8 Cheapest Places to Fly for an Epic Trip in January 2025

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December might drain your bank account, but I’ve got great news: January flights are surprisingly cheap right now. After spending an embarrassing amount of time comparing flight prices (seriously, my screen time report is concerning), I’ve found destinations that are both affordable and amazing for winter travel.

These are the best places in January that won’t break the bank. Just last winter, I paid $350 round trip to Mexico City, where I spent mornings drinking perfect café con leche in Roma Norte and afternoons exploring colorful art galleries. Whether you’re craving warm beaches or vibrant city life, I’m sharing the destinations where you can actually find flight deals right now. No spam, no clickbait, just real prices I’ve found while obsessively tracking flights.

#1 tip for finding cheap flights in January

Looking for cheap flights in January? Before diving into all the top cities and airports to fly in January, I want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 5 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $123 roundtrip fare from Boston to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best flights in January in 2025.

Cheapest Places to Fly in January 2025

Looking for the cheapest places to fly in January 2025? Visit Puerto Rico for stunning beaches and rich culture, Florida for warm weather and theme park adventures, Ontario for winter festivals and scenic landscapes, and El Salvador for beautiful coastlines and vibrant history. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, these destinations offer budget-friendly escapes in January 2025.

1. San Juan, Puerto Rico ($123–$220 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, Spirit, United (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach lovers, history buffs, urban explorers, winter escapees

San Juan is one of the easiest warm-weather getaways you can book in winter. With direct flights from major cities and no passport required, it’s a budget-friendly way to trade snow for sunshine.

Old San Juan is insanely Instagrammable with those iconic blue cobblestones and buildings painted every color of the rainbow. Just a quick Uber away, Condado Beach serves up perfect golden sand and clear water vibes where you can go from swimming to sipping cocktails in like two minutes. Feeling adventurous? El Yunque rainforest is nearby with sick waterfall hikes and natural pools that’ll blow up your social feed. 

January weather is perfect at 80°F with barely any rain. For flights, JetBlue consistently offers the best deals with fare sales dropping prices below $150 roundtrip when you book 6-8 weeks ahead.

• Read Next: Cheap Flights from San Juan

2. Miami, Florida ($89–$180 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: American, Spirit, Frontier (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach enthusiasts, nightlife seekers, art lovers, warm weather refugees

Miami is basically summer in January with insanely cheap flights that make escaping winter totally affordable. This city is like two vacations in one with its insane beaches by day and legendary nightlife after dark.

South Beach is exactly what you’ve seen on TV but somehow even better IRL with its white sand, turquoise water, and Art Deco buildings in every shade of pastel. Just across the causeway, Wynwood Walls turns street art into an outdoor museum where you can snap the most fire content for your feed while hopping between craft breweries and food trucks.

For flights, Spirit and Frontier frequently battle for the lowest fares, often dropping prices below $100 roundtrip from East Coast and Midwest cities when you book 4-6 weeks ahead for midweek travel.

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3. Toronto, Ontario ($110–$210 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: Air Canada, Porter, United (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, winter enthusiasts ⛄, food scene lovers 🍽️, hockey fans 🏒

Toronto might sound crazy for a January trip, but the insanely cheap flights and winter festival vibes make it an epic cold-weather getaway. The city transforms into a winter playground with indoor and outdoor attractions that locals actually get excited about when temperatures drop.

The PATH network is an underground city with 30km of connected walkways where you can hang out without freezing your butt off. Nathan Phillips Square turns into a huge skating rink with the Toronto sign lit up for killer photos. Kensington Market stays buzzing in winter with food halls and warm cafes to duck into, and the Royal Ontario Museum lets you check out dinosaurs and art without fighting through crowds.

For cheap flights, book with Porter Airlines 4-6 weeks ahead and fly midweek to score fares under $130 roundtrip. Air Canada usually matches these deals during their Tuesday sales if you’re flexible.

4. San Salvador, El Salvador ($135–$240 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: Avianca, Spirit, American (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Volcano hikers 🌋, coffee fanatics ☕, budget travelers 💰, culture seekers 🏛️

San Salvador is totally worth it in January when you get perfect weather without the holiday crowds. This city is the real deal: affordable, authentic, and surrounded by epic volcanoes you can actually climb without hardcore hiking skills.

The El Boquerón crater at the top of San Salvador Volcano is just 25 minutes from downtown and gives you insane views of the entire city. Mercado Nacional de Artesanías is packed with colorful crafts where you can score handmade souvenirs for cheap. For coffee snobs, El Café serves beans from local farms that’ll blow your mind compared to your usual Starbucks fix.

