15 Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget in 2024

Have you ever dreamed of escaping the winter blues but worried about costs? I get it. December travel sounds magical, but it often comes with sky-high prices. It can feel disheartening to scroll through luxury destinations far beyond your budget. Many travelers feel trapped at home. They think affordable travel isn’t possible during the holidays.

But here’s the good news: there are hidden gems for budget travelers in December. In this article, I’ll show you the best places to travel in December on a budget.

Top Criteria for Finding Budget-Friendly December Destinations

December is a magical time to travel. Most tourist places have crowds, and many tourists think it is expensive to make a trip in December. Many tourists are worried. Flight and hotel prices may rise for popular December destinations.

However, don’t worry about the high prices of your travel destinations. Many budget-friendly options exist for making tours that require minimal spending. Here, I will share some practical tips on how to plan a budget-friendly trip in December.

Travel During Off-Peak Seasons 

Traveling during off-peak times is a productive way to make a trip on a budget. One of the effective ways is to avoid holidays and weekends. Generally, the Christmas and New Year vacations. It is a rush time to visit any place in December. 

“So if you want to make flexible travel on a budget. You should aim to travel off-peak seasons in the earlier of the month (like the first two weeks of December). Or avoid the Christmas and New Year vacations. It gives you flexibility and benefits to take the cheapest flights and hotels.”

Affordable Accommodations in December

Before planning to travel in December, you must choose a destination. Then, focus on affordable accommodations and activities. You can follow some strategies to reduce your accommodation costs in December. For example:

Rent a Small Room or Family Room:

You can rent a small room if you go on an individual trip. You can find it at a relatively cheaper rate than a large room with big beds. If you go with your family, you can rent a room with a combined bed, toilet, and kitchen. It may save your accommodation costs.

Book A Hotel Room in Advance:

Many hotels offer discounts in the winter. You can follow certain hotels’ official websites to get discount information. Booking.com is a reliable, standard website to book a hotel room in advance. Sometimes, you find discounts for off-peak seasons. You can get these types of offers or discounts to reduce your travel costs.

Cost-Effective Vacation Transportation in December

Transportation costs are a very important part of travel. If you want to make low-cost holiday destinations for December. You must reduce your transportation costs. 

First, fix your destinations and book your air tickets as early as possible. If you purchased a ticket at most 1 month ago, you would get a lower price than the regular price. Secondly, You can use public transport like the metro, Buses, and trains. It’s comparatively cheaper than private transport.

Top 15 Best Budget-Friendly December Travel Destinations

There are many places all over the world which are popular destinations for tourists in December. But all places are not budget-friendly. Here, I will show the top 10 best places to travel in December on a budget.

Best places to travel in December on a budget in Asia

Some Southeast Asian countries are very famous worldwide for tourist areas. However, some countries are the top affordable places to visit in December. They are cheap. Such as Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hanoi in Vietnam, and Siem Reap in Cambodia.

1. Thailand (Chiang Mai)

Temperature: The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 29°C (59°F – 84°F).

Weather Conditions: Very pleasant, warm, and mainly dry, with low rain possibility.

Tourists Main Attractions: Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, The White Temple, Black House, and Blue Temple.

Accommodation Costs: It will be approximately $20 to $110. (Lowest To Average)

Food Costs: The average daily cost of food per person is around $10 to $30.

Packing Tips: Light and Warm Clothes, Comfortable Shoes, Emergency Medicine, Essential Accessories like a Camera, Sunglasses, Umbrella, Travel Documents, Local Currency, etc. (Must use a Large or Medium Bag or Luggage).

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular and budget-friendly places in Thailand. Chiang Mai is famous for its historic temples and night markets. It has stunning mountain views and great outdoor activities. 

Chiang Mai becomes more beautiful during winter. With low rain chances, your trip will be easy. You can enjoy several outdoor activities in Chiang Mai.

2. Vietnam (Hanoi) 

Temperature: The temperature of Hanoi in December  9°C to 21°C (48.2°F – 69.8°F).

Weather status: Fairly Dry and Coldest Time in Hanoi.

Must See:  Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Hoa Lo Prison.

Accommodation Costs: The hotel rent will be $15 to $80 Per day (Lowest To Average)

Daily Meal Costs: Average daily meal costs $10 to $25 

Packing Tips: Essential Travel Documents like Passport and Visa, Flight Tickets, Warm Clothes, Emergency Medicine, Phone, Camera, Charger, Comfortable Backpack or Luggage.

