travel deals january 2024

The biggest travel deals, discounts, and openings in early 2024

If a new year has you thinking about new travel opportunities, you’re in luck. As 2024 gets underway, many of the world's top hotels , all-inclusive resorts , tour companies , cruise lines , and theme parks are offering discounts, deals, and plenty of free perks to help families save cash while planning their next vacation. 

Whether you want to plan a multigenerational trip to Walt Disney World Resort , an unforgettable European river cruise , or an escape to a tropical beachfront hotel , there’s a deal out there just waiting for you. Plus, if you’re a fan of the latest and greatest, I've got the scoop on some new and refreshed hotels and attractions you may want to add to your must-visit list.

I've gone deep, finding the best deals on family travel this year. Read on for my top deals and news for traveling families in the first quarter of 2024.

1. Deals on hotels and resorts

▶ Beaches and Sandals on sale

If a trip to an all-inclusive tropical resort sounds pretty good at this time of year, check out the Winter Blues sale offering discounts on stays at Beaches Resorts (for families) and Sandal Resorts (for couples). Book by March 3, 2024, for an up to $1,500 air credit and a $150 resort credit for stays of seven nights or more between now and January 31, 2025, at select resorts, which include family-favorites Beaches Turks & Caicos , Beaches Negril , and Beaches Ochos Rios .

More about Beaches and Sandals Resorts:

• Beaches Resorts vacations: Everything you need to know before you book
• 10 best Sandals resorts for adults-only all-inclusive Caribbean vacations

▶ Expedia and Priceline deals

If you’re a OneKey member , Expedia is offering 25% off or more on select hotels for bookings made by January 31, 2024. Travel can take place up until August 31, 2024.

Priceline wants to help you extend that vacation feeling. Use code STAYLONGER8 for stays of two nights to save 8% on hotel Express Deals or use code STAYLONGER12 for stays of three nights or more to save 12% on hotel Express Deals. The travel company also recently announced that it will automatically extend VIP members 2023 VIP status all the way through 2024.

More about travel booking sites:

• 12 best hotel booking sites for cheap prices
• 17 best flight booking sites for cheap airfares
• 10 best car rental sites for great deals
• 17 best vacation rental booking sites for families

▶ Snow season deals in Vermont

Vermont’s Topnotch Resort helps families take advantage of ski season in Stowe with its Stowe Days package . Available through April 22, the deal includes complimentary fitness classes at the resort’s recently renovated fitness center, daily breakfast per person, a nightly $25 resort credit, and late checkout based on availability for departures Sunday to Thursday, with rates starting at $330 a night (plus taxes and fees).

More winter fun:

• Get outside this winter at these top cross-country ski resorts in the U.S.  
• In Vermont, an Austrian-inspired lodge that brings Nordic ski culture to life  
• 11 best winter vacations in the U.S. for families  
• 11 best family ski resorts in the U.S.

▶ Coastal Georgia winter specials

The Jekyll Island Club Resort recently completed a major renovation of its historic Jekyll Island Club property. To show off its fresh new look that still honors its past, the coastal Georgia resort is offering special rates starting from $188 (commemorating the opening of the club in January 1888) for stays through February 29.

▶ Aqua-Aston and OUTRIGGER Hawaii sales

Take advantage of the winter sale from Aqua-Aston Hospitality to get up to 20% off at one of Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s participating Hawaii properties, which include the condo-style Aston Waikiki Beach Tower and oceanfront Aston Islander on the Beach in Kauai. Book by February 2, 2024, using promo code “Escape” for travel by June 30, 2024. 

OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels is currently offering savings of up to 35% off rooms at Hawaii properties like OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort and OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort.

More about Hawaii hotels:

• 6 best Hawaii all-inclusive resorts for families
• 10 best family resorts in Hawaii
• 15 most romantic Hawaii resorts for couples
• 50 best family vacation ideas for all ages

▶ Florida winter deals

Guests who check in to The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection will enjoy newly renovated guest rooms that take inspiration from the Florida coast as well as a new spa and wellness area and other refreshed spaces throughout the St. Petersburg property. The Vinoy is also serving as the official hotel partner for the exhibition “Dalí & The Impressionists” at The Dalí Museum, which runs through April 28, 2024. Two exclusive room packages offer admission to the museum and other perks, and the hotel’s dining venues will be offering special menu items inspired by the exhibition.

Is a trip to the Orlando theme parks on your travel itinerary for 2024? Then check out this deal from Villatel , which offers private villa rentals with “luxury hotel standards” in Central Florida that can accommodate groups as large as 24. Use coupon code 1FREENIGHT at checkout to book seven nights and get one night free for travel through December 15, 2024. The offer is valid at all Villatel resorts, including the newly opened Villatel Orlando Resort, but there are some date exclusions. 

More Florida vacation ideas:

• 7 best all-inclusive resorts in Florida for families  
• 10 best beach resorts in Florida for families  
• Something for each family: The 14 best Florida beaches

▶ Marriott Cancun reopens as an all-inclusive

Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort will re-open in spring 2024 as the first Marriott-branded all-inclusive resort in the world. The former Marriott Cancun has been a popular Yucatan Peninsula property for decades and will now feature redesigned rooms and suites, new restaurants, and the new CAMP Club offering guided arts and crafts workshops, games, and other activities for kids that incorporate sensory, visual, and experiential play.

More Mexico vacation ideas:

• 13 all-inclusive Mexico resorts that have it all 
• 12 best Cancun resorts for families with kids and teens
• 9 best all-inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
• 7 best all-inclusive resorts in Los Cabos, Mexico  

▶ National park packages 

Xanterra Travel Collection—which operates national park lodges , hotels, and concessions at several U.S. national parks like Yellowstone, Zion, and the Grand Canyon South Rim—still has rooms, cabins, and campgrounds available for spring, summer, and fall 2024 travel. Head to Xanterra’s website for info on packages, value-added programs, and availability.

▶ Marriott Bonvoy offers

Marriott Bonvoy members can enjoy a 10,000-point reduction when booking select dates at Maui hotels for travel until March 2024. 

▶ New hotel openings

New family-friendly hotels opening in the beginning of 2024 include the expansive Loews Arlington Hotel , luxe Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol , and the Embassy Suites by Hilton Gatlinburg Resort that will make a great home base for a family trip to the Great Smoky Mountains. 

2. Vacation rentals news and deals

▶ Vrbo releases booking recommendations

Vrbo recently released its “book-by dates” for major travel periods in 2024. In order to have the widest selection of properties from which to choose, the vacation rental site recommends booking spring break rentals by February 9, Memorial Day weekend rentals by April 15, and summer rentals by April 26. And if you’re interested in some of the site’s most popular homes on Instagram, like Shipyard 2.0 in North Carolina and The Elf’s Aerie in the Lost Pines Shire in Texas, you might want to book even earlier.

3. Deals on tours and cruises

▶ Kids sail free (plus savings) from Holland America Line

Holland America Line wants you to have the “Time of Your Life” with an incentive offering balcony upgrades, savings up to 40% on select sailings, and free fares for kids. The offer is available through February 29, 2024, for select 2024 and 2025 departures. 

More about cruises:

• Kids sail free in 2024: 7 cruise lines with kids cruise free deals
• 7 great cruise lines for families (and their 12 most kid-friendly ships)  
• These 6 cruise lines offer the best Caribbean cruises for families  
• 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world  

▶ NCL new ship offers

Norwegian Cruise Line has recently opened its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua , for sale. Debuting in 2025, the Norwegian Aqua will be the first ship in the cruise line’s next-generation Prima Plus Class and will offer features like the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster waterslide. You’ll also want to check the company’s offers page for its latest flash sales and deals, which include last-minute cruise deals and other savings.

▶ Adventures by Disney new itineraries (and a sale!)

Adventures by Disney is offering two new itineraries to Holland and Belgium beginning in 2025. The eight-day, seven-night river cruise includes a “Discovering Holland and Belgium Tour” itinerary and a spring tulip sailing option that highlights the area’s famous flower. The family-favorite tour company is also offering savings of $500 or more per person on select 2025 departures (including the traditional Holland and Belgium river cruise) for bookings made by April 15, 2024.

▶ Uniworld cruise + air bundles

Save some money on a Uniworld Boutique River Cruises trip with the company’s Cruise + Air offer . Travelers can get savings of up to $3,000 when purchasing a cruise and flights together on select 2024 itineraries, which include the 16-day Peruvian Amazon & Machu Picchu Exploration itinerary and eight-day Castles Along the Rhine trip. New bookings must be made by January 31, 2024, for travel through 2024.

▶ Tour company deals

Book by January 31, 2024, to get $500 off custom land and/or cruise tours exceeding $5,000 from Unforgettable Travel . Known for its personalized service and local expertise, the luxury travel company offers excursions to more than 30 popular destinations in Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Global guided vacation company Trafalgar is offering 15 to 20% off select itineraries through February 15, 2024. Options include the 10-day Best of Morocco itinerary that visits Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakesh; and the new two-week Western Discoverer itinerary across California, Nevada, and Arizona that features visits to the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park.

Women-owned and -operated tour company AdventureWomen recently announced its first multi-generational trip to Costa Rica. Taking place June 23 to July 1, 2024, Costa Rica: A Multi-Generational Adventure will include experiences like kayaking through Tortuguero National Park, ziplining, and a chocolate tasting and Costa Rican cooking class for multigenerational female travelers ages 13 and older.

More about guided tours:

• Best tour companies for travelers Over 50
• Best tour companies for families
• Best tour companies that offer trips around the world
• Best active trip ideas for seniors age 50+

4. Theme parks deals and news

▶ Walt Disney World deals

There’s a lot going on at Walt Disney World Resort as 2024 gets into gear. Prices for annual passes and parking have gone up, but restrictions on park hopping ended on January 9. Disney Dining Plans have also returned for guests of Disney Resort hotels.

There are currently a number of special offers and discounts to help reduce the cost of a Walt Disney World Resort vacation, including 50% off theme park tickets and dining plans for kids ages three to nine (valid for arrivals most nights March 3 to 24, 2024 and April 7, 2024, through June 30, 2024) and deals for Florida residents and U.S. military members. You can read more about the deals here and here . 

▶ Disneyland news

There are new restaurants to enjoy at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and we’ve got a whole roundup of 2024 festivals and special events at Disneyland here . Disneyland Resort’s Pixar Place Hotel (a transformation of the Paradise Pier Hotel) opens at the end of January.

Universal Orlando specials

Universal Orlando Resort is also offering a range of special offers and deals, including savings of 25% on a three-park, five-night vacation package and a " four days for the price of two " ticket offer.

▶ LEGOLAND 25th

LEGOLAND California Resort is celebrating its 25th birthday in a big way in 2024. The new Dino Valley Land opens in the spring with three themed rides and a reimagined Dino Dig area, and North America’s first-ever LEGO World Parade launches during the summer at the park, which is also a Certified Autism Center .

SeaWorld Orlando (and Aquatica)

If you’re a Florida resident, you can get a free 2024 Preschool Card for SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando . Available for children ages five and under, the card offers free unlimited admission at both sites for little ones through December 31, 2024. Online registration is required by February 4, 2024. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also has a similar offer.

The Biggest Travel Deals, Discounts, and Openings in Early 2024 originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• Everything you need to know about Disney Genie and Genie+
• 10 luxury Caribbean resorts for a splurge family vacation  
• From toddlers to teens, the best all-inclusive family resorts for every age and interest  

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

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10 Best Places to Travel in January 2024

Here are 10 of the best places to visit in January in the United States and around the world.

Best Places to Travel in January in the United States

• Best Places to Travel in January Around the World

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Whether you’re looking forward to ski season or aiming to escape to someplace warm to kick off 2024, we have ideas for you. Those seeking sunshine might travel to Panama, the Maldives, or the Caribbean, while snow sports fans can find their fun in Vail or Switzerland. Travelers who appreciate off-season deals might consider Monaco or Savannah, Georgia, and for more stateside history and beauty, consider a trip to Alabama. 

Wherever your January takes you, we hope it will be the beginning of a year of travel to new destinations and favorite places. Here are 10 of the best places to travel in January in the United States and around the world. 

Stephen Poff/Alabama Tourism

The birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement, Alabama is an inspiring destination during the month of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. In Montgomery, visitors can experience landmarks like Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached his message, as well as the Legacy Museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and the Civil Rights Memorial designed by Maya Lin. Stay in Montgomery, and if time allows, head south to Alabama’s beaches , where it’s pleasant to be outside even in the winter months. The Gulf Shores area is located along the Mississippi Flyway migration route, and birdwatchers flock to the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail to spot species they rarely see.

Where to Stay: Stay at the conveniently located luxury boutique Trilogy Autograph Collection Hotel in Montgomery. 

Vail, Colorado

miralex/Getty Images

Ski season is prime time to visit Colorado, and Vail is a great spot to hit the slopes. The quaint town is modeled after a Bavarian village, with pedestrian streets, world-class restaurants, shops, cafés, and luxury hotels. Vail is perfect for skiers who visit for its nearly 200 trails and for non-skiers who enjoy apré-ski activities without ever going out in the snow. Vail’s public art collection includes paintings, sculptures, and murals, ideal for a pleasant stroll through town. After a long day on the slopes, we recommend checking into one of the luxe spas at the many high-end hotels. You can fly into Denver and drive about two hours to Vail, or take a flight into the nearby Eagle County Regional Airport .

Where to Stay: Top places to stay in Vail include Grand Hyatt Vail , The Arrabelle , The Lodge at Vail , Antlers at Vail , The Sebastian-Vail .

Temecula, California

skodonnell/Getty Images

About 90 miles south of Los Angeles and 60 miles from San Diego, Temecula Valley is a popular Southern California wine destination with nearly 50 award-winning wineries. Hot air ballooning, hiking, horseback riding, and golf are great local activities. You can also go wine tasting or visit area breweries and distilleries. Old Town Temecula has a historic feel and a community theater that hosts comedy shows, tribute bands, jazz concerts, and more. 

Where to Stay: Hotels, vacation rentals , and Pechanga Resort & Casino are among places to stay. For a particularly unique experience, stay at Europa Village , where you can enjoy the atmosphere of Spain, France, or Italy without dusting off your passport. Accommodation options here include casitas and suites with easy access to wine tasting. 

Related: 12 of the Best Wineries in Temecula Valley 

Savannah, Georgia

joe daniel price/Getty Images

Take advantage of off-season prices by booking a getaway to Savannah in January. Crowds at city attractions will likely be thin — this is usually Savannah’s coldest month, though temperatures rarely fall below 40 degrees and often reach the 60s. And there are plenty of things to do in Savannah , from museum visits to meals at popular dining spots. Explore the riverfront, browse unique shops, and find a place that serves fresh seafood. 

Where to Stay: If you’d like to stay along the river, consider the sophisticated Thompson Savannah , set in the Eastern Wharf district. Or choose Perry Lane Hotel in the heart of historic downtown Savannah. For a unique Savannah experience, visit Cohen’s Retreat , set in a restored century-old building that now features a restaurant, bar, live music nights, and a boutique that showcases the work of local artists. You can even stay nearby at one of their cottages. 

T+L Backpack Quiz

Best places to travel in january around the world .

Maria Avvakumova/Getty Images

Summer crowds are gone, and while temperatures in the 50s likely mean no swimming or sunbathing, there’s still much to enjoy in Monaco during this time of year. In addition to exploring Old Town, where you will see the 13th-century Prince’s Palace of Monaco and the Baroque 17th-century Museum of the Chapel of the Visitation, you can shop and stroll in Monte Carlo, on the same streets where Formula One cars speed during the famed Monaco Grand Prix. From Jan. 19-28, the 46th Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo comes to Monaco with thousands of international circus acts. A range of hotels offer attractive prices in the off-season, too. 

Where to Stay: Consider a luxe stay at Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo , Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo , or Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo , all part of The Leading Hotels of the World .

The Maldives

January weather is dry and warm in this nation of more than a thousand islands, about 200 of which are inhabited. Clear seas, coral formations, and marine life make it a favorite destination for divers and snorkelers, and the destination’s overwater bungalows and remote location make it a honeymoon haven. No matter your reason for visiting, you’ll want to experience the beaches and beautiful scenery. Many resorts cater to families, groups, and solo travelers. 

Where to Stay: Places to stay include all-inclusive resorts, budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and liveaboards. For a wellness-focused visit, consider Joali Being or Velaa Private Island with its Wellbeing Village. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru , Dhawa Ihuru , and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands offer kids’ activities, making them great for families. 

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Didier Marti/Getty Images

This volcanic archipelago is known for its fascinating wildlife, including many species unique to the islands. January is an ideal time to see land birds nesting and sea turtles laying their eggs on the beaches. The seas are relatively calm in January, and comfortable water temperatures allow for swimming, though there may be some rain as the wet season begins. Most visitors tour the islands via cruise ; operators include Hurtigruten Expeditions , Ecoventura , and Integrity Luxury Yacht , among other cruise lines. 

Where to Stay: Another option is to stay on land at Pikaia Lodge, Relais & Châteaux , located on Santa Cruz Island. The luxury property features both land tours and yacht day cruises, so guests enjoy the comfort of the lodge with opportunities for hiking, diving, fishing, and wildlife spotting.  

Pawel Toczynski/Getty Images

Warm and dry in January, with average temperatures in the high 80s (except in the highlands, where the weather is cooler), Panama is a great destination this time of year. Thanks to the country’s varied landscapes, you can take your pick from cities, deserts, rainforests, islands, and beaches on the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Wildlife enthusiasts might visit Panama’s national parks, while others may want to learn about the Panama Canal — a feat of engineering — with a trip to Miraflores Visitors Center, just outside of Panama City. Music fans may want to time their trip for the annual mid-January Panama Jazz Festival . You’ll also have the chance to enjoy some of the world’s best coffee when you visit Panama.

Where to Stay: If you’re staying in Panama City, consider The Santa Maria , where the 2024 Latin American Amateur Golf Championships will be held in January, or Hotel La Compañia , formerly a 17th-century convent and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s also Buenaventura Resort in beachside Riviera Pacifica and Isla Palenque , a resort set on a private island.

Turks and Caicos

Matt Anderson Photography/Getty Images

Turks and Caicos is made up of two island groups with eight major islands; most people stay on Providenciales, the most inhabited island. Providenciales offers stunning beaches, resorts, and vacation villas, plus Providenciales International Airport, ideal for those arriving by air. (Cruise passengers typically arrive at Grand Turk Cruise Center ). You can spend your days lounging on the beaches, fishing, boating, and windsurfing, or go beyond the shores to hike through nature reserves and spot local wildlife. End sun-soaked days with a visit to local bars to enjoy the destination’s music scene and nightlife. 

Where to Stay: Beachfront escapes abound in Turks and Caicos. On beautiful Grace Bay Beach, stay at The Palms , The Somerset , or Grace Bay Club , or choose from boutique properties like Rock House , Wymara Resort & Villas , or The Shore Club .

Switzerland

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Ski season is underway in Switzerland come January, so winter sports fans will find plenty to do. Epic Pass holders can ski Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis , where they’ll find a traditional mountain village, deep powder, and steep slopes. Or, experience the Alps without skis by booking an excursion on Jungfrau Railways that ends at the Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 11,332 feet. A thrilling ride on the 10-passenger aerial gondola from the mountain resort town of Grindelwald offers another way to take in the snowy scenery. And in Bern, Switzerland’s historic capital, you can explore the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in the 12th century. 

Where to Stay: Stay near Andermatt-Sedrun-Disentis at The Chedi Andermatt for a luxury experience with a relaxing spa, indoor pool, and heated outdoor pool. Ski at Zermatt and enjoy Matterhorn views with a stay at Mont Cervin Palace or Hotel Schweizerhof . In Bern, stay at Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & Spa for its luxe spa and classic atmosphere.

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25 Cheap destinations for 2024 with great weather in January

January of 2024 looks like it will be booming for the travel industry after a few really bad years, so booking early is almost certainly going to save you money. The good news is there are many great destinations with warm weather all around the world, so you’ll have more choices than you probably dreamed of. The list below shows all of the best vacation choices in different areas and all of them have warm weather and most are on beaches.

It’s worth noting that the first week in January is one of the busiest weeks of the year for travel due to the holidays celebrated around the world, so it will be much more expensive than the rest of the month. In other words, if you can start your trip on January 9 or later, you’ll save a lot of money.

If you are mostly interested in beaches, scuba diving, and other water sports you should start with our list of the  cheapest Caribbean islands  to see which ones are in your price range.

Go later in January if possible

Pretty much everywhere on earth that has warm weather in January has its peak season for hotel rates from Christmas through the first week in January. If you are joining that crowd you have a lot of great options, though very few of them will come cheap. The good news is that by the second week of January, hotel rates and airfares have come down again to “high season” rates rather than “peak season” rates. If you can wait, it will save you quite a bit.

By the way, we have a separate list of  cheap beaches to spend Christmas and New Year’s around the world  if that’s what you are mainly after.

This article was updated as of September, 2023.

New video showing most of the places mentioned below

I’ve started a Youtube channel and one of my first videos is based on this article. Please give it a watch as it shows most of the places listed with hotel prices and much more.

