12 Amazingly Cheap Places to Fly in December 2025

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December’s one of my favorite months to fly. Airports are buzzing, cities are lit up, and if you time it right – you can score flights for way less than you’d think.

I’ve been to 69 countries and saved thousands on airfare just by knowing where (and when) to look. These aren’t “cheap flights” to places you don’t actually want to go. These are real destinations with soul – warm beaches, Christmas markets, wild landscapes, and airfare deals that’ll make you do a double take.

If you’re itching to end the year with a getaway, here are 12 of the best places to fly on the cheap this December. Every one of them’s a solid move.

#1 tip to find cheap flights in December

Looking to save 75% on airfare this December? This is a game-changer: Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights).

Here’s the deal: Sign up for free email alerts, set your departure and destination, and boom – you’ll get alerts for insanely cheap flights. Mistake fares? Deep discounts? They’ve got it all.

I’ve saved thousands using Going. Recently, I even found a $399 roundtrip fare from Boston to Milan in December. Not bad, right?

Want even more deals? Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing. And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version, which saved me over $15,000 in the past year alone. Trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings. Use my code JON25 to save 25%!

Now, let’s dive into these 12 cheap places to go in December 2025.

Best Places to Go in December

We’ve rounded up the best spots for cheap travel in December, where adventure meets affordability. From tropical beaches to cozy winter towns, get ready to explore the world without spending a fortune.

1. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA ($100–$250 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1-5 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Frontier, Southwest (usually nonstop from many cities)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Party seekers 🎉, entertainment fans 🎭, foodies 🍽️, budget travelers 💰

Las Vegas is a neon desert paradise where you can have summer vibes while the rest of America is shoveling snow. The city goes all out with holiday buzz in December, but without the holiday price tags since it’s technically the “slow season” between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Strip is extra at all times, but December brings ridiculous holiday displays like the Bellagio Conservatory transforming into a winter wonderland that puts your local mall to shame. For cheap thrills, ride the High Roller observation wheel at sunset when the city lights start popping against the desert backdrop. The pools might be closed, but that means casino resorts slash their room rates from summer prices.

As for flights, Vegas is a goldmine. Spirit and Frontier regularly drop fares below $100 roundtrip, while Southwest often matches with the bonus of two free checked bags. 

• Read next: Prettiest Spots in Las Vegas
• You may also like: Unique Restaurants in Las Vegas
• For more reading: Unique Restaurants in Nevada
• Keep reading: Things to Do in Las Vegas at Night

2. Belize, Central America ($280–$450 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3-6 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: United, American, Delta (usually nonstop from major hubs)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, diving enthusiasts 🤿, jungle explorers 🌴, adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️

Belize is that rare spot where you can snorkel with sharks in the morning and explore ancient Mayan ruins by afternoon. 

The Barrier Reef is literally the second largest in the world, with spots like Hol Chan Marine Reserve offering ridiculous underwater visibility to swim alongside rays, turtles, and nurse sharks without needing a fancy diving certification. On the mainland, Xunantunich lets you climb actual Mayan pyramids without the insane crowds you’d find at similar sites in Mexico. For pure island vibes, Caye Caulker operates on “go slow” mode where golf carts replace cars and beach bars serve fresh lobster caught that morning.

December in Belize hits that perfect sweet spot right before peak tourist season kicks in after Christmas. For flights, American and United sometimes drop deals below $300 roundtrip. The sweet spot for booking is 6-8 weeks out, and flying midweek can save you $50-100 versus weekend departures. 

• Read next: Things to Do in Placencia, Belize

3. Oaxaca, Mexico ($250–$400 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 5-7 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Aeromexico, United, Volaris (usually with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Food fanatics 🌮, culture lovers 🎭, mezcal enthusiasts 🥃, craft shoppers 🧶

Oaxaca is that perfect Mexican destination that most tourists skip for Cancun or Cabo. This colonial city in southern Mexico has incredible food, vibrant markets, and ancient ruins without the spring break crowds or resort prices.

The Zócalo (main square) goes off in December with night markets, pop-up parades, and locals selling hot chocolate that’ll make you swear off Swiss Miss for life. Monte Albán sits on a massive hilltop and has way fewer crowds than Tulum or Chichen Itza, so you can actually get that no-photobomb shot. For foodies, markets like Mercado 20 de Noviembre let you point at raw ingredients and watch them get grilled into a $5 feast right in front of you.

Flights are cheapest through Mexico City, where Aeromexico and Volaris often run early December promos under $300 roundtrip. Want to stretch your trip? Fly into Mexico City, explore for a couple days, then take the comfortable ADO bus to Oaxaca and save some cash in the process.