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. The city has a rich history, vibrant culture, and a unique mix of old and new features. It’s a popular tourist destination because of the low cost of this city. Here, I will explain some places that are very popular with tourists in December.

Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, and Hoa Lo Prison are important places to visit in Hanoi. Hoan Kiem Lake is peaceful, with the Ngoc Son Temple in the middle. The Old Quarter has narrow streets and shows both old and modern Vietnamese life. Hoa Lo Prison, once for political prisoners, has a dark history. It describes the tough conditions during the French and Vietnam Wars. These spots help visitors learn about Hanoi’s history and culture.

3. Cambodia (Siem Reap)

Temperature: 21°C to 32°C (69°F – 90°F)

Weather Conditions: The weather in Siem Reap in December is very warm and breezy.

You Must See: Angkor Wat temples, Angkor Museum, Bayon Temple.

Daily Food Expenses: Mid-range restaurants can cost $8–$25

Hotel Room Rates: Most recommended Siem Reap hotels rent around $20 to $90 (Lowest To Average)

Packing advice: Passport, visas, flight tickets, travel documents, Emergency Medicine, debit or credit card, cash, clothes, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, shoes, water bottle, and day bag.

Cambodia is one of the best destinations to visit in December. Siem Reap is an affordable warm destination in December. Some places are the main tourist attractions. Every year, many tourists come to the city and explore the historical places.

Angkor Wat Temple is one of the oldest temple complexes in Cambodia. The temple was first dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Then, it became a Buddhist temple. It is famous for its architectural design and measures 162 hectares. It is a vast area. The Guinness World Records calls it the largest religious formation in the world. Every year, many tourists from around the world come to visit the temple.

Best places to travel in December on a budget in Central and South America

If you want to make a budget-friendly tour in December, Central and South America will be your perfect destinations. Some countries are very affordable for tourists. If you want a low-budget trip to Central and South America, I will show you some popular places to explore in December.

4. Mexico (Oaxaca)

Temperature: Average temperature in December from 18°C To 34°C (64°F -92°F) 

Conditions: Light Cool and Breezy

Tourist Attractions: Playa Zicatela, Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, Savor Local Cuisine.

Festivals: Night of the Radishes festival

Daily meal expenditure: Daily  $15-$40 Per Person

Accommodation fees: $35 To $120 (Lowest To Average)

Packing suggestions: Travel Documents, A large or medium luggage, Clothes, Shoes, Emergency Medicine, Toiletries, Camera, Charger, Phone, Wallet, Beach Needs, 

Oaxaca is a famous city in Mexico. Oaxaca is famous for its rich culture and beautiful colonial architecture. It is one of the most affordable holiday spots in the world. Oaxaca is also known for its amazing food like Savor Local Cuisine, Mole, Tlayudas, and Mezcal.

Tourists like to explore their colorful markets, lively festivals like Night of the Radishes, and ancient ruins. Overall, Oaxaca is a blend of art, culture, and nature. It offers a unique experience for visitors. 

5. Guatemala (Antigua):

Temperature: 14°C To  28°C (58°F To 82°F)

Conditions: Sunny And Dry

Must-See Places: Spanish Colonial Architecture, Antigua Guatemala Museums and Architectonical Treasures, Shopping From Local Markets

Festivals: Traditional Christmas Celebrations

Daily Food Budget: $20 to $40 Per Person

Stay Costs: $20 To $100 (Lowest To Average)

Packing suggestions: Essential Travel Documents like Passport and Visa, Flight Tickets, Light and Warm Clothes, Emergency Medicine,  Phone, Camera, Charger, Comfortable Backpack or Luggage.

Antigua, Guatemala, is the best economical destination for December travel. Although Antigua is a small city, it is a very popular tourist destination. Some tourist attractions include the Spanish Colonial Architecture. 

It is a key part of classical architecture and influences new building designs. The construction has almost 800 years of historical signs in its architecture.

In Antigua, people observe unique traditional Christmas Celebrations. They start their celebrations in the middle of December and terminate at the end of December. You will get a new festive atmosphere there.

They wear their traditional dresses. You will find traditional food stores, colorful lighting, and fireworks. One of the exciting things in this tradition is Las Posadas and Baile de los gigantes.

Pro Tips: Antigua in Guatemala will be an affordable, warm destination in December. You get to experience unique Christmas Celebrations.