Important global holidays in 2024

• January 1 – New Year’s Day (public holiday in most of the world)
• January 6 – Epiphany (minor holiday in many Christian countries)
• January 15 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day in USA (most banks and offices closed)
• January 26 – Republic Day in India (major national public holiday)

The Americas

Obviously the first week of January is peak season for most Latin American and Caribbean destinations, so book early to lock in the best deals. After that January will remain high season through that same region, but plenty of bargains are out there if you look around.

The Caribbean

The new trend is towards all-inclusive hotels, but you may not realize that they are mainly concentrated in only a few places. Specifically, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica are where you’ll find most of them, although many even cheaper ones are on the Mexican coast in Cancun and just to its south. For most people, an all-inclusive resort will end up saving a lot of money, as long as you aren’t so interested in exploring the whole island.

Where to find the cheapest all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean

The best deals in the Caribbean are at all-inclusive resorts, and that is even more true if you are someone who likes to have at least a few alcoholic beverages each day along with some great meals. Here’s a video explaining exactly where to find the best resorts that are also very cheap.

• 13 Cheapest Caribbean all-inclusive destinations
• 32 Caribbean destinations from cheapest to most expensive
• Best budget Caribbean destinations for different kinds of holidays:  All-inclusive, cultural, nightlife, super-cheap, weekend trips, and more

Cancun, Mexico

• January avg high: 82°F/28°C
• January avg low: 69°F/21°C
• January avg precip: 5.4″/13.5cm

It’s worth noting that “Cancun” is a huge area with plenty to offer. The actual hotel zone in Cancun is mostly high-rise hotels overlooking beaches, while if you go about an hour south you’ll arrive in  Playa del Carmen , which is a lovely and tourist-friendly town with smaller hotels and excellent choices for dining, nightlife, and shopping. Just a short ferry ride from Playa you’ll be in  Cozumel , which is a small island that is also worth considering.

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

• 3-star hotels from: US$51 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$87 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$219 per night for two people

>>> Check current Cancun resort and package deals

Montego Bay, Jamaica

• January avg high: 84°F/29°C
• January avg low: 72°F/22°C
• January avg precip: 1.9″/4.8cm

Montego Bay is also home to one of the Caribbean’s largest and busiest airports so flights here are usually direct and often cheap compared to some of the smaller islands. You won’t find the super-low all-inclusive prices here that you can find in the Dominican Republic (see below), but still there are some all-inclusive options that are good value and high quality. Interestingly enough, two of our 11 Best luxurious all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean are on Jamaica, and one is in Montego Bay itself, with overwater bungalows!

By the way, if you’d prefer to stay along a wonderful beach lined with small hotels, restaurants, and bars, then head to nearby  Negril  instead of Montego Bay or  Ocho Rios .

• 3-star hotels from: US$87 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$104 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$277 per night for two people

>>> Check current Montego Bay resort and package deals

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

• January avg precip: 0.7″/1.8cm

The first week in January will be booked early but after that it’s normal room rates, which are great bargains compared to the rest of the Caribbean. The all-inclusive resorts here start at a bit over US$200 per night for two people, including room, meals, and unlimited drinks. The better places obviously charge more, but there are plenty of good resorts that receive solid reviews near the lower end of the scale. Punta Cana is honestly the best place in the Caribbean for all-inclusive resorts because there are around 80 to choose from. In fact, Punta Cana also ranks at the top of the list of the best family destinations in the Caribbean .

• 3-star hotels from: US$52 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$91 per night for two people
• All-inclusive hotels from: US$242 per night for two people

>>> Check current Punta Cana resort and package deals

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• January avg low: 62°F/17°C
• January avg precip: 1.3″/3.3cm

Puerto Vallarta is also notable because it’s an actual historic city with an interesting traditional center, rather than just a purpose-built row of beach hotels like in Cancun. If you are in California you might also consider  Los Cabos , although Puerto Vallarta is more interesting and usually cheaper as well.

• 3-star hotels from: US$42 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$153 per night for two people

>>> Check current Puerto Vallarta resort and package deals

Mexico City, Mexico

• January avg high: 70°F/21°C
• January avg low: 42°F/6°C
• January avg precip: 0.4″/1.0cm

Mexico City can make for a great trip all by itself, with fascinating sights, great shopping, and excellent nightlife, but it’s also close to ruins and many other interesting sights that can make for good day trips. Flights from almost anywhere will be fairly cheap this time of year, at least compared to Europe or most of the Caribbean. And in case you aren’t familiar with Mexico City as a tourist city, it’s FAR nicer and safer than you probably imagine, and far more interesting as well. English isn’t widely spoken outside of hotels and tour companies, so if you don’t speak Spanish it’s wise to at least pack a menu translation app.

• 3-star hotels from: US$63 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$84 per night for two people

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

Ambergris Caye, Belize

• January avg high: 75°F/24°C
• January avg low: 70°F/21°C
• January avg precip: 4.5″/11.3cm

Caye Caulker is a similar and smaller island even a bit closer to Belize City, and prices there are lower for hotels and for food. There’s also Dangriga and the Placencia Peninsula which are both great choices for sunny holidays. Dangriga has interesting culture while Placencia has the better beaches. Even San Pedro is fairly cheap by most standards, and the round-the-clock warm weather is enchanting even when it rains a bit.

• 3-star hotels from: US$131 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$329 per night for two people

>>> Ambergris Caye prices >>> Check current San Pedro/Ambergris hotel and package deals

Guanacaste, Costa Rica

• January avg high: 92°F/33°C
• January avg precip: 0.1″/0.3cm

January is part of the high season so the resort hotels aren’t cheap, but at least there are a few good all-inclusive resorts that are good value. You can see by the price quotes below that 3-star hotels are MUCH cheaper in this area, so that is something to take into account. The cheaper hotels will have much more of a local feel, while the 4-star beach resort hotels are mostly chains and offer a high level of luxury for the price.

• 3-star hotels from: US$71 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$311 (all inclusive) per night for two people

>>> Guanacaste prices >>> Check current Tamarindo hotel and package deals

Cartagena, Colombia

• January avg high: 85°F/29°C
• January avg low: 75°F/24°C
• January avg precip: 0.2″/0.5cm

Of course the first week of January is still the peak season for hotels and flights, and the rest of the month is in high season, so hotel deals might be challenging to find. On the other hand, it’ll still be far cheaper than almost anywhere else in the Caribbean, so if you can’t afford Cartagena you should stay home.

• 4-star hotels from: US$109 per night for two people

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

• January avg high: 79°F/26°C
• January avg low: 68°F/20°C
• January avg precip: 0.0″/0.0cm

The historic city center is quite interesting, but many will choose to stay in the trendy Miraflores district along the beach instead. There’s more restaurants and tourist infrastructure there, yet it’s a short ride into the center for sightseeing. By the way, the rainy season in  Cusco  goes on in January, so the trails can sometimes be cut off, although many people go anyway.

• 3-star hotels from: US$49 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$86 per night for two people

>>> Lima prices >>> Check current Lima hotel and package deals

Santiago, Chile

• January avg high: 86°F/30°C
• January avg low: 55°F/13°C

Many people include Santiago on a trip combining many different South American countries, but those who don’t want to jet around quite that much will find that Chile itself is loaded with great sights. There’s the colonial town of  Valparaiso  and great adventure activities in the foothills of the Andes. Book well in advance to get the best deals.

• 3-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$105 per night for two people

>>> Santiago prices >>> Check current Santiago hotel and package deals

Buenos Aires, Argentina

• January avg high: 87°F/31°C
• January avg precip: 4.7″/11.8cm

Another thing to note about Buenos Aires compared to most other South American cities is that BA is more about culture, food, and other indoor pursuits. It’s a great place for just strolling in the shopping districts when it’s not too hot, but even when it’s raining or too muggy outside you’ll have an endless list of interesting things to see and do, all quite cheap for what you get.

It’s important to mention the currency situation in Argentina because it’s unlike almost anywhere else on earth. Long story short, if you bring in crisp, new US dollars or Euros you can exchange them on the “blue rate” and get about twice as many Argentine pesos as you would if you used the ATMs when you arrive. In other words, research Argentina blue rate or blue dollar and this place is literally half the price it otherwise would be, and it’s already fairly cheap.

• 4-star hotels from: US$68 per night for two people

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

Bariloche, Argentina

• January avg high: 71°F/22°C
• January avg low: 44°F/7°C
• January avg precip: 1.0″/2.5cm

This place used to be a German settlement, so it still has an abundance of small chocolate shops and some architecture to carry on that theme. These days this is a busy winter resort and a busy summer resort, with a wide variety of water activities available. Even in high season, prices here should be at least a bit below those in Buenos Aires, so it will feel like a bargain for most foreign visitors.

You might also consider including  Mendoza  on your trip, which is the main wine region of Argentina, and also good value.

• 3-star hotels from: US$83 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$119 per night for two people

>>> Bariloche prices >>> Check current Bariloche hotel and package deals

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

• January avg high: 90°F/32°C
• January avg low: 73°F/23°C
• January avg precip: 5.1″/12.8cm

Hotels along the famous beaches will be quite expensive in January so finding a bargain will be tough, but if you are willing to stay 2 or 3 blocks inland you can find nice places for a fraction of the price. Book well in advance to get the best deals since in busy season like this prices generally just keep going up as the dates approach.

• 4-star hotels from: US$94 per night for two people

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

Needless to say, there are no destinations in the main part of Europe that could qualify as having great weather in January, but there is still one place worth mentioning…

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

• January avg high: 69°F/21°C
• January avg low: 59°F/15°C

This island has many hundreds of hotels and holiday rentals, and it’s very popular with the British as well as others from northern European countries. January is part of the high season in Tenerife for hotel prices, but it’s still inexpensive by European or global standards. The area in the southwest corner of the island is where you’ll find most hotels and beach resorts that cater to an English-speaking crowd.

• 3-star hotels from: US$74 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$93 per night for two people

>>> Tenerife prices >>> Check current Tenerife hotel deals

Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt

• January average high: 71°F/22°C
• January average low: 55°F/13°C

While the weather in January is going to be too cold to enjoy a swim in the ocean, it’s obviously far warmer than you’ll find anywhere in Europe or even Turkey this time of year. As of a few years ago Sharm was unbelievably cheap because some people were worried about unrest, but those days are over and things are back to normal. It’s still cheap by almost any standard, but not insanely cheap like it was in 2021.

• 3-star hotels from: US$34 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$54 per night for two people

>>> Sharm el-Sheikh prices >>> Check current Sharm el-Sheikh hotel and package deals

Cape Town, South Africa

• January avg low: 60°F/16°C
• January avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

The tricky part of an affordable holiday in South Africa will always be the airfare. Being so far from almost everywhere it’s tough to find a good price. The good news is that the country is filled with great sights, including safaris, of course, and history, so a 2-week trip can still be affordable all things considered.

• 4-star hotels from: US$98 per night for two people

>>> Cape Town prices >>> Check current Cape Town hotel and package deals

The peak season for all of Southeast Asia starts around Christmas and goes through February, so you won’t be alone and prices are at their yearly peak. The good news is that things are still far cheaper than pretty much anywhere else in the world.

>>> 18 Best Asia destinations in January

• January avg high: 89°F/32°C
• January avg low: 67°F/19°C

Prices in Goa, as well as the rest of India, have been rising steadily in the past few years. It’s more important than ever to choose your resort and area wisely. In Calungute and Baga it might feel like prices are only a bit cheaper than in, say, Spain, but if you go to Anjuna or Vagator and find a family-run hotel and eat in local restaurants you’ll be spending a fraction of that. If you are in the mood to tour around,  Mumbai  has great weather during January, and  Delhi  has warm days but cool evenings this time of year.

• 3-star hotels from: US$43 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$72 per night for two people

>>> Goa prices >>> Check prices on India hotels and resorts

Bangkok, Thailand

If you are shopping online for hotels in Bangkok you’ll find that most of them seem quite expensive, at least this time of year. It’s worth knowing that many hotels in this city don’t take online reservations and most of the cheaper ones do accept reservations by email. Meals will be very cheap, especially if you don’t mind eating the wonderful (and safe) street food available on almost every block.

• 3-star hotels from: US$33 per night for two people

>>> Bangkok prices >>> Check Bangkok and Thailand hotel prices

Siem Reap, Cambodia

There are many really expensive hotels in Siem Reap since this attraction brings in almost as many 5-star travelers as it does backpackers, but there are still plenty of cheap guesthouses and even hostels. The price average for a day in Siem Reap is actually quite a bit lower than what is shown here, and it’s only inflated this much because admission to Angkor Wat is quite high if you only go for the one-day option.

• 3-star hotels from: US$28 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$37 per night for two people

>>> Siem Reap prices >>> Check Siem Reap and Cambodia hotel deals

Phuket, Thailand

• January avg low: 74°F/23°C
• January avg precip: 1.2″/3.0cm

January has excellent weather and is incredibly popular in Phuket for Europeans in particular. If you are flying all that way to sit on a beach then you are probably going to want to spend a bit more on a proper beach hotel rather than trying to save money by commuting to the beach from Phuket Town each morning. Book early for the best prices since they usually just keep rising as the dates approach. Another nice thing is Phuket has its own huge international airport so you can fly in from the Middle East instead of having to change planes in Bangkok.

• 3-star hotels from: US$36 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$57 per night for two people

>>> Phuket prices >>> Check for the best Phuket resort deals

Boracay Island, Philippines

• January average high: 82°F/28°C
• January average low: 73°F/24°C
• January avg precip: 3.7″/0.3cm

As a long and thin island just off of a larger island, nearly every hotel on Boracay is within a very short walk of the beach. For that reason there are virtually no super-cheap places but value is fantastic for mid-range and up visitors. Food and drinks are very reasonably priced here, as are things like massages and diving trips. Boracay Island was closed to visitors for 6 months in 2018 and now the infrastructure and environment are in better shape than they’ve been in in years.

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

>>> Boracay prices >>> Check Boracay resort deals

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The weather in January is perhaps the best of the whole year, as the evenings are reasonably cool and it’s less humid that other times. This is also an emerging party city, unlike others in Vietnam, so it works on many levels for the budget tourist or backpacker.

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

>>> Ho Chi Minh City prices >>> Check current Ho Chi Minh City hotel deals

Chiang Mai, Thailand

• January avg low: 57°F/14°C
• January avg precip: 0.3″/0.8cm

While Chiang Mai itself may not be as charming as you might expect, considering it’s a historic former capital filled with temples, the best part is that this is a fantastic part of Thailand for trekking and other outdoor activities. Come to Chiang Mai and then shop around for multi-day trips to nearby forests and temples, which are also very cheap, even in January.

• 3-star hotels from: US$24 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$39 per night for two people

>>> Chiang Mai prices >>> Check Chiang Mai and Thailand tour prices

Luang Prabang, Laos

• January avg low: 58°F/14°C
• January avg precip: 0.5″/1.3cm

In the past few years Luang Prabang has gotten many more upscale hotels so it might look like the city isn’t friendly for budget travelers, but there are still many cheaper guesthouses left, although most aren’t bookable online. If you just show up in town there’s a good chance you can find a cheap room, but arrive early in the day if possible. If you are coming on the slow boat you will have plenty of competition for the cheaper beds.

• 3-star hotels from: US$37 per night for two people
• 4-star hotels from: US$55 per night for two people

>>> Luang Prabang prices >>> Check Luang Prabang hotel and resort deals

Middle East

January is cool and even a bit rainy in most of the Middle East. An exception is Dubai (below) and Abu Dhabi, which both have perfect sunny weather. However, Abu Dhabi doesn’t make this list because it’s not really cheap enough for the cut.

Even though Dubai is busy in January, it’s still a good bargain because there are so many hotels and apartment rentals here. The huge airport is also very busy this time of year, though airfares are quite reasonable from Europe and other nearby areas where people are looking for a winter break.

• 3-star hotels from: US$53 per night for two people

>>> Dubai prices >>> Check current Dubai hotel deals

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25 Cheap destinations for 2024 with great weather in January " --> All Comments

Comment*I would like to visit Puket for a week with my 07 old son. Please advice..

I’m not sure what kind of advice you are looking for, but I will try to help. I’d recommend Kata Beach or Karon Beach for a family visit as Patong Beach is very adult-oriented. Let me know how I can help you. -Roger

hey roger. i am from india and planning trip for Seychelles in the month of January 2020 for my 5th anniversary trip. seeking your suggestion.in january will it be a good place to go

Roger are all the places mentioned here safe or are there concerns. My wife are planning to go to Grand Cayman in January but have been there so I found you site have some interested in trying a different venue. Minnesota, U SA

It’s very hard to say what each person means by “safe.” Many Caribbean islands have a fair amount of petty crime, but tourists are rarely targeted. I think I’ve been to every place on the list, but I’m a pretty big guy so I don’t have the same concerns as, say, a smaller young woman.

Take Cartagena, for example. Colombia used to have many unsafe areas with the old rebel group, and cities where drug dealers seemed to rule. Almost all of that is at least 5 years in the past, but there are still warning about taking long-distance buses from Cartagena to other cities since a few of them have been pulled over by criminals. That said, Cartagena itself appears to be extremely safe, especially for tourists in the normal tourist zones.

Another factor is that many people from around the world would not consider Chicago or Detroit to be “safe.” As you probably know, the problems there tend to be focused on gang members in specific areas that are not near tourist areas at all, but some people would still refuse to go to those cities. So unfortunately it’s a complicated question to answer. You might have a look at the US State Department’s list of warnings and the status of each country. Some say they are too cautious, but they at least break down which areas are problematic and which usually aren’t. For example, Mexico has several really dangerous areas in and near border towns, but the Yucatan Peninsula (Cancun etc) hosts many millions of tourists every year and problems are very rare. I hope this helps. -Roger

Hi! Been taking your suggestions for a few years now! I am a 52 ur old single mom who is always traveling with my daughter, 9yrs old.

Trying to decide between Cambodia (Phnom Penh- Island then Siem Rep to finish), Thailand (Chiang Mai, Phuket or Krabi) or Vietnam (not sure where but North looks interesting).

I find it best to stay in one place at least three nights before moving on. We like to include biking and hiking on our journeys!

What do you think?

It’s flattering to hear that you use my advice and keep coming back. It’s good to hear from you again, and I also agree about staying 3 nights in almost any place you go.

This is an interesting question. Personally, I find Phnom Penh to be a bit dull compared to most of the others. But Siem Reap is really nice (and pleasantly mellow), with Angkor Wat being by far the most impressive single sight anywhere in the region. You could actually combine Siem Reap with a Thai island pretty easily, so that’s something to consider.

Chiang Mai is nice, amazingly cheap, and good for hiking and activities outside of town, but to be honest the city center is kind of charmless except for the many similar temples all over the place. So it’s good for backpackers and adventurers, which may work for you. Phuket (I’ve spent a lot of time there) is lined with lovely beaches and it’s huge, but honestly it’s pretty much a generic vacation factory. In other words, if you want a warm place to relax and sit on the beach and have some nice meals and drinks, Phuket is ideal. But if you want to explore your surroundings it’s rather dull.

I haven’t been to Krabi, but it’s smaller and I’ve heard good things about it. I’ve been to Ko Samui, which is nice, and nearby Ko Phan Gan is another to consider.

Vietnam might be the best choice of these. Hanoi and Halong Bay in the north are wonderful, and Hoi An in the center is really lovely, while Saigon in the south is very busy although most people really love it. I spent 4 months in Vietnam and Hoi An was my favorite stop with Saigon one of my least favorite, but you have to go to Saigon for sure and there is a lot to see.

The one tricky thing about Vietnam is that (probably because it used to be communist) you’ll encounter some travel agents (to book local tours and bus and train rides etc) that aren’t as honest as they are in the neighboring countries. And taxi drivers are also a little harder to trust in that they are known to overcharge Westerners (not dangerous though). As long as you know this before you get there you’ll have an amazing time and find dealing with it pretty easy. You’ll be able to book tours (including Halong Bay) and bus rides and train rides through the front desk at your hotel and you can trust them (plus they appreciate the business). And they can arrange taxi rides and transport for you as well. That way you can ignore the people trying to take advantage of you and you’ll be fine (and they are used to being ignored). Honestly I love Vietnam and the food and the people are fantastic as long as you are a bit careful when booking things.

I’m happy to help if you have any other questions. -Roger

Hello Roger,

I’m so glad I came across your site. Can you provide any recommendations for a single woman looking to travel for 2-3 weeks on a spiritual journey. I’m interested in a retreat type trip beginning in early January. I love both the mountain and the sea, so either would do. I would like warm weather. This is for my 50th birthday. The goal is to slow down, reflect, get centered and reconnect with myself. Cost matters, so I need something economical.

For a spiritual journey with warm weather in January that is on the affordable side you’ve got two great choices. They are India and Bali. If you have read Eat, Pray, Love (or seen the movie) you’ll know that India was the “pray” part of the story and Bali was the “love” part. Both are warm and quite cheap, and both are famous for spiritual tourism. India is extremely overwhelming to first-time visitors, but you can minimize the challenge if you spend as little time in the larger cities as possible. Mumbai and Delhi and Chennai and so forth are all insanely crowded, so it’s best to fly into one of them and then immediately take a train or fly into a smaller place and stay there. There are ashrams all over India that are tourist-friendly and will be filled with people doing things similar to what you have in mind. There is a charming small town on the east coast called Puducherry, which used to be run by the French and is more famously called Pondicherry, and that is a place to consider.

