around a comfortable 81°F. With relatively low humidity and the gentle trade winds unique to the region, the climate creates a lovely setting for honeymooners. The chance of precipitation is minimal, as Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt, ensuring sunny skies are the norm during this festive month.

Romantic Things to Do in Aruba

Aruba, with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a paradise for couples seeking a romantic escape. The island’s natural beauty combined with its vibrant culture and friendly locals makes for a truly enchanting honeymoon destination . Whether you’re lounging under the sun, exploring underwater marvels, or enjoying the local cuisine, Aruba offers a multitude of romantic experiences that cater to every couple’s taste.

Discover a world of intimate adventures and serene moments as we explore Aruba’s romantic activities. Journey with your loved one through captivating landscapes and indulge in experiences designed to forge unforgettable memories.

• Stroll along Eagle Beach : Witness the stunning shades of turquoise water and feel the soft white sand under your feet at one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
• Sunset Sail : Embark on a private sailboat and watch the sky burst into colors as the sun sets on the horizon.
• Couples Spa Day : Indulge in a couples massage at one of the many luxury spas. Let the aroma of aloe and the soothing sounds of the ocean lull you into a state of deep relaxation.
• Explore Arikok National Park : Adventure together through this protected reserve. It’s home to unique wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and hidden coves.
• Dine at Top Restaurants : Savor the flavors of Aruban cuisine in intimate, beachfront restaurants.
• Snorkeling at the Antilla Shipwreck : Dive into an underwater adventure to explore the coral-encrusted ruins of a sunken ship.

Where to Stay in Aruba on Your December Honeymoon

For couples seeking the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and tropical charm on their December honeymoon, Aruba presents an array of accommodations to make your romantic getaway as magical as the island itself. Choose from all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels, or quiet villas—each offering distinct experiences tailored to make your stay unforgettable.

• Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort : Ideal for honeymooners looking for tranquility. This adults-only resort boasts eco-friendly practices and provides a peaceful beachfront experience.
• Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa : This intimate resort located on Eagle Beach offers a wellness-oriented retreat with yoga sessions and an on-site spa ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort : Experience the best of both worlds with exclusive access to a private island and the excitement of a vibrant casino.
• Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort : Feel the charm of Dutch colonial architecture in this quaint and personalized property, steps away from the water.
• Boardwalk Small Hotel Aruba : Discover a hidden gem where private casitas provide a unique and romantic escape amidst lush tropical gardens.

Curaçao beckons honeymooners with its enchanting blend of multicultural heritage, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. The island’s unique character results from its Dutch, Afro-Caribbean, and Latin influences. From exploring the colorful streets of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to scuba diving in crystal-clear waters among coral reefs, Curaçao offers a diverse and unforgettable honeymoon experience.

December Weather in Curaçao

December in Curaçao welcomes tourists with its warm, tropical climate that is just perfect for a winter getaway. The average temperatures linger comfortably between 77°F and 82°F, rarely dipping below or soaring above this range.

December is the end of the rainy season. However, showers are still possible and usually occur in short bursts. Nonetheless, the weather is mostly sunny, with clear blue skies and refreshing trade winds that cool down the temperature. The warm sea temperatures also make December a fantastic month for snorkeling, diving, and various water sports.

Romantic Things to Do in Curaçao

Curaçao is not just a delight for sun-seekers but also a romantic paradise for couples looking to create unforgettable memories. Here’s a curated list of romantic activities to indulge in while on this captivating island:

• Stroll Hand-in-Hand Along Kenepa Beach : Known for its picture-perfect scenery and crystal-clear waters, Kenepa Beach offers a peaceful oasis.
• Sunset Sailing on the Spanish Water : Embark on a private charter as the sky turns a mesmerizing palette of colors.
• Dinner Under the Stars at Fort Nassau : Enjoy a romantic dinner with panoramic views of the island at this unique hilltop restaurant.
• Explore the Island on a Scooter : Rent a scooter and head out together to explore the island at your own pace.
• Take a Sunset Walk on the Queen Emma Bridge : Explore one of the most iconic landmarks in Willemstad, and walk hand-in-hand across this floating pontoon bridge.

Where to Stay in Curaçao on Your December Honeymoon

When planning your December honeymoon in Curaçao, the choice of accommodation is paramount to ensure your getaway is as idyllic as the island itself. From luxury resorts to cozy boutique hotels, there are various options to suit every couple’s taste and budget. Below is a selection of recommended accommodations that promise a romantic and memorable stay:

• Baoase Luxury Resort : Nestle into the lap of luxury in this tropical sanctuary that offers private villas with infinity pools and exquisite ocean views.
• Avila Beach Hotel : Combining historic charm with modern elegance, this beachfront hotel is perfect for honeymooners seeking a blend of relaxation and culture.
• Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort : For those looking for a vibrant atmosphere with amenities like a private beach, a bustling casino, and fine dining options.
• Scuba Lodge & Ocean Suites : Ideal for underwater adventure enthusiasts, this oceanfront boutique lodge provides both comfort and convenience for exploring the island’s famous diving spots.

The Bahamas

Consider the Bahamas your canvas, where the sun’s golden brush paints a panorama of romantic moments for your honeymoon. An archipelago of 700 islands (30 are inhabited) and over 2,000 coral reefers offers a symphony of ocean blues, pristine sands, and opportunities for romance that resonate with every couple. Whether you seek secluded beaches to share intimate sunsets or vibrant cultural experiences, a Bahamian honeymoon promises to weave unforgettable memories into the tapestry of your new life together.

December Weather in The Bahamas

The December weather in The Bahamas combines comfortable warmth and gentle sea breezes. Average temperatures hover around a pleasant 70-80°F, starkly contrasting the biting cold of northern winters. With minimal rainfall and an abundance of clear, sunny days, it’s the perfect time to explore the islands’ outdoor attractions or relax on the pristine beaches.

Romantic Things to Do in The Bahamas

Couples seeking to infuse their honeymoon with moments of romance and beauty will find The Bahamas to be a quintessential paradise. Envelop yourselves in the enchanting island ambiance and indulge in experiences designed to nurture your connection. Here’s a curated list of romantic things to do while basking in the Bahamian sun:

• Take a Sunset Cruise : Glide over the tranquil waters as the sky blazes with colors and the day slips into night.
• Stroll through the Versailles Gardens : Wander hand-in-hand through the tranquil Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island. It’s filled with stunning statuary and lush foliage.
• Enjoy a Couples Spa Day : Treat yourselves to a pampering spa day. Opt for a couple’s massage amidst the sounds of the ocean to fully unwind together.
• Savor a Beachfront Dinner : Dine under the stars with a beachfront meal. The waves provide the perfect soundtrack to an intimate evening.
• Snorkel Together at Thunderball Grotto : Dive into the world below at Thunderball Grotto. It’s famed for its underwater beauty and as a filming location for James Bond movies.
• Explore Nassau’s Old Town : Take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Nassau’s Old Town. The Old Town is filled with history, colorful architecture, and local art galleries.

Where to Stay in The Bahamas on Your December Honeymoon

Selecting the perfect lodging is essential for an unforgettable honeymoon in December. In The Bahamas, you’ll find a diverse array of accommodations. From lavish resorts to intimate boutique hotels, each offers unique amenities to make your stay magical. Below are some highly recommended places that cater to the desires of honeymooning couples:

• The Ocean Club : A Four Seasons Resort known for its impeccable service and luxurious beachfront villas.
• Sandals Royal Bahamian : An adults-only all-inclusive resort that specializes in romantic getaways with over-water bungalows and private offshore islands.
• The Cove at Atlantis : Offers seclusion and upscale accommodation. It’s paired with access to the amenities at the larger Atlantis resort complex.

Experience the luxurious side of Christmas with a honeymoon twist in Barbados . Here, the Caribbean sun’s warmth meets the holiday season’s cheer. Santa, who is as fond of luxury as anyone else, arrives each Christmas Day (sometimes by parachuting down to the beach!)

During December, Barbados transforms into a paradise, not just with its usual sunny skies and pristine beaches but with a touch of Yuletide magic, making it an ideal destination for newlyweds seeking a memorable holiday season honeymoon.

December Weather in Barbados

In December, Barbados is the epitome of a tropical paradise with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and gentle breezes. Days are typically hot, with temperatures averaging around 84°F, while nights are comfortably cooler, around 73°F.

The island’s northeast trade winds provide a refreshing reprieve, making the warmth pleasant. Rainfall is less frequent than in previous months, but brief showers can occur.

These quick bursts are usually followed by sunshine, ensuring your honeymoon adventures can continue with little interruption. Overall, December’s weather creates an idyllic backdrop for couples seeking a romantic and sun-filled holiday escape.

Romantic Things to Do in Barbados

Barbados offers an enchanting array of activities perfect for couples looking to add a spark of romance to their honeymoon itinerary. Whether seeking tranquil beachside moments or memorable adventures, the island’s unique blend of culture, nature, and heritage provides the ideal setting for love to flourish.

• Sunset Catamaran Cruise : Glide across the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea on a private catamaran. Toast to your future as the sky turns brilliant hues of orange and pink.
• Couple’s Spa Retreat : Indulge in a couple’s massage at one of Barbados’ luxury spas. These soothing treatments are designed to relax and rejuvenate you and your loved one.
• Rum Tasting Mount Gay Rum : Take a fascinating tour of the oldest rum distillery in the world. Then enjoy an intimate tasting session where you can sample some of Barbados’ renowned spirit.
• Historic Plantation Tours : Discover the island’s rich history together by exploring beautifully restored plantations.
• Private Beach Dinner : Savor a romantic meal under the stars on a secluded beach. The gentle sounds of the ocean serve as your background music.
• Scenic Horseback Riding : Embark on a scenic journey on horseback. You’ll trot through lush trails and along sandy beaches at sunset.

Where to Stay in Barbados on Your December Honeymoon

Selecting the perfect accommodation is crucial for ensuring your December honeymoon in Barbados is magical. Barbados boasts a variety of lodging options that cater to every couple’s preference. Here is a curated list of some of the best places to stay that promise a memorable and romantic getaway:

• Sandals Royal Barbados : This all-inclusive luxury resort offers stunning oceanfront suites, 11 gourmet restaurants, and a luxurious spa for the ultimate indulgence.
• Cobblers Cove Hotel : Immerse in the charm of an English country garden by the sea with the comforts of this boutique hotel.
• Sugar Bay Barbados : Enjoy the all-inclusive experience with a distinct Bajan vibe. It’s perfect for couples who want endless romantic meals and beachside cocktails.
• O2 Beach Club & Spa : This boutique hotel offers a dreamy beachfront location, chic rooms with private balconies, and an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring the island.

Embarking on a new life together in the magnificent city of Dubai is nothing short of a fairy tale. A honeymoon in Dubai means immersing yourself in a cosmopolitan oasis that pulses with energy, luxury, and novel experiences.

This ultramodern emirate is known for its architectural wonders, opulent hotels, sprawling malls, and a fusion of cultures. As newlyweds, you can create unforgettable memories under the desert sky or within the walls of majestic buildings, making Dubai a truly remarkable destination for your honeymoon.

December Weather in Dubai

Dubai in December is a delight for travelers seeking a warm retreat. The city welcomes visitors with pleasant weather, featuring clear blue skies and moderate temperatures that typically range between 61°F and 79°F.

The cooler climate provides the perfect backdrop for exploring outdoor attractions and participating in desert activities without the discomfort of the scorching summer heat. Whether shopping at the outdoor markets, taking a sunset dhow cruise along Dubai Creek, or enjoying a desert safari, December’s weather adds comfort and charm to your honeymoon experience.

Romantic Things to Do in Dubai

Exploring Dubai with your significant other unveils a metropolitan canvas of romantic opportunities. This city of grandeur is not just about its towering skyscrapers and opulent shopping malls but also about creating unforgettable experiences with the love of your life. Here are some of the top romantic things to do in Dubai:

• Hot Air Balloon Ride : Start your morning adrift in a hot air balloon. Gaze upon the vast desert and the sunrise, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange.
• Dine at Pierchic : Indulge in a luxurious, over-the-water dining experience, offering breathtaking views and exquisite seafood specialties.
• Private Yacht Tour : Charter a yacht for a sunset tour around Palm Jumeirah. You’ll witness the city’s skyline sparkle as the day turns to night.
• Dessert Spa Experience : Unwind with a couple’s treatment at one of Dubai’s desert spas, enveloped in tranquillity and natural beauty.
• Visit the Miracle Garden : Stroll hand-in-hand through the world’s largest flower garden, filled with vibrant blooms and artistic arrangements.
• Take in Views from Burj Khalifa : Take romance to new heights by admiring panoramic views from the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck.

Where to Stay in Dubai on Your December Honeymoon

A December honeymoon calls for a cozy yet luxurious stay, where the winter vibes complement the warmth and exclusivity of your romantic retreat. Dubai offers a plethora of accommodations to suit your desires, from beachfront resorts with stunning vistas to private oases in the midst of the desert. Here is a list of places that promise to elevate your honeymoon experience with their unique charm and exceptional service:

• Raffles Dubai : Inspired by the great pyramids, this landmark hotel presents a blend of Asian and Egyptian aesthetics, promising a distinctive stay.
• Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina : This beachfront property boasts a private white sand beach and luxurious amenities, perfect for couples seeking a tranquil escape.
• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai : Experience ultimate luxury at this beachfront oasis, known for its chic ambiance and exceptional service.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre : This modern and elegant hotel offers stunning views of the city skyline.

Mauritius , an island nation in the Indian Ocean, epitomizes the concept of a tropical paradise, making it an exquisite destination for a honeymoon that promises both relaxation and adventure. Surrounded by azure waters and lined with pristine beaches, it offers a serene sanctuary for newlyweds to unwind and bond.

The island’s lush landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and the genuine warmth of its people contribute to an intimate experience that’s as diverse as it is delightful. Whether you crave a peaceful retreat beside the sea or an action-packed getaway to discover exotic wildlife and vibrant markets, Mauritius impresses you with its array of experiences tailored for romantic escapades.

December Weather in Mauritius

Mauritius is a tropical haven in December, with its warm summer climate creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic honeymoon. The temperatures typically range from a comfortable 71.6°F to a balmy 86°F.

While occasional rainfall is part of the island’s summer pattern, it often comes in quick, refreshing showers that serve to enhance the lush, green landscapes that Mauritius is famous for. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant markets or enjoying a sunset cruise, the December weather in Mauritius ensures a setting that is both enchanting and ideal for creating unforgettable memories.