6. Peru (Cusco):

Temperature:  7°C  To  20°C  (44°F to 68°F )

Weather Conditions: Chilly Weather but Cold (Sometimes Rainy)

Must-See: Cathedral, Agricultural Terraces of Moray, Machu Picchu, Sacsayhuaman (Saqsaywaman), Sacred Valley of the Incas

Festivals:  Santuranticuy

Daily Food Budget: $30 to $40 Per Head

Accommodation fees: $20 to $100 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Travel Documents, large luggage, Warm Clothes, a Waterproof jacket or Raincoat, Waterproof Shoes or Boots, Emergency Medicine, Toiletries, Camera, Charger, Phone, Wallet, and Umbrella.

Peru Cusco is one of the best low-cost holiday destinations in December. Cusco is the old capital of the Inca Empire. It has More than 3000 years of history. If you visit the place you will find ancient architectural signs all over the city. For example, the Cathedral, Church of the Society of Jesus, Santo Domingo Church, Sacsayhuaman (Saqsaywaman), etc.

They observe different festivals every month. But in December, you can see the popular festival Santuranticuy. It is one of the biggest arts and crafts fairs in Cusco. 

Best places to travel in December on a budget in Europe

If you are searching for affordable winter vacation spots, Some European countries will be budget-friendly December travel destinations. Such as Krakow in Poland, Budapest in Hungary, and Prague in the Czech Republic. There you will find lots of historical sites and festivals that you enjoy in December.

7. Poland (Krakow)

Temperature:  2°C To -3°C (36°F To 27°F)

Weather Conditions: Cold and Rainy

Tourist Attractions: Rynek Główny, St. Mary’s Basilica, Sukiennice, Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, Wawel Cathedral, Kościuszko Mound,Christmas markets.

Daily Food Costs: $15 to $35 Per Person

Accommodation costs: $10 to $80 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Travel Documents, large luggage, Thermal Jacket & Thermal Trousers, Warm Jacket and Clothes, Gloves & Hood, Waterproof jacket or Raincoat, Waterproof Shoes or Boots, Emergency Medicine, Toiletries, Camera, Charger, Phone, Umbrella, and  Wallet.

Krakow is one of the oldest cities in Poland. There are some cheap places to visit in December. Visitors come here to visit the ancient architectural constructions and the Christmas markets of Krakow. 

The Rynek Główny, St. Mary’s Basilica, Sukiennice, Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, Wawel Cathedral, and Kościuszko Mound are popular destinations for tourists.

The Christmas Markets in Krakow are a fantastic place. You will get unique Christmas gifts, souvenirs, and handmade crafts. There will be festive lights, toys, and some surprise gifts.

Pro Tips: Always carry your umbrella, because it will rain fall any time.

8. Hungary (Budapest)

Temperature:   4°C To -2°C (38°F To 28°F)

Weather Conditions: Cold and Frost

Tourist Attractions: Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Gellért Thermal Bath, Museum of Fine Arts, Vajdahunyad Castle, Festival Markets.

Daily Food Costs: $15 to $30 Per person

Accommodation costs: $20 to $80 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Travel Documents, large luggage, Thermal Jacket & Thermal Trousers, Warm Jackets and Clothes, Gloves & Hood, Shoes or Boots,  Swimwear, Toiletries, Camera, Charger, Phone, Emergency Medicine, and  Wallet.

Budapest in Hungary is one of the best low-cost holiday destinations in December. Tourists’ main interest in Budapest is the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and Gellért Thermal Bath. All ages of visitors come there to enjoy the best relaxing experience and Swimming. 

Many visitors explore historical buildings like  Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Museum of Fine Arts, and Vajdahunyad Castle.

Christmas markets and concerts are also popular tourist outdoor activities in Budapest.

9. Czech Republic (Prague)

Temperature:  2°C To -2°C (36°F To 28°F)

Weather Conditions: Cold

Tourist Attractions: Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, Národní Muzeum, Vyšehrad Prašná brána, Dancing House.

Festivals: Christmas Concert, Thought-provoking exhibitions.

Daily Meal Costs: $25 to $45 Per Person

Accommodation costs: $15 To $80 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Travel Documents, large luggage, Warm jackets and Clothes, Gloves & Hoods, Shoes or Boots, Toiletries, Camera, Charger, Phone, Emergency Medicine, and  Wallet.

Prague in the Czech Republic is a famous city in Europe. It has a rich history and culture. The city has constructed many historical architectural beauties. It is one of the best budget destinations in December.

Many Tourists come to visit their ancient buildings and constructions, which bear thousands of years of the Czech Republic’s history. As a tourist, you can explore the city and enjoy local festivals like Christmas concerts, Pop concerts, Thought-provoking exhibitions, etc.

Best places to travel in December on a budget in the United States

Nowadays, Tourist attractions are increasing in the United States day by day. However, most tourists believe the myth that The United States is an expensive destination to visit.