As for Bali the main spiritual center is a town called Ubud, which is also where the Eat, Pray, Love woman stayed and it’s quite nice, although quite crowded and touristy as well. If you Google ‘Bali spiritual trip’ or things like that I’m sure you’ll find some options and most will probably be in or near Ubud. That should at least get you started. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

[email protected] My husband and I will be leaving the US for wherever mid January. We travel light so do not want cold weather, although we understand layering when needed. We want to do Air BNB etc. Have traveled quite a bit on our own. Where would you suggest? We will leave the US mid Jan and return to the states in April. Thank you!

It’s hard to make a recommendation without knowing where you’ve been and the type of place you are looking for (beach, city, mountains, natural sights etc?), but that time of year (especially if you want to avoid cold weather) I’d seriously consider Southeast Asia. Bangkok is the main hub and the easiest place to get started, although Kuala Lumpur is another option. That time of year the weather is perfect in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Laos. Those areas are also quite inexpensive so you can often afford really nice hotels instead of simple airbnbs, although those are possible as well.

The other best option that time of year would be Central America and parts of South America. Costa Rica is the best hub in Central America to get started, and Buenos Aires would be a great option in South America, especially if you speak some Spanish. The weather should be really nice that whole time. I’m happy to help with more details if you need them. -Roger

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The 6 Best Places to Travel in January 2024

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

Caroline joined Boston-based SmarterTravel in 2011 after living in Ireland, London, and Manhattan. She's traveled to all seven continents, jumped out of planes, and bungeed off bridges in the pursuit of a good story. She loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations, anything outdoorsy, and all things adventure.

Her stories have also appeared online at USA Today, Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo, Boston.com, TripAdvisor, Buzzfeed, Jetsetter, Oyster, Airfarewatchdog, and others.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Earplugs. A good pair has saved my sleep and sanity many times!"

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro.

Travel Motto : "Don't be boring."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Aisle (when the first class private suite isn't available)."

E-mail her at [email protected] .

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The festive celebrations of the holiday season are over, and there are still a lot of cold, dark winter months left to get through. Fortunately, you have a fresh slate of vacation days at work now that it’s a new year— which means January is the perfect time to travel.

Whether you want to embrace the snow and head to the mountains or seek the sun in a tropical destination, there are plenty of good options. These are the best places to travel in January. 

If you need a dose of sunshine to make it through the rest of the winter, head to Barbados, one of the warmest destinations in the Caribbean in January. Average temperatures hover around 82 degrees, and the seawater is nearly as balmy. January is also one of the drier months in this tropical destination so you can soak in lots of sun without a rain cloud in sight.

Where to Stay: For a boutique escape, stay at Cobblers Cove , an intimate hotel with just 40 suites. Cobblers Cove sources all its furniture and fittings from local craftworkers and does not serve food that has to be flown in; instead, it focuses on utilizing locally grown items in its on-site restaurant. 

Warm without being too hot and with minimal rain—January is one of the best times of the year to visit Thailand. If you’re looking to island-hop through Thailand’s stunning beaches, stick to the Phuket and Krabi areas, which experience mostly sunshine during January. Avoid the southeastern coast, where it’s rainier this time of year.

Where to Stay: The luxurious Peninsula Bangkok offers a quiet escape from the busy city. The three-tiered outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Chao Phraya River is a highlight of the property. 

Canary Islands

Going for a swim on January 1st is a New Year’s tradition on the beach of Las Canteras in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. With water temperatures around 70 degrees, this is a much more pleasant experience than the polar plunge rituals found elsewhere around the world. 

The Canary Islands see over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, so if you want to replenish your Vitamin D stores for the winter, this is the perfect vacation spot.

Where to Stay: For a unique stay, book a room at the Hotel Cordial Morgan Playa , which is built on the site of an ancient necropolis and features an on-site archeological park. Hotel staff wear traditional Canarian attire as their uniforms, adding to the authentic feel. 

Located a relatively short nonstop flight from many American hubs, Belize is one of the closest and most affordable destinations for hot weather.  Daytime temperatures in January are usually around 80 degrees and nighttime temperatures generally don’t dip below 70 degrees.

This tropical destination is relatively cheap, even in peak season, and you can often find great flight deals.

Where to Stay: Set on a peaceful private island 30 miles southeast of Belize City, Turneffe Island Resort offers all-inclusive luxury. 

Key West, Florida

You don’t have to venture outside the United States to find warm temperatures in January. Head south to Key West, Florida, where temperatures average 75 degrees even in the dead of winter.

January is also when the annual Mile 0 Festival is held, a lively five-day musical event featuring concerts, themed cruises, and pool parties.

Where to Stay: The Southernmost Beach Resort’s central location on Duval Street will put you in the heart of all the action, plus has a private beach (a rarity in Key West).

Hokkaido, Japan

Japan’s ski season typically peaks from mid-January to late February, when there’s an incredible amount of snowfall in the mountains. Hokkaido is one of the best snowsports destinations in Japan, and is a bucket list destination for serious skiers. 

Ski resorts tend to be pricier (and more crowded) over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, so January is a good time to find deals and fewer lift lines. In Hokkaido, you’ll also find plenty of Onsens, or hot springs, to warm up in after a day on the slopes.

Where to Stay: Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The Tower is a ski-in ski-out hotel and has its own on-site onsen, so you never have to leave the property.

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Where to go on vacation in January 2024?

A vacation in January can be the ideal way to ring in the New Year and escape the cold weather, so Puerto Rico ’s pristine beaches should be on your list of places to visit in January. Or, consider going on an Asian adventure with Tokyo, Singapore, and Seoul all popular destinations for a winter getaway. Another suggestion for vacation destinations January is a relaxing all-inclusive vacation in the USA . Hawaii is always popular for a winter getaway, while New York has all the ingredients for a fabulous weekend trip to sample world-class shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.  

Another of our selection of best vacation destinations in January is Toronto , with highlights and hidden delights that are ideal for a family vacation. Fort Lauderdale is always abuzz with excitement as well as sunny weather all year round, while Canada is the ideal place for snowy outdoor pursuits during the month of January. Mexico is in full swing in January with beaches and plenty of vibrant events on offer. Italy may have its low season in January, but that makes it great for January vacation destinations, with fewer crowds to jostle up against in the “eternal city”. There’s a better chance of a cheap vacation January {year} at this time of year. 

Wherever you go, Expedia can introduce you to lots of vacation destinations available in January, along with some vacation deals in January 2024. You can also book your January 2024 vacation accommodation, flights, and car rental all in one place, and have the option to book ultra-convenient all-inclusive trips to your favorite January vacation destinations. 

Top destinations for January vacations

● united states, ● puerto rico, ● fort lauderdale.

United States : where endless adventures await 

The United States is one of the best places to vacation in January for families, with Disneyland, Universal Studios, and a host of incredible natural attractions to explore. Hit the shops and theaters in New York in January and you’ll find fewer crowds. Visit Miami’s beaches for warm temperatures and fascinating Art Deco buildings, while Las Vegas is a great year-round destination for unstoppable entertainment. 

Explore Europe’s culture and world-famous attractions 

Europe is a place that’s packed with historic landmarks and museums, and it has a cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. January vacation is the ideal time to visit its many majestic castles or take a scenic mountain train ride. A January vacation in 2024 would be a great time to book a  European ski vacation  since there’s plenty of snow on show, while a romantic Paris trip is usually highly affordable during January. 

Escape the winter blues in colorful Puerto Rico  

A January 2024 vacation to Puerto Rico could be a great idea, with temperatures comfortably warm and a low risk of rain. There’s always something happening on the island during the month of January, with a host of seasonal festivals such as Dia de Los Reyes taking place at this time. January also offers exciting opportunities for whale watching. 

Visit Canada’s winter wonderland 

One of the best places to go on vacation in January is Canada. Being well adapted to cold weather, it’s got ideal infrastructure for a wintertime trip, and if you’re a winter sport enthusiast you’ll be in your element. It’s also a great time to take in Canada’s natural beauty. From Vancouver in the west to Toronto in the east, you can create your own fairy-tale ski vacation in Canada . 

Embrace the romance of Italy

Italian cities offer an enticing mix of ancient monuments, spectacular scenery, and exquisite dining, as well as some of the most luxurious shopping in the world. Italy is one of the best places to vacation in January, with shorter lines at attractions and a more relaxed ambiance in the country’s art galleries and museums, not to mention a better likelihood of getting a table at a top restaurant.  

Experience Asia’s natural beauty 

Asia is ideal for a vacation in January, with many coastal regions, including South India, Thailand , and Sri Lanka at their warmest. You can go on an underwater diving adventure in the Maldives or Indonesia. Or, as a complete contrast, visit northern Japan, which has great snow at this time of year, making it ideal for a skiing vacation.  

Visit New York , the city of dreams 

If you’re after less crowded streets, lower hotel rates, and cheap Broadway tickets, then a January vacation to New York is recommended. Remember to wrap up warm as you visit the city’s famous attractions, including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Central Park is another winter wonderland to escape to, a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Take the family to action-packed Toronto

All Toronto’s main sites and attractions stay open during January, so you can still get to see much of what the city has to offer. If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, a 2024 January vacation in Toronto allows you to hit the slopes or take in a cultural event at the Harbourfront. Toronto is always great for shopping, and prices for theater shows tend to be lower in January, too. 

Head southeast to Fort Lauderdale’s sunny climate  

One of the best places to vacation in January is Fort Lauderdale, since it stays warm all year round. You can lap up the sun or enjoy a range of watersports on South Beach, or go deep sea fishing and take sightseeing tours of the Everglades. The historic Art Deco district is well worth a visit for its stunning architecture and restaurants.

Enjoy year-round sun in Mexico

If you’re looking for where to vacation in January with plenty of sun, Mexico’s resort areas like Cancun and Playa del Carmen enjoy year-round warmth and limited rainfall. Resorts can be less busy than December or February since January is outside of school vacation times. Puerto Vallarta is a top whale-watching destination during the month of January.

All you need to know about vacations in January 2024

Where to vacation in january.

It’s always possible to catch some sun in January if you head to Asia or to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico . If you’re a keen skier then you can catch some of the finest alpine snow in Europe at this time of year or take a trip to Toronto where the opportunities for winter sports are endless. Sightseeing is relaxing in Italy during January, with fewer crowds and lower prices on vacations.

Where to go in January for warm weather?

Mexico is one of the best vacation destinations January for its warm weather and low risk of rain, while Puerto Rico offers temperatures that are ideal for a January beach vacation. Fort Lauderdale can also be counted on for a sunny January vacation, with opportunities for water sports, while many Asian countries are at their warmest at this time of year. 

Where to vacation in January in the US?

The best places for a US January vacation in 2024 depend on your preferences. If you love to shop then New York has to be on your travel calendar, with its wealth of department stores and top fashion boutiques. It’s also the place to catch a top show on Broadway with ticket prices cheaper at this time of year. Fort Lauderdale is popular for a winter vacation, with both beaches and great golf opportunities. 

Where to vacation with kids in January?

If you’re looking for where to go in January with the kids, then Toronto could be a good bet for a January vacation. Toronto is also home to a host of family-friendly accommodation and it’s a city packed with attractions for children. Or take the kids on a January trip to Mexico. With sandy beaches and water parks on the doorstep, as well as some fiery fiestas, a Mexican vacation should go down a treat. 

What European countries are good to visit in January?

One of the best place to vacation in January if you love culture and history has to be Europe , especially if you also love to get great deals on a vacation. Paris has countless famous attractions to visit, for example the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Walk Rome’s streets to gain an insight into ancient times or take a tour of London’s iconic buildings during the quieter month of January. 

What is the best beach vacation destination in January?

If you’re short on inspiration on where to vacation in January for beaches, Mexico could fit the bill. There are superb resorts like Cancun , which is also home to ancient Mayan ruins, traditional markets, and activities like scuba diving and snorkeling. Puerta Vallarta’s golden-sand beaches are ideal for a relaxing winter trip, while Los Cabos has beaches, upscale restaurants, and a lively nightlife. 

What are some of the cheapest vacation destinations in January?

You can get great deals on January vacations with Expedia wherever you choose to travel. Many of Europe’s capital cities are relatively inexpensive at this time of year due to the colder weather. It’s a great time to visit the snowy wonderlands of Germany and Switzerland or take a historic city tour of London while skipping the crowds.  

What are the best overseas vacation destinations in January?

Whether you prefer sun or snow, there are plenty of fabulous overseas January vacation destinations to put on your travel calendar. Asia’ s south coast is home to sun-drenched beaches, with Vietnam, Myanmar, and the Maldives at their most beautiful at this time of year. Accommodation, food, and transportation is also often cheaper in many Asian countries than at home, so budget travel is possible. 

What are good winter sports destinations for a January getaway?

Canada is a popular January vacation destination for winter sports. Canadians enjoy a variety of sports including snowboarding, cross-country skiing, speed skating, and ice hockey. January is a busy month for skiing, with good snow at the majority of resorts. Expect a lively atmosphere during your trip, as well as top notch accommodation and facilities. 

How to plan a vacation in January?

It’s easy to plan a January vacation with Expedia. Simply use the website or app to search by destination, type of vacation, and travel dates. There are also many other search filters you can use to identify exactly what will make your January trip extra special. Why not bundle your flights together with your accommodation and car rental to create a convenient January vacation package? Then you can relax, sit back, and wait for your January vacation to arrive.

Why book a January vacation deal with Expedia?

Expedia partners with a multitude of global travel operators, so you can compare prices, read reviews, and make a fully informed decision about where to go on vacation in January all in one place. You can also see some January deals in so if you’re watching your budget, Expedia is a great place to unearth some great value offers.

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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.

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Sanibel Island

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Explore the 10 best places to travel in January

January can feel like the gloomiest month in the calendar, but it’s an amazing time to travel with something for everyone from snow to sun or even a safari. Start the New Year in style with a trip to one of the best places to travel in January.

In the US and Europe, cold weather makes it a great time to visit ski resorts, go hiking, or experience the frozen wildernesses. While in Central and Southern America, the weather is warm and it’s much quieter than later in the year. Africa is in full bloom and as it’s birthing season in the Serengeti, making January an amazing time of year to go on safari. For more holiday inspiration here’s my rundown of the best places to travel in January.

The 10 best January destinations

• Sun Valley, Idaho
• Montgomery, Alabama
• Death Valley, California
• San Antonio, Texas
• Arctic Circle, Sweden
• Harbin, China
• Zermatt, Switzerland
• Southern Serengeti, Tanzania
• Patagonia, Argentina

Best places to travel in January in the US

1. sun valley, idaho.

• Learn more: Ketchum travel guide
• Why visit in January? Amazing skiing for beginners and skiing pros.

As well as lots of snow, Sun Valley has history. It’s known as America’s first destination ski resort thanks to it being the first to open a chairlift, in 1936. Nearly 100 years later, it’s still my favorite US ski resort. Base yourself in the postcard-perfect town of Ketchum, charming but sophisticated as all the best mountain resorts are, its hotels, restaurants , and bars are après ski central.

Above it, a magic mix of terrains spread across two towering peaks. The gentle slopes of Dollar Mountain are ideal for kids and beginners to find their snow legs. If you are a serious skier, try out Bald Mountain , affectionately called Baldy. As famed for its lack of lift lines as it is for its perfect pitch, Blady has 65 individual runs and endless opportunities for trail riding. A nirvana for snow lovers.

While you’re there find the quiet nook over Seattle Ridge on Baldy’s southern slope. Known as the Sunrise Zone, it opened in 2021 adding 380 acres of terrain filled with perfectly spaced firs and steep chutes. Just watch out for powder pockets and serious rock drops.

2. Montgomery, Alabama

• Learn more: Montgomery travel guide
• Why visit in January? Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

On the third Monday of each January, Martin Luther King Jr Day is celebrated . In 2024, that Monday falls on the same date as MLK’s actual birthday – January 15th. MLK was the minister of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery and it was here that he led the bus boycott, fighting racial segregation following Rosa Parks’ heroic actions in 1955. 

His legacy lives on in Montgomery, not least thanks to the Equal Justice Initiative , which runs three powerful experiences here. The Legacy Museum takes visitors through 400 years of US history through the lens of racial segregation, enslavement, and terrorism. 

The National Memorial for Peace and Justice occupies a six-acre area on a hilltop overlooking Montgomery. Deeply sobering, Then there is the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park . This 17-acre site celebrates the courage and resilience of those enslaved, built on the banks of the Alabama River. An immersive journey into the lives of enslaved people, it features poignant stories, original dwellings, and indigenous art.

3. Death Valley, California

• Learn more: Death Valley travel guide
• Why visit in January? Experience the valley while avoiding scorching temperatures.

January is a good time to visit Death Valley and avoid the extreme heat of the valley experiences in the summer. America’s largest national park (outside of Alaska) at more than 5,300 square miles offers plenty to explore. And it’s not just hellish, barren, lunar-like landscapes – Desolation Canyon, anyone?

Death Valley is alive with nature and experiences. Badwater Basin salt flats should be your first stop , the lowest point on the continent at 282 feet below sea level. Make sure to look high up east to the cliffs of the Black Mountains for a sign showing the sea level. To the west, Telescope Peak towers more than two miles above you.

Among the sand dunes, mountains, and salt flats, you’ll also find oases. Hidden in an unassuming canyon, Darwin Falls is a rare year-round waterfall in Death Valley. A haven for life, it teems with ferns and cattails, tree frogs and toads, and bighorn sheep. 

For the full experience, camping is the most popular form of accommodation. Or for something more luxurious, base yourself in Las Vegas and make your visit a day trip.

4. San Antonio, Texas

• Learn more: San Antonio travel guide
• Why visit in January? The events, from All-American Bowl Day to restaurant week.

The oldest of Texas’ major cities, San Antonio typically confronts the New Year with a can-do attitude. Events happen all month long , from food fares to sporting contests. It’s not even that cold, with temperatures lingering in the mid-60s. Walking and exploring its colonial streets, it almost feels like spring. 

If you’re visiting in the first week of January, you can enjoy the best of the city’s famed River Walk . With holiday season lights staying up until January 7th, it’s the best time to see them minus the Christmas crowds. Football fans should take a day out on January 6 for All-American Bowl Day. Grab a cold beer and hot dog to watch high school all-stars compete in a game that can decide NFL futures.

Refuel with some epic deals during restaurant week . Running January 15-27, it’s actually more like two weeks of delicious eatin’ and overindulgin’ (this is Texas, after all). Many of the city’s top restaurants offer prix fixe brunches, lunches, and dinners for budgets from $25 to $55.

Not sure when to book your trip? The KAYAK Best Time to Travel tool has you covered. Just add your origin, destination, and length of trip and you’ll get personalized recommendations on when to book for a great price.

Best places to travel in January for winter sports

5. arctic circle, sweden.

• Why visit in January? Snowboarding without the crowds.

In the frozen wilderness of Europe’s far north, adventure awaits. The icy January landscapes of Sweden are a playground for snowbound fun without crowds. Try snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing, reindeer and dog sledding, ice fishing and, if you’re particularly brave, ice diving.

For something special, head to Uddjaure Lake and try your hand at ice driving. From January 6 until late March, Lapland Ice Driving turns the lake’s vast frozen surface into the world’s best racetrack. Or rather, racetracks – no fewer than 13, including five full-scale exact replica Formula One circuits. Hop in one of the 30 supercars available and test your skills on the frozen equivalent of the Nürburgring.

Continue the lake theme with a stay at the wild and extraordinary Arctic Bath , a few hours’ drive east. Set in an otherworldly landscape, this floating spa has to be seen to be believed. You’ll need to fly into nearby Luleå and rent a car to get around but in landscapes like these, the journey is half the fun.

6. Harbin, China

• Learn more: Harbin travel guide
• Why visit in January? Experience the world’s largest ice and snow festival.

For a one-of-a-kind winter vacation, Harbin in China is your place. Each January the capital of China’s northernmost province hosts the world’s largest ice and snow festival .

Kicking off on January 5th, this is ice sculpting on an unimaginable scale. Explore lifesize castles, an island of giant sculptures, ice slides, and a towering Ferris Wheel where you can view it all. Elsewhere parks across the city freeze into extraordinary works of ice-bound art. January is the best time to visit too, as crowds don’t appear until February for the Chinese Spring Festival .

While you’re there, take the opportunity to dive into the local culinary scene , a mix of Russian, Mongolian, and northern Chinese cuisine. Hotpots and dumplings, stewed, smoked, and pickled, all warming and delicious are extra appealing when served in a restaurant made of ice.

For some classic winter sports, 90 minutes on the bullet train will take you to the Yabuli ski area, China’s biggest ski resort. Spread across three mountains and multiple small resorts, its 49 trails are blessed with consistently great snow. Hotels do vary in quality, for somewhere with good facilities stay at Club Med Yabuli .

7. Zermatt, Switzerland

• Learn more: Zermatt travel guide
• Why visit in January? A magical atmosphere, views and epic skiing.

Perhaps the greatest of Switzerland ’s many epic ski resorts, Zermatt is a mecca for high adventure and high society. It’s also high altitude; Switzerland’s loftiest resort is only accessible by train so there are, blissfully, no cars.

