5 Awesome and Affordable December Vacation Spots

Holiday cheer—with a festive price tag!

Are your travel dreams bigger than your holiday budget? Christmas getaways are popular—and pricey. But believe it or not, an affordable December vacation is possible. You just have to pick the right spot. Because from winter wonderlands to cozy cabins, there are awesome, budget-friendly options for relaxation, outdoor adventures, and holiday spirit!

Pack your bags and experience the magic of the holidays—without stretching your budget—at these affordable destinations!

• Eugene, OR

  Looking for a sip-worthy December vacation, without the Napa Valley price tag?

  Tucked into the Willamette Valley, Eugene provides the perfect balance between urban amenities, outdoor beauty, and rustic warmth. And December is the perfect time to visit! The city’s farm-to-table dining scene features cozy restaurants serving locally sourced fare, while holiday markets and light displays add a festive flair.

  The town is surrounded by lush forests and scenic hiking trails. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cascade Mountains! Eugene is also home to several world-class wineries, which are open for tours, tastings, and special holiday events. Award-winning Pinot Noir, anybody?

• Flagstaff, AZ

  Even a snowy December vacation can fit into your winter budget!

  Flagstaff is a heartwarming—but affordable—winter escape with a welcoming mountain vibe. The historic downtown is filled with local shops and rustic restaurants. Be sure to visit one of the local breweries for a taste of the seasonal craft beers.

  Flagstaff often sees snow in December, making it the perfect picturesque destination for your Christmas photos. And there are plenty of outdoor activities for you and your crew to enjoy: skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing are all popular here.

  P.S. Want to cross off one of your bucket list vacations? Flagstaff serves as a gateway to the Grand Canyon and its serene winter beauty.

• Pigeon Forge, TN

  An affordable December vacation that’s fun for the whole family? Trust Santa to deliver it—in Pigeon Forge.

  The cozy mountain town, snuggled right into the Great Smoky Mountains, is filled with quirky shops, rustic cabins, and traditional holiday cheer. The beauty of the mountains and slower pace are ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled escape. And Pigeon Forge’s food scene is hearty and comforting, with plenty of Southern specialties to warm you up after a day of exploring.

  But if you really want to be dazzled by the holidays, there’s one absolute can’t-miss: Dollywood and its Smoky Mountain Christmas. Over 6 million lights, towering Christmas trees, and festive performances will have you glowing with holiday spirit!

• Portland, ME

  If you’re looking for a Hallmark movie vibe this December, New England is the budget-friendly spot to be!

  Portland has it all: dazzling lights, charming historic buildings, and snow. Lots and lots of snow, to be specific. But don’t let the cold scare you away; this cheerful winter wonderland is definitely worth bundling up for. Start your visit in the Old Port District, where the cobblestone streets, festive decorations, and quaint storefronts create the perfect backdrop for your holiday shopping.

  And Portland’s coastal vibe feels almost magical against the wintery landscape. While you’re digging into fresh lobster and chowder, the scenic views and iconic lighthouses make for a breathtaking vista.

• St. Augustine, FL

  Yes, Florida does have an affordable December vacation spot!

  Let the crowds fill up the theme parks; you guys know the secret: head to St. Augustine. The oldest city in the nation knows how to blend old-world charm with festive cheer. Cobblestone streets twinkle with millions—yes, millions!—of lights during its annual Nights of Lights celebration. Hop on one of the trolleys and listen to Christmas tunes as you tour Old Town, or cuddle under a blanket on a romantic horse-driven carriage ride.

  St. Augustine’s mild winter weather is perfect for soaking up the coastal ambiance. Tour centuries-old landmarks, enjoy waterfront dining, or sit on the seawall to watch the lighted boat parade.

An affordable December vacation is totally doable, and these cities prove it! So go ahead: pack your favorite Ugly Christmas Sweater and head to one of these budget-friendly—but awesome—destinations!

And to keep those costs even lower, ship your festive gear to your hotel or Airbnb with LugLess. Skip the baggage lines and avoid the crowds at baggage claim—for less than the cost of the average checked bag. Less hassles, more savings; you may have just cracked the Christmas code!