However, you can visit some places in the US that offer budget-friendly December travel destinations. Here I will share what the best budget-friendly places to travel to in December are.

10. New Orleans in Louisiana 

Temperature:  9°C To 18°C (48°F TO 64°F)

Weather Conditions: Fairly Mild Winter

Tourist Attractions: Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee, Local Food.

Festivals: Jazz Playhouse, NOLA Christmas Fest, Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade

Daily Meal Costs: $20 To $40 Per Head

Accommodation costs: $20 to $120 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Essential Travel Documents like Passport and Visa, Flight Tickets, Light and Warm Clothes, Phone, Camera, Charger, Emergency Medicine, Comfortable Backpack or Luggage.

New Orleans, Louisiana, is one of the budget-conscious travel destinations in the United States. It is popular for its different types of festivals in December. 

However, some architectural beauties are also attractive. Visitors like their traditional food and food festivals. It is a unique part of the city.

In December, The Jazz Music Festival and other concerts also attracted tourists. The NOLA Christmas Fest and Children’s Hospital New Orleans Holiday Parade are also popular destinations for friends and family.

11. San Antonio, Texas 

Temperature: 7°C To 19°C  (44°F To 66°F)

Weather Conditions: moderately chilly and breezy

Must See: The Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, SeaWorld San Antonio, Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Festivals: Christmas Events, Old Town Trolley Light Tour, Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park.

Daily Meal Costs: $20 to $40 Per Person

Accommodation costs: $30 To $140 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Essential Travel Documents like Passport and Visa, Flight Tickets, Light and Warm Clothes, Phone, Camera, Charger, Emergency Medicine, Comfortable Backpack or Luggage.

San Antonio is a major and popular city in Texas. It is one of the popular destinations for tourists for economical travel in December. When you make the trip to San Antonio, you must see the beautiful San Antonio River Walk, the iconic Alamo, and the SeaWorld San Antonio.

Furthermore, you can explore the Christmas Festivals and the Old Town Trolley Light Tour, which are popular outdoor activities for tourists in December.

12. Las Vegas, Nevada

Temperature: 1°C To 14°C  ( 34°F To 57°F) 

Weather Conditions: Cold and Breezy

Tourist Places: Downtown Summerlin, Town Square, The Ice Rink at the Cosmopolitan, Nevada State Railroad Museum, Paris Las Vegas, Casino Houses.

Festivals: Las Vegas Great Santa Run, New Year Celebration.

Accommodation costs: $40 To $150 (Lowest To Average)

Daily Food Costs: $50 to $100 Per Person.

Packing Guide: Essential Travel Documents like Passport and Visa, Flight Tickets, Warm Jakets and Clothes, Phone, Camera, Charger, Emergency Medicine, Comfortable Backpack or Luggage.

It Is one of the coldest areas in the US. But Las Vegas is famous for its natural and architectural beauty. It is a fantastic place to enjoy and relax. Their hotels, roads, and transportation are gorgeous. 

The Night views of the city are very gorgeous and charming. The city is also famous for casinos. There are many casino houses and bars available for tourists.

The  Las Vegas Great Santa Run and New Year Celebration are popular celebrations in Las Vegas.

Pro Tips: To take advantage of early December deals before peak holiday rates.

Best places to travel in December on a budget in Africa

Africa is the best budget destination in December. Tourists like to visit Africa because of the diversity, multiple landscapes, and wildlife. Africa has a rich culture, and people have followed its culture for thousands of years. Here, I explain some budget-friendly African countries that are the popular destinations in December.

13. Morocco (Marrakech)

Temperature: 10°C To 19°C (50°F To 66°F)

Weather Conditions: Cool and Quite Warm.

Tourist Attractions: Jardin Majorelle, Koutoubia, Bahia Palace, Madrasa Ben Youssef

Jemaa el-Fnaa, El Badi Palace, Saadian Tombs, Medina of Marrakesh.

Festivals: Marrakech International Film Festival, Sun National Youth and Music Festival.

Daily Meal Costs: $12 To $ 25 Per Person

Accommodation costs: $20 To $130 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Light and Warm Clothes, Comfortable Shoes, Essential Accessories like a Camera, Sunglasses, Travel Documents, Emergency Medicine, Local Currency, etc. (Must use a Large or Medium Bag or Luggage).

Marrakech is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco. It has many historical places. There are many medieval architectural constructions that have a rich history. For example, The Koutoubia is one of the signature works of medieval times. It was built in 1162.