Adventurers come for its skiing and snowboarding as well as the Matterhorn, Europe’s most iconic and recognizable peak. On the Matterhorn, you can explore its trails, climb its sheer faces, and jump off it if you’re really wild. Or just admire it from afar with a mulled wine at one of the gorgeous mountain huts on the surrounding slopes.

Outside of sports, decades of rich and famous visitors have cultivated an aura of glamor including high-end shopping, boutique hotels , Michelin star restaurants (book way in advance), and fantastic après ski. Prices can be high but are tempered by the magical atmosphere and views.

The archetypal ‘must-do’ when visiting is a trip on the mountain train up to the summit of the Gornergrat . At 10,000 feet, the destination is spectacular but it’s the ride that will take your breath away. Crushingly scenic, it winds over 33 minutes through some of Switzerland’s most stunning panoramas.

Best places to travel in January around the world

• Learn more: Panama City travel guide
• Why visit in January? Experience the Panama Jazz Festival .

Long, narrow, and fringed by two extraordinary coastlines, what Panama lacks in facilities it makes up for in beauty. Start your trip in the capital city which has enough to entertain for a short stay. Do as most visitors do and visit Casco Viejo. The old quarter and one-time gangland is now a thriving tourist district. Packed with great restaurants, bars, and boutique hotels spilling from shabby chic colonial houses.

January is a great time to visit as the city plays host to the annual Panama Jazz Festival . One of the city’s biggest events, it draws international artists to perform, educate, and celebrate leading jazz figures. In 2024, that’s Panamanian drummer and composer Billy Cobham.

A short flight but a world away from the city is the archipelago of Islas Secas . A super eco retreat owned by a billionaire conservation philanthropist, 13 of its 14 islands will remain forever undeveloped. Book a stay on the 14th island for a sustainable vacation showcasing the magical environment to its guests. 

9. Southern Serengeti, Tanzania

• Why visit in January? The perfect month to see newborn wildebeest and antelope.

What better way to celebrate a new year than experiencing birthing season in the southern Serengeti ? Across the vast savanna of Tanzania, new opportunity and new life springs forth everywhere you look. 

Sandwiched between rainy seasons, January offers the perfect window to see the region at its lush and verdant best. This bounty of vegetation means great feasting for wildlife and their new offspring.

Thousands upon thousands of newborn wildebeest and antelope calves flood the plains . And they’re not alone. Lion and cheetah cubs , baby elephants, and zebra foals are taking their first steps, never far from their parents’ sides. The thicker undergrowth can make them harder to spot on safari, so you’ll rely on your guide more than ever.

To maximize your nature time, book a roving safari trip with a reputable operator like family-run Bushtops Safari Camps . Glamping at its very best, the roving Bushtops are remarkable creations, luxe tents that fold up and follow the action . For this experience fly into Arusha Kilimanjaro airport and take a local flight to the nearest airstrip.

10. Patagonia, Argentina

• Why visit in January? A once in a lifetime road trip and perfect weather conditions.

January is peak season in Patagonia , so expect crowds. But once you see the sheer scale of the place, you’ll realize crowds aren’t going to be a problem. Big mountains, big valleys, big lakes, and big skies – nature has done nothing by halves here.

I’ve opted for Argentinian rather than Chilean Patagonia, if only as an excuse to fly into Buenos Aires . From here track west across the country to the famed RN-40 highway , point yourself south, and just go. The route guides you through huge arid grasslands and steppes and past precipitous Andean peaks. Keep an eye out for the granite monolith of Monte Fitz Roy, not that it’s easy to miss. 

January conditions are perfect to get out amongst it all. Kayak the lakes of Los Glaciares National Park. Boat to the Perito Moreno Glacier for an unnervingly up-close encounter and if you can face the trip, commit to heading south for Ushuaia. The world’s southernmost city is the perfect launch point for expeditions into the Tierra del Fuego. Or even more spectacular, for ocean journeys south deep into the Antarctic. 

How these destinations were chosen

KAYAK’s best places to travel articles are written by passionate travel writers. The destinations in this article have been selected based on personal experience taking into seasonal events and festivals, prices, weather, and seasonal activities.

Discover more of the best places to travel

Check out my guide to the best places to visit in December and the best places to visit in February for more vacation inspiration. Or for something closer to home, check out the best winter vacations in the US . Looking for something warmer? Check out the 10 best warm places to go in January.

Whenever and wherever you go, cheap flights , trains , car rental , and somewhere great to stay is what KAYAK does best .

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The top 7 destinations for travel in January 2024

UPDATED: This article was originally published in September 2017

Picking your next destination isn’t easy, but there’s a better way than spinning a big globe, closing your eyes and slamming your finger down (it’ll probably end up in the middle of the Atlantic, and wifi there is patchy, to say the least). Introducing our ultimate month-by-month destination guide: your no-fuss list of places to go, things to see, and good weather to chase around the world.

Here’s looking at January, a month full of exciting travel potential and new optimism. And so it should be, after all, you  did  survive another year at work, the mayhem of the silly season, and scrape through New Year’s celebrations in (mostly) one piece – and you’re only a couple of days into a brand new year! Pat yourself on the back; that kind of commitment deserves a holiday. From the jungles of Central America to the beaches of South East Asia, here’s your guide to where to travel in January.

Top holiday destinations for January 2024

1. costa rica.

Read more: The ultimate guide to Costa Rica in 7 days

The mild and dry early months in January and February are considered the best time to go to Costa Rica, but be aware that this is also peak season, so you’ll need to book ahead to get the most out of your time there. Trade the hustle and bustle for something more pura vida  and get your year off to the perfect start.

While there’s almost no bad time to visit this tropical paradise, January is when the weather is at its most perfect. Again, it is peak season, but plan ahead and you’ll be fine.

3. Thailand

Read more: 7 reasons why Southern Thailand is the perfect travel destination

For a true island adventure, sail away on your own private yacht; snorkelling and chilling out by day, and sleeping beneath the stars at night.

4. Tanzania

Read more: What it’s like to safari in the Ngorongoro Crater

With all this new life comes predators, and in January the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are also home to the largest concentration of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in Africa, stalking through the grass and waiting for the perfect time to make a kill. This is an excellent time to see exciting predator action with none of the crowds.

Read more: 9 reasons Laos should be on your bucket list

In January, average temperatures are a very pleasant 24 ° C (75 ° F) in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, while the supremely chilled 4,000 islands in the south can reach highs of 30 ° C (86 ° F). For those travelling at the end of the month, locals celebrate the Wat Phou festival (also known as Makhaboucha) at the ruins of Wat Phou. Celebrations include religious chanting, lighting of candles, and music and dance performances.

6. Ethiopia 

Read more: Why you should experience Ethiopia’s Timket Festival

During the three-day Christian festival that commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the river Jordan by John the Baptist, replicas of the Ark of the Covenant are taken to the rivers and baptised. The procession, accompanied by thousands of locals in white traditional dress and priests carrying sequined velvet umbrellas, is a heady mix of incense, prayer, and celebration, and is a once-in-a-lifetime festive experience.

Read more: Adventure lover? Why your next trip should be to Vietnam

If you’ve recovered from indulging in too many mince pies during the silly season, how about eating your way through Vietnam’s gourmet scene? From banh xeo to pho, the cuisine here is some of the freshest and most fragrant on the planet.

Not looking to travel in January? No worries. Check out our other monthly destination guides:

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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25 Best Places To Visit In USA In January (2024)

Last Updated on April 19, 2024 by Nicole

January is a great time to get away in the United States. The craziness of Christmas has passed and extended family has gone home. In addition, airfares and hotel costs have returned to reasonable prices. If you are looking for warm weather, you have exciting American cities, wonderful beaches and beautiful national parks in the southern USA and beyond from which to choose for a fantastic warm winter holiday. For those craving winter wonderlands, ski resorts, cross-country skiing and other outdoor winter sports, there are also lots of January getaway destinations, especially in northern United States. Here are 25 of the best places to visit in the USA in January for a winter vacation.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options

If after reviewing this article you are still looking for travel inspiration, consider these other suggestions.

For those who are only looking for winter destinations in the United States, please see:

• 24 Best Snowy Winter Wonderlands In the USA ;
• 23 Best Places To Visit In The USA For Christmas ; and
• 26 Best Places To Visit In USA In February .

On the other hand, if you are only looking for a warm winter getaways, take a look at

• 50 Best US Beach Destinations For A Warm Winter Getaway ;
• 20 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations In USA ; and
• 21 Best Cheap Warm Winter Vacations Near USA .

For those who love chasing a beautiful sunset, check out  24 Best Places In USA For Most Beautiful Sunsets .

For those of you open to travel in Europe in January, then these destinations in Europe may tempt you – 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe In January !

If you are not sure when you might travel and only looking for city escapes, please see 20 Best Cities To Visit In The USA .

Best Places To Visit In The United States In January For Winter Holidays

Here are 25 of the best January vacations in America. Many are beautiful places that offer lovely warm weather to escape the cold. However, for those who love to bundle up and enjoy the snow, there are also plenty of wonderful options highlighted below.

For each destination, the best things to do are discussed, how best to get there, and weather expectations so you know how to plan and pack for your winter escape.

If there is outstanding accommodation that someone has loved, then that is included. Finally, if there are special annual events or festivals held in January, those will be featured with the hope that you can coordinate your dates to enjoy those festivities.

San Diego, California

By Maria from San Diego Explorer

Are you looking for a fun and warm winter city and beach destination in Southern California in January? Then  San Diego  fits the bill perfectly. Not only is the weather perfect in January, but there are many things to do. It is one of the best places to visit in January in the United States.

If you love wildlife, you should definitely put Whale Watching on your itinerary. January is the best time to see the grey whales as they migrate south and you are (almost) guaranteed to see whales on a boat excursion. 

Ship lovers should visit the USS Midway and the San Diego Maritime Museum. Both are located right in downtown along the San Diego Bay. 

San Diego offers fantastic beaches that you can enjoy throughout winter. If you get to San Diego on New Years Day, and if you are brave enough, you can participate in the Polar Plunge in La Jolla and jump into the cold waves of the Pacific. 

San Diego is perfect for anyone who wants to escape to spring like temperatures (average temps in January are 60-70 ºF during the day and mostly sunny). 

Best Way To Reach Destination

Getting there is very easy, as the international airport has many domestic and international connections. It is also located right in downtown, which makes it fast and easy to reach.

Best Place To Stay

Maria says, “As a San Diego local, I often get asked for hotel recommendations. In downtown, I really like the Pendry Hotel . The design is so chic and the rooftop pool is dreamy. For a beachfront property, nothing beats the iconic Hotel Del Coronado .”

San Juan, Puerto Rico

By Lisa from Waves And Cobblestones

If you’re looking for a great place in the United States to visit in January, Puerto Rico should be at the top of your list. Puerto Rico is a US territory in the Caribbean and you can enjoy gorgeous tropical weather year-round. 

There are many  terrific things to do in Old San Juan . There is something so delightful about strolling the iconic blue-cobbled lanes of Old San Juan. They are lined with a jumble of shops, restaurants, and hotels in all the colors of the rainbow. 

Be sure to walk along El Paseo del Morro National Recreational Trail, an oceanside walkway following the imposing fortified city walls of Old San Juan. This will lead you to one of Puerto Rico’s historic defensive forts, Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Even if you’re not a fan of military history, the stunning views from Puerto Rico’s forts are not to be missed. 

Keep your eyes open and you’ll discover many fantastic examples of street art, from intricate mosaics embedded in sidewalks and stairways, to fantastic murals covering parking structures.

Visitors to Puerto Rico in January will get to enjoy the tail end of the island’s holiday festivities. January 6 th  is the celebration of El Día de Reyes (Epiphany), and holiday celebrations continue for eight more days through Las Octavitas. The festivities conclude with Puerto Rico’s vibrant festival, las Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián, a multi-day celebration which fills Old San Juan with music, artists, and performers.

In January, the average high temperature is in the low- to mid-eighties.

Most visitors arrive in Puerto Rico through the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, located in the capital city of San Juan. San Juan is about a 2.5-hour flight from Miami. From the airport, it’s only a fifteen-minute drive to get to Old San Juan, the historic center.

Lisa says, “Splurge on a stay at the landmark Hotel El Convento , which is housed in a former Carmelite convent. It is located just across the street from Catedral Basilica Menor de San Juan Bautista.”

Everglades National Park, Florida

By Anna from Stuck On The Go

In Southern Florida, you’ll find Everglades National Park which protects an ecosystem unlike any other. You can visit nine different habitats at the Park, including mangroves, freshwater sloughs, and pinelands.

Not to mention all the wildlife you’ll encounter! Birds are the most prominent animals that you’ll likely see and of course, alligators. You can also find turtles, crocodiles, manatees, and even the endangered Florida panther.

Hiking in the Everglades is a must and popular trails include the Anhinga Trail, Pahayokee Overlook, and the Mahogany Hammock Trail. These trails will take you through many different habitats even though they aren’t that far apart.

An airboat tour is also one of the iconic things to do in Everglades National Park . The guide will give you more information about the plants and animals that inhabit this area and the ride is incredibly fun.

If you have more time in the Everglades then you should take another boat tour that leaves out of the Flamingo Visitor Center. On this one, you may spot some manatees. A bike ride through Shark Valley is also a fun way to spend the day.

Everglades National Park is one of the best January holiday destinations in the United States.

There are two seasons here – a dry season and wet season. Dry season lasts from December through April and wet season lasts from May to November.

Dry season brings more wildlife, fewer mosquitos, and less rain which means January is the perfect time to visit!

The average high temperature is 76 degrees with a low of 56 degrees. There is only 4 days of rain. Generally, it’s sunny so don’t forget your sunscreen.

The Miami International Airport is the closest airport to the park but you can also fly into Fort Lauderdale. You’ll just have to drive a bit further.

There are three different entrances to the Everglades and each one offers distinct things to do. The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center is the entrance to the Flamingo area and it’s about an hour from the Miami Airport. The Shark Valley entrance is just under an hour as well. The Gulf Coast Visitor Center is about an hour and a half away.

Anna says, “The Hampton Inn Miami-South/Homestead hotel is a great base for exploring the Everglades – especially the Flamingo area.”

New York City, New York

By Kelly from Travel New York Now

If you want to experience one of the best cities in the United States for January getaways, then New York City is the perfect place. After all, it’s a vibrant metropolis that is filled with tons of exciting things to do . 

January is one of the best times to visit NYC since the holidays are over, the crowds are gone, and the prices for hotels and flights are much cheaper. 

Yes, the weather can be rough since it is the coldest month of the year. However, while the weather can be problematic, you can still enjoy amazing outdoor activities like ice skating in Central Park.

In addition, it includes restaurant week, an incredible bi-annual event where you can enjoy deep discounts on pre-fixe menus at top restaurants throughout the city. This event typically runs from mid January to mid February. It requires advance reservations since everyone loves a multi-course pre-fix meal for ridiculously low prices.

Also, if attending a Broadway show is on your New York City bucket list then you’ll love Broadway Week. It’s held around the same time as Restaurant Week and allows visitors to New York City to save money by purchasing discounted 2 for 1 tickets to some of the area’s best shows. 

Otherwise, you can always time your visit earlier in the month so that you can enjoy the last of the Christmas holiday decorations at Saks Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center. 

There are lots of ways to save money and stay safe, learn how best to get around, and where to eat like a local when visiting New York City. For some fantastic tips, please see 50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

If you are travelling with teens and want the best things to do with them in New York City, then check out An Action Packed Weekend in New York With Teens and 10 Unbeatable New York City Attractions With Teens .

Expect average highs of 38F and daily lows of 27F. It also snows or rains about half of the month, so be sure to pack warm layers and an umbrella.

Now, in terms of your arrival, you have three different airports to choose from: Newark, JFK, and LaGuardia. Typically, Laguardia handles most domestic flights and is the closest airport to Manhattan. Just take the Q70 bus from LaGuardia to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue and connect to the subway. 

Alternatively, if you’re arriving internationally from JFK, you can use the AirTrain to get to Jamaica Station and then catch the E,J, or Z subway lines into Manhattan. 

Finally from Newark, take the Amtrak or NJ transit train to Penn Station and then catch the subway.

Kelly says, “Once in the city, check into your room at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Times Square . It’s a clean, comfortable, well-located hotel that provides you with easy access to some of the city’s top attractions.”

Oahu, Hawaii

By David from The World Travel Guy

Even though the island of Oahu is the most populated island in Hawaii, it’s still one of the most beautiful places in the Hawaiian islands. It is also a great January vacation spot in America.

Some of the best things to do in Oahu include hanging out at the beach. There are nice white sand beaches all over the island. Two of the very best are Lanikai Beach (on the windward side) and Sunset Beach (on the north shore).

There are loads of nice hiking trails in Oahu, including beginner and family friendly hikes like the Diamond Head overlook near Waikiki, or the Lanikai pillbox hike near Kailua. The best hikes in Oahu usually feature green mountains, white sand beaches, flowing waterfalls, and other stunning scenery.

In January, you can often spot whales, Hawaiian monk seals, or sea turtles! The whale watching season in Oahu generally runs from December to end of April, as this is when the whales like to come to the warm waters of Hawaii to give birth. You can often see whales from shore, or you can take a whale watching tour or charter a boat for better views.

There are lots of hotels, restaurants, and shopping to choose from in Waikiki and Honolulu, which are the main tourist areas. As such, Waikiki is the perfect destination for a milestone birthday .

If you want to get out of the city, check out the North Shore or Kailua. These areas are extremely beautiful, undeveloped and very laidback, while still having nice beaches, restaurants, and hikes to enjoy.

It’s generally sunny, and the average temperature in January ranges from a high of 80 F (26 C) to a low of 70 F (21 C), so it’s almost never too hot or cold for anyone’s liking.

Honolulu international airport (HNL) is only a 25 minute drive from Honolulu and Waikiki. You can easily take public transit or pick up an Uber or Lyft.

David says, “A good hotel to check out is the Imperial Hawaii Resort which is located on the beachfront in Waikiki.”

South Padre Island, Texas

By Ketki from Enchanting Texas

If you hate the cold and are looking for an affordable island getaway in the Gulf of Mexico, then add South Padre Island to your list of the best destinations to visit in January in the USA. January is also low season so rentals are widely available and offered at deeply discounted prices.

Located off the southern coast of Texas, this enchanting place sits on a barrier island and is known for its tranquil waters, stunning views, great prices, and pristine stretches of sand that make for some of the best beaches in Texas . 

It’s an awesome, well-maintained national seashore that features 65 miles of untouched coastline, making in the largest undeveloped barrier island on the globe. It’s also known for having some of the most private beaches in the areas, including Bird Island Basin Beach and Malaquite Beach. 

Head to the Dolphin Research and Sealife Nature Center so that you can learn all about these amazing animals before exploring the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse. It dates back to 1852 and is a fantastic stop before heading to the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. Climb to the top of a 5-story watchtower and enjoy sweeping panoramas of the area and its wealth of migratory birds.

Enjoy beautiful weather at one of the best national parks the USA. Daily highs are 69F, daily lows are 55F, with just three rainy days all month long.

Fly into either Valley international Airport, McAllen International Airport, or Brownsville International Airport. If you can, catch a flight to Brownsville since it is the closest airport to the island. It has a free Valley Metro shuttle service that will take you to your final destination in 35 minutes. 

Ketki says, “Check into a room at the Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island beachfront hotel before exploring area highlights like the Padre Island National Seashore .”

Palm Springs, California

By Alisha from Travel Today Work Tomorrow

Palm Springs , California, is famously known as a luxury resort town in the middle of a desert oasis. Its warm weather and proximity to Los Angeles make it a popular location to escape from the city for a slice of desert splendor. It is a fantastic January trip in the USA.

Besides spending a relaxing day at the pool or spa , Palm Springs has much to offer. You can take a ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world! The aerial tram lifts you to the top of San Jacinto Peak, where you can find stunning views of Coachella Valley and numerous hiking trails.

Also, a must-visit is Joshua Tree National Park. The National Park is an hour’s drive from Palm Springs. Joshua Tree offers miles and miles of hikes, rock climbing, and gorgeous views of the valley. Alternatively, visit and experience the National Park at night and go stargazing. 

A trip to Palm Springs is not complete without a walk down Palm Canyon Drive. Downtown is the heart of Palm Springs. It is a lively area bursting with restaurants, shopping, coffee shops, museums, and more. 

If you are looking for a destination to relax, partake in outdoor activities, have warm weather, and be surrounded by stunning vistas the entire time, then Palm Springs is the destination for you!

Since Palm Springs is in the desert, one of the best times to visit is the month of January. The weather is absolutely perfect this time of year. On most days, the average temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Perfect for hiking, sitting by the pool, and enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

However, it is much cooler at night so make sure you bring a warm jacket for the evenings.

Palm Springs is easy to reach. There is a small international airport outside of downtown. Or your other option is to fly into LAX in Los Angeles, and drive about a two-hours (without traffic). It could take much longer with traffic.

Alisha says, “During your stay in Palm Springs , there are numerous luxury hotels to choose from. Talavera Palm Springs is a boutique hotel located only steps away from downtown. The small hotel provides an intimate and relaxing stay. Each suite has a private patio with an outdoor jacuzzi.”

Acadia National Park, Maine

By Emily from Emily Embarks

While thousands of tourists flock to the small town of Bar Harbor outside the borders of the famous Acadia National Park in the summer months, there is truly something special to be experienced come wintertime.

