Best Cheap Places to Travel in December

Dreaming of a December escape without breaking the bank? Discover sun-kissed beaches, vibrant cultures, and thrilling adventures with our top affordable winter getaways. Explore Mérida’s charm with hotels from $50 a night, bask in Jamaica’s warm winter sun, or enjoy free festivals in Puerto Rico. Dive into crystal-clear waters in Cozumel, or explore ancient Mayan ruins in Tulum. Find your perfect December escape today!

Important information

• Mérida, Mexico offers budget-friendly accommodations with hotels starting at $50 a night.
• Puerto Rico is an affordable Caribbean destination with free festivals, beaches, and hiking, plus flights under $150 from many US cities.
• Bridgetown, Barbados is attractive during its dry season in December, with warm weather and flights often under $350.
• Tulum, Mexico combines beach relaxation with exploring Mayan ruins, offering budget-friendly options, especially with dining and lodging further from the shore.
• Cozumel offers world-class diving and snorkeling at an affordable price, with options like cozy bed and breakfasts.

15 Affordable Winter Escapes for December Travel

Escape the winter blues with affordable getaways. Explore cozy Mérida with hotel rooms starting from $50 a night. Jamaica offers balmy weather throughout the winter season. For budget travelers, Puerto Rico hosts free festivals all winter long. Or, enjoy the sunshine and dry December air in Bridgetown, Barbados.

Mérida: Budget-Friendly with Hotels Starting at $50 per Night

Plan your December escape to Mérida, Mexico. Enjoy comfortable hotels with nightly rates starting from $50, making it a budget-friendly travel destination.

Jamaica: Enjoy Warm Winter Weather

Escape winter’s chill with a Jamaican getaway. Bask in the sun at one of the island’s many all-inclusive resorts, offering budget-friendly escapes complete with meals and thrilling water sports. Explore the breathtaking beauty of Dunn’s River Falls, a naturally stunning and affordable attraction. For significant savings, book a vacation package or travel in early December. Secure your spot before peak season begins.

Puerto Rico: Free Festivals for a Cheap Getaway

Escape the cold and embrace the vibrant warmth of Puerto Rico without emptying your wallet. This Caribbean gem offers a plethora of free festivals showcasing the island’s rich culture and captivating entertainment. Immerse yourself in authentic traditions and experience the pulsating energy of Puerto Rican festivities, all without spending a dime. Beyond the festivals, a wealth of free activities awaits. Bask on pristine beaches, explore the historic streets of Old San Juan, or hike through the lush El Yunque National Forest. Even better, affordable flights make Puerto Rico an accessible paradise, with round-trip tickets to San Juan often under $150 from various US cities.

Bridgetown, Barbados: Experience the Dry Season

Escape winter’s chill and embrace the sunny shores of Bridgetown, Barbados. The dry season begins in December, offering warm weather and bright sunshine. This creates the perfect backdrop for the island’s vibrant holiday festivities. Even better, with round-trip flights often under $350, this tropical escape is as affordable as it is attractive.

Budget Travel Destinations with Unique Experiences

Vietnam: Affordable and Rich in Culture

Vietnam is a budget traveler’s paradise, offering a rich cultural experience at an affordable price. A daily budget of roughly INR 2,500 to 3,000 should suffice. December is an ideal time to visit, with cool weather perfect for exploring. Don’t miss the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, especially with the added festive charm of the Christmas season.

Czech Republic: Enchanting Winter Atmosphere

Experience the magic of a Czech winter in Prague. A daily budget of roughly INR 10,500 to 12,000 lets you enjoy the festive Christmas markets and admire the city’s charming decorations. The Czech Republic offers unique winter experiences, especially in December, with a blend of festive lights and rich cultural traditions.

Outdoor Adventures and Beach Relaxation

Tulum: Beach Relaxation and Mayan Ruins

Discover Tulum, Mexico: an enticing blend of relaxation and adventure without emptying your wallet. Bask in the sun on pristine beaches, and explore the mysteries of ancient Mayan ruins. Favorable exchange rates and plentiful budget-friendly accommodations, especially further from the shore, make Tulum remarkably affordable. Stretch your travel budget further by dining in Tulum Pueblo and exploring the area’s free natural attractions. With December’s average temperature hovering in the low 80s Fahrenheit, you’ll enjoy comfortable conditions for exploration.

Cozumel: Diving and Snorkeling Opportunities

Cozumel is a fantastic destination known for its diving and snorkeling experiences in crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the island’s affordability, with numerous options like cozy bed and breakfasts. Explore the mesmerizing reefs, unwind on pristine beaches, or discover the beauty of local parks. Cozumel offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler.