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10 Cheapest Places to Travel in the U.S. This December

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 18:55 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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December on a Budget: The World’s Cheapest Destinations for Holiday Travel

As the year winds down, many travelers look for a break that won’t burn a hole in their wallets. The December travel calendar offers a smorgasbord of destinations where currency, accommodations, and activities stay pleasantly low. A recent guide from Travel + Leisure compiles a list of 20 of the most affordable places to visit in December, drawing on price comparisons, local currency strength, and seasonal attractions. Below is a detailed recap of the destinations highlighted, why they’re inexpensive at that time of year, and the practicalities of visiting them.

1. Mexico – Cancun and Mérida

Mexico remains a perennial budget favorite. In December, the high season is easing, allowing travelers to snag better rates for hotels and flights. Cancun’s all‑in‑all-inclusive resorts offer significant discounts, especially if booked in packages that include airfare. Mérida, the colonial capital of Yucatán, delivers authentic Mexican culture with low-cost dining and a climate that is warm but not oppressively hot. Local markets and street food provide a cost-effective way to sample fresh seafood and local produce.

Link Followed: “Mexico All-Inclusive Packages”
The linked page offers a comparison of package deals, highlighting the average savings of 15‑25% versus peak season rates. It also lists recommended inclusive resorts such as the Hotel Riu Palace Peninsula, which frequently runs promotions that cover meals, drinks, and even beach club access.

2. Vietnam – Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi

Vietnam’s robust exchange rate and cost‑effective street food culture keep the cost of travel low. December is cooler, making it ideal for exploring historical sites like the Cu Chi tunnels and the ancient citadel of Hue. Flight costs from the U.S. and Europe are relatively modest, especially when booked mid‑week. In Hanoi, the Old Quarter remains lively, and local cafés offer inexpensive coffee and local snacks.

Link Followed: “Vietnam Travel Tips”
This link provides an in‑depth guide to inexpensive lodging options, such as the Hanoi Backpacker’s Guesthouse, which offers rooms under $30 per night. It also recommends using the Momo food delivery app to find budget-friendly meals in the city’s bustling neighborhoods.

3. India – Rajasthan

India’s sprawling heritage sites in Rajasthan—Jaipur’s Amber Fort, Udaipur’s lakes, and Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort—are affordable. December’s cooler temperatures make it a great time to travel, avoiding the oppressive heat of the summer months. Accommodations range from budget-friendly heritage hotels to guesthouses offering clean, simple rooms for under $20 a night. Local transport via shared auto‑rickshaws and state bus services is inexpensive, and the local cuisine—particularly street‑style chaat and kebabs—keeps meal costs low.

Link Followed: “Rajasthan Travel Guide”
The guide outlines the best budget accommodation, including the Jaipur Rajasthani Lodge, and gives a breakdown of the average daily expenses: lodging ($25), meals ($15), local transport ($10), and entrance fees ($12).

4. Turkey – Istanbul and Cappadocia

Turkey’s currency, the lira, has shown resilience, and in December the cost of living remains low. Istanbul’s historic peninsula, featuring the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, can be explored on a budget when staying in hostels or boutique guesthouses. Cappadocia’s surreal landscape of fairy chimneys and hot‑air balloon rides are surprisingly affordable; the balloons themselves offer competitive pricing compared to other destinations, and the region’s modest lodging keeps nightly rates below $30.

Link Followed: “Turkey Cheap Travel Tips”
The article lists the Cappadocia Cave Hotel as a budget-friendly option, with rooms starting at $28. It also highlights the “Sundays off” policy of many hotels, where guests can use hotel facilities for free, reducing the overall cost of the trip.

5. South Africa – Cape Town

Cape Town is an economical winter escape, with lower airfare and accommodation rates. The city’s natural beauty—the Table Mountain, beaches of Clifton, and the Cape Peninsula—is available for a fraction of the price of European cities. Public transportation is reliable, and inexpensive local eateries serve up fresh seafood and braai (barbecue). South Africa’s vibrant cultural scene—especially its jazz clubs—offers affordable entertainment.

Link Followed: “Cape Town Budget Travel”
This resource outlines the best budget lodging in the city, like the St. George Backpackers, which charges under $20 per night. It also recommends the Kudu Car Rental discount for travelers needing to explore the Cape’s outskirts.