Winters in Maine are notorious for unforgiving temperatures and harsh weather patterns. However, they are also recognized for their ability to transform the local forests into a winter wonderland. While some people may find this to be a reason to plan their visit for summer, many choose to visit Acadia in January in order to participate in amazing winter activities.

With over 45 miles of carriage roads throughout the Park, you could spend several days snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Also, owing to the consistently cold weather, Eagle Lake and Jordan Pond completely freeze over so you can walk right across them! Many of the locals take advantage of this winter feature by ice fishing and snowmobiling over the lakes.

You can also opt to set out on the hiking trails which are normally elbow to elbow with tourists in the springtime. Then, there are also frozen lake barbecues, cozy cabins, and sledding adventures to enjoy.

If you have the option to choose between visiting Acadia National Park in the summer or winter, come in the winter. From the endless winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to the tranquility and peace of having a national park practically to yourself, there’s really no reason to face the tourist craziness that accompanies the summer months. It also makes for a fantastic addition to any trip to Canada. Just to be sure to brush up on some of your  French language skills  before you get there!

At under two hours from the Canadian border, Acadia National Park averages between 10 and 29 degrees Fahrenheit. It gets about 9 days of snowfall in January typically averaging about 13 inches in total.

Acadia National Park is easily one of the best U.S. national parks to visit in January for winter experiences. To reach it, fly into Logan International Airport in Boston and drive just under five hours. You can also fly into Portland, Maine but it will likely be much more expensive.

Emily says, “There are limited places to stay since many of the local seaside cottages are seasonal. But, there are some great hotels in the center of Bar Harbor like the Ivy Manor Inn if you’re seeking romantic luxury. Alternatively, if you’re bringing your dog, then the Quimby House Inn is highly recommended.”

Las Vegas, Nevada

By Daria from The Discovery Nut

Located in the middle of the Nevada desert, Las Vegas is one of the best American cities for a January trip. The weather is mild and it’s low season when you can save on hotels, tours and other things.

Contrary to popular belief, Las Vegas is more than just a capital of entertainment. There are tons of things to do in Las Vegas besides gambling and partying.

You can spend lots of time outdoors. Hiking is one of the best activities in Las Vegas for adventure lovers during the winter months since there is plenty of sunshine, clear skies, and no snow.

Some of the most popular places for hiking are Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area , Valley of Fire State Park, and Death Valley National Park. These places offer a great selection of scenery and are perfect to visit if you have a rental car. Alternatively, you can also take one of the guided day trips from Las Vegas. 

Another great activity during winter is visiting museums. Some of them are located outdoors and you can avoid the scorching summer heat if you visit in January. In addition, the Neon Museum, the Mob Museum and the Old Mormon Fort are some of the most popular museums located near Downtown Las Vegas.

If you want some insider tips for where to stay, how to get around, ways to save money, and how to get invited to the best parties in Vegas, check out 50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors .

January temperatures are lovely and stay mostly in the 60s during the day. It is much cooler at night and you will need a warm jacket.

Las Vegas International Airport is the main airport that services the area. It only takes 10-15 minutes to get to the Las Vegas Strip by Uber or Lyft. 

Daria says, “There are many hotels in Las Vegas for all tastes and budgets, and choosing one can be tough. If you want a combination of great prices with a good location, consider the Excalibur .”

Key West, Florida

By Kat from Biker Girl Life

There’s a reason Key West is popular during winter. In January, it’s almost guaranteed to be one of the warmest places in the USA and a fantastic winter getaway.

The Florida Keys stretch for many miles and are a great place to explore, but Key West is definitely the hub. This is where you’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants and things to do during the day. Much of the activities revolve around the water. One of the most popular is parasailing. The views over the Keys are spectacular.

You can also hire boats and gear for sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding and jet skis. Treasure hunting is very popular- don’t miss the treasure hunting museum in the middle of Key West.

Another thing popular in the Florida Keys is  motorcycle touring . It’s possible to hire bikes at several locations and tour the islands. There is nothing quite like the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you ride in a t-shirt in January.

If motorcycles aren’t for you, there are plenty of bicycle hire companies too so you can still explore Key West on two wheels. Don’t miss the Mile 0 marker of Route 1. Of course, you must get a photo of the marker of the most southernmost point on continental USA!

The weather is generally great in January. Average is 74 degrees Fahrenheit and there are only around 4 days of rain in the month. Winds can be strong, but overall the weather is fabulous.

The closest international airport is Miami and then it’s about a 4 hour drive (160 miles).

Kat says, “If you want to treat yourself, stay right in the centre of Key West, with easy walking distance to all the main attractions and restaurants. Ocean Key Resort is fabulous and you can enjoy incredible sunsets.” 

Aspen, Colorado

By Meg from Fox In The Forest

Aspen, Colorado is easily one of the best snowy destinations to visit in the United States to enjoy winter sports in January. After all, it’s one of the  best mountain towns in Colorado , known for offering a luxury experience that includes many designer boutiques and swanky restaurants. However, you’ll probably spend most of your time outside enjoying the snow.  Take part in a wide variety of winter activities that include downhill skiing at ski resorts such as Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, and Aspen Snowmass. 

Of all of them, Aspen Snowmass is the best. It is home to 3,339 acres of terrain and is known for having the second largest vertical drop in the USA. It’s an insane 4,406 feet.  Next, experience what it’s like to ride on a real life luge at the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster. It reaches speeds of up to 24 miles per hour. It is even more exciting when done in the evening.  Finally, explore the famous Maroon Bells area at Maroon Lake. Feel free to cross country ski, hike (with crampons), snowshoe, or snow bike to this natural wonderland.

Then, take in the majesty of nearby Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak. These are two of Colorado’s most well-known 14ers (mountain peaks in Colorado that are over 14,000 feet tall). 

In the evening, sip on a well-earned drink at The Silver City Mountain Saloon before chowing down on delicious empanadas at Francesca’s Pasta Market.

The weather in January includes eight days of snow and daily highs of 36F and daily lows of 10F.

After arriving at Denver International Airport, you can rent a car and drive for 3.5 hours (around 198 miles) to Aspen. Alternatively, you could use the ​​Epic Mountain Express shuttle which takes around 4 hours and costs $92 per person. 

Meg says, “Spend the night inside a swanky room at the Limelight Hotel Aspen and spoil yourself!”

Phoenix, Arizona

By Kaidon from Planes Trains And Karcz

Phoenix, Arizona is a thriving hub on the edge of the Sonoran Desert, with beautiful desert flora and bright red mountain ranges that sprawl for miles in all directions. It is a popular “snowbird” location and a great city for a holiday in the USA in January.

Once you arrive, it’s time to enjoy the sunshine! Phoenix and the surrounding area are beautiful places and a hiker’s paradise. Try your hand at the challenging Camelback Mountain Trail, view a striking sunset at Hole In The Rock, or climb through the hidden tunnel in South Mountain Park and Preserve. If you venture out of the city towards Sedona, you can experience why Cathedral Rock Trail is the most popular hike in the state!

Kayaking through Lower Salt River or Saguaro Lake are popular for those who want to experience the landscape from a different angle. Get close to the water on a hot day (yes, even in January!), and paddle your way in between the majestic red mountains.

At the end of the day, check out Oregano’s. If you like Italian food – which, who doesn’t?! – this is a fun little bistro-feeling restaurant with phenomenal pizza and generously-portioned pasta dishes to fuel you up for your next big adventure. Oregano’s has a few locations and all are located exclusively in Arizona so don’t miss it!

In the heart of the desert, Phoenix remains relatively balmy in January with an average daily high of 68º F or 20º C. The desert gets very little rain. Since the mercury seldom drops below freezing, snow and frost are pleasantly scarce at this time of year when most people are aching for a taste of summer. However, it does cool down at night so make sure you bring a warm jacket.

Those who fly into Phoenix will likely arrive at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), a large airport located in the centre of the city. You may also fly into the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, located in the town of Mesa, roughly 40 minutes from downtown Phoenix.

Kaidon says, “Consider staying at Adventure Home Rentals , a homey rent-a-room operation with very friendly and helpful owners. Rooms and beds are comfortable, and the home is located in a safe area of Phoenix. The shared kitchen and lounging area means you’ll have all the comforts of home without the expense of renting a hotel room with the same amenities.”

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

By Jamie from Photo Jeepers

This January, head to Canyonlands National Park and experience one of the best national parks in the United States in the winter months. It was first established in 1964, across 527 square miles of desert in southeastern Utah, and sits just outside of Moab.  Canyonlands in January means cheaper prices, stunning snow-capped scenery, and fewer crowds.

Take in the tranquil solitude of a dramatic desert landscape that is divided by the Colorado River. Be sure to hike to Mesa Arch, see the sweeping views of Monument Basin from Grand View Point Overlook, and trek along the White Rim Overlook trail. You can also explore the remote canyons of the Maze and stand in awe of amazing Native American rock paintings at Horseshoe Canyon.

If you have experience driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle, take some local dirt roads out to Shafer Canyon and take in the beautiful views of the incredible natural landscape.

Because the Needles and Island of the Sky sections of the Park sit between 5,920 feet and 6,100 feet above sea level, pack plenty of water since its easy to get dehydrated fast at such high elevations. You’ll also have to be a bit more self-sufficient since visitor services are limited. Therefore, bring hiking poles and traction devices to traverse popular trails that may be covered in snow in January. 

Be sure to bundle up because daily highs are only around 42 (F) while daily lows are around 17 (F).  Expect it to be dry since there is only an average of 2 days of precipitation throughout the month. 

Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport and then drive 3 hours and 45 minutes (or 233 miles) to Moab. Alternatively, you could choose a 7-hour train ride from Salt Lake City Amtrak Station to Green River Amtrak for around $54 per person.

Jamie says, “When you’re ready to call it a night, head back to Moab and stay at  Purple Sage . It’s well located to Moab shopping areas and features a full kitchen too.”

Amelia Island, Florida

By Carrie Ann from Should Be Cruising

Located just off Florida’s northeast coast, beautiful Amelia Island is one of the best vacation destinations in January in the United States.

January is off-season for the island, but its mild winter temperatures and fewer crowds (plus lower winter rates at the local resorts) make it the perfect January getaway for anyone wanting to escape the cold.

Amelia Island offers thirteen miles of gorgeous beaches, perfect for a long stroll in search of the island’s famous shark’s teeth that wash ashore. Although it’s too cold to swim, January is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of these pristine beaches without the summer’s swarm of tourists.

History lovers, nature enthusiasts, and hikers flock to  Fort Clinch State Park  on the island’s northern tip. There you’ll find miles of hiking and biking trails, abundant wildlife, and two year-round campgrounds. The park’s Civil War-era military fort overlooks the Cumberland Sound and features a museum and living-history interpreters.

Foodies will love visiting the island in January for the annual Amelia Island Restaurant Week. The ten-day-long event features prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner at many of the island’s most prestigious restaurants.

Sip & Shop is another popular Amelia Island event that takes place each January. Visitors can support local Fernandina Beach businesses while enjoying wine at each location.

January on Amelia Island sees average high temperatures around 65°F during the day, with lows of 43°F at night. Although it’s well past hurricane season, January tends to be a bit rainy. A rain jacket and layers for the evening are a must.

Jacksonville International is the closest airport to Amelia Island, and it’s only 36 miles away (about a 48-minute drive). The island is easy to reach from the mainland via one of two bridges.

Carrie Ann says, “The Omni Amelia Island Resort is one of the best places to stay on the island, offering over three miles of private beach, heated pools, and hot tubs. January visitors will appreciate the resort’s large propane fire pits, perfect for keeping toasty at night while enjoying the ocean view.”

North Conway, New Hampshire

By Kate from Adventurous Kate

Wise New Englanders know that New Hampshire is a four-season destination — especially in the White Mountains. For the ultimate New Hampshire winter vacation, head to North Conway, a small mountain town overflowing with character.

North Conway is a beautiful small town year-round, but there’s extra magic in January. This is one of the quieter months for winter travel, especially early in the month, and you can enjoy winter activities with smaller crowds.

There are so many good  things to do in New Hampshire in the winter  — and not just skiing! In the North Conway area, you can enjoy a sleigh ride and ice skating at Nestlenook Farm in nearby Jackson. Alternatively, drive to Jefferson for a dog sledding experience at Muddy Paw.

Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, is a short drive from North Conway. While you can’t drive up in the winter, you can take the Snow Coach, a vehicle that runs on treads, halfway up the peak. You can also take the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway partway up the mountain.

January is the coldest month of the year in North Conway, with temperatures averaging 11-25 F. It’s common to have several light to heavy snowstorms. But don’t let that stop you! Wear the right winter gear and you’ll be cozy and warm.

You’ll need a car both to get to North Conway and to get around the White Mountains. North Conway is a 1.5-hour drive from Portland, Maine; a two-hour drive from Manchester, New Hampshire; and a 2.5-hour drive from Boston. Each of these cities has international airports.

Kate says, “In North Conway I recommend staying in a bed & breakfast, and there are plenty to choose from. Two excellent options are the Cranmore Inn and the Kearsarge Inn .”

San Fransisco, California

By Trijit from Budget Travel Buff

You must visit San Francisco if you are looking for one of the best cities to visit in America in January. San Francisco is not a  cheap place in the Bay Area  but January is the month when you can get some amazing hotel and flight deals.

Located on the West Coast of the United States, San Francisco is a bucket list destination that offers plenty of activities and attractions for all ages.

Chinese New Year is celebrated throughout the city in January or February (depending upon the date of the Lunar holiday). You can visit the Flower Market Fair in Chinatown to buy flowers, fruits, and candies and enjoy the performance of Chinese magicians and folk dancers.

If you are a fan of basketball, you will definitely love to watch your favorite team playing in San Francisco. Many basketball and hockey events happen in January.

This is the ideal season for gray whale watching. Oceanic Society offers different types of whale-watching tours throughout the year.

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of the main highlights of San Francisco. It is a popular tourist hotspot filled with museums, souvenir shops, and restaurants. Don’t forget to see the sea lions lounging on the dock.

The Golden Gate Bridge is an icon of San Francisco and one of the most photographed bridges in the world. Admire the surrounding view of the bridge. Alternatively, go early and enjoy a beautiful sunrise from the bridge.

Rainfall is common in San Francisco in January. It is one of the chilliest months in the city. The average high temperature is around 57 F whereas the average low is 45 F.

San Francisco International Airport is the nearest airport to the city. The airport is just 13 miles away from the city and takes 15 minutes if you drive through US 101.

Trijit says, “The best place to stay would be in Union Square where you will find some of the best affordable accommodation. Handlery Union Square Hotel is just two minutes from Union Square and offers an outdoor pool with all basic amenities at a reasonable price.”

Big Bend National Park , Texas

By Sarah fro Two Outliers

Big Bend is one of the best national parks to visit in the United States in January. Spanning 800,000 acres in west Texas, Big Bend is remote and rugged, featuring diverse landscapes ranging from the Chihuahuan Desert lowlands to the pine tree-covered Chisos Mountains.

Perhaps the most famous landmark in Big Bend National Park is Santa Elena Canyon, a stunning 1500 foot tall canyon carved by the Rio Grande that straddles the U.S. – Mexico border. You can access the mouth of the canyon via an easy 1.4-mile roundtrip hike. Better yet, take a kayaking trip starting at the Santa Elena Trailhead to explore the canyon by water.

The best long hike in Big Bend National Park is the South Rim Trail , a challenging 13-mile loop covering 2,700 feet of elevation gain. The South Rim features beautiful views of the rocky Chisos Mountains and surrounding desert lowlands. You can also tack on a detour to Emory Peak, the tallest point in Big Bend, for an additional 3 miles and 500 feet of elevation gain.

For a relaxing end to a busy day exploring the park, head over to the Rio Grande Hotsprings for a warm soak (up to 105°F) with lovely views right along the shores of the Rio Grande River. 

January is one of the best times to explore Big Bend for mild temperatures, with average daily highs in the low-60s and lows in the mid-30s. Rainfall is minimal and snow is rare. Note that temperatures vary throughout the park due to the wide range of elevations. This desert climate experiences extreme heat during the summer, so winter is a great time to visit for hiking and outdoor activities. 

Due to its remote location, getting to Big Bend National Park requires a bit of effort. The closest international airport is in El Paso, Texas, located about 5 and a half hours from the park entrance. 

Sarah & Matt say, “The most convenient place to stay is at the Chisos Basin Lodge or Chisos Basin Campground inside the park. Alternatively, the small towns of Marathon and Terlingua, located just outside of Big Bend, offer a few hotel and lodging options.”

Miami, Florida

By Kim from Traveling Swansons

Miami, located in the southeast corner of Florida, is a city famous for its culture, glitz and glam, beaches and warm-weather. It is an ideal beach destination in January in the US.

Whether you are going to  Miami with kids , your significant other, friends, or family, there is plenty to do for all.

Firstly, you should explore South Beach, one of the most beautiful places in Miami. This area is famous for its art-deco buildings, its beaches and its culture. Grab some lunch on Ocean Drive, people watch, shop and admire the beautiful scenery.

Get a taste of Miami’s Cuban culture and head to Little Havana for some amazing Cuban food. Take a walk down Calle Ocho and admire this colorful neighborhood full of beautiful mosaics and artwork.

Another great neighborhood to explore in Miami is Wynwood Walls, an outdoor street art museum. Artists from all over the world come here to make their marks on the walls.

See a different view of Miami from prettty Biscayne Bay. You can go on one of the many tours or rent your own boat.

January is a wonderful time to visit Miami and escape the winter blues. The average highs are in the mid-70s, with very low humidity and little chance of rain. It’s the perfect month to explore all Miami has to offer before the extreme heat and humidity of spring and summer comes.

When flying to Miami, you have a choice of two convenient airports, Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Miami International Airport is located about 12 miles and a 25 minute drive to the South Beach area. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is located about 31 miles north of Miami and about an hour drive.

Kim says, “ Loews Miami Beach Hotel is a great hotel for couples, families or friends. It’s location is amazing! Its very close to the Collins Avenue shopping area, the Miami Beach Boardwalk and Ocean Drive.”

Lake Placid, New York

By Megan from Bob And Chichi

One of the best places to visit in the USA in January for outdoor winter sports can be found in the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. The town of Lake Placid is no stranger to being one of the best winter getaways in North America as it hosted the winter Olympic Games not once, but twice – in 1932 and 1980. To this day, it continues to attract outdoor winter enthusiasts year after year.

Some of the best things to do in Lake Placid in winter include exploring all the attractions downtown from shops, breweries, and restaurants. In addition, there are lots of fun outdoor activities like ice skating, sledding from the village onto frozen Mirror Lake, and taking a casual stroll across the frozen lake.

Don’t miss hitting up all the Olympic attractions. Visit the museum that commemorates the games and their history in the region. Bobsled on the Bobsled and Cliffside Coaster where you can bobsled down the actual track used in the Olympic Games.

For those who want to hit the slopes, you have many ski resorts from which to choose, including the infamous Whiteface Mountain nearby. It prides itself in having some of the best skiing and snowboarding conditions in the region. This is just one of the reasons that this is one of the best winter getaways for couples in the US .

During this time of year, you can expect temperatures below freezing, averaging around 26 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. So you’ll want to make sure you pack and dress accordingly. It’s very possible you will get snow on your trip.

The nearest major airport is the Adirondack Regional Airport (SLK / KSLK). However, Montreal is only a 2 hour drive and New York City only 5 hours away.

Megan says, “There are some great cabin rentals and hotel options in and around Lake Placid, New York. If you want to stay in a central location, a great option is the Mirror Lake Inn .”

Death Valley National Park, California

By Rasika from Bae Area And Beyond

Death Valley National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, and it’s easy to see why. Located in eastern California, this beautiful park is filled with badlands, canyons, sand dunes, salt flats, mountains, and more.

Two million people visit Death Valley annually, but because the park is so vast — nearly 3 million acres — you can easily find solitude if you want it. And the best time to go? January! January is one of the safer months to hike in Death Valley when the weather is not as hot as the sweltering temperatures of the summer months. In fact, it’s cooler than most places in California.

This is also a great place for photography – especially at sunrise or sunset (which can produce amazing colors). There are multiple vantage points from which you can photograph the landscape. Winter sunsets are the most beautiful in Death Valley National Park.

The top three things to see in Death Valley National Park are Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s View. The Zabriskie Point offers a panoramic view of golden-colored badlands with the Panamint Mountains in the background.

Then, visit Badwater Basin, which is 282 feet below sea level and considered to be the lowest point in North America. Here, you can also walk around the salt flats that spread across 200 miles.

Drive up to Dante’s View which is 5,476 feet high to see the Death Valley basin.

The weather is mostly cool but sunny with average highs in the 60s F and average lows in the 40s Fahrenheit. It’s very rare to see snow in January but you might see some quick rain showers.

The closest international airport is the Harry Reid International Airport located in Las Vegas. It takes a little over 2 hours (118 miles) to get to Death Valley National Park from the airport.

Rasika says, “The best place to stay is at The Inn at Death Valley . It’s a beautiful 4-star hotel located centrally in the park and offers great amenities.”

Boston, Massachusetts

By Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA

Boston is one of the best US cities for a January vacation despite the cold winter weather! In fact, because fewer people head to Boston in the winter months, you’re more likely to find good deals on accommodation and flights, as well as enjoy fewer crowds at popular spots.