Besides Koutoubia, the Jemaa El-Fnaa is a popular tourist destination for markets. There is another world-famous market, the Medina of Marrakesh.

Every Year, they observe the Marrakech International Film Festival. Many world-famous actors, actresses, singers, and directors join the Festival.

Explore vibrant souks and enjoy mild winter temperatures.

14. Kenya (Mombasa)

Temperature: 23°C To 30°C (73°F To 86°F) 

Weather Conditions: Warm and Breezy

Tourist Attractions: Fort Jesus Museum, Haller Park, Wild Waters, Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, Nyali Beach, Diani, Beach, Moonshine Beach Bar, Mombasa Marine National Park.

Festivals: Jamhuri Day, Utamaduni Day, New Year’s Eve.

Daily Meal Costs:  $18 To $50 Per Person

Accommodation costs: $15 To $100 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Light Clothes, Long and Short Pants, Comfortable Shoes, Essential Accessories like a Camera, Sunglasses, Travel Documents, Emergency Medicine, Local Currency, Luggage.

Mombasa is a popular city in Kenya. It’s one of the best places to travel in December on a budget in Africa. Mombasa is popular for Beaches and wildlife. Tourists go there to explore the beautiful Beaches and the rich culture of Kenya. 

The beaches and the local food attracted tourists to explore the city. This travel gives you a variety of experiences and enjoyable moments. The weather is also convenient to go to Mombasa in December.

15. South Africa (Cape Town)

Temperature: 15°C To 25°C (59°F To 77°F)

Weather Conditions: Summer

Tourist Attractions: V&A Waterfront, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Boulders Beach, Cape of Good Hope, Two Oceans Aquarium, Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, Castle of Good Hope.

Festivals: Festive Lights Switch On, Africa Games Week, The Goo Goo Dolls, New Year Celebrations.

Daily Meal Costs:  $15 To 45 Per Person

Accommodation costs: $20 To $100 (Lowest To Average)

Packing Guide: Light Clothes, Long and Short Pants, Comfortable Shoes, Essential Accessories like a Camera, Sunglasses, Travel Documents, Emergency Medicine, Local Currency, Luggage.

Cape Town in South Africa is famous for its sea, beaches, and mountains. In December, most of the country’s weather is cold. But you will get the warm summer atmosphere in Cape Town. You can have the best experience from the start of December, with pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

On the other hand, Cap Town is a budget-friendly December travel destination on the African continent. It gives you the best sea beach tour on your budget in December.  You can enjoy some festivals and events which will be arranged, especially in December.

Tips for Affordable December Travel Destinations

Early Booking 

If you early book your hotels and air tickets. It secures your flights and accommodations in advance to take advantage of lower rates. Sometimes many hotels provide honorable discounts for booking. Even if you purchase an air ticket before a month. You can find a noticeable difference in ticket prices from on-time tickets.

Flexible Dates

If you want to visit a place without hassles and crowds. You must fix your travel date in the off-peak season or time. It gives you a convenient journey. During weekdays or early in the month, there are better times for tourists. You can try to avoid holidays and other Vacations.

Local Experiences 

To get a better experience from your tour, you should visit the local area and explore the raw culture. You can eat their local food, which gives you a sense of the food of the country. You can join in free or low-cost local events and festivals to enrich your travel experience.

FAQ: Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget

What are some affordable destinations to visit in December?

Affordable destinations include Southeast Asia (e.g., Vietnam, Thailand), Eastern Europe (e.g., Hungary, Bulgaria), and Central America (e.g., Costa Rica). These places offer great experiences without breaking the bank.

How can I find the best flight deals for December travel?

Use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. Book in advance, and try flying mid-week for better prices.

What budget-friendly activities can I do while traveling in December?

Explore free local festivals, visit public landmarks, and enjoy nature trails. Many cities offer free walking tours and seasonal markets perfect for budget travelers.

Are hostels or budget hotels better for December travel?

Both have perks, but hostels often offer cheaper rates and social experiences. Budget hotels provide more privacy but can be slightly pricier. Choose based on your comfort level and budget.

How can I save on food expenses while traveling?

Opt for local street food, visit local markets, and dine where residents eat. Cooking your meals using hostel or rental kitchen facilities can significantly cut down food costs.

Conclusion

You can Make a trip in December on a budget. But most of the time tourists don’t find budget-friendly destinations. However, there are many places, where you can make the trip on a low budget. In my article, I mentioned 15 places all over the world.

These are very popular destinations for tourists. Even the places are cheaper than other famous countries in December. So if you plan to travel in December on a budget, you can select any country that I mentioned above.