10 affordable places to travel in December
Best budget destinations during the shoulder season
Summer may be the most popular time to travel, but in many cases, winter is the smartest. That’s because locations across North America see a huge drop in demand during the winter months, especially in early December right before the holidays hit.
Taking vacations during off-peak—especially in early December—comes with plenty of perks:
No overspending here. Flights, accommodations, and attractions typically charge lower prices compared to peak season, so you can stretch your budget further.
Talk about relaxing. You can explore attractions, historical sites, and local eateries without the hassle of long lines and crowded spaces.
With fewer visitors, locals are often more willing to engage, leading to unique insights and deeper connections with the community.
With fewer people competing for vacation homes and activities, you can adjust your itinerary more easily, allowing for spontaneous adventures and opportunities that may not be available during peak times.
You can help communities thrive year-round, by frequenting local businesses, restaurants, and attractions and providing much-needed revenue during slower periods.
Vail transforms into a family-friendly winter wonderland in December, offering fresh powder without holiday crowds and the picturesque Vail Village adorned with festive decorations.
Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides.
Not-to-miss December event: Vail Snow Days, featuring free concerts and aprés ski parties.
Save even more: Lift tickets and ski rentals often have early season discounts.
Lake Tahoe offers stunning winter scenery and diverse outdoor activities for snow enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Early December provides a chance to enjoy the area's natural beauty and winter sports before the holiday rush.
Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and scenic drives around the lake.
Not-to-miss December event: Heavenly Holidays, featuring ice sculptors, carolers, and a Santa photo op.
Save even more: Ski resorts often offer early season packages. Plus, many lakeside restaurants have off-season specials.
Kauai offers a tropical paradise with lush landscapes and pristine beaches, perfect for those seeking a warm winter escape. Early December sees fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic Hawaiian experience.
Activities: Hiking, snorkeling, surfing, and helicopter tours of the Na Pali Coast.
Not-to-miss December event: Kauai Festival of Lights, showcasing unique Hawaiian-style Christmas decorations.
Save even more: Many tour operators offer off-season discounts.
The Florida Keys provide a laid-back tropical getaway with warm weather and water-based activities. Early December offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds before the holiday rush.
Activities: Snorkeling, diving, fishing, kayaking, and visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home.
Not-to-miss December event: Key West Holiday Fest, featuring lighted boat parades and historic inn tours.
Save even more: Many water sports operators offer off-season rates.
Park City combines world-class skiing with small-town charm, making it an ideal winter destination. Early December provides excellent skiing conditions without the holiday crowds.
Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and visiting the Utah Olympic Park.
Not-to-miss December event: Main Street Snow Globe Stroll, featuring seven life-size snow globes on Main Street.
Save even more: Ski resorts often have early season discounts. Many Main Street restaurants offer off-season specials.
Steamboat Springs offers a genuine Western atmosphere combined with excellent skiing and natural hot springs. Early December provides a chance to enjoy fresh powder and festive atmosphere before peak season.
Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and soaking in natural hot springs.
Not-to-miss December event: Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival
Save even more: Steamboat Springs features "Ski Free Sundays" at Howelsen Hill, where visitors can ski for free every Sunday throughout the winter season. Many restaurants offer off-season specials also.
Western North Carolina offers a mix of Appalachian culture, charming small towns and adventures in the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains. The High Country is famous for its ski resorts, including Sugar Mountain and Appalachian Ski Mountain.
Activities: Hiking, visiting waterfalls, exploring the Biltmore Estate, and scenic drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Not-to-miss December event: National Gingerbread House Competition in Asheville.
Save even more: Many attractions offer off-season rates. Many local restaurants also offer winter specials.
Southwest Florida—including Cape Coral, Naples, and Sarasota—in early December offers an appealing escape with its warm, sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities like beach lounging, water sports and Everglades tours. You’ll enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices without the peak season rush.
Activities: Beach-going, shelling, kayaking, and visiting wildlife refuges.
Not-to-miss December event: Edison & Ford Winter Estates Holiday Nights and the Cape Coral Holiday Boat-a-Long.
Save even more: Many boat tours and wildlife excursions offer off-season rates.
Vermont offers picturesque winter landscapes and cozy New England charm. Early December provides a chance to enjoy winter activities and festive atmosphere before peak season.
Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and visiting quaint villages.
Not-to-miss December event: Woodstock Wassail Weekend, featuring holiday home tours and sleigh rides.
Save even more: Some rental shops may offer lower rates in early December compared to peak season.
The Big Island offers diverse landscapes, from black sand beaches to snow-capped mountains, perfect for adventure seekers. Early December provides pleasant weather and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed Hawaiian experience.
Activities: Volcano viewing, stargazing, snorkeling, and visiting coffee farms.
Not-to-miss December event: Kona Coffee Cultural Festival (ends early December).
Save even more: Many adventure tour operators offer off-season discounts.