Cold temperatures are the perfect excuse to cozy up and stay warm, making for a lovely romantic getaway. There are so many romantic things to do in Boston in the winter that you’ll be spoiled for choice! 

Consider renting a heated rooftop igloo for nighttime views and drinks at The Lookout Rooftop Bar at the Envoy Hotel. Definitely find yourselves a cozy corner in Boston’s beloved North End for fine Italian dining. Or try to hold each other up while outdoor ice skating on Frog Pond at Boston Common.

If you want to start January off right, get to Boston in time for New Year’s Eve (First Night) so you can wake up on the first of January after a fantastic celebration. In fact, First Night in Boston is the USA’s oldest and largest New Year’s Eve arts festival.

Later in January, the annual Boston Wine & Food Festival begins and continues into March. This is the perfect excuse to indulge in delicious wines from around the world alongside delectable treats. Events include brunches and dinners, as well as plenty of wine tastings, live music, featured artists, and more.

If you are traveling with teens and want some amazing attractions, check out An Epic One Day Boston Itinerary With Teens .

January temperature in Boston hovers around freezing, regularly dropping below freezing at night. There’s a good chance you’ll get some snow, but it’s not guaranteed. The average snowfall is actually only around 3 inches in January. 

You can fly directly into Boston Logan International Airport and be downtown with just a few minutes’ drive. The Silver Line (public transit) also runs to South Station.

Amanda says, “If you’re seeking a romantic getaway, the Battery Wharf Hotel in the North End is highly recommended.”

Maui, Hawaii

By Jessica from The Uprooted Traveler

With its year-round tropical weather and stunning natural beauty, Maui is the perfect beach holiday for a January getaway.

January is a particularly fabulous time to visit, given the presence of humpback whales that migrate here in the wintertime to birth and raise their calves. Be sure to book a whale watching tour during your time to see their incredible acrobatic behaviors.

Another fantastic addition to any Maui itinerary is a stop at Haleakala National Park, which features the world’s largest dormant volcano. You can try to snag one of the coveted permits to watch the sunrise at the summit and then hike on any of the 14 trails that provide views of colorful cinder cones and interesting volcanic formations.

No trip to Maui is complete without snorkeling with some of its amazing sea creatures, like the Hawaiian sea turtles. Try booking a tour to the Molokini crater, where you can swim with and observe the staggering array of beautiful wildlife here.

Temperatures are usually in the low-to-mid 80s and though you may run into an afternoon rainshower here or there, the weather is usually perfect for enjoying the beach. 

Maui, like the rest of the islands of Hawaii , has stunning biodiversity, thanks to its remote location in the middle of the Pacific. However, be prepared for a fairly lengthy flight across the ocean to the Kahului Airport. Once you arrive, be sure to pick up a rental car as you’ll need it to get around the island.

Jessica says, “Consider booking accommodation in Lahaina (like the Honua Kai Resort & Spa ) on the western side of the island from where lots of whale watching and snorkeling tours depart.”

Carson Valley, Nevada

By Angela from Fitting In Adventure

Nestled just below the Sierra Nevada ridge sits Carson Valley, Nevada . Not to be confused with Carson City, the valley sits to the south of the state’s capital and holds a wealth of history, wildlife, and beauty.

Your January visit will be shared with the bald eagles who flock to the area. The Carson Valley Chamber hosts an event called Eagles & Agriculture in January. But the timing for the eagles really begins in late November lasting into February. You will see photographers pulled to the side of the road with long lenses and cattle. This will be your first indication to look closer into the field and trees. One photographer captured 22 bald eagles in one tree!

After chasing the eagles with a guided tour or on your own, you can book a tour with Carson Valley Tours to see the local wild horses. The owner of Carson Valley Tours, Dwayne, will take you out on the range to view the horses from a safe distance and introduce you to local favorites.

After your wildlife viewing adventure, swing into Nevada’s oldest “thirst parlor” for a drink and a few stories. Look up to the single bra hanging on the ceiling. It’s Raquel Welch’s. Don’t open the safe or you will leave behind your own. Bar rules! Enjoy a drink (they are famous for their Bloody Marys) where the likes of Mark Twain and Teddy Roosevelt sipped drinks. The oil lamps still work (and are lit every New Year’s Eve) and the mirror behind the bar is made of diamond dust. You will instantly be transported back into time.

Lake Tahoe is just a 20 minute (in good weather) drive up the mountain. But you can easily fill a weekend in Carson Valley without the need for any day trips.

The average high temperature in January is 47 F.

The nearest airport is Reno, NV.  It is about an hour drive from there.  

Angela says, “I have stayed at the Carson Valley Inn often. There is also a Holiday Inn Express . They are both nice and priced differently”

White Sands National Park, New Mexico

By Shannon from Adventuring With Shannon

If you are looking for an excellent January holiday in the USA then you definitely need to add White Sands National Park to your list!

Located in Southern New Mexico, this national park is famous for its beautiful white sand dunes. These dunes are actually made of gypsum which is a white sand-like mineral. What makes White Sands National Park so amazing is that you can sand-board or sand-sled down the dunes which makes for a wonderful exciting day for the whole family. In addition, White Sands National Park is both family and dog friendly, so you can bring your canine friends to enjoy the sand dunes as well.

January is one of the best times to visit the park because it is cool enough to enjoy the dunes without overheating. Snow is rare in this part of New Mexico. You may even have time for an awesome photoshoot on the dunes!

White Sand National Park is also home to a United States missile range. Because the gypsum so easily absorbs the explosions, the area is occasionally used to test weapons. Accordingly, check the national park website before you go to make sure there are no upcoming closures.

Average highs in January is 55 degrees Fahrenheit but can drop down to 0 at night so bring some warm clothes for the evening.

To get to White Sands National Park, you can fly into the Albuquerque airport. From there, it is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive.

Shannon says, “The best place to stay near the park is in the city of Alamogordo which has many options for accommodation and restaurants. You can also stay in nearby Las Cruces.”

Anna Maria Island, Florida

By Charles from McCool Travel

Anna Maria Island is a seven mile long barrier island in Florida just southwest of St Pete and northwest of Sarasota. The south end of the island connects to Longboat Key and then Lido Key (leading to Sarasota)

Anna Maria Island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and is a popular destination for snowbirds (people from the north escaping the cold weather). In addition, the seafood is fresh and remarkable.

Along with the magnificent winter weather and spectacular beaches, Anna Maria Island restaurants are a big reason for the area’s popularity during the winter months.

January is an excellent time to visit Anna Maria Island because the peak season and mad rush really starts in early February. 

The seven miles of pristine sugar sand beaches are the most popular natural site to visit—for sunrise walks, remarkable  Anna Maria Island sunsets , nighttime stargazing, or any time of the day for sun and fun.

Anna Maria Island beach sand is among the softest, cleanest, and whitest along the entire US Gulf Coast and in the world. Bean Point at the north end of Anna Maria Island features the island’s widest beaches and rugged sand dunes. 

Other than the beautiful Florida Gulf Coast waters, the next nearest natural site is Neal Preserve just off island across the Manatee Avenue bridge. Its 120 acres features ancient Indian burial mounds (explored by Smithsonian), oak hammock and mangrove forest habitats, shell and boardwalk walking trails, and an observation tower. Kayakers can view the Neal Preserve mangroves from Palma Sola Bay on the Sarasota Bay/Barrier Islands Paddle Trail.

Across the street, Perico Preserve features Florida scrub hill habitat and coastal wetlands. Both preserves are bird sanctuaries and pets and bicycles are not permitted on most trails.

Average temperatures on Anna Maria Island in January are between 70s and 50s Fahrenheit. The January weather is sunny and pleasant. 

To visit Anna Maria Island by plane, fly into Sarasota Airport, about 17 miles away. Other options include St. Pete Clearwater Airport (44 miles away), Tampa (53 miles), Southwest Florida-Fort Myers  (111 miles), and Orlando (128 miles).

Charles says, “Most visitors to Anna Maria Island choose to stay in vacation rental houses or condos. Some recommended beachfront hotels to consider include Bali Hai , Waterline Marina Resort , Anna Maria Island Inn , and Bungalow Beach Resort .”

January is a month that offers a lot of choice for those looking for a winter vacation in the United States. You have an amazing selection of warm sunny beach or city destinations and an equally tempting array of places that offer exceptional outdoor winter sports.

For most destinations, it is low season so hotel and flight costs are lower than normal, and there are less crowds to deal with. It is the perfect time of year to seek out some fun and to enjoy everything that America has to offer.

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Hi everyone, I need some tips and advice as I'm traveling with two friends to Russia. I've already booked my round trip from Delhi to Moscow for January 2-11. Our plan is to explore Moscow and St. Petersburg during this trip.

We usually prefer luxury trips, but one major concern is the weather. Will it be too cold to enjoy the trip? Also, are Moscow and St. Petersburg good choices for our visit? How long does it take to travel by train from Moscow to St. Petersburg? What activities can we engage in, and which places should we visit? Is there anyone from Russia who can provide guidance or even join us on the trip?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 60 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

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Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

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some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

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Subject to change and availability. Rates are per person based on double occupancy per cabin and include port charges and government taxes. Club Wyndham Travel Booking Benefit is listed per cabin. Flight, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses, and beverages not part of the regular menu are not included. Regular shipboard meals and entertainment are included. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Cruises arranged by Club Wyndham Travel, 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821.

*Subject to change and availability. All rates are per person based on double occupancy and include port charges and government taxes. Rates marked with a ‘†’ require a combination of credits and cash to book. Airfare, gratuities, excursion activities, incidental expenses, and beverages not part of the regular menu are not included. All regular shipboard meals and entertainment are included. Passengers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply to purchase. Cruises arranged by Club Wyndham, 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821. CSR 2067820-50.

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Russia is open for international travelers regardless their citizenship/country of residence. Tourist visas are being issued in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, EU, Japan, and worldwide. Electronic visas (up to 16 days of stay, single entry) are available for the following nationals: Austria, Andorra, Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Croatia, Cyprus, China, Czech Republic, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Myanmar, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, Vatican, Vietnam.

You can bring foreign currency and exchange money freely in Russia. You can open a bank account and g et a debit card in one hour time, once you will have arrived, we assist.

Medical insurance is available for international travelers through Russian insurance companies.

International flights to Moscow and St Petersburg are available via Tbilisi (Georgia), Yerevan (Armenia), Baku (Azerbaijan), Istanbul (Turkey), Belgrade (Serbia), Dubai & Abu-Dhabi (UEA), Doha (Qatar), Algiers (Algeria),Tehran (Iran), Muscat (Oman), Cairo (Egypt), Astana & Almaty (Kazakhstan), Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Shenzhen, Qingdao & Xian (China), Delhi (India), Colombo (Sri-Lanka), Male (Maldives). Information changes frequently, please inquire.

Trans-Siberian travels can fly in/out Vladivostok via Beijing (China), Harbin (China), Bangkok (Thailand), Tashkent (Uzbekistan).

Trans-Siberians taking off in Irkutsk/Lake Baikal, fly to Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Dushanbe (Tadjikistan), Namangan (Uzbekistan), Osh (Uzbekistan), Beijing Daxing (China), Bangkok (Thailand), Ulaaanbaatar (Mongolia).

Explore the best travel destinations in Russia with our wide range of sightseeing tours to Moscow, St Petersburg, Golden Ring, Kazan; Northern Lights viewing tours; wildlife & nature tours to Lake Baikal tours, Altai, Kamchatka tours, Trans-Siberian train tours, and more. Find the best guided trips and expert planned Russian holidays 2023-2024.

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14 best travel credit cards of June 2024

The best travel credit cards offer an array of premium perks and benefits . For both occasional travelers and frequent flyers, adding a travel credit card to your wallet is a great way to earn rewards and save money on every trip you take. At The Points Guy, our team has done the legwork and curated a selection of the best travel credit cards for any globe-trotter, whether you prefer to backpack through mountains or settle into a luxury villa for some relaxation. From generous travel credits to premium lounge access, we’ve chosen the cards packed with the best benefits to elevate your next travel experience.

Check out our list below and discover which travel credit card from our partners makes the best addition to your wallet for all of your adventures.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginner travelers
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for earning miles
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for premium travel
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for maximizing business purchases
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for lounge access
• American Express® Gold Card : Best for dining at restaurants
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best for no annual fee
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for business travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for unlimited point earning
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for travel credits
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for variety of bonus categories
• American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for flexible rewards earning
• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for travel rewards beginners
• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card : Best for Alaska Airlines miles

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Comparing the best credit cards, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, what is a travel credit card, helpful tools, how we rate cards, how to maximize travel credit cards, how to choose the best travel credit card, ask our experts, pros + cons of travel credit cards, frequently asked questions.

• Airport Lounge Access

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

• You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
• Annual $50 Chase Travel Hotel Credit
• Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.
• The card comes with a $95 annual fee.
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 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, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 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, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

• This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, worth $1,388 based on TPG valuations and not provided by the issuer.
• You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories.
• Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners.
• Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
• Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X 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
• 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
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

If you can maximize the  $300 credit toward Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95, the same annual fee pegged to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ). Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations ) and lounge access, and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

• 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
• $395 annual fee
• $300 credit annually, only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
• 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 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
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full  review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

• One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening.
• Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
• Reasonable $95 annual fee.
• Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
• Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement.
• Yearly cap on bonus categories.
• No travel perks.
• Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
• Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full  review of the Platinum Card from American Express .

• The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
• This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and more than $1,400 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (enrollment required)
• The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
• The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
• Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
• The annual airline fee credit and other monthly statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
• 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 with American Express Travel when you pay with 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.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 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 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), 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.
• See Rates & Fees

American Express® Gold Card

This isn’t just a card that’s nice to look at. It packs a real punch, offering 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). There’s also an up to $120 annual dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com ,  Milk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations, plus it added an up to $120 annually ($10 per month) in Uber Cash, which can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. All this make it a very strong contender for all food purchases, which has become a popular spending category. Enrollment is required for select benefits. Read our full review of the Amex Gold .

• 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
• 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel.
• Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months of account opening.
• Weak on travel and everyday spending bonus categories.
• Not as effective for those living outside the U.S.
• Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
• Few travel perks and protections.
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $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.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and 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, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of travel rewards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great way to get started. With no annual fee and a simple 1.25 miles per dollar on all your purchases, you won’t have to keep up with multiple bonus categories — just earn rewards on everything you purchase! Coupled with the 20,000-mile sign-up bonus, you can use your rewards to book travel, transfer to Capital One’s loyalty partners and more. Read our full review of the  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

• No annual fee.
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
• Use your miles to book or pay for travel at a 1-cent value, or transfer your miles to loyalty programs to gain potentially even greater value for your rewards.
• Earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Other credit cards can offer you higher rewards for your common purchase categories.
• Capital One airline transfer partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• $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
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full  review on The Business Platinum Card from American Express .

• Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
• Up to $400 annual statement credit for U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
• Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels; access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection (enrollment required)
• Steep $695 annual fee.
• High spend needed for welcome offer.
• Limited high bonus categories outside of travel.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
• $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 the Card.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
• 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.
• $695 Annual Fee.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card offers healthy reward earning rates on top of uncapped point-earning meaning the sky's the limit — especially if you strategize and spend in popular categories.

• No foreign transaction fees
• Uncapped earning potential
• $50 annual statement credit
• Solid point earning rates in popular categories
• This card features 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.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card .

• $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel and airline travel partners.
• 10 points per dollar on hotels, car rentals and Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through the Chase Travel portal, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else
• 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Travel
• Steep initial $550 annual fee.
• May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently.
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 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, 75,000 points are worth $1125 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®

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph card packs a punch for a no-annual-fee product, with an array of bonus categories plus solid perks and straightforward redemption options. Read our  full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph here .

• This card offers 3 points per dollar on various everyday purchases with no annual fee. It also comes with a 20,000-point welcome bonus and an introductory APR offer on purchases. Plus, you'll enjoy up to $600 in cellphone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Despite the lucrative earning structure, Wells Fargo doesn't offer any ways to maximize your redemptions — you're limited to fixed-value rewards like gift cards and statement credits.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

American Express® Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full  review of the American Express Business Gold Card .

• You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each month (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year).
• Hefty $375 annual fee.
• There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
• Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
• *Terms Apply

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great starter card thanks to its no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees when you travel internationally. Earning and redeeming is effortless, with no confusing bonus categories to keep track of and the ability to redeem your points for all of your travel needs. Read our  full review of the Bank of America Travel Rewards  card.

• 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
• No annual fee
• Bank of America does not offer airline or hotel transfer partners like other banks such as American Express, Chase or Capital One.
• No travel and purchase protections.
• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Airlines credit card, in part due to its highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. Whether you’re a loyal Alaska flyer or a points maximizer looking to diversify your rewards portfolio, this card has a lot to offer. For starters, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Pass each year from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year, free checked bags for you and up to six guests on your itinerary, 20% back on in-flight purchases and more. Plus, Alaska has joined the oneworld alliance, opening up endless redemption opportunities. Read our  full review of the Alaska Airline credit card.

• Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation.
• Alaska discounts, including 20% back on in-flight purchases.
• Limited Time Online Offer—60,000 Bonus Miles!
• Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
• Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
• With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

You’ll earn a solid return on dining and travel (6% back and 4% back, respectively, based on TPG valuations ) on top of your generous sign-up bonus, and you also have access to some of the best travel protections offered by any travel rewards credit card.

We’ve long suggested the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card   as an excellent option for those who are new to earning travel rewards because it lets you earn valuable, transferable points  with strong bonus categories and a reasonable annual fee.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it’s hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you’re new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

To add more luxury to your travel experience, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Though it comes with a higher annual fee, you’ll enjoy Priority Pass lounge access plus a $300 annual travel credit.

With the Capital One Venture, you’re earning 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which makes it easy to rack up rewards without having to juggle different bonus categories or spending caps. And with flexible redemption options and a manageable annual fee, this card is an excellent choice if you’re looking to keep just one credit card in your wallet for all spending.

Those looking to earn flexible rewards should use the Capital One Venture card as it allows you to redeem miles for a fixed value or transfer the miles you earn to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners , including Avianca, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone’s wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside of my other cards’ bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks — including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

Even if you’re a casual traveler, consider jumping to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  (see  rates and fees ). The card’s up to $300 annual credit for purchases made with Capital One Travel immediately covers the higher annual fee — and that’s not even considering the added perks you’ll enjoy.

At $395 per year (see rates and fees ), this premium card is cheaper than all of its competitors without sacrificing the breadth of valuable perks it includes. Cardholders will get unlimited visits to Capital One’s premium network of lounges and 1,300-plus Priority Pass lounges worldwide  and able to bring up to two guests for no additional charge.

For frequent travelers, the Capital One Venture X is a must-have and is well worth the $395 annual fee. If you travel frequently with your significant other, family or friends, you can even add some authorized users for no additional cost. This will grant them their own lounge access (and the ability to bring up to two guests for no fee), among many other benefits, making this a huge cost-saver for those who travel in groups.

“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express (see Amex Platinum rates and fees ), the Capital One Venture X card is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One Travel credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees ). Cardholders enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. Authorized users — you geta number of them at no cost — also enjoy their own Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X card to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return at TPG’s valuations ) in spending categories where most cards would only accrue 1 mile — like auto maintenance, pharmacies and medical bills.” — Kyle Olsen , former points and miles reporter

Those turned off by the Venture X’s annual fee could opt for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which has a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ), identical sign-up bonus and similar earning and redemption options.

The Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 in combined travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases made on social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. TPG’s most recent valuations  peg the value of Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents apiece, so you’ll get a fantastic return of 6% on purchases in these categories.

If you spend a lot on business travel or social media advertising, you’ll be able to earn significant points using the Ink Business Preferred card .

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.” — Katie Genter , senior writer

If you don’t want to worry about maximizing specific purchases and are looking for a lower spending requirement to earn a sign-up bonus, consider the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card , which offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases and carries no annual fee.

The Amex Platinum is a stellar premium travel card that can provide amazing redemptions . Besides the welcome offer, it comes with more than $1,400 in credits each year and various lounge access options. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Anyone looking for luxury travel benefits will find that the ton of annual statement credits make the annual fee worth it. Plus, you’ll get unparalleled lounge access , automatic Gold status with Hilton and Marriott, and extra perks with Avis Preferred , Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Car Rental Emerald Club . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

“While this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent and trip protection insurance. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear credits (enrollment is required). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  can be a great alternative to the Amex Platinum, with a notably lower annual fee, similar perks and a more rewarding earning rate on everyday purchases.

The Amex Gold earns 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants, with no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ), meaning you’ll get an 8% return on purchases (based on TPG’s valuations ). While a few other cards temporarily offer higher return rates on dining, this is the best option for long-term spending, making it one of the best dining cards and best rewards cards .

Those looking for a great return on dining and purchases at U.S. supermarkets will get a lot of value from this card.

“Groceries and dining at restaurants are two of my top spending categories, and I love that the Amex Gold rewards those purchases with 4 points per dollar. When you factor in the $10 dining credit and $10 in Uber Cash each month, the $250 annual fee is a net cost of $10.” — Senitra Horbrook , former credit cards editor

For those who dine out a lot and also want additional bonus categories and other valuable perks for a lower annual fee, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

The no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card (see  rates and fees ) has the same redemption options as its sibling card (the Venture Rewards card) but with a lower rewards rate and fewer perks. The miles earned on the card can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners, a benefit not usually seen with a no-annual-fee card.