Score deals on Avianca by booking 2 months out and flying midweek for fares around $175 roundtrip. Spirit runs flash sales if you don’t mind basic seats and bringing just a backpack. 

5. Saint Thomas, US Virgin Islands ($148–$260 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: American, Spirit, JetBlue (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Beach lovers 🏖️, snorkeling enthusiasts 🐠, island hoppers ⛵, duty-free shoppers 🛍️

Saint Thomas is a total beach paradise that’s actually affordable in January after the holiday crowds clear out. The island has crystal clear water, no passport requirements, and flight deals that make the Caribbean actually doable on a budget.

Magens Bay is that postcard-perfect beach you’ve seen on Instagram with powder-white sand and turquoise water that’s so clear you can see fish from shore. Mountain Top gives you ridiculous views of neighboring islands plus they serve the original banana daiquiri that’s actually worth the tourist trap vibes. For snorkeling, skip the crowded spots and head to Coki Beach where you can swim right off shore and see more fish than people who paid for boat tours.

American Airlines’ hub connections offer the best deals, frequently dropping below $200 roundtrip from East Coast cities when you book 6-8 weeks ahead for midweek travel. 

6. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic ($140–$250 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: JetBlue, American, Spirit (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: History buffs 🏛️, foodies 🍽️, nightlife seekers 🎵, beach day-trippers 🏖️

Santo Domingo offers the perfect mix of Caribbean beaches and rich colonial history with January flights so cheap you’ll have plenty left to spend on experiences. The city gives you that ideal home base for exploring the oldest European settlement in the Americas along with day trips to some of the Caribbean’s best beaches.

The Colonial Zone has buildings from the 1500s that look straight out of a history book but without boring tour groups. Boca Chica Beach is just 30 minutes away with shallow turquoise water perfect for wading and swimming without big waves. And then there’s the city’s Malecón oceanfront promenade that comes alive at night with locals hanging out at outdoor bars and food stalls.

Visiting in January means temperatures are around 80°F and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for both city exploring and beach days. For flights, JetBlue consistently offers the best value with fares frequently dropping below $180 roundtrip.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic

7. New York City, New York ($88–$170 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: United, American, JetBlue (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Urban explorers 🏙️, Broadway fans 🎭, museum buffs 🖼️, winter magic seekers ⛄

New York City is shockingly affordable in January when airlines slash prices after the holiday rush and hotels offer their lowest rates of the year. 

Central Park looks awesome covered in snow, especially when locals come out to sled and skate. The Met and MoMA are perfect for escaping the cold while seeing world-class art collections. You can grab same-day Broadway tickets for half price at TKTS since January is low season. Brooklyn spots like Williamsburg and DUMBO are less packed, so you can finally try those trendy restaurants without the ridiculous wait times.

The post-holiday slump brings rock-bottom airfares, with prices frequently dipping below $100 roundtrip when you book 4-6 weeks ahead. United and American constantly battle for the lowest fares, while JetBlue typically offers the most comfortable experience with competitive pricing. 

• Read Next: Best Areas to Stay in New York City
• You may also like: Epic Things to Do in New York City at Night

8. Paris, France ($300–$450 roundtrip)

• 🛫 Airlines: Air France, Delta, Norse Atlantic (usually nonstop or with 1 stop)
• 🔥 Perfect for: Art lovers 🎨, fashion hunters 👗, food fanatics 🧀, romantic vibes ❤️

Paris is surprisingly budget-friendly in January when airlines offer their absolute lowest transatlantic fares of the year. The city takes on this magical winter vibe with fewer tourists crowding the streets, letting you experience the real Paris that locals actually enjoy.

The Louvre becomes worth visiting when you can actually see the Mona Lisa without hundreds of phones blocking your view. Eiffel Tower lines are practically non-existent, and neighborhood cafés in Le Marais serve perfect hot chocolate to warm you up. The massive winter sales happen in January, turning Galeries Lafayette into a bargain paradise where you can score legit designer stuff at prices that won’t destroy your credit card.

Grab flights under $350 roundtrip by booking 8-10 weeks ahead and flying midweek. Norse Atlantic often has the cheapest basic fares, sometimes as low as $300.

• Read Next: Cheapest Airlines in Europe

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

Need more help preparing for your vacation? Here are a few common questions and answers about the cheapest places in January.