Romantic Things to Do in Mauritius

Embrace romance with the many enchanting activities Mauritius has to offer. From private catamaran cruises to exploring the depths of the Indian Ocean, this island paradise is bursting with opportunities for lovebirds to create special moments.

• Private Catamaran Cruise : Set sail on the azure waters and enjoy stunning coastal views with a glass of champagne in hand.
• Couple’s Spa Day : Indulge in a pampering couple’s spa treatment.
• Sunset Horseback Riding : Trot along pristine beaches as the sun dips below the horizon on a guided horseback ride.
• Gourmet Dining Under the Stars : Savor exquisite cuisine at an intimate beachfront table, illuminated by candlelight and the night sky.
• Hot Air Balloon Flight : Soar above the breathtaking landscapes at sunrise for a truly magical experience.
• Private Waterfall Swimming : Dive into the clear waters of a secluded waterfall hidden within the forested interior.
• Snorkeling Among Coral Reefs : Discover the underwater marvels of Mauritius by snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs teeming with life.

Where to Stay in Mauritius on Your December Honeymoon

Mauritius, with its serene beaches and luxurious resorts, is the quintessential honeymoon destination for couples looking for both relaxation and adventure in December. The island’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it the ideal place to unwind after your wedding festivities. Find your perfect haven of romance in one of these exquisite resorts, each offering unparalleled service and unforgettable experiences.

• Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita : Embrace the epitome of luxury in this sanctuary. It offers beautiful overwater villas and infinity-edged pools.
• The Royal Palm Beachcomber Luxury : Immerse yourself in opulence at this prestigious resort. The Royal Palm is renowned for its discreet luxury and intimate atmosphere.
• Constance Prince Maurice : Experience world-class services and idyllic seclusion within this tropical sanctuary that epitomizes elegance.
• One&Only Le Saint Géran : Nestled on a private peninsula, this iconic resort offers personalized experiences, exquisite dining, and stunning ocean views.
• Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa : Surrounded by sugarcane fields and the Indian Ocean, this retreat provides an intimate connection with nature.

The Swiss Alps

Venture into the heart of Europe, where the majestic Swiss Alps await, offering a honeymoon escape that’s as thrilling as it is romantic. Imagine the serenity of snow-capped peaks and the exhilarating rush of alpine adventures – it’s a harmonious blend that beckons couples seeking the ultimate romantic retreat. Whether it’s cozying up by a roaring fireplace in a luxurious chalet or skiing down pristine slopes, the Swiss Alps provide an enchanting backdrop for love to flourish and memories to be made.

December Weather in the Swiss Alps

As winter’s chill takes firm hold, the Swiss Alps transform into a snowy wonderland in December, offering a magical landscape for winter enthusiasts. Throughout the month, temperatures in the Alps often hover between 13°F and 24°F, depending on altitude.

It’s a season when the region glistens with fresh snowfall, creating ideal conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other snowy adventures. Despite the cold, clear days can afford stunning vistas of frosted peaks under bright blue skies, a true feast for the eyes. Visitors should pack layers of warm clothing and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.

Romantic Things to Do in the Swiss Alps

The Swiss Alps are not just a winter sports paradise but also a romantic escape for couples seeking a blend of adventure and intimacy. With its breathtaking landscapes and cozy chalets, the Alpine region is a picture-perfect setting for romance. Here are some enchanting activities for couples to enjoy:

• Sleigh Rides : Glide through snow-covered meadows in a horse-drawn sleigh. You’ll cuddle up under a warm blanket with a backdrop of majestic mountains.
• Ride the Rhaetian Railway : Travel through the UNESCO-listed Albula and Bernina Landscapes on a romantic train journey. The route offers stunning views of glaciers, towering peaks, and charming villages.
• Skiing : For adventurous couples, skiing or snowboarding together is an exhilarating way to bond. With numerous ski resorts in the region, there are plenty of options for all levels of experience.
• Thermal Baths : What better way to unwind and connect than by soaking in hot thermal baths surrounded by beautiful scenery? The Swiss Alps are home to several thermal spas, such as Leukerbad and Scuol.

Where to Stay in the Swiss Alps on Your December Honeymoon

Nestled among the snow-capped mountains, choosing the right accommodation can turn a honeymoon in the Swiss Alps into an unforgettable fairytale. Opt for a place that echoes the enchantment of the season and offers personalized romantic touches. Here’s a curated list of idyllic stays for newlyweds:

• Hotel Romantica, Zermatt : Located in the charming village of Zermatt it offers views of the iconic Matterhorn. This hotel specializes in creating a cozy atmosphere with its alpine chic decor and private balconies for a stunning vista.
• The Cambrian : Situated in Adelboden, The Cambrian offers panoramic views of the Alps. Additionally, it offers an award-winning spa and service tailored to make your stay as luxurious and peaceful as possible.
• Waldhaus Flims : Embracing its 140-year history, Waldhaus Flims provides a grand Belle Époque experience. It sits amidst the pristine forests and mountains and is complete with modern amenities and a sense of timeless elegance.
• Badrutts Palace : In the heart of St. Moritz, this hotel exudes luxury and history. With its stunning views and renowned cuisine, it’s an opulent retreat for couples seeking extraordinary service and comfort.
• Chedi Andermatt : Combining Alpine chic with Asian expression, the Chedi Andermatt is the epitome of modern luxury and comfort. It provides a serene spa experience and fine dining in a picturesque village setting.

Vail, Colorado

Nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains, Vail , Colorado, is a winter wonderland that offers an enchanting escape for honeymooners in December. As freshly fallen snow blankets the charming town, Vail transforms into an idyllic setting for romance and adventure.

The crisp mountain air and the twinkling lights set the scene for unforgettable memories as couples indulge in world-class skiing, intimate sleigh rides, and the warmth of fireside relaxation. Discover the magic of a Vail honeymoon, where every moment is a celebration of love amidst the pinnacle of alpine beauty.

December Weather in Vail

December in Vail, Colorado, is a winter wonderland that beckons ski enthusiasts and romantics alike. The town is typically blanketed with fresh, powdery snow, providing ideal conditions for winter sports.

Daytime temperatures hover around 20-30°F, while nights are crisp and cold, often dipping below 15°F. Although the days are shorter, the clear skies and sparkling snow create a magical atmosphere perfect for the holiday season. With plenty of seasonal events and the warm glow of fireplaces in local lodges, Vail in December is a majestic and cozy destination for visitors.

Romantic Things to Do in Vail

Vail offers a captivating blend of adventure and romance for couples drawn to the allure of a winter escape. This enchanting snowy paradise is not just a haven for skiers but a treasure trove of experiences that kindle the flames of love.

Whether you want to snuggle by a fire, watch the sunset over snow-capped peaks, or enjoy a peaceful gondola ride, Vail is a destination that promises memories to last a lifetime. Here are some romantic activities to consider when visiting this idyllic mountain town:

• Private Sleigh Ride : Glide through silent, snow-covered trails in a horse-drawn sleigh. It’s the perfect opportunity for whispered conversations and shared enchantment.
• Couples Spa Retreat : Rejuvenate together with a couples treatment in one of Vail’s world-class spa facilities.
• Scenic Gondola Ride : Ascend the magnificent slopes in a cozy gondola, taking in the panoramic views of the winter landscape.
• Fine Dining : Savor the flavors of the high country with an intimate dinner at one of Vail’s gourmet restaurants.
• Ice Skating : Hold hands and enjoy the whimsy of ice skating under twinkling lights at the local outdoor rink.
• Hang out at the King’s Club : Cozy up by the fireplace and enjoy a craft cocktail or glass of wine at this intimate lounge.
• Take a Snowshoeing Tour : Explore Vail’s stunning winter scenery on a guided snowshoe trek, stopping for hot cocoa and cuddles along the way.
• Wine Tasting : Sip some of Colorado’s finest wines together at one of Vail’s wine bars or at a local winery tour.

Where to Stay in Vail on Your December Honeymoon

Vail offers pristine slopes and a cozy, romantic haven. Whether you’re looking for the luxury or the charm of a boutique hotel, Vail has accommodations to suit every couple’s desires. Here are some exceptional places to stay that will make your romantic getaway all the more magical:

• The Arrabelle at Vail Square : Immerse yourselves in European elegance with this resort’s timeless architecture, luxurious rooms, and outstanding service.
• The Sebastian – Vail : Enjoy plush accommodations and unparalleled amenities at this boutique hotel, including a heated pool and artisanal breakfasts.
• Sonnenalp Hote l : Experience authentic Bavarian-style hospitality with this family-owned hotel’s exquisite suites, spa, and personalized service.
• Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail : Enjoy the pinnacle of luxury with ski-in/ski-out access, sumptuous accommodations, and a renowned spa.
• The Lodge at Vail : Blend romance with adventure in this classic lodge. The Lodge offers cozy accommodations and immediate access to Vail Village.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Welcome to the vibrant city of New Orleans , a mosaic of culture, music, and gastronomy. This heart of Louisiana is an enchanting setting for newlyweds seeking a honeymoon filled with rich history, soulful tunes, and culinary delights.

Stroll hand-in-hand through the French Quarter’s enchanting streets, revel in live jazz echoing from historic venues, and indulge in some of the most iconic dishes the South has to offer. New Orleans promises a honeymoon experience that is as romantic as it is unforgettable.

December Weather in New Orleans

New Orleans boasts a mild winter climate that is perfect for couples looking to escape the frigid temperatures of the north. December in the Crescent City typically sees average highs in the mid-60°Fs and lows rarely dipping below the mid-40s.

While it’s warmer than many places in the United States during this time, there’s still a slight chill in the air that makes it ideal for snuggling close while exploring the vibrant streets or enjoying a night out at some of the city’s legendary jazz clubs. Though rainfall is possible, as the city averages about six days of precipitation in December, the occasional showers tend to be short-lived, making way for beautiful, crisp evenings perfect for honeymooners.

Romantic Things to Do in New Orleans

Exploring New Orleans with your new spouse transcends the ordinary, as the city’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and music presents an enchanting backdrop for romance. Whether it’s strolling hand in hand through the historic French Quarter, indulging in world-renowned Creole cuisine, or getting swept up in the infectious rhythm of jazz, the experiences here are bound to deepen your connection. Here are some must-do romantic activities in New Orleans:

• Carriage Ride through the French Quarter : There’s something timeless about a horse-drawn carriage ride. It feels particularly timeless when it’s through streets filled with historic charm.
• Jazz Cruise on the Mississippi River : Float down the Mississippi River on a paddlewheel boat. You’ll enjoy the live jazz music that fills the evening air.
• Picnic in City Park : Over 1,300 acres give you ample space to find a private spot under live oaks.
• Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art : Wander through extensive art collections. Be sure to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the sculpture garden.
• Dinner at a Romantic Restaurant : Savor New Orleans’ gourmet dining and toast to your love in an intimate setting.
• Explore the Garden District : Take a walk among mansions and gardens that seem to whisper stories of a bygone era.
• Catch a Show at Pr e servation Hall : Immerse yourselves in the legacy of jazz at this venerable venue.

Where to Stay in New Orleans on Your December Honeymoon

When it comes to finding the perfect honeymoon accommodation, New Orleans offers an eclectic mix of options that cater to a range of preferences, whether you’re looking for the charm of boutique hotels, the luxury of grand resorts, or the privacy of intimate B&Bs. Embrace the romance of the city with stays that reflect its unique character and history. Here are the top accommodations to consider for your December honeymoon in New Orleans:

• The Roosevelt New Orleans : A timeless property offering elegant rooms. Enjoy a rooftop pool and a convenient location adjacent to the French Quarter.
• Hotel Monteleone : This historic hotel is famous for its Carousel Bar & Lounge and refined luxury.
• Pontchartrain Hotel : Nestled in the Garden District, this hotel boasts stunning views and a rich literary history.
• Windsor Court : A luxurious retreat with spacious suites, a spa, and an award-winning restaurant.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Dubbed “Christmas City, USA,” Pennsylvania offers a truly magical backdrop for a honeymoon in December. This historic town, founded on Christmas Eve in 1741, echoes with the warmth and charm of yuletide cheer throughout the holiday season.

As crisp snow blankets the quaint streets and colonial buildings, couples can bask in the glow of the holiday spirit. Bethlehem’s festive markets, twinkling lights, and the scent of roasted chestnuts fill the air, promising a romantic and unforgettable start to married life.

December Weather in Bethlehem

Bethlehem sees winter taking hold in December, with temperatures ranging from chilly to cold. On average, the highs hover in the low 40s°F, while nightly lows can drop to the mid-20s.

Snowfall is intermittent but adds to the seasonal charm, offering a picturesque backdrop for honeymooners and tourists alike. Visitors must dress warmly in layers and be prepared for the potential of a white Christmas. Of course, this only amplifies the city’s yuletide spirit.

Romantic Things to Do in Bethlehem

Exploring Bethlehem during your December honeymoon is like stepping into a holiday postcard. The city beams with seasonal festivities and romantic experiences to treasure with your loved one. Here are some enchanting activities to enjoy:

• Stroll through the Christmas Market : Head to Payrow Plaza in front of the City Hall. Here you’ll find vendors with unique gifts and treats, including roasted chestnuts.
• Find a book at Moravian Bookstore : Browse one of the oldest bookstores in America. Find a book to read together by the fire at your chosen Bethlehem hotel.
• Take a Horse-drawn Carriage Ride : Cuddle up under a blanket as you tour the city in an elegant horse-drawn carriage.
• Visit Bethlehem’s Historic Sites : Learn about the rich history of Bethlehem by touring its iconic landmarks. Must-visits include the Moravian Museum and the Burnside Plantation , decked out in festive decorations.
• Try your luck at Windcreek Casino : Feeling lucky? Head to Windcreek Casino for table games and slot machines, or enjoy dinner at one of its many restaurants.