6. Indonesia – Bali

Bali’s tropical climate remains comfortable in December, and while the rainy season can reduce tourist crowds, the island’s hospitality industry keeps rates low. Affordable guesthouses—such as the Bali Backpacker Hostel—offer private rooms for less than $25 a night. Local transportation via motorbike rentals and shared vans makes moving around cheap. Dining at warungs (small local restaurants) provides fresh, inexpensive meals.

Link Followed: “Bali Cheap Eats”
The link lists popular warungs like Warung Murah, where a nasi campur (mixed rice plate) costs around $3. It also offers a guide to buying cheap beach equipment from local vendors.

7. Philippines – Manila and Palawan

The Philippines offers a variety of islands and cities that remain inexpensive in December. Manila’s museums and historic districts are easily explored on a tight budget, and the country’s well‑known “budget travel” culture ensures cheap hostels and eateries. Palawan’s beaches and the famed Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park can be visited for less than $50 per day, especially if travelers book packages that combine airfare and accommodations.

Link Followed: “Philippines Travel Package Deals”
The page presents a comparative analysis of package deals from travel agencies, showing that booking a 7‑day tour including flights and lodging can save up to 30% compared to booking each component separately.

8. Egypt – Cairo and Alexandria

December is the best time to explore Egypt’s ancient wonders without the high summer prices. Cairo’s iconic pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar are all affordable. In Alexandria, the Corniche and the Library of Alexandria offer inexpensive cultural experiences. Hotels and guesthouses in both cities can be booked for under $25 per night, and local street food is both delicious and economical.

Link Followed: “Egypt Budget Guide”
The guide provides a cost breakdown: lodging ($22), meals ($13), local transport ($8), and entrance fees to major attractions ($15), yielding an average daily cost of about $58.

9. Thailand – Bangkok and Chiang Mai

Thailand’s stable currency and the popularity of its travel destinations keep costs down. Bangkok’s vibrant street markets, temples, and shopping malls can be enjoyed on a budget. Chiang Mai offers cooler temperatures, cultural festivals, and affordable guesthouses. Many hostels provide kitchen facilities, allowing travelers to save on food by cooking.

Link Followed: “Thailand Cheap Accommodation”
The link reviews the Chiang Mai Old City Guesthouse, where rooms start at $15. It also lists local eateries offering Pad Thai for $4 and a bowl of Tom Yum soup for $5.

10. Morocco – Marrakech

Morocco’s Marrakech is a cultural treasure with prices that remain low in December. The city’s souks, palaces, and the famous Djemaa el-Fna square can be explored without spending a fortune. Budget hotels such as the Marrakech Guesthouse charge around $20 per night. Food is inexpensive; a typical Moroccan tagine costs around $8, and street vendors provide affordable options.

Link Followed: “Marrakech Budget Travel”
The article includes a cost-per-day estimate: lodging ($22), meals ($16), transport ($10), and activities ($12), totaling roughly $60 per day.

Practical Tips for Traveling on a Budget

1. Book Flights Early – Securing flights a few months in advance often results in better rates. Use fare comparison tools and set up price alerts for December deals.
2. Stay in Hostels or Guesthouses – These accommodations provide basic amenities at a fraction of hotel costs. Many hostels include free Wi‑Fi, a communal kitchen, and local travel tips.
3. Eat Like a Local – Street food, warungs, and local markets not only offer authentic flavors but also help keep daily meal expenses low.
4. Use Public Transport – Buses, trains, and shared taxis are often cheaper than taxis and provide an authentic travel experience.
5. Look for Package Deals – Some destinations offer bundled packages that include flights, accommodations, and activities, delivering overall savings.
6. Travel During the Shoulder Season – December’s weather is typically comfortable in many locations, and the crowds are thinner compared to peak winter months.

Final Thoughts

The December travel calendar is brimming with inexpensive destinations that cater to a range of interests, from beach relaxation to cultural immersion. By combining savvy booking strategies, local cuisine, and budget accommodations, travelers can experience the world without breaking the bank. The Travel + Leisure guide serves as an excellent starting point, but always cross‑reference current exchange rates, local travel advisories, and recent traveler reviews to ensure a smooth, cost‑effective holiday. Happy travels!