Where is the cheapest place to fly in January from the US?

If you’re hunting for the cheapest places to fly in January from the US, you’re in luck! January is a fantastic month for snagging travel deals, thanks to post-holiday sales and off-peak travel incentives. Here are some destinations that won’t break the bank:

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: With its beautiful beaches and historic sites, it’s a steal of a deal.
• Miami, Florida: Enjoy the sun and sand in this vibrant city known for its nightlife and beaches.
• Toronto, Canada: Experience diverse culture and food in one of Canada’s largest cities.
• San Salvador, El Salvador: Discover rich history and natural wonders like volcanoes and waterfalls.
• Saint Thomas, US Virgin Islands: Indulge in pristine beaches and duty-free shopping.
• Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic: Explore colonial landmarks and enjoy the Caribbean sun.
• New York City, New York: The city that never sleeps offers endless entertainment.
• Paris, France: Romance, art, and delicious food await in this iconic city.

Do flights get cheaper in January?

Yes, flights can be significantly cheaper in January. The month falls within the travel industry’s “dead weeks”. This is the period following the winter holidays and before spring break when there’s a notable dip in travel demand. As a result, airlines often lower their prices to attract customers. This makes it one of the best times to book cheap flights.

Where is warm in January?

Escaping the cold in January is a common desire, and luckily, there are several destinations known for their warmer climates during this month. Whether you’re seeking beachside relaxation or urban exploration, here are some places where the sun continues to shine:

• San Juan, Puerto Rico: Enjoy tropical temperatures and sunny skies.
• Funchal, Madeira: One of the warmest places in Europe in January.
• Saint Thomas, US Virgin Islands: Experience summer in winter with perfect beach weather.
• Bangkok, Thailand: Explore the city’s cultural treasures under the warm sun.
• Cape Town, South Africa: Bask in the warm summer days of the Southern Hemisphere.
• Sydney, Australia: Enjoy the peak of summer down under with plenty of outdoor activities.

How do you find the cheapest flights in January?

Finding cheap January flights requires a mix of planning, research, and a bit of luck. Here are some tips to secure the best deals:

• Start Early: Begin your search early to get a sense of price trends. Airlines often release their tickets 11 months in advance.
• Be Flexible: If you can, be flexible with your travel dates and times. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend flights.
• Use Flight Comparison Sites: Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights allow you to compare prices across various airlines.
• Set Price Alerts: Most booking sites have options to set alerts for specific routes, so you’re notified when prices drop.
• Check Low-Cost Airlines: Don’t forget to check budget carriers that might not be listed on major booking sites.
• Join Deal Alerts: Subscribe to services like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) to get notified about flight deals.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying to a nearby airport can be cheaper, even with the cost of additional transportation.

Which US airlines offer the cheapest January flights?

January is a prime time for snagging fantastic flight deals, especially with US airlines that are eager to fill seats after the busy holiday season. If you’re looking for cheap flights in January, consider checking out these airlines known for offering competitive prices:

• Southwest Airlines: Known for its budget-friendly fares and free checked bags.
• JetBlue: Offers consistently affordable prices along with quality in-flight amenities.
• Spirit Airlines: A no-frills budget airline that’s perfect for cost-conscious travelers.
• Allegiant Air: Operates on a low-cost model and offers cheaper fares in exchange for fewer perks.
• Frontier Airlines: Known for its “Low Fares Done Right” approach, providing basic travel at discounted rates.

Remember, while these airlines may offer lower ticket prices, be sure to check for additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and onboard services.

Can I find affordable flights to Europe in January?

January is an ideal time to discover cheap flights to Europe. The month sees a lull in travel demand after the holiday hustle, leading airlines to offer attractive fares to entice travelers. To secure the best deals, keep a close eye on flight prices using comparison sites. Flexibility is your friend here — being open to flying on different dates and considering alternative airports can lead to surprising savings. For instance, you might find cheaper options flying into Gatwick rather than Heathrow. Also, while direct flights are more convenient, choosing routes with layovers can significantly cut costs. Don’t forget to explore options with local European carriers like Ryanair and easyJet, which are famous for their budget-friendly fares. A little research and flexibility can reward you with an exciting European adventure at a fraction of the cost!

Is January a cheap month to fly?