Where to Stay in Bethlehem on Your December Honeymoon

Bethlehem offers a variety of cozy accommodations with a blend of romance and holiday cheer. From boutique hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, each provides a unique stay with seasonal touches. Here are a few specially selected places to consider for your intimate getaway:

• Hotel Bethlehem : Nestled in the heart of historic downtown, Hotel Bethlehem is renowned for its elegant decor and impeccable service. Their rooms offer breathtaking views and a classic comfort that promises to enhance your holiday honeymoon experience.
• The Sayre Mansion : For the couple who appreciates Victorian architecture and personalized service, The Sayre Mansion is a must-stay. Its beautifully appointed rooms and festive ambiance will transport you to a bygone era of romance and charm.
• The Hyatt Place Bethlehem : Modern amenities and a convenient location make the Hyatt Place an excellent choice for contemporary comfort. Wake up to a freshly prepared breakfast before stepping out to explore all the festive city has to offer.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco , California, emerges as a delightful destination for newlyweds who crave urban sophistication and breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, eclectic neighborhoods, and gourmet dining, the city promises a mosaic of experiences. Whether indulging in world-class cuisine or enjoying the vibrant art scene, San Francisco offers endless opportunities for creating cherished memories together.

December Weather in San Francisco

San Francisco in December typically greets visitors with cool and often damp weather, providing a true winter experience in this coastal city. Temperatures average from the high 50 to the high 40s, inviting couples to snuggle up in the city’s many cozy cafes and restaurants. While rainfall is more frequent during December, the occasional showers only add to the romantic ambiance, perfect for honeymooners who don’t mind a little mist while walking across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge or exploring the historic streets of the city.

Romantic Things to Do in San Francisco

San Francisco, with its rolling hills and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, is a picturesque destination for honeymooners. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, iconic structures, and vibrant culture create an unforgettable backdrop for romance and adventure.

• Attend the Great Dickens Fair : Step back in time and experience the magic of Victorian England at this annual fair. This event is a must-visit with costumed characters, traditional food, and live performances.
• Take a Walk at Crissy Field : Take in the stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island with a seaside stroll. The area’s walking paths are perfect for sunset walks along the beach.
• Explore Fisherman’s Wharf : This bustling area is home to Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and the famous sea lions. It’s a fun place to explore, taste fresh seafood, and catch a boat tour of the bay.
• Wine Tasting in Napa Valley: Just a short drive from San Francisco, Napa Valley offers world-class vineyards and wine-tasting tours. It’s an ideal day trip filled with indulgence and beautiful scenery.
• Relax at the Japanese Tea Garden : Find tranquility in the oldest public Japanese garden in the United States. It’s a serene spot for couples to unwind and admire the beautifully detailed landscapes and architecture.

Where to Stay in San Francisco on Your December Honeymoon

Whether you desire the charm of a historic hotel or the coziness of a boutique inn, the city presents a diverse range of stay options. Here are some top hotels where comfort and romance intertwine:

• The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco : Nestled in the prestigious Nob Hill neighborhood, this hotel exudes luxury and offers a timeless escape with its elegant rooms and attention to detail.
• Hotel Drisco Pacific Heights : Located in the Pacific Heights district, Hotel Drisco promises a quaint residential experience with panoramic views of the city. It provides exceptional service that makes you feel right at home.
• Fairmont San Francisco : Perched atop Nob Hill, the iconic Fairmont San Francisco presents a blend of historic charm and modern elegance. Be sure to enjoy its world-renowned tiki lounge, the Tonga Room.
• Argonaut Hotel : A nautical-themed boutique hotel situated in Fisherman’s Wharf. The Argonaut is steps away from waterfront attraction. It provides a charismatic setting with its exposed brick and Douglas Fir beams.

Grapevine, Texas

Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State and imbued with the charm of its historic wineries, Grapevine, Texas, emerges as an unexpected honeymoon haven for those who relish a blend of rustic allure and modern convenience. This picturesque city, aptly named for the wild Mustang grapes that blanket its countryside, offers love-struck couples a whimsical retreat far from the urban thrum, where Southern hospitality meets romantic tranquility.

December Weather in Grapevine

Grapevine typically greets visitors in December with cooler temperatures that range from highs in the mid-50s to lows in the mid-30s. While it’s colder than many other parts of Texas, the chill in the air is accompanied by a festive atmosphere as the city prepares for the holiday season.

Although snow is rare, occasional cold fronts can bring light winter precipitation, adding a touch of seasonal magic to the Grapevine experience. It’s the ideal weather to enjoy hot cocoa and the city’s renowned Christmas decorations that adorn the streets and shop fronts.

Romantic Things to Do in Grapevine

Grapevine, known for its vintage railroad and as a haven for wine enthusiasts, transforms into a holiday wonderland. Here, lovebirds can partake in special experiences that create lasting memories. Following are some recommended romantic activities to indulge in while visiting Grapevine:

• Take a Stroll Down Historic Main Street : Admire the captivating holiday lights and decorations. Then visit unique boutique shops and enjoy the vintage charm of the area.
• Wine Tasting Tours : Explore the city’s nickname, ‘The Christmas Capital of Texas’, by joining one of the many wine tasting tours that celebrate Grapevine’s thriving local vineyards.
• Board the North Pole Express : Snuggle up on a vintage train that recreates the magic of a journey to the North Pole. Your experience is completed with hot chocolate and festive treats.
• Visit Vetro Glass Blowing Studio & Gallery : Watch artisans at work and perhaps even create a custom glass piece together—a perfect keepsake from your romantic getaway.
• Relax at a Spa : Unwind and rejuvenate at one of Grapevine’s luxurious spas, offering couples massages and other pampering treatments.

Where to Stay in Grapevine on Your December Honeymoon

Grapevine’s cozy ambiance is further complemented by its array of charming accommodations, making it a quintessential December honeymoon destination. Whether you seek the luxury of a high-end hotel or the quaint charm of a bed and breakfast, you’ll find the perfect place to stay. Here are some top-rated options to consider:

• Gaylord Texan Resort : This sprawling resort boasts beautiful holiday decorations. It even inIt even includes an impressive 54-foot-tall Christmas tree. Plus, it offers luxurious rooms, exquisite restaurants, and an on-site spa.
• Hotel Vin, Autograph Collection : With its chic design and prime location in the heart of Grapevine’s bustling Main Street, this boutique hotel is perfect for couples seeking a trendy and romantic getaway.
• Hilton Garden Inn Grapevine at Silverlake Crossings : This modern hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms. Guests can enjoy a relaxing pool area and a convenient location just minutes away from the heart of Grapevine.

Biltmore Estate, Ashville, N orth Carolina

Nestled on 8,000 acres, The Biltm ore Estate offers a fairy-tale experience conceived by the visionary George Vanderbilt in 1895. With its gardens and grand architecture, the estate reflects a legacy of luxury imaginable only by one of America’s wealthiest individuals.

The hotel caters to guests with a delightful spa, a heated outdoor pool, and a variety of gourmet dining options that would have impressed the Vanderbilts themselves. A stone’s throw away, downtown Asheville awaits, brimming with art galleries and an eclectic mix of museums.

Visitors can explore the decadent tastes of the estate’s winery or wander through the Biltmore Village, brimming with unique shops and rich historical exhibits. A comprehensive two-hour guided tour showcases the splendor of the estate in its entirety. Often featured in esteemed publications such as Forbes Travel Guide, the estate’s commitment to Vanderbilt’s legacy of opulence is unwavering.

Each year, Biltmore is transformed into a winter wonderland, a tradition that has enchanted guests for over a century. The majestic beauty is illuminated with resplendent lights, classic holiday melodies, and the warmth of candlelight evenings. The estate’s centerpiece is a magnificent 35-foot Christmas tree adorned with 25,000 ornaments and illuminated by 100,000 twinkling lights.

Guests revel in lavish Christmas Eve and Christmas dinners prepared in true Vanderbilt fashion across estate restaurants such as the Dining Room, Deerpark Restaurant, Cedric’s Tavern, and more. Multiple holiday packages are available to enhance the yuletide experience.

December Weather in Ashville

As winter embraces Asheville in December, the city is transformed with a chilly allure that is both serene and inviting. Temperatures during this month range from average lows of around 50°F to average highs of 31°F. There is occasional snowfall, adding a magical touch to the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.

While the air is crisp, the cooler weather provides a perfect backdrop for couples to enjoy the warmth of indoor attractions or to bundle up and explore the outdoors. Visitors should be prepared for potential fluctuations in the weather and bring layers.

London , United Kingdom

During medieval times, eligible singles came to London in search of romance. Today, it still retains its romantic aura with unlimited romantic activities. For a December honeymoon, the city comes to life with jaw-dropping holiday decorations and lights. 

December Weather in London

London in December is often characterized by its crisp winter air and shorter days, with a chill that calls for cozy layers and warm beverages. Temperatures typically range from 40°F to 48°F.

While it’s not the coldest month, December in London can bring a mix of rain and occasional snow, adding to the city’s festive atmosphere. Visitors should be prepared for the possibility of damp conditions and ensure they pack an umbrella and waterproof shoes. Despite the cool temperatures, the holiday lights twinkling across the city streets, and the buzz of seasonal markets make it a magical time to visit.

Romantic Things to Do in London

For couples visiting London in December, the city offers a wealth of romantic activities that are perfect for the festive season. Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand along the frosty streets or warming up in a cozy café, the city’s historic charm and seasonal decorations create an irresistibly romantic backdrop. To create memories that will last a lifetime, consider these intimate experiences:

• Ice Skating at the Natural History Museum : Glide across the ice in the enchanting setting of the museum’s outdoor rink. It’s often adorned with fairy lights and a majestic Christmas tree.
• Viewing the City from The London Eye : Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the twinkling city lights.
• Exploring Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park : Get lost in the festive ambiance with holiday markets, rides, and an array of food and drink options.
• Enjoying a West End Show : Catch a romantic performance at one of London’s famed theaters.
• Dining by Candlelight : Reserve a table at Clos Maggiore . It’s often dubbed London’s most romantic restaurant complete with a fireplace and a ceiling of blossoming flowers.
• Walk Along Southbank : Experience the season’s magic with a leisurely walk by the River Thames.

Where to Stay in London on Your December Honeymoon

When considering where to stay during your December honeymoon in London, it’s essential to choose accommodations that reflect the romance and wonder of the season. Look for hotels that offer luxurious amenities, convenient access to the city’s festive attractions, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that will make your visit truly unforgettable. Here is a curated selection of hotels that promise to enhance your romantic getaway:

• Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard : Immerse yourselves in modern luxury high above the city.
• Hotel 41 : This boutique hotel offers personalized service and elegant rooms, perfect for an intimate and cozy stay.
• The Montcalm Royal London House : A contemporary hotel with a historic touch. It’s located near all of the must-see attractions and boasts a luxurious spa for ultimate relaxation.

Florida Keys , Florida

Escape to a paradise of sun, sea, and serenity—the Florida Keys . This string of tropical islands offers a sublime setting for a honeymoon. Here, balmy breezes complement the soothing sounds of the waves.

Picture yourselves unwinding on the soft sandy beaches and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters among vibrant coral reefs. The Florida Keys invigorate the senses and invite couples to create memories that last a lifetime.

December Weather in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys boast a tropical savanna climate in December. Average high temperatures hover around 76°F, while the evening brings cooler weather, with averages dipping to 65°F.

This climate provides a delightful balance for outdoor activities, whether lounging on sun-kissed beaches or exploring marine life beneath the waves. Holiday visitors to the Keys will find the weather exceptionally pleasant, rarely experiencing extreme cold and enjoying the gentle sea breezes characteristic of this island paradise.

Romantic Things to Do in the Florida Keys

Embrace the enchantment of the Florida Keys with experiences tailored for couples seeking a synthesis of adventure and relaxation. Whether it’s the thrill of water sports or the tranquility of a sunset cruise, the Keys offer a plethora of activities that cater to lovebirds. Below is a list of romantic experiences to embark upon:

• Sail into the Sunset : Board a private charter and watch the sunset.
• Couples’ Massage by the Sea : Unwind together with a spa treatment on the shore.
• Scenic Helicopter Tour : Take your love to new heights with a breathtaking aerial view of the archipelago.
• Explore Key West by Tandem Bicycle : Pedal side by side through the charming streets of Key West.
• Dine Alfresco : Savor fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant with the sand between your toes.
• Try a Nighttime Kayaking Excursion : Paddle through the bioluminescent waters of Key West.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys on Your December Honeymoon

The Florida Keys boast an array of accommodations, from luxury resorts to intimate bed and breakfasts. When selecting your haven, consider these fine establishments, each offering its own unique flavor of Keys hospitality and romance:

• Casa Morada : This boutique hotel in Islamorada provides a serene atmosphere with private terraces. Plus, an outdoor pool overlooking the Gulf.
• Sunset Key Cottages : Located on a secluded 27-acre island, these cottages are the perfect escape.
• Ocean Key Resort & Spa : This luxurious resort in Key West offers oceanfront suites, a private beach, and a world-class spa for ultimate relaxation.

About The Author

Cait Kontalis

Cait is a Chicago-based Greek-American but spends most of her year floating around the globe. She holds a B.A. in Communications and a M.A. in Nonprofit Management. Her favorite destinations include visiting her homeland in Greece and the Black Hills of South Dakota.

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21 best all-inclusive resorts for families

Long days in the sun, laid-back beach time , outdoor adventures and exciting culinary experiences: These are just a few things that make a family vacation one that the entire crew will remember for years to come.

When you vacation at a family-friendly all-inclusive resort , you have more opportunities to welcome those feelings of relaxation and discovery because there's no need to worry about being nickel-and-dimed for every meal or activity — most of those costs are already included in your room rate.

Every resort will offer something a little different — often depending on the location — from varying styles of accommodation (think connecting rooms, villas or cabins) to what the dining options look like and whether or not there is a kids club on the property. One thing they all have in common, though, is that the price you pay covers your room, dining and sometimes even on-site activities. That means you can leave your wallet in your room and just focus on kicking back and relaxing with the entire family, whether it's by a glimmering beach, on a sprawling ranch or nestled into a vast mountain range.

Related: How to travel on a budget: Here are our top tips

How do I choose an all-inclusive resort for my family?

There are hundreds of all-inclusive resorts worldwide, many with high-quality experiences for the whole family that offer a lot of value. So, how do you narrow it down?

When you're trying to choose the best all-inclusive resort for your own family, you'll want to think about the type of experience your family will enjoy. If you're an outdoorsy group, consider properties that offer lots of excursions, whether that's diving and kayaking or zip lining and horseback riding. If you're a food-focused family, you might want to opt for a resort that's known for its incredible dining options or cooking classes.

Another thing to consider is whether the resort has a kids club. Parents often want a little time away from the kids (or vice versa!), and on-site kids clubs can ensure that activities are tailored to different age groups.