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Mexico City

4. Budapest, Hungary ($450–$650 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 10-13 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: LOT Polish, Lufthansa, Air France (usually with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Christmas market fans 🎄, thermal bath lovers 🧖‍♀️, night owls 🦉, budget travelers 💰

Budapest is Europe’s ultimate winter playground where Gothic architecture meets steaming thermal baths. The city transforms in December with cozy festive vibes, early sunsets that make the lights feel magical, and flight deals you’d never find in summer.

The Danube River divides the city with the Chain Bridge looking extra magical when lit up against the winter sky. Széchenyi Thermal Baths are basically outdoor hot tubs where you can soak in steaming mineral water while snowflakes fall around you (peak winter flex). The Christmas Market at Vörösmarty Square serves mulled wine in these cute mugs you get to keep, plus street food that’ll make you question why you ever ate mall food court pretzels.

Flights won’t wreck your holiday shopping budget either. LOT Polish Airlines often drops deals through Warsaw under $500 roundtrip. 

• Read next: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Hungary
• You may also like: Things to Do and Places to Go in Budapest
• For more reading: Hidden Gems in Budapest
• Keep reading: Cheap Vacations in Europe
• Also worth reading: Best and Worst Countries in Europe for Digital Nomads

INSIDER TIP: Again, I highly recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Recently, I got an email alert on a $599 roundtrip fare from Boston to Budapest with Air France. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year.

5. Goa, India ($550–$800 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 18-24 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air India (usually with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach bums 🏖️, yoga fans 🧘‍♀️, party people 🎉, value seekers 💰

Goa is basically where India lets its hair down and trades temples for parties and beach bonfires. December is prime time here, with dry skies, warm temps, and festivals lighting up the coast.

The vibe totally changes depending on where you go. North Goa at Anjuna and Baga is where you’ll find the party scene, with DJ sets right on the sand and beach shacks serving cheap beer until sunrise. Need a chill day? Head to Palolem in South Goa where it’s more hammocks and yoga than house music. The Wednesday Anjuna Flea Market is worth checking out even if you hate shopping: think massive maze of stalls selling everything from knockoffs to legit silver jewelry you can haggle for.

Most flights connect through the Middle East. Emirates via Dubai and Qatar Airways via Doha offer the smoothest options, with December deals often dipping below $700 if you book a few months out.

• Read next: Best Places to Visit in Goa
• You may also like: Best Places to Live in India

6. Dubai, UAE ($500–$750 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 13-16 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Emirates, Etihad, Turkish Airlines (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Luxury lovers 🏆, architecture fans 🏙️, desert adventurers 🐪, shoppers 🛍️

Dubai is that city where everything is dialed up to 11 — the tallest buildings, the biggest malls, and somehow $500 hotel rooms next to $50 ones. 

The Burj Khalifa is the ultimate skyline flex, and yes, the view from the top is actually worth it. For something different, ditch the malls and hit up Alserkal Avenue, this warehouse district turned art hub where you can grab killer coffee between checking out galleries. Beach day? JBR Beach is free and right next to tons of restaurants, or splurge on a day pass at a beach club like Nikki Beach where people are definitely there to be seen.

December weather is Dubai at its best. Days are sunny and warm without the brutal heat, and evenings are perfect for rooftop cocktails or desert safaris. Emirates often runs nonstop deals from cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago for around $600. For cheaper fares, Turkish Airlines sometimes drops rates below $550 with a stop in Istanbul.

• Read next: Best Places to Live for Expats

7. Costa Rica ($300–$500 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 3-7 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Spirit, United (usually nonstop from many cities)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Adventure seekers 🧗‍♂️, wildlife spotters 🦥, beach lovers 🏄‍♀️, nature enthusiasts 🌴

Costa Rica is where you go when you need to swap winter depression for zip lines, sloths, and beaches with water you can actually swim in. Early December is that magic window when the rainy season just ended. Everything’s super green, but the holiday tourist rush (and prices) haven’t kicked in yet.

In La Fortuna, the Arenal Volcano steals the show, with hot springs everywhere from five-star resorts to riverside spots locals swear by. The cloud forests around Monteverde let you walk across hanging bridges in actual clouds while spotting wildlife. Beach-wise, Manuel Antonio gives you that perfect combo of national park with monkeys literally everywhere plus gorgeous beaches right next door.