The VentureOne is a strong card to have in your arsenal and great if you are budgeting. After all, there aren’t many no-annual-fee cards with the ability to transfer points and miles directly to travel partners, so it’s a big bonus that this card offers that (see rates and fees ).

“I wanted a credit card that earns Capital One miles without an annual fee, and this is a winner (see rates and fees ). It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some other cards, but I’m happy earning 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases without paying a fee to keep this card year after year. I’ll never cancel this card.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For a small annual fee, many travelers could benefit from the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar on all purchases and receive a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership.

There are certain ways to earn bonus points for spending on the Amex Business Platinum Card, but it’s the array of perks on the card that make it a great option. Beyond airport lounge access and automatic hotel elite status, there are a number of statement credits that are specifically targeted to common business expenses.

If you travel for business frequently, this card could help you upgrade your experience in the air and on the ground while saving you money on select business-related services. And the current welcome bonus is just the icing on the cake.

“I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that’s even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell (enrollment required), I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For less-frequent travelers, consider the American Express®  Business Gold Card , which offers 4 points per dollar spent on your top two spending categories each month on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter).

The Autograph Journey offers cardholders the chance to earn elevated rates across travel categories including 5 points per dollar spent on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airline purchases and 3 points per dollar on restaurants and 'other travel' which includes timeshares, car rentals, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites and campgrounds. On top of this, cardholders also get the added benefit of earning a flat rate of 1 point per dollar on other purchases for a $95 annual fee.

If you travel frequently and are looking for a card to help you rack up points you can redeem for future travel, this card is a decent option. Additionally, those looking for a way to fill gaps in their points earning strategy will benefit from the flat 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases outside of the main travel categories.

Another great perk the Autograph Journey features is an annual $50 statement credit triggered by an airline purchase of at least $50. This is on top of elevated earning rates in the certain travel categories and a solid welcome offer for new applicants. There's also no foreign transaction fees on the Autograph Journey card making it a good first travel card as well as a decent supplemental card to add to your travel credit card roster.

If you're looking for a more general use credit card with no annual fee, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see  rates and fees ). It earns a flat rate of 2% cash rewards on purchases making an excellent choice to help fill gaps in your reward earning strategy. The best part? Like the Autograph Journey card, the Active Cash Card doesn't put a cap on the amount of cash back you can earn.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with an annual $300 travel credit to offset a variety of expenses — such as airfare, hotels, rental cars, transit and more. You’re also getting an up-to-$100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit  once every four years along with Priority Pass Select membership. And Chase’s slate of transfer partners allows plenty of opportunity to get the maximum value from your points.

Those looking for elevated earning rates and extensive travel protections should have this card in their wallet. The 50% redemption bonus when you use your points to pay for travel through the Chase portal  is also a nice perk.

“I’ve had the Sapphire Reserve for years, and it’s going to stay in my wallet for the near future. I get $300 off travel every year along with great earning rates on travel and dining (3 points per dollar) and various trip protections that can reimburse me when things go wrong. And by leveraging other cards in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, I’m able to maximize the earnings across all of my purchases.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you just can’t stomach the Sapphire Reserve’s $550 annual fee, go for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  instead. It has similar perks, redemption options and travel protections — for a much lower $95 per year.

The Wells Fargo Autograph is a great no-annual-fee card that offers quality earning categories and travel and shopping protection.

Travel card beginners who are looking to get into points earning should consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which offers a welcome bonus, 3 points per dollar on a variety of everyday spending categories and cellphone protection.

If you’re just getting into the travel credit card world and are not sure travel cards are for you, consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which will allow you to earn bonus points on travel spending without the commitment of an annual fee.

If you’re looking to earn transferable reward points but still maintain a similar earning structure, consider the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees ). The card earns 3 points per dollar on dining and 2 points per dollar on travel purchases for no annual fee. Plus, Bilt points can be transferred to any of its multiple travel partners. 

The American Express Business Gold card comes packed with perks and benefits, but its most unique feature is the ability to shift your monthly bonus categories. Cardholders will automatically earn 4 points per dollar in their top two spending categories on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter), so if your business spending varies month to month, you won’t have to commit to a bonus category.

The American Express Business Gold card is an excellent choice for business owners who are looking for a premium business card with premium business perks like monthly office supply statement credits, travel and shopping protection and access to The Hotel Collection.

The American Express Business Gold is an excellent choice for small businesses that have changing bonus categories but still want more premium business perks and benefits.

If you still want to earn Membership Rewards points without paying an annual fee, consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (see rates and fees ), which earns 2 Membership Rewards points on all business purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card operates similarly to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’re earning flat-rate rewards across all spending, and then you can use those rewards as a statement credit to cover eligible travel purchases.

It’s perfect for low-budget beginner travelers  who want a card with no annual fee and a simple way to earn and redeem points.

“I’m happy earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases on a card without an annual fee. I can’t pay for everything in life with transferable points, and it’s nice to have a card with fixed-value points for those situations. I use this card for travel purchases where I need to pay in cash, then I can reimburse myself with the points.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re interested in a card with transferable miles that still has no annual fee (see  rates and fees ), consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

The Alaska Airlines Visa earns 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases; 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services and transit (including local ride share purchases); and 1 mile per dollar on everything else. You get a free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six guests on your reservation, an annual Companion Fare on your account anniversary and 20% back on all inflight purchases.

Whether you live on the West Coast or not, the Alaska Airlines Visa is a good cobranded airline card to consider adding to your wallet. The Seattle-based airline is mostly limited to North American routes, but international destinations through Oneworld partners make this card valuable for all travelers.

“With new benefits, this card is even more valuable to me — even with its higher annual fee. It provides a free first checked bag, discounts on inflight purchases and priority boarding. My favorite feature, however, is the annual Companion Fare. I get hundreds of dollars in annual value from this perk.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re not looking to collect airline-specific miles, a general travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be a better option.

Travel rewards credit cards earn points, miles or cash back that are redeemable for travel expenses or are geared toward travel spending. The cards on this list are some of the best credit cards to book flights , hotels and more with their many perks and rewards . 

Travel credit cards offer rewards on different purchases that can help you book flights, hotels and more for little to no out-of-pocket expenses. Some cards also provide valuable perks and benefits that upgrade the overall travel experience — from Global Entry application fee credits to lounge access to complimentary elite status . If you have the right card (or cards) in your wallet, the sky is the limit on where your travels can take you — literally.

Additionally, it’s often advantageous to travel with more than one credit card for a variety of reasons. Carrying a backup credit card when you travel can provide peace of mind in the case of bank or issuer problems or if you have a card flagged for fraud while you travel. (In this case, knowing if your card requires you to set up travel alerts for lengthy travel could be worthwhile).

Are you new to travel rewards? Check out our beginner’s guide to all things points and miles . You’ll learn about top loyalty programs, how to maximize your credit card strategy to reach your travel goals and so much more.

Related: The complete history of credit cards, from antiquity to today

We have researched various types of travel credit cards to help you figure out which one is best for you.

Travel vs cash back credit cards

A travel credit card is a card that is geared toward travel spending and a cash-back credit card is a card that earns cash back on purchases made with the card.

Generally, when we are talking about travel credit cards we refer to cards that earn points and miles like the Platinum Card from American Express or the Hilton Honors Aspire card. The Platinum Amex earns transferable points which can be used with any of Amex's travel partners while the Hilton Honors Aspire card only earns Hilton points which can be redeemed at Hilton properties. These cards do not earn cash back on any purchases.

Cash back cards generally offer cash back as a flat rate or feature bonus categories that earn an elevated cash back rate. Select cash-back cards can also be a great travel card such as the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express which offers 3% cash back on transit including rideshare, trains, buses, and more. Even though it is a cash-back card, the Blue Cash Preferred offers an elevated return on select transportation which potentially makes it a solid travel card option.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards work like other reward credit cards: They help you earn rewards, primarily points and miles, on your purchases. This section will primarily focus on transferable rewards credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express, as they are what are typically considered travel credit cards.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

How to earn transferable points

Transferable points credit cards earn points or miles when you make a purchase on the cards. These points and miles can then be transferred to travel partners for rewards like flights, hotel stays and more. Different cards will have different currencies, but they are generally called either “points” or “miles” (depending on the issuer). All transferable reward credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards will have their own currency that is redeemable for travel rewards. 

Travel cards have varying rates for different purchase categories. For example, the American Express® Gold Card card earns 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants but only 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or Amex Travel. While the Amex Platinum may be a better card for travel as it earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights (booked directly with airline or Amex Travel and up to $500,000 per calendar year), the Amex Gold can be a good addition for Platinum holders who spend a lot of money on dining out.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

How to redeem points and miles  

Once you’ve decided on a travel credit card and earned a welcome bonus, it’s time to put those points or miles toward free travel. There are many ways to redeem your rewards with travel credit cards. Many cards feature an online booking portal through which you can use your rewards to book things like flights, hotels and car rentals. Before booking your flight, you should consider doing a  flight portal comparison to ensure you're getting the best redemption. Others allow you to transfer your points or miles to individual loyalty programs. Depending on the redemption, this could unlock even more value.

There are plenty of ways to ensure you don’t make mistakes with your travel rewards . For instance, be sure you do your research with your rewards to get a high-value redemption and make sure your accounts are in good standing so you don’t risk losing them.  

Related: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

It’s up to you to decide whether a specific trip is worth spending your rewards. You can use TPG’s monthly valuations to help you determine if the price of your flight or hotel room is worth your points and miles. Some travels are more affordable in cash, but you can always save your points to splurge on a business-class flight to Europe or an overwater bungalow at a luxury resort. 

How to use travel credit card portals  

In the world of travel credit cards, the four major players are American Express, Capital One, Chase and Citi. These issuers also have their own travel portals which can be used to earn and redeem points for travel. 

Some issuers, like Capital One and Chase , offer an incentive to book travel through the bank’s portal but it is not always worth booking through a portal. 

We do not recommend booking hotel travel through card portals as it typically does not honor elite-status benefits or elite-qualifying stay credits. 

Luckily, flights typically allow you to earn bonus points through a card issuer’s portal and with the airline. Keep in mind that this does not apply to all cards. When purchasing in cash, there generally is little variance in booking through a portal or on the airline’s website so if your travel credit card offers incentives to book through the portal , it can be a great way to earn extra points. 

Related: Ultimate guide to the Citi travel portal

Points and miles redemptions will have a fair variance, especially if there are incentives to book through the travel portals. Overall, travel portals can be a great addition to your points redemption journey if properly used. Always remember to compare the price or redemption value of booking through a portal or directly with an airline. 

Booking through a portal may make matters complicated if you ever need to change or cancel your flight. 

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: Which is the best for booking flights?

Types of travel credit cards

Travel credit cards are cards that are geared towards travel spending. Luckily, there are many types of travel credit cards which means there is a good option for any traveler. Typically, when talking about travel credit cards, we are referring to transfer rewards credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards. There are additional types of travel credit cards that are less popular but can still be a good option for the right traveler.

Transferable rewards credit cards earn points and miles that can be redeemed through a card’s rewards program directly or by transferring them to a travel partner . Many of our best travel credit cards fall under this category because they are the most valuable type of points you can earn. Transferable rewards give you the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a way that will be most beneficial to you. Examples of top transferable rewards cards are the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Airline cobranded cards earn a specific type of airline miles. These cards also generally come with perks specific to that airline. For example, an airline card may offer free checked bags , a certain number of elite-qualifying miles to help you reach status, priority boarding privileges, inflight discounts and more.

Hotel cobranded cards work like airline cards. You’ll earn rewards that are redeemable for a particular hotel program, such as Hilton or Marriott. Hotel cards come with their own benefits, such as complimentary elite status or free award-night stays. In addition, hotel cards can help you stack your earnings on hotel stays with the hotel’s program.

For example, if you have a Marriott credit card , you’ll earn bonus points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott properties on top of the 10 base points you get as a member of the Bonvoy program. This can really amplify the rewards you can earn when you use your hotel card to pay for your booking.

The points and miles world can be confusing for new credit card users but it doesn’t have to be. While transferable rewards cards are arguably the best way to earn points and miles for travel, they can also be incredibly confusing. Fixed-value credit cards and cash-back credit cards are good alternatives for beginners who are looking to get into the travel credit card world.

Fixed-value cards earn points or miles that are always redeemed for the same value. For example, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card earns points worth 1 cent each. These cards are great for beginners who haven’t quite gotten the hang of maximizing transferable points or casual travelers who are looking for their first travel credit card . Fixed-value credit cards are often the best travel credit cards for beginners. 

As more hotels and airlines move to a dynamic pricing model where award pricing shifts dramatically, fixed-value rewards programs are becoming more popular.

Another great credit card option for casual travelers or credit card beginners is cash-back credit cards. You don’t have to worry about points, transfer partners or maximizing your rewards with these cards. Cash-back cards provide a percentage of cash back on your spending and provide a simple way to save on your upcoming travels. 

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option for beginners to travel rewards. It earns unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and has no annual fee.

Travel credit card benefits

Some travel cards offer automatic elite status with various programs when you sign up and can also accelerate the journey to elite airline status by converting points to air miles. If you are loyal to a particular hotel brand, status with that brand will be valuable. You’ll be entitled to room upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout and more. If you’re not loyal, it won’t. The same goes for elite status with an airline — you’ll get lounge access, upgrades, increased baggage allowance, etc. When comparing the perks of various cards like elite status, be realistic about which ones you will and won’t use.

One of the coveted perks of premium travel credit cards is complimentary airport lounge access. Many premium travel credit cards come with Priority Pass lounge access , a membership that allows access to airport lounges across the world. These lounges are a great place to relax before your flight or have a snack during a long layover. Amenities will vary between lounges but most lounges provide wifi, private seating and refreshments. Be sure to check the priority pass guest policy as many lounges allow you to bring a complimentary guest (or guests).

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both expedited screening programs for travelers. TSA PreCheck is reserved for expedited security screening for domestic flights and Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for international travelers when entering the United States. 

The application fee for TSA PreCheck is up to $85 and $100 for Global Entry. If you are approved for the program, the membership is valid for 5 years. Many travel credit cards will offer statement credit for the application . 

What TPG readers have to say about their favorite travel credit cards

Fan favorites among top travel credit cards include those that earn both points and miles. In addition to helping offset the cost of travel — whether it’s for rental cars, hotel stays or flights — some TPG readers love that travel cards also offer travel insurance (including protections for things like delayed or lost baggage). We asked our readers which credit card has made the biggest impact when they travel and why — here are their responses.

Note: Responses have not been edited.

“Allowed me to justify staying at nicer hotels and just overall leveling up with how I travel.” — Jackie C via Facebook  

“ Venture X for me - lounge access and my first long haul biz [sic] class flight on points! Changing my travel game for the better!” — Lauren R via Facebook

“Can't beat the flexibility of the $300 travel credit from the Chase Sapphire Reserve .” — Armando S via Facebook

• Awards vs cash calculator Compare the cost in points or miles to cash.
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Earn the welcome bonus

One of the best ways to maximize your travel credit cards is to earn the welcome bonus . Most travel credit cards will offer a welcome or sign-up bonus that allows cardmembers to earn points or miles that would otherwise require a very high spend. Welcome bonuses are a crucial part of a card’s value, so before you apply for your next travel card, be sure to plan for how you will meet the spending requirement. Ideally, you would align large purchases with your card opening so that you don’t need to spend frivolously to earn that lucrative welcome bonus .

Use a travel card that matches your travel style

There is a travel credit card for everyone, but not every travel card is the best fit for your wallet . Consider what type of traveler you are, whether you have any brand loyalty and what perks you are looking for from your next credit card. If you travel often and in luxury, consider premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve® . These cards are loaded with tons of luxury perks like lounge access and automatic elite status . 

Alternatively, if you’re a more thrifty traveler who likes to maximize your travel earnings, consider a mid-tier travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . These cards allow you to earn points on your travel, and while they don’t come with a long list of luxury perks, they’re much more cost-effective for a traveler on a budget .

And even beginners don’t have to veer away from travel cards, since many products out there offer an introduction to the travel rewards world without incurring an annual fee.

It’s important to consider where you’re looking to go when you book trips, as certain cards are especially useful for international travel . Plus, if you’re someone who frequents the skies (such as a digital nomad), there are certain credit cards best for long-term travelers .

Knowing what your travel style is like will help you determine what type of travel card you need.

Use loyalty programs to stack your rewards

You don’t have to limit your earnings to just travel credit cards . Many airlines and hotel chains have loyalty programs that can be used in conjunction with your travel card to unlock added perks when doing business with a specific brand. In addition, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer points from your card to your eligible loyalty programs . This can open up nearly endless redemption options, including award chart sweet spots that can get you the most maximized redemptions for your points and miles.

• 1 Sign-up bonus Choosing a card with a healthy sign-up bonus will help jumpstart the possibility of unlocking elite status across different areas, including airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• 2 Annual fee Premium travel credit cards typically feature higher annual fees. Double-check that the card you choose suits your spending habits and travel needs before applying.
• 3 Bonus categories It also helps to check which bonus categories a card offers to ensure that they align with your spending, whether it’s at restaurants, at grocery stores or on streaming subscriptions.

What's your favorite travel credit card — and why?

• Using credit cards responsibly can help build your credit score
• Travel credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
• Travel credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
• Travel credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more.
• Credit cards can encourage overspending.
• Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
• The cost of borrowing on credit cards is higher than traditional loans
• Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score
• Travel credit cards may be too complicated (or expensive) for those who aren’t frequent travelers.

Generally speaking, you need at least a very good credit score in order to get many popular travel credit cards. According to FICO, the scoring model used by most lenders, this is a score of at least 740. However, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, as each individual credit card issuer looks at a variety of factors in addition to your credit score when deciding whether to approve or decline your application.

Thankfully, there are a number of ways to check your credit score for free , so you can get an idea of where you stand before wasting an application (and a hard inquiry on your credit report) for a card for which you’re unlikely to qualify.

Points and miles are simply two different ways to describe the same thing: the rewards you earn on a credit card. As an example, many popular Capital One credit cards earn miles, whereas cards that participate in Chase Ultimate Rewards accrue points. There’s no appreciable difference between the two words.

This gets a little more complicated when you begin discussing cash-back credit cards. Some of these show earnings with a dollar amount, while others show cash-back rewards in points. However, here too there’s no significant difference. It’s simply how the card issuer chooses to describe the rewards you’re earning.

It depends entirely on your typical travel habits. Many popular travel credit cards feature rewards, benefits and redemption options that only come into play when you’re actually on the road. This includes perks like airport lounge access,  rental car insurance  or statement credits for certain travel purchases. Ultimately, you should look at how much value you expect to get out of a given travel card in one year. Then, compare that to the card’s annual fee to make sure you’re getting at least that much value.

It depends. Generally speaking, you should aim to use your rewards from travel credit cards for travel-related purchases – like flights or hotel rooms. However, everyone has a different version of what “value” looks like here. Some travelers are perfectly content redeeming 25,000 miles for a $250 economy flight. Others would rather save up and use 100,000 miles for a $5,000 business-class ticket. The important thing is to avoid redemptions like gift cards or merchandise, since those typically offer poor value for your points and miles.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether you want to keep cash in your pocket by using rewards for a particular purchase instead.

Many of the luxury travel cards on this list offer hundreds of dollars in annual travel statement credits. However, not all annual travel statements are created equal. While some cards feature easy redemptions, other cards feature redemptions that come with more restrictions. 

Out of the various cards that offer annual travel credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has the easiest redemption process for travel credits . The Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel credit covers a broad selection of charges, including flights, hotels, campgrounds and more. Additionally, the travel does not have to be booked through Chase’s travel portal, and the statement credit will automatically post when you make an eligible purchase. 

Summer 2024 travel already breaking records: Here are some of our top tips

M emorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the busy summer travel season — and it was one for the record books. May 24, the Friday before the long holiday weekend, was the busiest ever for the Transportation Security Administration, with the agency screening 2.9 million people. In fact, five of the 10 busiest days on record happened this month alone. According to the TSA, the agency screened nearly 8% more people over this year's holiday weekend versus 2023.

If Memorial Day weekend is any indication, it's going to be a record-breaking summer for both domestic and international travel. That's because the usually busy travel season will also include travel-worthy events like the Summer Olympics in Paris.

Record-breaking summer travel expected

U.S. airlines predict 271 million will travel between June 1 and Aug. 31. That would easily surpass last summer's record of 255 million, according to Airlines for America . U.S. airlines plan to operate over 26,000 flights daily this summer, an increase of nearly 1,400 flights per day from the previous year (or 5.6% over last summer ).

Airlines have added flights to accommodate the rush of demand.

"U.S. airlines are excited to fly a record number of travelers this summer," Rebecca Spicer, A4A's senior vice president of communications, said in a press release. "Our carriers have adjusted their schedules to adapt to current realities of our National Airspace System (NAS), helping to alleviate some of those pressure points and making for a smooth summer travel season."