Ahead, find our favorite family-friendly all-inclusive resorts to consider booking for an unforgettable vacation.

Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana is only 15 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) along the shores of Juanillo Beach. The resort has 375 oceanfront suites, including swim-up suites for families with children ages 13 and older. Dining options range from local Caribbean specialties to a wellness-focused restaurant with smoothies and vegan offerings and 24-hour room service for a late-night bite.

The resort's water park has winding waterslides for older kids and adults, a splash area with pint-size slides for the littles plus a lazy river the whole family can enjoy together. Parents who want to retreat to a private cabana for the afternoon can drop the kids off at the kids club (complete with an indoor treehouse). There's also a teen club for guests ages 13-17.

Pricing for Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana starts at around $453 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night for a family of four.

The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is actually two resorts in one. The Hacienda section welcomes adults and kids, while the Heaven section is for adults only.

Kids ages 4-12 can play the day away at the Hard Rock Roxity Kids Club while parents relax and enjoy bottomless cocktails at the adults-only pool or indulge at the full-service spa (for an additional fee). There are also daily activities like treasure hunts, crafts projects and pool games that families can participate in together.

The family can meet back up for a swim at the resort's private beach, enjoy family time at the Rockaway Bay water park and have a meal in one of the resort's eight dining establishments, such as the wood-fired pizzas at Pizzeto.

The ideal room type for families is the two-bedroom deluxe family room with one king and two double beds. It also has a balcony with a hammock, separate minibars for kids and adults and cozy bathrobes for adults and kids (how adorable is that?). True to the brand's rockin' roots, you can have a Crosley turntable or Fender guitar delivered to your room to use during your stay.

Pricing for Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya starts at around $352 per night for a family of four staying in a room with two double beds.

Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa offers 489 guest rooms in one large building, meaning you are never too far from the resort's exciting amenities. All rooms have a private balcony (or terrace if you are staying on the first floor) and picture windows that let you revel in the gorgeous Caribbean views even when you retreat to your room.

The resort boasts two private beaches — a small beach near the pool complex and an expansive beach area with shaded chairs and daybeds on the sand. The friendly staff will not hesitate to get you involved in the included activities — a befitting perk for outgoing families. Guests can also borrow kayaks and paddleboards to take out on the water.

Hotels with water parks are a key ingredient for successful family vacations, and Hilton Rose Hall's Sugar Mill Falls water park is one of Jamaica's largest. There's a large pool, a lazy river and a multilevel waterslide.

The spa offers indoor and beachside treatments (for an additional fee). There are also separate clubs for kids and teens with age-appropriate games and activities.

Pricing for Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa starts at around $270 or 61,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a family of four. Children under age 3 stay for free.

Giraffe Manor is not your typical all-inclusive resort. The resort has only 12 rooms — no two alike, but all equally charming — split between the Manor House and Garden Manor. Some rooms are situated in such a way that the namesake giraffes may wander up to your window in search of a small snack, but there are ample opportunities to interact with all of the giraffes who reside here.

You are likely to encounter a friendly giraffe poking his head in the window as you eat breakfast or strolling up to the terrace as you enjoy your afternoon tea. Don't worry, the hotel provides feeding pellets so they won't come after your meal (feeding pellets are provided in guest rooms with giraffe-feeding access, as well).

Pricing includes accommodations, airport transfers, all meals, most alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and select activities.

Fully inclusive pricing for Giraffe Manor starts at $1,168 per person for adults and $805 for children.

As soon as you pull up to Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya , there's no denying it's a vacation destination designed for kids ... and kids at heart. Included activities range from pajama character breakfasts to live game shows. Dining, kids club access (for kids ages 4-12) and water park admission also come with the cost of your stay.

Brightly decorated rooms are a nod to popular Nickelodeon cartoons "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles." There are daily character meet-and-greets, and, yes, you really can have gallons of green slime dumped over your head (you'll even get a photo to commemorate the experience).

The resort offers fun-filled seasonal events like the Summer of SpongeBob, Nick Jr. Friends Event and holiday celebrations. Another perk kids and parents will love: All rooms have swim-up access to either the main resort pool or your own balcony pool.

Pricing for Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya starts at around $669 per night for a family of four. Certain dates require a three-night minimum stay.

Club Med has probably the most comprehensive lineup of activities and experiences of any all-inclusive brand.

For those with relaxation in mind, Club Med Punta Cana has three outdoor pools, shaded loungers lining the beach and spacious, ocean-facing family suites where you can listen to the waves gently crashing when you need some downtime. The family suites have a sleeping area for parents with a king bed, a separate room for kids with two twin beds and a living area that opens to a furnished terrace.

Restaurants serve international and local cuisines and are convenient to the beach, the lagoon pool and the resort's main bar.

If you prefer an always-on-the-go vacation, you can perfect your acrobatic skills at circus school, head out on the water in a kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard, or test your skills with a bow and arrow.

While most all-inclusive resorts do not provide complimentary care for infants and toddlers, Club Med's kids clubs are available to kids as young as 4 months of age.

Pricing for Club Med Punta Cana starts at around $500 per night for a family of four. Children age 3 and under are free.

The Sheraton Samui Resort is a budget-friendly resort located directly on Chaweng Noi Beach. Chaweng Noi is quieter and more secluded than other nearby beaches, leaving its wide swaths of soft sand and calm, crystalline waters (don't forget your snorkeling gear) wide open for families looking for a laid-back tropical vacation.

Unlike traditional all-inclusive resorts, you must choose the all-inclusive package to receive all-inclusive benefits. Room-only rates are also available. The base all-inclusive package includes meals, nonalcoholic beverages, activities, a one-hour beachside massage, a cooking class and airport transfers. You can upgrade to packages that include alcoholic beverages and additional spa treatments.

The resort has two pools — one freshwater and one saltwater — where kids can swim while parents lounge on one of the poolside daybeds. There's also a beachfront kids club with toys, games and activities that kids can enjoy while parents visit the spa for a massage or hit the tennis courts for a friendly competition.

All-inclusive room rates for Sheraton Samui Resort start at around $131 per night. Marriott Bonvoy points cannot be redeemed for the all-inclusive package.

Spice Island Beach Resort is an upscale resort on pristine Grand Anse Beach, a 2-mile expanse of fine white sand and cerulean waters. Its location also offers stunning views of Granada's tree-covered mountains in the distance. And with only 64 suites, you may feel like you have the beach (practically) all to yourself.

Each villa-style suite opens to the beach, pool or gardens. Some even have their own private plunge pool and furnished terrace. Spice Island Beach Resort is one of only a handful of AAA Five Diamond-rated properties in Grenada, and you'll experience the luxury that earned such a prestigious designation in all-inclusive offerings like fresh, flavorful cuisine, creative cocktails and activities like cycling, golfing, snorkeling and beachside yoga. An on-site kids club is available for kids ages 3-12.

Pricing for Spice Island Beach Resort starts at around $1,100 per night for a family of four.

Want to switch up your typical family vacation? Look no further than Colorado's C Lazy U Ranch.

This luxury, all-inclusive dude ranch is open year-round, with activities that vary by season. Visit in the summertime, and you can try your hand at archery, fly-fishing, hiking, mountain biking, swimming and more. In the winter, activities shift to cold-weather favorites like skiing, ice skating, sleigh rides and snow tubing. Horseback riding is available all year long.

There are seemingly endless activities that families can enjoy together. However, you may have trouble pulling your kids away from the supervised activities designed just for them. Kids ages 3-17 are split into groups for age-appropriate excursions, including preparing for the weekly "Shodeo" that's held weekly throughout the summer. During the Shodeo, kids have the opportunity to take to the riding ring and show off the skills they've learned during their time at the ranch.

Pricing for C Lazy U Ranch starts at $587 per person, per night for adults and $392 per night for kids.

When you think of Margaritaville, sunny days spent relaxing on the beach immediately come to mind. That's exactly what you'll get at Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye in Belize. This family-friendly tropical retreat has 55 suites, two pools, a beachfront restaurant, two bars and a full-service spa. It's also located along the second-largest coral reef in the world, giving families ample opportunity for underwater exploration.

Related: TPG's guide to the best all-inclusive resorts you can book with points

Suites have one, two or three bedrooms, and many offer views of the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. All suites have private furnished terraces, large living areas and a style that embodies the term "laid-back luxury." Rather than a traditional all-inclusive resort, the Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye offers a " Chef's Package " that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages for an additional fee.

Pricing for Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye starts at $187 per person, per night. The all-inclusive Chef's Package costs $125 per person, per day.

You wouldn't expect the farm-to-table cuisine, countless activities and a fun-filled kids club to be included in the cost of staying in a castle-like Victorian hotel in the middle of New York's Hudson Valley, but that is exactly what you'll get at Mohonk Mountain House. This historic 143-year-old resort offers elegant accommodations with postcard-worthy mountain or lake views.

Included in your stay are three gourmet meals per day, unlimited activities like boating and paddleboarding in the summer and ice skating and tubing in the winter, evening educational lectures and music, access to hiking trails and, in the summer months, supervised kids programming.

Activities vary by season, but you'll be happy to know that when it's too cold to swim in the lake, you can head for the heated indoor pool.

Pricing for Mohonk Mountain House starts at around $830 per night for a family of four. Children ages 3 and under are free.

Open since late 2021, the Hilton Cancun feels modern and fresh. The all-ocean-view resort caters to families with children with a host of family-friendly offerings like two-bedroom suites, an all-you-can-eat ice cream and churro shop, a family pool and water playground, and fun-filled clubs for kids ages 4-12 and teens ages 13-17.

Related: Great for families: A review of the stunning new Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort

The resort has two large beachfront infinity pools, but families will most likely gravitate to the one near the kids club — this is where you'll find the waterslides and splash playground. With five specialty restaurants serving everything from Mexican cuisine to Southeast Asian delicacies and 24-hour room service, you can try something new every day during your stay.

Pricing for Hilton Cancun starts at around $350 or 91,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a family of four.

When you book a vacation at the Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, you'll be whisked away on a scenic seaplane or speedboat ride and taken to your private island retreat.

Spanning the entire island, the resort is designed to blend in with the natural landscape. Of the 120 luxury villas, 60 are on the beach and 60 are overwater bungalows.

The all-inclusive rate includes fitness facilities, nonmotorized water sports, a kids club with indoor and outdoor play spaces and unlimited meals and drinks from the resort's high-end dining outlets. For an additional fee, you can bliss out at the on-site spa, embark on scuba or snorkeling excursions or take to the waters on a Jet Ski.

Pricing for Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa starts at around $600 per night for a family of four.

Beaches Turks & Caicos is a sprawling island resort with five "villages" designed to resemble locales such as the Florida Keys, the Italian Riviera and a charming French village.

Its large size means you'll have access to 21 restaurants, 12 miles of beach, 10 pools, a 45,000-square-foot water park and more. These are situated around the various villages, so you are never too far from your next dip in the pool or a bite to eat.

Older kids will love the surf simulator, splash playground, slides, lazy river and kids-only swim-up bar at the Pirates Island water park. Younger kids will relish the opportunity to meet their favorite "Sesame Street" characters at Camp Sesame.

Pricing for Beaches Turks & Caicos starts at $407 per night for adults and $38 per night for children.

The Westin Reserva Conchal perfectly embodies the "pura vida" way of life, with accommodations and amenities that make you feel at one with nature. The resort's main pool is surrounded by tropical flowers and trees, most rooms have large terraces where you can soak up the sun, and you are likely to make friends with the iguanas, birds and monkeys who call the resort grounds home before you check out.

Families will love the included Westin Kids Club, where kids can participate in indoor and outdoor activities like treasure hunts and nature exploration. There are also family-friendly options at all of the resort's dining locations, including all the ice cream you can eat at the main buffet. Family suites are available that offer more space, close proximity to the pool and kids club, and a family club lounge with snacks, drinks and activities.

Pricing for the Westin Reserva Conchal starts at around $455 or 71,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for a family of four.

With only six villas that sleep from four to 13 guests, Bluefields Bay Villas offer comfort, privacy and an expertly trained staff that can help you bring to life the all-inclusive vacation of your dreams.

Villas boast ocean and island views, private pools, a personal chef and a 24-hour butler to coordinate meals (including beach snacks and cocktail hours) and activities during your stay.

Pricing at this ultra-exclusive resort includes chef-cooked meals served in your villa's dining room, water sports, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat cruises, hiking and more. Child care and complimentary laundry service are also included in the cost of your stay. We can't think of anything better than returning home with a suitcase full of clean laundry.

Pricing for Bluefields Bay Villas starts at around $1,550 per night for a family of four, and a four-night minimum stay is required.

When you stay at Paradisus Playa del Carmen, you'll spend your days splashing in the clear, warm waters of Mexico's Caribbean coast, swimming in the pool (or resting in one of the submerged loungers) and climbing and sliding at the resort's on-site water park.

There is fun to be had outside the water, as well, with a kids club and daily activities like crafts, dance classes and more. You can indulge your carnivorous side at Sal Steak Cave or take your pick of global cuisines at the Naos buffet, all included in the cost of your stay.

If you choose to splurge and upgrade to the Nikte package, you'll receive a premium suite, access to a VIP pool and beach area, concierge service and priority dining and activity reservations.

Pricing for Paradisus Playa del Carmen starts at around $290 per night for a family of four on a standard package or $420 per night with the upgraded Nikte package.

At Paradisus Grand Cana (formerly Falcon's Resort by Melia), guests have access to a shopping, dining and entertainment district as well as the Caribbean's first true theme park, Katmandu Park.

It's easy to find fantastic water parks in the Caribbean, but you won't find funhouses, virtual roller coasters or 4D laster-shooting games unless you visit Katmandu Park. Theme park admission is included in the cost of your stay, but how often you can visit depends on which package you purchase.

The entertainment extends to the resort itself, where families can experience a pool, a water park, a supervised kids camp and more.

Pricing for Paradisus Grand Cana by Melia starts at around $300 per night for a family of four booking a standard package.

Moon Palace Cancun has more than 2,000 guest rooms divided between two distinct sections: Sunrise and Nizuc. Guests have access to activities, games and dining in both sections.

Families with younger kids may prefer Nizuc, which is where you'll find a pool with a winding waterslide and family suites with connecting bedrooms — one with a king bed and the other with two double beds.

Families traveling with tweens and teens should opt for the Sunrise section for easy access to the surf simulator in the pool and the Wired Lounge with table and arcade games that kids and adults will love. This is where you'll also find the resort's Noir nightclub for drinks and dancing when the sun goes down (while the kids are having the time of their lives at the kids club, open until 10 p.m. daily).