Yes, January is generally considered one of the cheaper months to fly, especially when compared to peak holiday travel times in December. Here are some reasons why:

1. Post-Holiday Slump: After the rush of the holiday season, there’s a significant drop in travel demand. Many people have just finished traveling for the holidays and are settling back into work or school routines.
2. Winter Weather: For many destinations, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, January is a cold month. Unless it’s a popular winter sport destination, the colder weather can deter travelers, leading to lower prices.
3. Sales and Promotions: To stimulate demand during this slower period, airlines and hotels often offer sales and promotions in January.
4. Flexible Dates: If you’re not tied to specific dates in January, you can often find even better deals by being flexible with your travel dates and taking advantage of the lowest fare options.
5. Fewer Tourist Crowds: Popular tourist destinations tend to be less crowded, which can also mean discounts on accommodations, tours, and attractions.

However, there are exceptions:

• New Year’s Travel: Flights and accommodations around New Year’s Day (January 1st) can still be pricey, as it’s a popular time for travel.
• Winter Destinations: Places known for winter sports, like ski resorts, might have higher prices due to the peak ski season.
• Warm Weather Getaways: Destinations that offer a warm escape from the winter cold, like certain tropical locations, might still maintain higher prices.

Where is the cheapest to travel in January?

Traveling in January can offer some budget-friendly destinations, as it’s considered off-peak for many places due to the post-holiday lull and winter weather in the Northern Hemisphere. Here are some destinations that tend to be more affordable in January:

1. Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos are in their dry season, offering warm weather and reasonable prices. While they’re popular among backpackers year-round, you can still find good deals in less-touristy areas.
2. Central America: Countries like Nicaragua, Guatemala, and El Salvador can be more affordable than their more popular neighbors but still offer beautiful landscapes, beaches, and cultural experiences.
3. Eastern Europe: While it’s cold, destinations like Bulgaria, Romania, and Poland have lower prices in winter. You can enjoy winter sports or explore historic cities without the crowds.
4. India: Post the peak tourist season of December, places like Goa and Kerala in India can be more affordable in January. The weather is still pleasant, and you can explore the beaches, backwaters, and cultural sites.
5. Mexico: While the coastal resort towns might still be in high demand, interior cities like Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Oaxaca can offer cultural experiences at a fraction of the price.
6. Portugal: One of Western Europe’s more affordable destinations, Portugal offers mild weather in January, especially in the Algarve region.
7. Morocco: January is a cooler month, making it comfortable to explore cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen without the intense heat.
8. Baltic States: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are chilly in January but offer beautiful winter landscapes, historic cities, and lower prices.
9. South Africa: January is one of the warmer months, and while it’s the peak season, it can still be more affordable than many other long-haul destinations.

Is it expensive to travel in January?

Traveling in January can be both expensive and affordable, depending on several factors:

1. Destination: The cost can vary significantly based on where you’re headed. For instance, winter sports destinations or tropical getaways might be pricier due to demand. However, many other places see a dip in tourism and might offer lower prices.
2. Post-Holiday Period: Right after the New Year celebrations, there’s often a slump in travel demand. This can lead to reduced prices for flights and accommodations in many destinations.
3. Weather: January is winter in the Northern Hemisphere, which can deter travelers from visiting certain places, leading to potential discounts. Conversely, destinations offering a warm escape from winter might maintain higher prices.
4. Sales & Promotions: To boost demand during this slower period, many airlines, hotels, and tour operators offer special deals and promotions in January.
5. Events & Festivals: If there’s a significant event or festival in a particular destination, prices might surge due to increased demand. For instance, places celebrating significant Lunar New Year festivities might see a spike in travel costs.
6. School Holidays: In some regions, schools might have a winter break in January, leading to a slight increase in family travel and potentially higher prices.

Concluding Thoughts on the Cheapest Places to Fly in January

January marks the start of new adventures, presenting a world of travel opportunities. It’s the ideal month to enjoy the sunshine in San Juan, Puerto Rico, or experience the vibrant atmosphere of Miami, Florida. These destinations promise relaxation and a chance to refresh amidst winter.

City lovers aren’t left out, with the winter charm of Toronto and the ceaseless energy of New York City offering unique experiences. And for a touch of romance or adventure, Paris, France, awaits with its timeless beauty, even in the colder months.

For those in pursuit of warmth, Santo Domingo and Saint Thomas stand out. These locales offer sunny escapes, perfect for evading the winter chill. And with the availability of cheap flights in January, these dreamy getaways are surprisingly accessible.

January opens a door to exploration, discovery, and travel. With budget-friendly destinations just a flight away, there’s no better time to set out on a journey that will inspire stories for the rest of the year. Here’s to new horizons and memorable journeys!