Flights to paradise are surprisingly affordable. Spirit and JetBlue sometimes dip below $250 roundtrip from cities like Miami or Orlando. From other regions, fares rarely exceed $400 if you book 6–8 weeks out.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in Costa Rica
• You may also like: Where to Fly in Costa Rica

8. Bangkok, Thailand ($600–$850 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 18-24 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: EVA Air, Korean Air, Emirates (usually with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Food obsessives 🍜, temple hoppers 🏯, party animals 🎉, budget travelers 💰

Bangkok is that perfect mix of chaos and luxury where street food costs $1 but rooftop bars look like something from the movies. Early winter is perfect as the monsoon season is done, humidity drops, and you can score flight deals before holiday prices spike.

The city is a total sensory overload in the best way. Wat Pho temple with its massive reclining Buddha will make your local museum look boring, while the Chatuchak Weekend Market has 15,000+ stalls selling literally everything imaginable. Food scene? Hit up Chinatown at night when the whole street turns into food stalls, or splurge on a fancy rooftop spot like Sky Bar where they filmed Hangover 2.

December weather in Bangkok is actually perfect. Temps stay around 85°F but without the brutal humidity of other months, and there’s basically zero rain. Flights from the West Coast occasionally dip below $700 if you keep an eye on EVA Air through Taipei or Korean Air through Seoul.

• Read next: Magical Places in Bangkok
• You may also like: Enchanting Places in Chiang Mai
• For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Bangkok

EXPERT ADVICE: If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Going.com (Scott’s Cheap Flights) to find the best deals. Recently, I was notified of a $780 roundtrip fare from the NYC to Bangkok with Cathay. The premium version is 100% worth the money, but I would at least sign up for the free version to save big on airfare this year. And if business class is more your speed, then upgrade to the Elite Version, where I’ve spent under $1,200 on international flights abroad!

9. Cape Town, South Africa ($700–$950 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 17-24 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Delta (usually with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, wine enthusiasts 🍷, adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️, wildlife fans 🦁

Cape Town is basically three vacations in one: stunning beaches, wine country, and safari adventures all based from one ridiculously photogenic city. December kicks off their summer with perfect weather, long days, and surprisingly decent flight deals if you go early in the month.

Table Mountain dominates the city skyline, and hiking up (or taking the cable car if you’re feeling lazy) gives you views that’ll make your followers think you spent way more on this vacation than you did. Camps Bay is your go-to beach spot with white sand, turquoise water, and mountains as the backdrop. 

Just 45 minutes away, Stellenbosch wine region lets you sample world-class wines for tastings that cost like $5, compared to $50+ in Napa.

Flight-wise, this is where patience pays off. Ethiopian Airlines through Addis Ababa often has the lowest fares, sometimes under $800 roundtrip from major US cities in early December. Qatar Airways through Doha brings a more luxe option, usually just $100–150 more.

• Read next: Magical Spots in Cape Town

10. Sri Lanka ($650–$900 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 19-25 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad (usually with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, culture seekers 🏯, wildlife enthusiasts 🐘, food adventurers 🍛

Sri Lanka is that island paradise where you can surf perfect waves, spot wild elephants, and explore ancient ruins. Early December hits right after the monsoon season, bringing green landscapes, empty beaches, and prices that haven’t yet spiked for holiday crowds.

The variety here is next level. Galle Fort feels like you time-traveled to colonial times with its Dutch architecture right next to the Indian Ocean. For wildlife, Yala National Park offers safaris with leopards, elephants, and sloth bears for a fraction of the price you’d pay in Africa. Down by Mirissa, the beach scene is perfect for beginners and surfers alike, and boat tours regularly spot blue whales.

Flights require some planning but reward you big. The best options connect through the Middle East, with Qatar Airways and Emirates offering reliable service through Doha and Dubai. 

• Read next: Beautiful Countries in Asia

11. Miami, USA ($150–$300 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 1-5 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Spirit, Frontier, JetBlue (usually nonstop from many cities)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach seekers ☀️, nightlife enthusiasts 🕺, art lovers 🎨, winter escapees 🏝️

Miami is basically summer on demand while the rest of America is bundled in coats. Early December is prime time with 75–80°F days, smaller crowds, and cheaper flights before the holiday surge kicks in.

South Beach delivers those pastel Art Deco vibes you’ve seen all over Instagram, but the real move is hitting up neighborhoods most tourists skip. Wynwood’s full of colorful murals, food halls, and local breweries that don’t charge tourist prices. For a different beach scene, Key Biscayne offers more relaxed vibes and actual parking without the South Beach chaos. Hungry? Little Havana serves up legit Cuban food for cheap at spots like Versailles where locals actually eat.

Budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier frequently run fares under $100 roundtrip if you’re packing light. For a bit more comfort, JetBlue and Southwest often offer early December deals that stay under $250 from most major cities.