Pricing for Moon Palace Cancun starts at around $438 per night for a family of four, with additional discounts available if you prepay in full.

The Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort is a sprawling resort in a natural setting along a secluded bay that feels like your own private slice of paradise. The resort has 735 rooms and suites with private balconies that offer either ocean or nature views. The resort's family suites give families easy access to the pools, waterslides, splash park and kids club, as well as perks like nightly turndown service, a souvenir beach bag and minifridge items chosen specifically for kids.

With 13 restaurants to choose from, everyone in the family is sure to find something that will please their palate, from traditional Mexican fare to seafood to fresh juices and smoothies. Resort guests can participate in a variety of activities to help them connect and unwind, like yoga, music and art workshops and beach games.

Pricing at Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort starts at around $375 or 84,000 Hilton Honors per night for a family of four.

Even though Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is less than 2 miles from St. Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and less than an hour from popular area attractions like the Pitons and Sulphur Springs, it feels like a secluded island paradise.

It helps that the resort sits on a 1-mile stretch of beach and has eight restaurants, seven bars and five pools to serve only 250 guest rooms. Among the dining options, don't miss the Jerk Treehouse on the beach or the Silk fine dining fusion restaurant for dinner.

The rooms are split between an adults-only Harmony section and a family-centered Splash section. At Splash, families can stay in spacious rooms with private balconies that overlook the waterslides, lazy river and water playground at the water park.

In addition to the typical kids club activities, children have access to an animal sanctuary, nature walks and meet-and-greets with the resort's larger-than-life coconut mascots, Coco and Loco.

Pricing for Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa starts at around $552 per night for a family of four.

Related reading:

• TPG's guide to the best all-inclusive resorts you can book with points
• Best all-inclusive resorts in the world, according to frequent travelers
• Most luxurious all-inclusive resorts around the world

Bargain travel hunters, your time is coming. Here's how to get the best fall deals.

• Fall is a great time to travel, with lower airfares and hotel prices.
• The week following Labor Day is the best time for domestic airfare deals, while Oct. 20 is the best for international trips.
• Some of the best practices for getting great fall travel deals include setting price alerts, picking morning flights and booking refundable hotels.

Get more news like this delivered to your inbox by signing up for our Travel newsletter here . 

Friday is National Cheap Flights Day (who knew?). Summer is drawing to a close, but the plus side as we head into fall means it’s shoulder season for travel, so deals abound if you have the scheduling flexibility to take advantage of them. 

Traditionally the period from September (after the Labor Day crowds have died down) to mid-November (before the Thanksgiving travel crush begins) has been a time of low demand for vacationers. The long tail of remote work since the COVID-19 pandemic has upended this pattern a little, but the next few months are still generally a more affordable time to travel. 

Here’s what the pricing trends are if you’re looking to book an off-peak getaway. 

Fall airfares 

According to data from Expedia , airfares in the fall are typically 10% lower than ticket prices in the summer. The online travel booking site said airfares will generally be lower in the coming months, and travelers can save as much as 15% by planning to fly on Mondays or Saturdays. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“Regardless of the destination, fall is a fantastic time to travel and there’s still time to plan a getaway. The week following Labor Day is the best time for domestic airfare deals, while Oct. 20 is the best for international trips − and for the start of leaf-peeping season,” Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations, said in a statement. 

An analysis from Hopper shows that domestic airfare in September averages $240, down 8% from September 2023. International prices to many regions also remain favorable.  

According to Gemma Jameison, a travel expert at Skyscanner, this can also be a great time to book flights for next summer.

Cruising Altitude: Is anyone really 'rawdogging' flights? This summer's viral travel meme.

Fall hotel prices 

Hotel prices are up slightly since 2019, but the average is still reasonable at $161 a night, according to Hopper. 

Expedia said some popular destinations domestically and internationally have good deals this fall. Seattle, Honolulu and Denver are among the best for budget-conscious travelers in the U.S., and Toronto, Santo Domingo and London are great for those looking to venture abroad. 

Fall rental car prices 

Hopper noted that gas prices are down almost 10% from August 2023, and car rental prices are flat or slightly down, meaning road trips this fall will be more affordable. 

Tips to get the best fall travel deals 

According to Expedia, there are a few things travelers can do to maximize their budget. Some of the best practices include: 

• Setting price alerts for your preferred flights.
• Picking morning flights, which are often cheaper and also less likely to be delayed or canceled. 
• Book refundable hotels. It may cost a little more, but the extra flexibility will pay off if your plans change. 
• Save by bundling flights and hotels.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

• Credit Cards
• Best Travel Credit Cards

15 Best Travel Credit Cards Of September 2024

Expert Reviewed

Updated: Aug 26, 2024, 8:24am

For anyone who travels enough to have a travel savings account, credit cards are a valuable resource toward booking and paying for your trip. The rewards can offset a huge portion of your out-of-pocket expenses, and the best travel credit cards often pay for themselves both in savings and avoided headaches.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

• 113 countries visited
• 5,500 hotel nights spent
• 93,000,000 miles and points redeemed
• 29 loyalty programs covered

Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best Travel Credit Card for Beginners
• Citi Strata Premier℠ Card : Best Everyday Earnings with Travel Redemptions
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best Flat-Rate Rewards Credit Card for Travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best Travel Earnings Without a Portal
• American Express® Green Card * : Best Midrange Travel Card with Lounge Access
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best Premium Travel Rewards Card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best Travel Credit Card for International Travel
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best Travel Rewards Card for Lounge Access
• American Express® Gold Card : Best Travel Rewards Earnings for Foodies
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card * : Best Premium Perks with Simple Redemptions
• Chase Freedom Flex® : Best Intro APR Travel Card
• Bilt World Elite Mastercard® * : Best Flexible Rewards Without an Annual Fee
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best Low Annual Fee Card with Flat-Rate Rewards
• United Quest℠ Card : Best Airline Credit Card
• The World of Hyatt Credit Card : Best Hotel Credit Card
• Best Credit Cards Of 2024
• Credit Cards With Travel Insurance
• Best Hotel Credit Cards
• Best Credit Card For Lounge Access
• Best No-Annual-Fee Cards For Travel
• Best Airline Credit Cards

Best Travel Card Offers

Best travel credit card for beginners, chase sapphire preferred® card.

Up to 5x Reward Rate

Earn 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all Read More

Welcome Bonus

60,000 bonus points

Regular APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

I jumped at the chance to get the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card when it was first launched. More than a decade later, I’m still a loyal cardholder. It’s the ideal starter card for someone dipping their toe into travel rewards and I’m living proof you may never need to upgrade. Cardholders earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards® points for access to transfer partners or for easy, no-strings-attached redemptions through Chase Travel℠. There’s no foreign transaction fee and a wide selection of travel insurances.

Why We Like It

For a modest annual fee of $95 (which can be partially offset with an annual $50 hotel credit for bookings through Chase Travel℠) you get a rare mix of high rewards rates and redemption flexibility.

What We Don’t Like

The highest earning rate requires making reservations through Chase Travel℠, which doesn’t include direct bookings or online travel agencies.

Who It’s Best For

This card is best for travelers who want to earn transferable points without a steep annual fee.

I​​t’s the granddaddy of travel credit cards, but it still earns its reputation as one of the best around with solid bonus categories, strong travel protections, a great set of domestic and international transfer partners and a reasonable annual fee to boot. You can’t go wrong with it as your first travel credit card.

• Earn high rewards on several areas of spending
• Transfer points to travel partners at 1:1 rate
• Many travel and shopping protections
• No intro APR offer
• Best travel earning rates are only for bookings through the Chase Travel℠ portal
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Member FDIC

Best Everyday Earnings with Travel Redemptions

Citi strata premier℠ card.

Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 10 points per dollar spent on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com, 3 points per dollar at Read More

70,000 bonus points

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Excellent, Good

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card slides right into everyday life, with earning categories that reflect typical expenses at home as well as rewarding you for your travel spending—then giving you the opportunity to redeem toward travel.

This card could be a supreme fit for someone looking for a one-card solution, thanks to a low annual fee, access to transferable points and a variety of accelerated earn categories. It also offers a $100 annual hotel benefit which can be applied toward eligible stays reserved through Citi Travel to save you even more money. Select travel protections are also included.

Citi makes you jump through some hoops to access card benefits. You’ll need to book through the card’s proprietary booking portal to maximize your travel earnings and to use your annual hotel benefit.

The Strata Premier makes the most sense for travelers seeking a modest annual fee and a card that rewards varied spend.

Several key travel benefits were recently reintroduced on the Citi Strata Premier℠ Card, including trip delay and cancellation protections and lost baggage and rental car damage coverage. But the card still retains all its original features and its relatively low $95 annual fee. The highlight of the Citi Strata Premier continues to be its ability to earn 3 points for every dollar you spend on gas, and now EV charging. Those points can be transferred to any of Citi’s over 15 airline and hotel partners, making your rewards potentially even more valuable than if you just earned straight cash back with another credit card

• High rewards rates for many popular categories
• Ability to transfer points to hotel and airline loyalty programs
• No foreign transaction fees
• Some built-in travel protections
• The $100 hotel benefit is difficult to redeem
• The highest earning rates are on Citi Travel bookings
• $95 annual fee
• Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
• Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Best Flat-Rate Rewards Credit Card for Travel

Capital one venture rewards credit card.

Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5X miles on Capital Read More

Earn 75,000 bonus miles + $250 credit

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Casual travelers who don’t plan to carry a balance will find good value in the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ’s earnings rates ( rates & fees ). And if you appreciate the skip-the-line perks of TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry as much as I do, you’ll be grateful for the up to $100 credit toward program fees.

You can earn double miles on every purchase and can access transfer partners without ponying up a triple-digit annual fee.

Expect dialed-back benefits compared to more premium travel cards. You’ll still enjoy select trip protections along with no foreign transaction fee. Keep in mind that you’ll want to redeem for travel bookings or transfers to partner programs (cash back redemptions are often not the best value).

This card is ideal for cardholders who want to earn travel rewards at a flat rate and want to keep their annual fee below $100.

The Capital One Venture Rewards card is extremely low maintenance as far as travel reward cards go. It provides consistent value and flexibility when it comes to earning and redeeming points for travel and is an excellent alternative for anyone a bit leery of the high Venture X annual fee ( rates & fees ).

• Solid rewards rate
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® statement credit (up to $100)
• Miles are easy to redeem either via partner transfers or by applying against travel purchases
• No introductory APR on purchases or transfers
• Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening – that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Best Travel Earnings Without a Portal

Wells fargo autograph journey℠ card.

Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points Read More

21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

We love that the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card bestows you with strong earning rates on travel without requiring you to book through a card’s portal. Go ahead and book directly with your preferred airline and hotel: You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airlines, 3 points per dollar on other travel and restaurants and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

This card has a minimal annual fee and offers the opportunity to earn a $50 statement credit each year when you spend $50 or more on airline purchases. That’s a bargain all travelers will love.

For now, there’s a limited number of transfer partners, which means you’ll have fewer redemption options than what some other issuers provide.

This card is a perfect fit for travelers who like to book trips directly, especially if they’re looking for cash-back rewards rather than travel transfers.

Wells Fargo has entered the premium card market with its highly anticipated Autograph Journey credit card which offers accelerated points earnings on airfare, hotels and restaurants. It’s also the newest card to offer the option to redeem points by transferring them to travel partners.

• Solid welcome bonus
• High rewards rates on travel and restaurants
• Annual statement credit for airfare
• Limited everyday bonus rewards
• Few transfer partners
• Charges an annual fee
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Best Midrange Travel Card with Lounge Access

American express® green card *.

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn 3X Membership Rewards points on eligible travel, transit and restaurant purchases including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn Read More

Earn 40,000 points

See Pay Over Time APR

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

When you don’t want to limit your earnings only to travel charges, check out the American Express® Green Card * . It offers elevated rewards on dining and local transit, too.

Cardholders have access to annual statement credits for CLEAR® Plus and LoungeBuddy charges, which can easily exceed the cost of the card’s annual fee and let you dip your toe into the world of premium perks.

Amex isn’t always accepted overseas, which could be a major issue for international travelers without a backup card.

This is a great midrange card that offers access to American Express Membership Rewards®, making it a good choice for those who don’t want the high cost of a Gold or Platinum card.

Occasional travelers who want to be treated like VIPs will find that the Amex Green card has an ideal set of perks. The $100 annual LoungeBuddy credit is just enough to cover airport lounge access a few times a year, and the CLEAR credit provides expedited access through TSA security at major airports across the country. Put them together and it’s a perfect balance of benefits for infrequent flyers at a relatively low annual fee.

• No foreign transaction fee
• Flexible redemption and points transfer options
• High rewards rate on dining, travel and transit
• Mediocre base rewards rate
• Limited features and perks
• No balance transfer option
• Earn 40,000 points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 6 months
• Earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel, transit purchases and eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide
• Earn 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases
• $199 CLEAR® Plus and $100 LoungeBuddy credits
• Trip delay insurance

Best Premium Travel Cards

Best premium travel rewards card, capital one venture x rewards credit card.

Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases, 5 miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals and 10 Read More

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

Excellent (750 - 850)

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is packed with extras that put it firmly in competition with other upscale credit cards. Just as important, the easy earnings structure is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to stress over details.

Its annual fee ( rates & fees ) is easily recouped through an annual $300 credit for bookings through Capital One Travel and 10,000 bonus miles after your anniversary, which makes the perks feel almost free. A Priority Pass membership also provides value, giving you access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide.

The flat-rate earnings mean that if you spend a lot in a single category, you might be better off with a different card.

The Venture X is a strong choice for travelers who want premium benefits and are willing to book through Capital One Travel at least once a year.

If you’re looking for lofty perks without a lofty annual fee ( rates & fees ), the Venture X fits the bill. While other cards with elite benefits run nearly $700 a year, you’ll only pay a little more than half that for the Venture X. And you’ll still get Capital One and Priority Pass airport lounge access for you and your guests, an annual travel credit and solid earnings on everyday purchases.