Indeed, U.S. airlines performed remarkably well over the long Memorial Day weekend despite a series of thunderstorms that slammed parts of the country . Airlines appear to be recovering more quickly without the cataclysmic failures in the system we saw coming out of the worst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Still, it's better to be prepared for anything. Here are a few of my top tips to help you stay sane this summer.

Reserve parking

As travel demand has increased, so, too, has the need for airport parking. We are increasingly seeing "sold out" signs at airport parking lots.

To ensure you aren't stuck searching for a spot that may or may not exist, lock in that reservation now. Most airport parking lots offer prepaid or reserved parking, making it easy to book in advance. You may even find the rates are cheaper when you book ahead of time.

Related: Don't forget to do this before heading to the airport this summer

Allow extra time

It's going to be busy at the airport this summer, and you should plan accordingly. While we aren't seeing the staffing shortages of a few years ago, there are only so many baggage handlers, ticket counter employees and security screeners.

My mantra for this summer (and the one many of my TPG colleagues share) is that you're "better safe than sorry." That is why we suggest getting to the airport two hours early for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. You just never know these days.

Modern airports have so many conveniences and attractions that it's not the worst thing to have a little extra time at the lounge or even to do some shopping.

Get Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or clear — or a combination of all 3

At TPG, we always recommend using any security shortcuts, including enrolling in a Trusted Traveler Program like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

With these programs, the government essentially prescreens you for security, thus saving you a bit of time during your travels. You'll need to apply ahead of time and pay a fee. The great news, though, is that many credit cards will give you a statement credit for these fees.

Related: 7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear

TSA PreCheck allows you to speed through airport security without removing your shoes, laptops or liquids. With Global Entry , you can breeze through customs when you return from an international trip.

We recommend getting Global Entry rather than simply TSA PreCheck . Global Entry requires an interview with U.S. Customs and Border Protection ahead of time, but once you're approved, TSA PreCheck will be included.

We also like Clear , another security program that allows you to bypass long security lines.

A Clear membership combined with TSA PreCheck will enable you to go to even shorter lines at some airports with designated Clear/TSA PreCheck lines. Clear isn't always faster, but it will still generally lead to shorter lines.

Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both

Be smart when you are booking

There is still a shortage of air traffic controllers , and things can and do still go wrong. Travelers these days have to be their own best advocates.

Book better

Think through each booking you make. Try to find a nonstop flight instead of a flight with multiple connections to reduce the risk of missing a flight or being delayed. This will also lessen the chance of having your luggage lost or misplaced.

We also recommend you take one of the first flights of the day, as early flights are less likely to face weather disruptions like afternoon thunderstorms, meaning they're most likely to depart on time.

Related: Flight canceled or delayed? Here's what to do next

Knowledge is power

Make sure you are tracking your flight and the weather.

Download your airline's mobile app to keep track of potential flight delays in real time. Airline apps are a secret weapon in case things go wrong. Not only will you know when boarding starts, but you'll also learn of any delays first. Some airlines even allow you to rebook yourself in the app (or buy yourself an upgrade).

If your flight is canceled, you'll want to beat everyone else on your flight who is also looking to get rebooked.

We recommend heading to the main customer service desk (or the one at a lounge, if you have access). You could also get on the phone with the airline or contact the carrier via social media if there's a delay. Sometimes, an airline's social media representative will help you faster than a phone or in-person agent. You have to use every tool at your disposal when things go wrong.

Many airlines also now have live chat capabilities to help navigate delays and cancellations.

I always have an alternate plan (or two) in the back of my mind in case a flight gets canceled or delayed. I also look to see what other airlines are flying the route I'm taking in case something goes awry. This way, I'll know what to ask for if I need to be rebooked.

I also like using FlightRadar24 to track my flights, plus an app called Flighty . The latter helps me keep an eye on my flights and will often let me know before anyone else (even the airline) if there is a problem with my flight.

You can also use Google to track your flight. Simply put in the airline and flight number to see your flight status.

Know your rights

There's good news regarding passenger rights. The Biden administration is taking a tougher stance when it comes to holding airlines accountable and aiding consumers.

New Department of Transportation rules are more passenger-friendly, requiring airlines to promptly refund passengers if they cancel their flights (or make a significant adjustment to the schedule).

You are entitled to a full refund to your original form of payment within a week if you paid by credit card and within three weeks if you used another payment method. This applies to flights delayed by three or more hours if flying within the U.S. and by at least six hours if flying internationally. Keep in mind, though, that airlines are only required to refund passengers who don't use their tickets.

If you find yourself dealing with a delay or cancellation, remember to save all the receipts for the expenses you incur. You'll want excellent documentation in the case of meltdowns like the one Southwest Airlines passengers experienced during the 2022 winter holidays .

Related reading:

• Best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 10 ways to get through airport security faster

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

How to find the best summer travel deals

Here are some ways to save while planning your next summer getaway, by ale zimmermann and leslie gaydos • published may 31, 2024 • updated on may 31, 2024 at 5:31 pm.

As the summer travel season heats up, many of are dreaming of a vacation getaway.

Finding a good deal can seem like a daunting task. But with a few smart strategies, you can save big on your next flight.

“We're seeing that airfare has renormalized,” said Katy Nastro, a travel expert at Going.com. “The average price of airfare year over year is down about 6%, and it's down about 15% from where we saw that absolute, very hot, sky-high prices in this summer of 2022.”

Nastro tells us there are a couple things travelers should keep in mind while planning their next summer getaway.

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“We always say let the deal decide the destination. You can fly again into places like Cancun for $261 round trip from Boston,” Nastro said.

On Going.com, travelers can explore possibilities. By hitting the “let us choose” button – users will be able to pull up airfare deals, show you when they’re available and give you a price history of the flight. Be flexible with travel dates. Airfares are cheaper mid-week and consider flying into or out of nearby airports.

“Being flexible on the airports or cities that you're flying into can afford you some affordability when it comes to overall flight price,” Nastro said.

Consider using fare comparison websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner, which allows users to compare prices across multiple airlines and set up price alerts to monitor fare changes. On Skyscanner, users can choose “explore everywhere” as the destination and flexible dates to find the best deals.

More on travel

Gen Zs are spending big to travel this summer — even if it means going into debt

American Airlines shares tumble 13% after sales strategy backfires; carrier cuts growth

Airline ‘Bark Air' lands inaugural dog-friendly flight in LA

“Often you can fly into a destination and then take a budget flight to get to your intended destination overall,” explained Nastro. “We call this the Greek islands trick, and it is especially beneficial for looking at those pricey flights over to Europe.”

Nastro also recommends mixing and matching airlines: “Don't just hyper focus on searching for round trips. Also, do your search two one ways and often flying in on one carrier and then out on another can help you save.”

And don’t forget about airline loyalty programs.

“If you do have a stash of points and miles, this is a really great time period to consider [using] even for one leg of your flight or one part of your itinerary. When cash prices are really high, you often get the best return on value in terms of using your points and miles,” said Nastro.

Here’s a lesser-known travel hack: clear a browser’s cookies when searching for flights. Airlines can sometimes track searches and can increase prices based on browsing history.

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How to Get More Hotel Points and Airline Miles in June 2024

By Ramsey Qubein

Summer is here, and it’s vacation time for many families looking to get away from the grind. Points and miles can help make sure your next trip doesn’t drain your budget by putting your airline loyalty accounts, hotel memberships, and credit cards to work for you. It's a good month for travel deals—to encourage business, many companies offer seasonal promotions rewarding repeat purchases or loyalty. Below, the deals and perks you need to know about to kick off summer with a bang.

But first: If you need to learn how to get started with travel rewards credit cards or how to use points and miles, read our guide for beginners here . And for more guides, advice, and reviews of travel credit cards, go to our points and miles section .

Get more value and loyalty points when flying Delta

Delta loyalists, rejoice: The airline has a couple of promotions with deadlines coming up—so act fast. First, Delta has a new promotion that lets travelers earn one (1) Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQDs) per dollar spent when reserving hotels or car rentals through its travel portal. This offer is a great way to get closer to elite status without actually flying, and it’s available through June 24. Note that, because you’re booking hotel stays through Delta’s travel portal, you will not earn hotel points or be eligible for hotel status benefits during those stays. It is best to use this travel portal only when booking stays where you’re not looking to earn hotel points or status perks, perhaps at properties where you may not have any kind of loyalty anyway.

There’s also a special offer available until June 17 (or while supplies last) that rewards travelers with a bonus $20 Starbucks gift card when purchasing a Delta gift card worth $300 using any credit card. This could be a good way to bank cash for a future flight; Delta gift cards are easy to use and are treated like cash, meaning using a gift card to buy a plane ticket through Delta means you’re eligible to earn miles and loyalty points with the airline.

Earn more points at stays with Marriott, Choice Hotels, and Best Western

Considering a vacation rental in beach, mountain, or urban destinations this summer? Marriott Bonvoy members can earn five points per dollar spent on any Homes & Villas by Marriott booking made between now and June 26. The stay should last for a minimum of five nights and take place between now and March 31, 2025. Be sure to register for this promotion before your stay.

Through August 5, guests who complete a stay at Choice Hotels properties can earn 8,000 points (enough for a $50 gift card) after completing two qualifying stays. Travelers can earn the bonus as many as four times, but only after registering for the promotion . Choice Privileges points can be used at the brand’s portfolio of hotels, but also at Preferred Hotels & Resorts , a collection of independent luxury hotels around the world, which include The Leela Palace Udaipur in India (a Condé Nast Traveler Gold List editor’s pick) and The Fullerton Hotel Sydney in Australia.

Best Western Rewards released their summer offer with 10,000 bonus points earned after staying for three nights. Stay for another three nights, and you earn another 10,000 bonus points, capped at 20,000 points. Staying beyond six nights during the promotion unlocks another perk: double points on all stays with a weekend checkout, and triple points when checking out on a weekday (Again, be sure to register before your first stay ). This promotion is valid through September 2. Best Western’s hotel network is larger than what you might think, with some luxurious options within the WorldHotels brand. Among them: the Alhambra Palace Hotel in Granada, Spain, and Makedonia Palace in Thessaloniki, Greece.

Buy points and miles with a bonus

In addition to booking stays and taking flights, you can always just outright buy points and miles to get closer to an award redemption with a hotel or an airline. You have until June 10 to take advantage of a 70% bonus when buying Flying Blue miles, the points currency of Air France-KLM. You can use those miles to book flights with the European megacarrier or any of its partners like Delta and Virgin Atlantic.

And if you need Hyatt points, you’re in luck: World of Hyatt is offering a 20% bonus on purchased points between now and July 1. These points are well-spent for stays at places like the recently renovated Park Hyatt Milano in Milan, Italy, or the beautiful new Thompson Houston, by Hyatt that just opened earlier this year.

If you take advantage of these opportunities, note that purchases for both these bonus offers are processed through Points.com, and not directly through the airline or hotel themselves. This means you wouldn’t earn extra points for using a credit card that gives bonus spending categories for flights or hotel stays, respectively. You’re better off using a card that earns two points per dollar spent on all types of spending, like the Capital One Venture card .

Secure a status match through cruises

If cruises are part of your summer plans, consider a status match available for the Royal Caribbean Group’s trio of brands: Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises , and Silversea . If you hold elite status with one of the three cruise lines, you are now eligible for equivalent status on the other two—and that includes all the onboard discounts and bonuses that come with it depending on your status. You don’t need to do anything to take advantage of it other than provide your loyalty number before your cruise.

Use up those credit card perks and rewards

Each month, credit card companies provide incentives, like Amex Offers, for spending a certain amount with different retailers and brands. These can prove to be lucrative ways to score bonus points or sizable cash rebates. This month, The Platinum Card from American Express is offering many cardholders a $40 statement credit when spending $180 on Delta tickets. The offer is available through July 5, but must be activated in your credit card account first. Hilton, Hyatt Inclusive Collection, JetBlue, and Hertz have similar cash back offers valid for the start of summer.

By Jessica Puckett

By Matt Ortile

By Olivia Morelli

By Alex Van Buren

Other American Express cardholders may find offers for WorldHotels to earn a $150 statement credit after spending $750 between now and July 19. And an offer especially for those with the Delta Platinum American Express card : 7,500 bonus Delta SkyMiles added to your account after spending $200 on Delta flights before August 15.

Chase Sapphire Reserve members attending the Olympics in Paris have access to a special VIP lounge that will have food, drinks, and meet-and-greets with Olympic athletes. Cardholders can bring one guest any time the lounge is open between July 27 and August 11. They are also eligible for special access to dinner reservations at an iconic restaurant with tasting menus in view of the Eiffel Tower .

Other good hotel bonuses to check out

Another promotion from World of Hyatt: If you book a stay at a Thompson Hotel or a Dream Hotel—two of Hyatt’s boutique luxury brands—each night will count as two nights towards elite status. This is running until July 15, an extension of an original promotion that was offered earlier in the year. Be sure to register before your stay .

Additionally, IHG One Rewards members can hit two birds with one stone by staying at any IHG property, earning their usual nights and points for the hotel stay, and earn United MileagePlus miles on top of that. The booking must be made by June 30, and the stays must be completed by August 31. Registration is required .

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Mother's Day Cruise | Adults Only

Bimini, Bahamas

See more photos

About this trip

It's Mother's Day and It is Time for the Taurus to TURN UP! Join Destination Engineers as we sail out with Virgin Voyages to Puerto Plata, the Dominican Republic, and The Bahamas! This is one of the top cruise lines and we are gonna make sure we leave our mark!!  Meet us in Miami and let's get ready to sail!

* You must arrive in Miami no later than 12:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10th, 2024. We HIGHLY suggest to arrive 1 day prior on Thursday, May 9th, 2024.

*1st Deposits are due by October 31, 2023 (rates/promotions are subject to change after that)

*All Final payments must be paid no later than January 1st, 2024.

*Cruises are for Adults Only (must be 18 to sail)

*PASSPORTS ARE REQUIRED!

* All travel documents will be sent 14-21 days prior to departure.  

*You must purchase your own flight. The airport code is MIA (Miami International Airport)

* Cruise rates are non-refundable and non-transferable. Travel Insurance is HIGHLY recommended. All deposits & payments are non-refundable, but all packages are eligible for travel insurance which can reimburse you should you have to cancel (see terms of your travel insurance carrier).

What’s included

• Cabin For 5 Nights Please Choose your desired Cabin
• Cabin Amenities/Services 24hr Room Service, Movie Channels, Private bathroom and shower amenities and a safe. Mood Lighting.
• Food & Drinks Over 20 different restaurants to choose from. They are ALL INCLUDED in your price. Essential drinks included: water, tea, juice, soda, coffee
• Gratuities No need to worry about gratuities, they are already included in your price.
• Wi-Fi Basic Wi-Fi service is included. Premium is also available for a fee.
• On Board Activities Clubs, Bars, Karaoke, Option for Private Karaoke, Live Music, Comedy Acts, Dive-In Theater, Poolside activities and much more...
• Pajamas Party This is normally on the first night on the ship!
• Scarlet Night Welcome to Scarlet Night! Throughout the evening, the entire ship is transformed with everyone wearing red!
• Sailor Loot! You can get up to $300 in Sailor Loot (per Cabin) for Drinks and other expenses on the ship if you pay your deposit by October 31st, 2023

What’s not included

• Flights Airport Code MIA (Miami International Airport)
• Alcoholic Drinks Additional Bar tab can be pre-purchased in $300 increments. If Pre purchased you will receive an extra $50
• Ground Transportation Can be purchased separately or free with participating hotels
• Gift Shop Purchases There are some nice shops Onboard 👌🏾
• Shore Excursions Pre-Sail shore excursion orders can be booked using the Virgin Voyages mobile app or logging online to your account
• Gambling at Casino Yes! There is a casino!
• Travel Insurance Can be purchased separately https://product.wetravel.com/travel-insurance or by Contacting Destination Engineers

Available Packages

Price is based on a triple occupancy room rate – THREE PEOPLE MUST BE IN THE SAME ROOM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THIS RATE. IF YOU WILL HAVE A ROOMMATE, CHOOSE THIS OPTION . (If you are paying for one person, please list the name of your roommate in the notes section.)  

THE TOTAL COST OF THE CABIN IS $3150 SPLIT BY 3 PEOPLE.  

The ultimate go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation, our cabins stand out for their flexible furnishings, upgraded bathrooms with Roomy Rainshowers, and sensory mood lighting, creating comfy quarters that are way more than just a place to crash.

INCLUDED FOR ALL SAILORS

• Shows & Entertainment
• Group Fitness Classes
• Essential Drinks

Price is based on a double occupancy room rate – TWO PEOPLE MUST BE IN THE SAME ROOM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THIS RATE. IF YOU WILL HAVE A ROOMMATE, CHOOSE THIS OPTION . (If you are paying for one person, please list the name of your roommate in the notes section.)  

TOTAL COST OF THE CABIN IS $2300 SPLIT BY TWO PEOPLE.

The ultimate go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation, our cabins stand out for the flexible furnishings, and upgraded bathrooms with Roomy rainshowers, and sensory mood lighting, creating comfy quarters that are way more than just a place to crash.

Price is based on a triple occupancy room rate – THREE PEOPLE MUST BE IN THE SAME ROOM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THIS RATE. IF YOU WILL HAVE A ROOMMATE, CHOOSE THIS OPTION . (If you are paying for one person, please list the name of your roommate in the notes section.  

THE TOTAL COST OF THE CABIN IS $3510 SPLIT BY 3 PEOPLE.  

The ultimate go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation, our cabins stand out for their flexible furnishings, upgraded bathrooms with Roomy rainshowers, and sensory mood lighting, creating comfy quarters that are way more than just a place to crash.

THE TOTAL COST OF THE CABIN IS $2650 SPLIT BY TWO PEOPLE.

Price is based on a triple occupancy room rate – THREE PEOPLE MUST BE IN THE SAME ROOM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THIS RATE. IF YOU WILL HAVE A ROOMMATE, CHOOSE THIS OPTION . (If you are paying for one person, please list the name of your roommate in the notes section.) 

THE TOTAL COST OF THE CABIN IS $4170 SPLIT BY 3 PEOPLE.

The ultimate go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation, our cabins stand out for the flexible furnishings, upgraded bathrooms with Roomy Rainshowers and sensory mood lighting, creating comfy quarters that are way more than just a place to crash.

Price is based on a double occupancy room rate – TWO PEOPLE MUST BE IN THE SAME ROOM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THIS RATE. IF YOU WILL HAVE A ROOMMATE, CHOOSE THIS OPTION . (If you are paying for one person, please list the name of your roommate in the notes section.) . 

THE TOTAL COST OF THE CABIN IS $3200 TO BE SPLIT BY TWO PEOPLE.

Pricing is based on ONE person being in the cabin. Choose this option if you will be the only person occupying the cabin.  The ultimate go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation, our cabins stand out for the flexible furnishings, upgraded bathrooms with Roomy Rain showers and sensory mood lighting, creating comfy quarters that are way more than just a place to crash. 

Pricing is based on ONE person being in the cabin. Choose this option if you will be the only person occupying the cabin. 

The ultimate go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation, our cabins stand out for the flexible furnishings, upgraded bathrooms with Roomy Rain showers and sensory mood lighting, creating comfy quarters that are way more than just a place to crash. 

Price is based on a double occupancy room rate – TWO PEOPLE MUST BE IN THE SAME ROOM IN ORDER TO RECEIVE THIS RATE. IF YOU WILL HAVE A ROOMMATE, CHOOSE THIS OPTION . (If you are paying for one person, please list the name of your roommate in the notes section.)

THE TOTAL COST OF THE CABIN IS $4600 SPLIT BY TWO PEOPLE.  

The ultimate go-to for relaxation and rejuvenation, our cabins stand out for the flexible furnishings, and upgraded bathrooms with Roomy rainshowers and sensory mood lighting, creating comfy quarters that are way more than just a place to crash.

ROCKSTAR QUARTERS PERKS:

• Exclusive Richard's Rooftop access
• RockStar Agent
• Stocked & ready to rock in-room bar
• Early/Priority access booking
• Large Luxurious Shower
• Larger Interior space

Available options

The Valiant Lady Cruise ship will depart from Miami, FL at 6p sharp!

The Pajama Party should be on this day in the evening.

 Let's see what there is to do on this ship...It's huge so we have a lot to explore! 

Arrival: 10:00 AM

Departure: 7:00 PM

We've made it to our first destination! Arrival time 10am, Departure time 7p. There are tons of shore excursions to do. Chose what you'd like to do and make sure you get lots of pictures! 

There are many Shore Excursions that you could do:

Dual Day: City and Beach Experience Starting at $75 Per Person

Island Rum Tasting Tour Starting at $50 Per Person

Eat, Drink and Dance: A Dominican Fiesta Starting at $85 Per Person

Take advantage of the private Karaoke and included Arcade!

Rent a cabana, go jet skiing, enjoy the private beach club owned by Virgin Voyages. And guess what??? We can also use our bar tab here as well. Eat, drink, play, relax....the choice is yours.

Shore Excursions To name a few...

Jet Ski for two - From $250

Views & Blues Cruise - From $100

Private beach Cabana - From $100

Heritage Tour - From $85

Later That Night is Scarlet Night! Pull out your red outfits and enjoy the night festivities. 

We should Arrive Back in Miami at 6:30 AM. You should be able to get off the ship by 8AM or you can depart by 10:00AM at your leisure. 

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