• Read next: Epic Night Spots in Miami
• You may also like: Hidden Gems in Miami

12. New Zealand ($850–$1,100 roundtrip)

• ✈️ Flight Time: 13-18 hours (from major US cities)
• 🛫 Airlines: Air New Zealand, United, Qantas (usually with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Adventure junkies 🧗‍♀️, nature lovers 🏞️, Lord of the Rings fans 🧙‍♂️, road trippers 🚗

New Zealand is basically Earth showing off with mountains, beaches, glaciers, and geothermal pools all packed into islands you can actually explore without spending your life savings. December kicks off their summer with perfect weather, long days, and that rare window when flights are still reasonable before holiday prices explode.

This place is literally made for people who can’t decide what kind of vacation they want. The South Island delivers those jaw-dropping mountains and fjords you’ve seen on Instagram, with spots like Milford Sound where waterfalls drop straight from cliffs into the ocean. Up north, Rotorua has geothermal pools where you can soak in natural hot springs, while beach towns like Mount Maunganui offer surfing, hiking, and killer seafood all in one spot.

For flights, Air New Zealand often drops early December fares below $950 roundtrip from LA, San Francisco, or Chicago. Booking 3-4 months ahead and flying midweek usually gets you the best deals.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in New Zealand
• You may also like: World’s Top Treehouse Airbnb Locations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Cheapest Places to Fly in December

Got questions about cheap travel in December? Our FAQ section has all the answers you need to plan your budget-friendly holiday escape.

Which country is cheapest to fly to in December?

Thailand often ranks as the cheapest country to fly to in December. The weather is perfect for exploring, with clear skies and cool temperatures. Airlines offer competitive prices to attract tourists looking to escape colder climates. Once there, the cost of living is low, making your stay affordable. Street food, public transport, and budget accommodations keep expenses minimal.

What days in December are the cheapest to fly?

Typically, flying early in December offers the best deals. The first two weeks, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tend to have lower prices. As you approach Christmas and New Year’s Eve, ticket prices rise due to increased demand. Booking flights for mid-week days can save you money compared to weekend travel.

Where is the cheapest place to go for Christmas?

Mexico is a great option for a cheap Christmas getaway. Places like Oaxaca are not only affordable but also full of festive spirit. The cost of flights and accommodations tends to be lower, and the country’s rich culture and traditions make for a unique holiday experience. Markets, delicious food, and warm weather add to the appeal.

Where is hot and cheap in December in the USA?

Miami, Florida, is both hot and affordable in December. The weather is warm, perfect for beach days and outdoor dining. Miami offers a range of budget-friendly activities, from exploring Art Deco architecture to enjoying the city’s public beaches. Flight deals to Miami are also common in December, making it an attractive destination for winter sun-seekers.

How can I find the best flight deals in December?

Start by searching early and being flexible with your travel dates. Use flight comparison websites to compare prices across different airlines. Signing up for airline newsletters and deal alert services can also notify you of special promotions. Flying on less popular days, like mid-week, can often result in better deals.

Is Europe cheap to travel to in December?

Certain parts of Europe, like Budapest, Hungary, can be quite affordable in December. The city offers beautiful Christmas markets and thermal baths that are perfect for the winter weather. Accommodations and flights can be cheaper, especially if you book in advance and avoid the peak holiday dates.

What destinations offer the best value for a December vacation?

Costa Rica offers great value for a December vacation. The start of its dry season brings beautiful weather, ideal for exploring rainforests and beaches. Affordable accommodations, cheap local cuisine, and free natural attractions make it a budget-friendly choice. Plus, outdoor activities like zip-lining and surfing offer unforgettable experiences without a high price tag.

Can I find affordable beach destinations in December?

Yes, destinations like Goa, India, are both warm and affordable in December. The weather is perfect for enjoying the beaches and outdoor markets. Accommodations range from budget hostels to affordable luxury resorts, catering to all types of travelers. Local food is cheap and delicious, adding to the savings.

Concluding Thoughts on the Cheapest Places to Fly in December

Exploring new places in December doesn’t have to empty your wallet. From the sunny beaches of Goa to the festive streets of Budapest, there are plenty of affordable destinations waiting for you. Remember, the key to a budget-friendly trip is planning ahead.

Look for flight deals, stay in budget accommodations, and eat like a local. Whether you’re after a warm getaway in Miami or an adventure in New Zealand, December offers something special everywhere.

Looking for the cheapest places to travel in December? Don’t forget to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights to get the best possible deal on airfare this year! Happy Travels! -Jon