• Annual fee lower than others in its category
• Annual travel credit through Capital One Travel and anniversary miles alone could justify the annual fee
• Miles are easy to earn and easy to use
• Lack of domestic airline and upscale hotel travel partners
• Capital One lounge network in its infancy
• Lack of hotel status benefits
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection

Best Travel Credit Card for International Travel

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Up to 10x Reward Rate

Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Read More

22.49%-29.49% Variable

If you spend frequently on travel and dining out, you can accumulate rewards with the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Its greatest selling point is its awesome list of 1:1 transfer partners. There are also best-in-market travel insurance benefits and no foreign transaction fees. Plus, as a Visa card, it’s widely accepted globally.

Cardholders can make up for a chunk of the annual fee with the $300 annual travel credit, a Priority Pass Select airport lounge membership and up to a $100 credit every four years to cover your Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS application fee, all of which make far-flung travel easier to bear. The travel protection benefits have personally reimbursed me more than $1,000.

There’s an extra fee to add an authorized user to your account.

This card is readymade for frequent travelers who want to take advantage of built-in travel insurance protections and airport perks.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of the most valuable flexible rewards credit cards thanks to its lucrative bonus categories and easy-to-use travel credit. Cardholders can offset the annual fee and get great value when redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card, thanks to partnerships with numerous airlines and hotels and its convenient travel booking portal, Chase Travel℠.

• $300 annual travel credit is incredibly flexible
• Generous welcome bonus
• Get 50% more value when you redeem points for travel through Chase
• Points transfer to valuable airline and hotel partners
• High annual fee
• High variable APR on purchases
• Excellent credit recommended
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Best Travel Rewards Card for Lounge Access

The platinum card® from american express.

5X Reward Rate

Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and on flights booked directly Read More

Earn 80,000 points

Good,Excellent (700 - 749)

The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees ) is destined for frequent travelers who intend to fully leverage the rich set of travel benefits. Trust me when I say the perks can make you feel like a VIP. The staggering annual fee for this classic status card won’t be worth it for everyone, but in the right hands the expense can be well justified.

Lounge access with this card extends beyond the Priority Pass membership you see on other premium cards. Plus, if you’re looking for a giant welcome bonus to get things started, the Platinum Card certainly shakes things up.

Many of the perks are very specifically applied and may require enrollment. Examples include statement credits toward Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, select digital entertainment, select hotel stays and airline incidental fees.

The Platinum Card® from American Express could be a valuable pick for cardholders who are willing to track and maximize its long list of member benefits.

Being an Amex Platinum cardholder grants access to the International Airline Program, which can save you money on first and business class seats on more than 20 airlines as well as premium economy tickets for you and up to seven traveling companions. Start your search on the Amex Travel website to find international flights departing or arriving in the U.S. on any of those premium cabins.

• High reward potential on flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel
• Multiple credits can help justify the fee
• Comprehensive airport lounge access
• Luxury travel benefits and elite status with Hilton and Marriott with enrollment
• Very high annual fee
• Maximizing the statement credits takes some work and could be impractical for many
• Reward rate outside of travel is sub-par for a premium card
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.¤
• Terms Apply.

Best Travel Rewards Earnings for Foodies

American express® gold card.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X; Earn Read More

Earn 60,000 points + earn up to $100 back

Foodies and travelers can leverage the American Express® Gold Card (terms apply, see rates & fees ) to the hilt, earning up to 4 points per dollar. The annual fee may seem intimidating—I get that. But my household comes out ahead by taking advantage of the card’s dining credits and rotating Amex Offers. It’s an appealing option for anyone who wants to redeem travel rewards but doesn’t spend enough on flights or hotels to require elevated earning categories on travel itself.

The grocery earnings on this card are impressive and rare for a travel card. For someone who wants to transform everyday expenses into a vacation, this card seamlessly blends the experience.

The American Express® Gold Card also offers a variety of ways to earn statement credits. This includes up to $120 ($10 per month) in annual dining credits for purchases at participating partners, up to $100 ($50 semi-annually) in annual statement credits for purchases at Resy restaurants and up to $84 ($7 per month) in statement credits for Dunkin purchases. Plus, cardholders get $10 in Uber Cash each month for a total of up to $120 per year. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

While the Amex Gold’s credits can be valuable, you’re required to enroll to take advantage of them and credits are dished out monthly or semi-annually rather than in an annual lump sum.

The Amex Gold might be the consummate choice for travelers with high spending on food expenses.

This card makes it easy to earn Membership Rewards points while doing regular grocery shopping since the card earns bonus points at supermarkets. And for the nights that cardholders don’t want to cook, they can make use of the monthly dining and Uber credits (which can be used on Uber Eats orders).

• High rewards earnings possibilities
• Points transfer option to many partners
• Add up to five authorized users for no additional annual fee
• Can choose from regular, rose gold or white gold versions
• Most credits are doled out monthly and can be cumbersome to redeem
• Limited options to carry a balance
• High APR for pay over time feature *
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
• Get the American Express® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $84 Dunkin’ Credit: With the $84 Dunkin’ Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Dunkin’ locations.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.

Best Premium Perks with Simple Redemptions

U.s. bank altitude® reserve visa infinite® card *.

Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center. Earn 3X points for Read More

50,000 points

22.24% - 29.24% variable

For a simpler take on travel rewards, the U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card * can be an excellent pick. It doesn’t have transferable rewards. Instead, you’ll get strong value by getting a 50% bonus when redeeming toward travel.

First of all, the earning potential on this card turns heads thanks to its multiplier on mobile payments which are accepted nearly everywhere these days. Earn 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 3 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible net purchases. We also love that its annual $325 credit can be used toward your choice of travel or dining, giving it ultra flexibility.

Though this card comes with Priority Pass airport lounge access, it limits cardholders to a maximum of eight free visits per year. That might be enough for some travelers but could be a major downside for frequent travelers or someone flying with multiple companions or family members.

The Altitude Reserve is best for travelers who don’t want to be limited by travel portals or partnering airlines and hotels for their travel redemptions.

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card * is unique because it earns 3X on all mobile wallet spending, which no other ultra-premium cards offer, and has a low net annual fee after taking the $325 travel/dining credit into account. Given the net annual fee after the credit, the fact that the card lacks lounge access—even Priority Pass—is not that big of a deal. The question is, do you spend enough on mobile purchases to add a card specifically for that?

• 50% points bonus when redeeming for travel
• Up to $325 in annual travel credit
• No limits on points earnings
• No points transfer options available
• Free lounge access limited to eight visits per year
• Earn 50,000 points after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening
• Earn 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 3 points per dollar on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible net purchases
• Earn up to $325 in annual credits
• Best No Annual Fee Travel Credit Cards

Best Intro APR Travel Card

Chase freedom flex®.

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, 5% on travel purchased through Read More

20.49%-29.24% Variable

I don’t automatically think of the Chase Freedom Flex® as a travel card, but it’s a great everyday card that also rewards you generously for bookings made through Chase Travel℠.

In addition to the welcome offer and ongoing rewards this card offers, new cardholders can also take advantage of an introductory APR offer to help pay off their travel expenses: 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24% applies. Balance transfer fee of up to 5% (min. $5) of the amount of each transfer applies.

Rewards are initially made available as cash back. If you want to transfer your rewards to partner airlines and hotels, you’ll also need to hold an Ultimate Rewards® card that offers that feature.

The Freedom Flex requires a little more hands-on management to earn in its quarterly bonus categories, so it’s a better fit for someone willing to stay on top of details.

Kudos to Chase for always keeping the rotating categories relevant on the Freedom Flex. From Amazon to PayPal and Starbucks to Walmart, you’re almost guaranteed to find at least one quarter every year (or even several) where the 5 bonus points roll in with almost no effort. Just don’t forget to activate the categories every quarter.

• No annual fee
• Rotating quarterly categories earn 5% rewards when activated, up to a combined quarterly $1,500 maximum
• Travel rewards rate rivals some of the best premium travel cards
• Generous rewards rate in several other categories
• Travel bookings must be made through Chase Travel℠ to earn 5% cash back
• Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
• 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter!
• 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
• 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49%-29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Flex® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health – Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, real-time alerts, and more.

Best Flexible Rewards Without an Annual Fee

Bilt world elite mastercard® *.

Up to 3x Reward Rate

Earn 1x on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year). 2x points on Read More

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

You don’t need to pony up an annual fee for the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® * (), which earns flexible points that you can transfer to a selection of beloved travel brands.

Bilt offers one of the most distinctive earning structures of all cards: 1 point per dollar on rent payments without the transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year), 3 points per dollar on dining, 2 points per dollar on travel (when booked through the Bilt Travel Portal or directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company), and 1 point per dollar on other purchases. It also throws in some great travel benefits for a no-annual-fee card, including select trip protections, primary collision damage waiver on eligible car rentals and no foreign transaction fees.

This is the only credit card on our list that doesn’t include a welcome offer. Renters could make up for that opportunity cost quickly by earning points on their rent payments, but it’s an unmistakable disadvantage.

We recommend this card to someone paying rent and looking for a credit card with no annual fee.

It’s almost impossible to earn rewards on what is the biggest monthly expense for many people, which is why anyone who pays rent should have a Bilt Mastercard in their wallet. Not only will you earn points just from paying your rent (up to 100,000 points in a calendar year), you’ll do it without being charged a fee for the transaction, and Bilt points are among the most versatile travel points around. ( Pro Tip: Don’t redeem Bilt points to pay rent when you can get much more value for them for travel!).

• Earn rewards on rent
• Primary car rental and cellphone insurance
• Points can be transferred to partners
• Requires five card transactions per statement period to earn rewards
• No welcome bonus
• Rewards outside of rent spend are relatively low compared to other cards
• Earn 1 point per dollar spent on rent payments (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year)
• Earn 2 points on eligible travel
• Earn 3 points on dining and 1 point on other eligible purchases
• Cell phone protection
• No foreign fees

Best Low Annual Fee Card with Flat-Rate Rewards

Capital one ventureone rewards credit card.

Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, and earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every Read More

20,000 Miles

High spenders will do better with one of Capital One’s other travel cards, but if you specifically are seeking out a no annual fee travel card, consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card ( rates & fees ).

This card incorporates positive facets from its Venture line, including a flat-rate earning structure, transferable rewards and no foreign transaction fees. New cardholders are also eligible for an introductory APR offer: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, 19.99% – 29.99% variable APR after that; 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months, 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you.

The earnings rate isn’t particularly inspiring—unless you consistently maximize travel transfer redemptions, you’re likely better off with a 2% cash back card with no annual fee or an annual fee-carrying travel rewards card with 2X earnings.

The VentureOne can be a good way to get your foot in the door with Capital One, even if you ultimately decide to upgrade your card later.

A contender for the best no annual fee and starter travel card, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card could be a fantastic travel companion for vacation goers and road warriors. The travel value can be immediately appreciated with no foreign transaction fees, while the rewards-earning is higher than basic rewards-earning credit cards at 1.25X miles. Plus, this card earns Capital One Reward Miles, which offers excellent value when transferred to airline and hotel

• No penalty APR
• Ongoing rewards rate is relatively low
• Locked in to Capital One Travel booking to earn the highest rewards
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% – 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Best Travel Cards for Airlines and Hotels

Best airline credit card, united quest℠ card.

3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases. 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, select streaming services & all Read More

Earn 60,000 bonus miles

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Frequent United Airlines customers will appreciate that the United Quest℠ Card comes with an annual up to $125 United credit, rewards on travel and dining and travel protections such as primary car rental coverage and trip cancellation insurance.

This card rewards your loyalty. You can earn up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits per year, starting after your first cardmember anniversary, for booking eligible award flights with your miles. You’ll also earn 25 Premier Qualifying Points for every $500 in net purchases (including purchases made by authorized users) up to a maximum of 6,000 PQPs, in a calendar year.

The annual fee on the United Quest is more than double the average airline card.

This card will likely appeal to United flyers who want above-average benefits but aren’t interested in committing to an ultra-premium card.

Don’t let the card’s annual fee scare you off. Even if you’re not a frequent flyer, the perks can make this card worth your while, and the rewards rates are better compared to most airline cards.

• Up to $125 annual United purchase credit
• Earn up to two 5,000-mile award flight credits annually
• Two free checked bags for cardholder and a companion traveling on the same reservation
• Earn up to 6,000 Premier Qualifying Points per calendar year
• Primary auto collision damage waiver for eligible rentals
• Checked baggage benefit only applies to one companion
• Earnings for general purchases are only 1 mile per dollar
• Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
• Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and priority boarding
• Up to a $125 United® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
• Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

Best Hotel Credit Card

The world of hyatt credit card.

Up to 9X Reward Rate

Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 bonus points per $1 on qualified purchases Read More

Up to 60,000 Bonus Points

21.49% - 28.49% variable

While Hyatt doesn’t have an extensive network of properties compared to other chains, the value offered by The World of Hyatt Credit Card is outstanding. If you’re a regular at Hyatt, a combination of high redemption values, sweet perks and one free night per year easily covers the annual fee and then some.

The card comes with five qualifying night credits, but cardholders can earn more through card spending to work their way up the elite ladder.

The automatic Discoverist elite status for cardholders is, frankly, uninspiring.

This card is designed for Hyatt enthusiasts looking to earn extra points and work toward status.

For many Hyatt loyalists, earning Globalist status each year is a priority and this card can help them get there faster by providing five elite night credits annually. Plus the complimentary yearly certificate for a category 1 to 4 Hyatt hotel counts toward elite status too and can offset the card’s annual fee.

• Annual free night certificate on card member anniversary
• Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
• High redemption values for points
• Limited number of properties
• No worthwhile redemption options aside from Hyatt properties
• Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
• Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
• Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
• Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
• Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
• Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
• Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
• Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships

Here's a Summary of the Best Travel Credit Cards

Best Travel Credit Cards Methodology

Forbes Advisor considered dozens of airline, hotel and flexible-rewards credit cards to create this list of the best travel credit cards. The primary factors taken into consideration for all types were:

• Estimated annual earnings—25% to 50% depending on card category
• Welcome bonus—15% to 25% depending on card category
• Travel benefits—15% to 25% depending on card category
• Annual fee—5% to 15% depending on card category
• Consumer benefits—0% to 10% depending on card category
• Foreign transaction fee—0% to 5% depending on card category

Hotel earnings rate was weighted 25% for hotel credit cards and airline earnings rate was weighted 15% for airline credit cards.

Forbes Advisor rates cards both as stand-alone products (the card rating on the review) and compared to others in a specific use case. Sometimes, cards with average stand-alone ratings may still rank highly on a particular list according to how a person looking for a card in that category may value certain card features.

For instance, a card that might be considered mediocre overall could be the top card on a list of rewards cards with no annual fee. That’s because the card might offer limited features compared to other rewards cards, but after we remove cards that charge an annual fee, it’s the best card that remains.

Forbes Advisor uses data from multiple government agencies to determine how much a typical cardholder might spend. We use the same numbers for cards in the same category to make sure we are comparing cards the same way. The bonus categories for spending included with each card are factored into our determination of how many rewards a cardholder could expect to earn if they use the card as a consumer normally would.

Each Forbes Advisor credit card list is reevaluated at least every 12 months to determine if any cards need to be added and/or removed. However, a list could be updated sooner if significant changes are made to the mentioned cards or if a new credit card is announced that’s likely to impact the category.

To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor rates credit cards .

Complete Guide to Travel Credit Cards

Best travel credit card deals right now, what is a travel credit card, how do travel credit cards work, types of travel credit cards, co-branded travel cards vs. general travel cards, pros and cons of travel credit cards, how many travel credit cards should i have, how to compare travel credit cards, evaluating airline credit cards, evaluating hotel credit cards, how to maximize credit card points for travel.

• Travel Rewards Cards in the News

Are Travel Credit Cards Worth It?

Frequently asked questions (faqs).

If you want to replenish your stash of points to work towards booking your next dream trip, you may want to know which travel credit cards have the highest-value welcome bonuses right now. Below are the airline, hotel and flexible rewards travel cards with the highest welcome offers. Keep in mind that annual fees and additional benefits will vary, often significantly, so weigh the pros and cons of a particular card beyond just the bonus before you apply.

Top Travel Credit Card Offers

A travel credit card is a card that earns rewards on travel. Rewards may be earned in the form of airline miles, hotel points or flexible points that can be transferred to partners or applied towards travel charges.

Many travel credit cards also come with additional benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, elite status, access to airport lounges and even discounts on hotels or rental cars. Some cards offer welcome bonuses when you meet an initial purchase threshold, which can provide a nice cache of points or miles to help you start redeeming for valuable rewards. The best travel cards also charge no foreign transaction fees, which means there is no extra charge from the credit card company to make purchases abroad.

Credit cards with travel benefits can be an awesome resource, but don’t get fooled into thinking you need them all. Focus on cards that provide a good balance of benefits and costs to fit your specific needs. Otherwise, you’re paying annual fees for no reason.

– Becky Pokora , Credit Card Rewards Expert

A travel rewards credit card accrues miles or points for each purchase made with the card. Every card has a different earning and redemption structure.

• A co-branded card , like one labeled with Marriott or Southwest, will earn rewards in the specifically named travel brand.
• General travel cards may instead earn flexible bank points, like those you see with Chase Ultimate Rewards® or American Express Membership Rewards® .

Here’s how credit card points and miles work:

• Earn rewards when you make purchases. Nearly all purchases on a card will earn rewards at the rate specified by the card. Rates may vary based on the type of purchase.
• Rewards are deposited into your account. Most cards update your rewards balance once per month, after your billing statement closes. On co-branded cards, travel rewards are typically deposited into your existing airline or hotel account automatically. On general travel cards, you’ll most likely have a bank of points where rewards pool.
• Consider your reward options. Airline and hotel point values often are variable, which means that the value of a point may fluctuate depending on the specific redemption. Before you make a redemption, ensure that you’re happy with the value of your specific reward.
• Make a redemption. Once you’ve chosen a redemption option, you’ll need to follow the specific direction to request your reward. Depending on the type of redemption, you might request this through your card issuer through their travel portal or your preferred travel partner.

There are many other intricacies to redeeming miles and points , so if you’re not confident on all your options, you’ll want to review the opportunities from your program before committing to a redemption.

Not all travel credit cards are alike. Here’s how the various types break down, so you can choose which type of rewards card is best for your unique circumstances.

Transferable Rewards Credit Cards

These types of credit cards earn rewards that can be transferred to other programs, like airline or hotel loyalty programs. Transferable rewards include Capital One Rewards , Bilt Rewards , Brex Rewards , Chase Ultimate Rewards® , American Express Membership Rewards , Wells Fargo Rewards and Citi ThankYou® Points .

Airline Credit Cards

Airline credit cards earn miles that can be used to redeem for future purchases with that airline. You can also use that airline’s miles to book flights on partners, which may yield more award opportunities. Some common airline credit card extras may include free checked baggage, priority boarding, a TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application fee credit and airport lounge access. If you’re able to max out these extras, the perks can often be worth more than the annual fee.

Hotel Credit Cards

With hotel cards, you’ll earn rewards in the hotel’s currency, like Marriott Bonvoy points , Hilton Honors points or World of Hyatt points , which are redeemable towards any eligible hotel property under that brand’s umbrella. Some cards also confer automatic elite status upon ownership, which comes with benefits that can range from late check-out to free breakfast to room upgrades. Additionally, many cards also offer one night free annually every year you renew your card membership, as well as other perks such as airport lounge access.

Fixed-Value Credit Cards

Credit card points may often have a fixed-value when redeemed for things like cash back or travel, where the issuer publishes the cash value per point. For example, a card may offer a value of a penny per point when redeemed for any valid travel purchase. Fixed-value points currencies can also vary by redemption type. For example, points on a card might be worth 1.5 cents each when redeemed for travel rewards, but only be worth 1 cent each when redeemed for cash back.

Business Credit Cards for Travel

If you’re traveling for work and you want to keep your business expenses separate from your personal expenses, a travel business credit card may be worth considering. Business credit cards for travel function the same as consumer credit cards for travel, although the business versions often offer different earning rates and perks, as well as a different annual fee structure.

To learn more about the best co-branded credit cards, see our guides below:

• Best American Airlines Credit Cards
• Best Delta Credit Cards
• Best Southwest Credit Cards
• Best United Credit Cards
• Best Hyatt Credit Cards
• Best Marriott Credit Cards

Ask an Expert

Is it better to choose a flexible travel rewards card or one branded to a specific airline or hotel?

Yanely Espinal

Credit Cards Expert

Clint Proctor

Credit Cards Lead Editor

Becky Pokora

Credit Cards Writer

If I had to choose, I’d say flexible travel rewards because it allows for much more versatility in your redemption options beyond just flights and hotel stays. But the best approach is to have both. You can maximize benefits from each card type by earning rewards across all of the spending you normally do, while getting perks with your favorite travel providers at the same time.

Since I’m not particularly loyal to any airline or hotel, I prefer the flexibility of general travel cards. I especially appreciate travel cards that offer transfers to travel partners. With flexible rewards, I can access 10 to 20 or more loyalty programs from a single card. This increases my chances of being able to take advantage of the best award deals that are available for my next trip.

I love that most co-branded travel cards include benefits when booking with that brand. Free night certificates on hotel cards and free checked bags with airlines are valuable perks. Plus, even though earning a single type of point might seem limited, big hotel chains have more than a dozen brand choices and airlines may have 10 or more alliance partners, so you’ll still find plenty of versatility.

What is the most underrated benefit of travel credit cards that is often overlooked?

Jerod Morales

Credit Cards Editor

Credit Cards And Loyalty Programs Expert

Some of the benefits of travel cards I rely on that don’t get much attention are the travel and purchase protections. I always make sure to book travel with a card that includes things like trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay protection and lost or delayed baggage benefits. It’s not always a substitute for separate travel insurance, but it can go a long way to getting compensation when travel goes awry.

I feel cellphone insurance is overlooked by some travelers and followed by travel insurance coverage. Many credit cards even cover the trip if you just pay taxes on a reward ticket.

Free nights, big bonuses and statement credits get all the attention but one perk that goes unnoticed is the option to add authorized users to your card account at a reduced cost (or even free). That extends benefits like airport lounge access to a household member, even if they’re not traveling with you.

The number of travel credit cards you should have depends on how often you travel, which benefits you value, your financial situation and whether you’re willing to spend time tracking multiple cards. Frequent travelers can find value in holding at least one travel card, but may consider holding several. For example, having both an airline card and a hotel card can provide complementary benefits and the ability to earn rewards for all aspects of your travel plans.

Personally, the vast majority of my spending is split between three credit cards in order to maximize earning rates, in different purchase categories. However, I also have three other travel cards that I primarily carry for the benefits—annual free hotel nights and extra award flight inventory make my travels more affordable.

– Becky Pokora , Credit Cards Writer

When comparing travel credit cards, items to consider include:

1. Annual fee

The annual fee on credit cards ranges from zero to several hundred dollars. In general, the more expensive the card, the richer the perks and rewards.

2. Foreign transaction fee

Foreign transaction fees can be an additional 2% to 3% surcharge when making transactions in other currencies, such as when you’re traveling abroad. The best no foreign transaction fee cards avoid this surcharge.

3. Sign-up bonus

One time offers to new cardholders can be extremely lucrative and an important factor in which cards appeal to you.

4. Rewards rate

Different cards have different earning rates, both in the amount you earn with every purchase and what form the rewards are provided in—points, miles or cash back.

5. International acceptance

When traveling outside of the United States, Visa and Mastercard tend to be more widely accepted than American Express or other cards. Because of this, international travelers may wish to pick their card type accordingly.

6. Travel protections

Included travel insurance could save you money compared to separately purchased policies, but won’t necessarily be comprehensive . If you travel often, it might be worth specifically seeking out the best credit cards with travel insurance .

Benefits might range from airport lounge access to statement credit reimbursements for certain purchases.

When choosing between two similar cards, it’s savvy to look for the less known credit card perks like luggage protection and travel delay insurance. These protections reimburse you up to a certain amount for lost or missing luggage and/or cover the cost of meals and lodging when your flight gets delayed more than a certain number of hours.

– Yanely Espinal , Credit Card Expert

Airline credit cards typically earn frequent flyer miles on every purchase. Co-branded airline cards also frequently come with perks while traveling, like free checked bags, enhanced award space or lounge access. They may also help you achieve elite status more easily.

When evaluating the best airline credit cards , think about:

• Earning rates. Many airline credit cards don’t offer elevated earnings on categories other than airline spending, so you’ll need to choose carefully if that’s important to you.
• Perks while flying. Typically, only cards with an annual fee include benefits while flying such as priority boarding or complimentary checked bags.
• Elite-qualifying bonuses. Some cards include bonus elite-qualifying miles when hitting spending thresholds, which can further enhance your flying experience.
• Companion fares. Some airline cards offer the opportunity to earn a companion certificate, which allows you to bring a second traveler on your trip for a reduced price.

Additionally, redeeming frequent flyer miles can be more complicated than requesting cash back or other types of rewards. Though using miles for award flights can lead to tremendous value, you’ll need to learn the ropes of the program.

Hotel credit cards earn points toward future free stays, but this is one case where the benefits can often outshine rewards. More often than not, hotel cards come with automatic elite status, as well as a fast track to even higher levels of status. Plus, annual free night certificates or statement credits add even more to their value proposition.

Many hotel loyalty programs offer multiple co-branded cards to choose from, making it even more important to compare the characteristics of an individual card. It’s not uncommon for a single hotel brand to offer a no-annual-fee card, a mid-tier card and a premium card—each with different earning rates and benefits.

When evaluating hotel credit cards, consider:

• Elite status offers. Generally speaking, cards with higher annual fees may automatically bump you to higher elite status levels, which can be invaluable for frequent stays.
• Free night certificates. Many, but not all, hotel cards offer free night certificates either upon renewal of your card or when hitting spending thresholds. Each certificate may come with restrictions on when or where you can redeem it, so compare fine print.
• Earning rates. Hotel cards may offer huge multipliers on bonus categories, allowing you to earn five to 10 times on certain purchases. However, keep expectations in check: Hotel points may not be worth a full penny per point.
• Statement credits. Some cards may include statement credits toward eligible purchases made at hotels and resorts or even on airline fees or restaurant purchases, which can be valuable, but you’ll need to actually use them.

The best way to make the most of your credit card is to use a card that aligns with your spending patterns.

• Choose a card that offers bonus points in spending categories meaningful to you
• Credit card pairings can maximize your earnings by pooling points from two or more cards that have different bonus categories
• Use your credit card instead of cash or debit when possible

Airline and Hotel Rewards Loyalty Programs

Understanding how to get the most out of the points and miles you earn from your travel credit card goes hand-in-hand with using the loyalty programs offered by most airlines and hotel brands. It’s free to join and you can belong to as many loyalty programs as you like. Typically, when you sign up for a co-branded credit card affiliated with a particular brand, you’ll automatically become a member of the loyalty program if you aren’t already.

Track Your Credit Card Points and Miles Earnings

Tracking your spending allows you to make sure that every time you make a purchase, you’re using the card that earns the most rewards. This means knowing which card to use in which scenario based on how a particular merchant codes the purchase .

For example, if you own two credit cards, one that earns high rewards on dining and one co-branded airline card, it might not make sense to use the airline card to pay your restaurant tab since the dining card likely earns more rewards. You can do this by various methods as complicated as creating a spreadsheet or as simple as putting stickers on each card to remind you when to use it.

How To Use Credit Card Points for Travel

Beyond earning rewards, there are strategies to get the most value when it comes time to redeem your rewards, too. When you’re ready to cash in your travel rewards, there’s generally two ways to do it.

You can plan the itinerary you want and use your rewards to fully or partially off-set the cost. Or, you can research to see where the rewards you have can be used to get the most bang for your buck. Now, American Express is making it easier for some cardmembers to redeem miles for flights due to a partnership with Point.me .

Find The Best Credit Cards For 2024

No single credit card is the best option for every family, every purchase or every budget. We've picked the best credit cards in a way designed to be the most helpful to the widest variety of readers.

Travel Rewards Cards In the News

• IHG One Rewards is presenting one of their best ever offers for new cardholders. This is your chance to earn free night certificates toward your next trip.
• Small businesses wishing to earn travel rewards should look into a limited time offer on the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card —you could earn an upgraded bonus of 120,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• You can extend the value of your travel rewards with these transfer bonuses in August 2024.

Best Small and Mid-Sized Cities to Redeem Travel Rewards

It’s been a busy year for air travel, with a new high of 3,013,413 travelers screened by TSA checkpoints on July 7, 2024. Given unprecedented travel levels and rising costs, rewards are a valuable resource for covering the price of travel.

Forbes Advisor compared data on more than 20 metrics for 62 of the most-traveled small and mid-sized cities to reveal the best cities for redeeming points and miles. Of these, Tampa tops the list for being most accessible when paying with rewards, with two other Floridian cities rounding out the top three. Kona, Hawaii ranks at the bottom.

Top 5 Best Small to Mid-Sized Cities for Redeeming Points and Miles

1. tampa, fl.

Tampa’s score: 100 out of 100

When looking at nonstop route coverage and flight volume across five major U.S. airlines, Tampa ranks the highest, regardless of your preferred carrier. The city also ranked third-highest for hotel availability across the six major hotel groups ( Marriott, IHG, Hilton, Hyatt, Choice and Wyndam). It has over 263 hotels to choose from when redeeming points, ranging from luxe stays to more value-oriented options.

2. Orlando, FL

Orlando’s score: 99.4 out of 100

Catching a flight to Orlando should be easy even during peak travel periods as it ranks second-highest for flight availability in small and mid-sized cities. Redeeming points for a hotel stay is also simple, with 333 available hotels to choose from across six hotel groups. The combination of options on both flights and hotels puts it second on our list.

3. Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale’s score: 83.9 out of 100

Travelers will have no issue securing a flight to Fort Lauderdale as it ranked third-highest for flight availability. The city ranked seventh-highest for hotel availability and is covered by all six of the major hotel groups. It has 287 total hotels to choose from within those groups. As a bonus, the ease of redeeming points for a trip to Fort Lauderdale may make it a worthy alternative to trips to Miami, less than 30 miles away.

4. Raleigh-Durham, NC

Raleigh/Durham’s score: 74.0 out of 100

If you’re looking to book a trip outside of Florida using points and miles, your best bet is the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina. Travelers flying in will have multiple options for airfare, as it ranks sixth-highest for this category based on availability for flights from the six busiest airports nationwide by scheduled airline capacity as of May 2024 according to the most recent data from OAG Aviation Worldwide, a flight data analytics company. The city ranks 11th-highest for hotel availability with 170 hotels to choose from.

5. Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis’ score: 70.7 out of 100

Travelers looking to redeem their miles for a trip to Minneapolis will be happy to know that it ranked within the top 15 for the flight availability category. The city also tied for fifth place for hotel availability and is covered by all six of the largest hotel groups, with 237 total hotels that accept point redemptions.

Methodology

To uncover the small and mid-sized cities where it is easiest to redeem points and miles, Forbes Advisor looked at the 100 most traveled destinations nationwide (based on the number of domestic air passengers in 2023) and excluded the 25 largest cities and the principal cities of the 15 largest metropolitan areas. 

We analyzed the remaining 62 cities across 22 metrics spanning four categories and using the weights described below:

• Flight coverage 
• Flight availability
• Hotel coverage
• Hotel availability

For the flight-related metrics, data came from each airline's booking portal. This included United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways. We considered round-trip flights from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28, using the country’s six busiest airports (by passenger boarding volume): ATL, DFW, DEN,  LAX, ORD and JFK. 

Data for hotel coverage and volume comes from Booking.com with a check-in date of Friday, July 26 and a check-out date of Sunday, July 28.

Flight Coverage (15% of total score)

• Star Alliance Carriers (3% of total score)
• OneWorld Carriers (3% of total score)
• Skyteam Carriers (3% of total score)
• Southwest (3% of total score)
• JetBlue (3% of total score)

Flight Availability by Volume (35% of total score)

• Number of Flights from Star Alliance Carriers (7% of total score)
• Number of Flights from OneWorld Carriers (7% of total score)
• Number of Flights from Skyteam Carriers (7% of total score)
• Number of Flights from Southwest (7% of total score)
• Number of Flights from JetBlue (7% of total score) 

Hotel Coverage (15% of total score)

• Presence of Marriott group hotels (2.50% of total score)
• Presence of IHG group hotels (2.50% of total score)
• Presence of Hilton group hotels (2.50% of total score)
• Presence of Hyatt group hotels (2.50% of total score)
• Presence of Choice group hotels (2.50% of total score)
• Presence of Wyndham group hotels (2.50% of total score)

Hotel Availability by Volume (35% of total score)

• Number of Marriott group hotels (5.83% of total score)
• Number of IHG group hotels (5.83% of total score)
• Number of Hilton group hotels (5.83% of total score)
• Number of Hyatt group hotels (5.83% of total score)
• Number of Choice group hotels (5.83% of total score)
• Number of Wyndham group hotels (5.83% of total score)

Generally speaking, yes, travel credit cards are worth it —if you’ll use the benefits. Travel rewards credit cards can be a strategic addition to your finances, if you travel with any regularity. You’ll be able to earn rewards on every purchase and later redeem those rewards toward future trips—often at a higher yield than cash back. Many travel cards also include benefits to enhance your travel experience along the way to add even more value.

To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page . To view rates and fees for American Express® Gold Card please visit this page . For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Is it a good idea to use a credit card when traveling?

Paying by credit card can be a smart idea while traveling since it offers additional protections compared to paying with cash or debit card. You might also earn rewards on your purchases by paying by card. Before traveling internationally, check to see whether or not your credit card charges a foreign transaction fee. If it does, every transaction will cost you a little extra (usually around 3%). The best travel cards don’t charge this fee.

What is the easiest travel credit card to get?

Most travel credit cards require good to excellent credit scores. However, generally speaking, travel cards with no annual fee are typically easier to be approved for than the ultra-premium travel cards with high annual fees.

What is the best credit card with travel insurance?

Forbes Advisor’s best credit cards for travel insurance list has a variety of cards offering solid travel insurance. Although you shouldn’t get a credit card for this feature alone, it can be a useful money-saving extra. Credit cards that offer travel insurance tend to have high annual fees, so keep this in mind when weighing whether or not you are likely to use the feature.

What is the best card for international travel?

Many credit cards are well suited for international travel. You want to make sure that the card has no foreign transaction fees . It also helps if the card’s points are suitable for the locations where you wish to travel. For instance, if you want to go to Asia, an airline card co-branded with a U.S.-based airline that doesn’t fly to Asia, like Southwest, won’t help you.

How can you travel for free with credit cards?

Travel with credit card points can save you a lot of money on travel compared to paying full price. A combination of welcome bonus offers and the rewards you earn from everyday spending can add up to hundreds of dollars in value toward free travel. However, you’ll need to learn the rules of your specific program to maximize travel points and get the most possible value.

Included statement credits or card benefits can also help you travel for free. Premium credit cards may offer annual credits toward the purchase of select travel, effectively serving as a rebate. Alternatively, you might have airline companion certificates or hotel free night certificates, which work more like a coupon.

Other Credit Cards To Be Considered

• Best Business Credit Cards for Travel
• Best Travel Credit Cards For Fair Credit

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: American Express® Green Card, U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card, Bilt World Elite Mastercard®, Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

With more than 50 million redeemed miles under her belt, Becky Pokora is a rewards travel expert. She's been writing about credit cards and reward travel since 2011 with articles on Forbes Advisor, BoardingArea, The Points Guy and more. Her redemptions have helped her travel to more than 50 countries and all seven continents.

Clint Proctor is a lead editor with the credit cards and travel rewards team at Forbes Advisor. He has five years of experience in personal finance journalism and has contributed to a variety of leading national publishers including Business Insider and MyFICO. Clint has redeemed millions of credit card points and miles to book budget-friendly travel and is passionate about helping others do the same.

Yanely Espinal is the director of educational outreach for Next Gen Personal Finance, a nonprofit working to ensure that every high school student gets a full semester of personal finance education—including lessons in proper credit card usage—before graduation. She is often described as a ball of energy, with a gift for storytelling, and a passion for explaining credit cards and other financial concepts in a straightforward way.   While working as an elementary school teacher, Yanely decided to change her financial life by paying off $20,000 of debt in just 18 months. In 2015 she created MissBeHelpful, a YouTube channel and social media platform that now has over 5 million views, to help others learn the money skills she never learned in school. Some of her most popular videos on the channel include “5 Things to Consider When Applying for a Credit Card” and “When To Pay Your Credit Card Bill and Increase Your Credit Score.”   Her book, “Mind Your Money,” is an Amazon bestseller and was a Plutus Award finalist for Best New Personal Finance Book of 2023. She hosts Financially Inclined from Marketplace, a video podcast for teens about money lessons for living life your own way. Yanely is also a member of CNBC's Financial Wellness Advisory Council and an Advocate at the NGPF Mission 2030 Fund.  

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Amazon’s Sale on Travel Essentials Includes Luggage, Noise-Canceling Headphones, and Wrinkle-Free Clothes from $4

Including travel clothes, headphones, luggage, and more for up to half-off

Mia Huelsbeck is a writer who covers fashion, lifestyle, entertainment, and commerce content. After receiving her A Levels in English Language & Literature, Art History, and Theater Studies, she began her career in marketing while living abroad in London, working with thought leaders worldwide to create articles discussing important health and business topics. Since then, she has continued to hone her craft, writing content around technology, television, marketing, law, and shopping.

Summer can’t come to an end without at least one more great sale. And if you have any trips coming up , you’ll be happy to know Amazon is having a blow-out sale on travel essentials, with everything from wrinkle-free clothes to suitcase organizers available for up to half-off. 

Noise-canceling headphones, Samsonite luggage, Apple AirTags, and so much more are included in the sale, with prices starting at just $4. To ensure you make the most of these deals, we rounded up the 15 the best Amazon finds you’ll be glad to have on vacation.

Amazon’s Best Travel Deals

• Apple AirTag Four-Pack , $79.99 (orig. $99)
• Samsonite Large Freeform Hardside Suitcase , $195.99 (orig. $279.99)
• Baleaf Lightweight Joggers , $38.99 (orig. $55.99)
• Apple AirPods Pro , $189.99 (orig. $249)
• BeBeGee Travel Jewelry Case , $4.29 (orig. $7.99)
• SwissGear Sion Softside Medium Suitcase , $94.99 (orig. $129.99)
• Iniu Portable Charger , $17.99 with coupon (orig. $29.99)
• Prettygarden Short-Sleeve Pullover and Drawstring Pants Set , $33.15 with coupon (orig. $38.99)
• Beats Studio Pro Noise-Canceling Headphones , $199.95 (orig. $349.99)
• Taygeer Carry-On Backpack , $17.99 (orig. $35.99)

Apple AirTag Four-Pack

Use this pack of four Apple AirTags to keep tabs on your bags in transit. Using the Find My app, you can play a sound through the AirTags’ built-in speakers to track down your essentials. With the discounted price, they’re just $20 a pop.

Samsonite Large Freeform Hardside Suitcase

A durable suitcase that fits everything you need is a must, and this large Samsonite bag with 360-degree spinning wheels is on sale for under $200. “If you are someone who is in need of great, well-built luggage with that luxury aesthetic feel,” one five-star reviewer wrote , “I’d say get this bag before it's too late.”

Baleaf Lightweight Joggers

Everything from road trips to long-haul flights are made better with the right travel clothes, like these drawstring joggers, which feature cargo pockets, an elastic waistband, ankle cuffs, and a stretchy, quick-dry fabric. One shopper described them as “excellent for plane travel, hiking, lounging, you name it.”

Apple AirPods Pro

Tune out your noisy fellow travelers with the Apple AirPods Pro, which are nearly $60 off right now. They have transparency mode in case you need to hear the airport announcements, a customizable fit with a range of silicone ear tip sizes, and feature up to 30 hours of listening time.

BeBeGee Travel Jewelry Case

Never lose your accessories while traveling again with this jewelry case, which has three necklace hooks with an elastic pocket, ring holders, and four square compartments. Plus, one reviewer pointed out that it’s “small enough for me to put in my carry-on, so I don’t have to pack my jewelry and worry about losing it.”

SwissGear Sion Softside Medium Suitcase

This softside Swissgear suitcase comes in eight colors and features spinning wheels, convenient side handles, several pockets, and a removable zippered waterproof bag. It has over 14,000 perfect ratings and is now under $100, with one shopper explaining that it’s a “great bag for the price.”

Iniu Portable Charger

Your phone or tablet dying is enough to ruin your trip, but you can avoid disaster with this ultra-thin portable charger that’s currently on sale for 40 percent off with an on-site coupon. It’s received over 47,000 five-star ratings, holds enough power to charge your phone three and a half times on a single charge, and comes with a USB-A to USB-C cable.

Prettygarden Short-Sleeve Pullover and Drawstring Pants Set

Getting to your destination comfortably and in style is easy with this Prettygarden two-piece outfit, featuring a short-sleeve top and matching drawstring pants. One shopper described the outfit as “lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to pack.”

Beats Studio Pro Noise-Canceling Headphones

When over 10,000 people purchase the same pair of noise-canceling headphones in the past month, you know they must be good. These over-ear Beats headphones have up to 40 hours of battery life, personalized spatial audio, and effortless Bluetooth or wired listening. 

Taygeer Carry-On Backpack

The Taygeer backpack is the perfect personal bag, designed with padded shoulder straps, a USB port, separate laptop and tablet compartments, and dedicated pockets to hold your water bottle, shoes, books, and more travel essentials. “I packed a good amount of stuff in it, and it held up great,” one shopper wrote .

Skechers Go Walk Joy Sneaker

These Skechers sneakers are easy to slip on and off when going through TSA, and they’re lightweight with a breathable mesh upper material and padded insoles. More than 66,000 people have given them a five-star rating, including one who called them the “most comfortable shoes for travel.”

Tocelffe 18-Pack Travel Bottles

Finding liquids in the correct size to pass through TSA can be a challenge, but this 18-pack of travel bottles simplifies the process. Included in the set are four silicone bottles, two spray bottles, four cream jars, a funnel, cleaning brush, two spatulas, and a waterproof storage bag, all for just $10.

Amazon Fire Max 11 Tablet

Keep yourself or your kids entertained while you travel with the Fire tablet. It has a 14-hour battery life and can pair with your smart home to keep an eye on things while you’re away.

Bcozzy Neck Pillow

This travel pillow is ideal for side sleepers, chin droppers, and window leaners, as it wraps around your neck to provide double the cushion and support. One reviewer wrote , “On a six-hour flight, this was a champ,” while another added , “From Rome to London to Paris, this pillow was the absolute best thing on the trip.”

Bagail Eight-Set Packing Cubes

Make packing for your trip a breeze with this set of eight packing cubes, which includes dedicated bags for your toiletries, socks, shoes, cosmetics, and more. More than 10,000 shoppers have added it to their carts in the past month, with one reviewer noting , “I am usually an overpacker, but these have saved my life.”

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