14 Cheap Places to Travel in January to Escape the Winter Blues

Is it just us, or does January feel like the longest month to you as well? If you’re planning to escape from winter blues and itching to explore a new destination, then don’t worry. Today, we have brought a list of cheap places to travel in January. From pristine beaches to lush green forests, you’ll find breathtaking attractions which you can explore while having the sense of freedom and personal space.

So, what are you waiting for? Hop on this journey with us and learn about beautiful places you can visit in January without losing a fortune.

Cheap Places to Visit in January – Continent Wise

Are you scared of empty wallets? Don’t worry; we have got you covered. There are many destinations around the world for your January gateway. During this time, take advantage of off-season deals and enjoy the less-crowded attractions. 

Below listed are a few breath-taking, cheap destinations in January you should visit if you’re a travel junkie. 

North America

If you dislike spending winter chills, then North America is the best budget-friendly January holiday destination to visit. There are many areas where you’ll find comfortable temperatures while making potential savings.

Mexico

Dreaming of warm sand and sunny skies in the heart of winter? Mexico is the ideal spot to visit in January. There are many locations in Mexico that you can travel to, such as Cancun and Punta Cana.

Cancun

Cancun promises blissful January weather with average highs around 28°C (82°F) and lows around 20°C (68°F). For those who are sun-seekers and wish to enjoy outdoor adventures, Cancun is the best place and cheapest place to fly in January. 

Cancun in January offers a mix of natural wonders and ancient history. You can explore attractions like a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, and the coastal ruins of Tulum. You can also visit the vibrant Xcaret’s eco-park. The wildlife, underground rivers, and cultural performances. 

Punta Cana

Punta Cana in January welcomes you with sunshine and warmth. The temperature during the month is around 28°C (82°F) and lows around 21°C (70°F). It’s an ideal destination for beach lovers. You can unwind on pristine white sands or soak in the sun of the beautiful beach, Bávaro. The idyllic Saona Island is a true Caribbean paradise. It is another popular attraction that tourists can enjoy. 

All in all, these destinations are the perfect combination of smaller crowds and sunshine, plus they are budget-friendly too.

P.S. If you’re planning to visit Mexico for your holidays, then read our guide, Unlocking Mexico’s Magic: Your Guide to the Best Time to Travel.

United States

Who wouldn’t love to escape harsh wintery nights and spend days in the US? The United States offers a treasure trove of destinations perfect for a budget-friendly January getaway. From bustling cities to sun-kissed beaches, you’ll find many cheap places to go in January.

San Diego, California

Craving for mild temperatures and sunshine, escape to San Diego. The temperature in January is around 18°C/65°F and drops to 10°C/50°F. It’s home to world-class attractions like Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. There are many picturesque beaches in the city, like La Jolla Shores, where you can enjoy the California vibe to the fullest. You can also savor fresh seafood tacos. The vibrant taste is something you’ll never forget.

The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is a tropical paradise where the temperature stays around 24°C/75°F. The lowest temperature ever recorded is 18°C/64°F. January is perfect for snorkeling among colorful coral reefs. If you love long drives, then take a drive along the Overseas Highway. The views you’ll get from there are iconic. Sunset lovers should visit Mallory Square in Key West. Also, you’ll find the freshest seafood there with unimaginable taste. 

Boston, Massachusetts

If you’re a history buff, then no one can stop you from falling in love with Boston. The wintery atmosphere makes it a perfect destination to visit in January. Unlike other places, the weather here is chilly and freezing. The temperature ranges from 2°C/36°F to -5°C/23°F. It’s the home of the world-class university Harvard, from where personalities like Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, Natalie Portman, and others graduated.

It is also home to famous museums, including the Fine Arts Museum, Isabella Stewart Gardner, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, and Museum of Science, to name a few. The Central Library of Boston is another attraction where you can visit if you’re a nerd. 

If you’re planning to visit Boston, then do try out the Boston Baked Beans, New England Clam Chowder, Giambotta Pizza, Boston Cream Pie, and Italian sub. You’ll love them. 

Chicago, Illinois

If you’re not only looking for the cheapest places to travel in January but also a destination with cold weather, then you must visit Chicago. The temperature in January is around 0°C/32°F. However, at times, it drops to -8°C/18°F. But that doesn’t mean you have to sit in the hotel. 

You can visit the snowy landscape of Millennium Park or visit the Art Institute of Chicago to admire world-class masterpieces like American Gothic, Nighthawks, The Bedroom, and At the Moulin Rouge, among many others. You may even find budget-friendly deals on airfare and hotels in January.

Chicago’s diverse energy shines through its blues music heritage and a culinary scene that goes beyond deep-dish pizza, which you must try once in your life.

Please note: To explore other cheap places to travel in January, click here.

The Caribbean

The beauty of the turquoise waters and warm breezes makes the Caribbean an awesome vacation spot, too. If you’re dreaming of escaping the winter blues, then January is the perfect time of the year to explore these island paradises. 

Montego Bay, Jamaica

After the launch of the famous Netflix series Manifest, this vacation spot became popular. The temperature at Montego Bay Blissful Bay hovers around 29°C/ 84°F. The Doctor’s Cave beach, Club Mobay, Coral Cliff, and Aqua Sol Theme Park are a few attractions you should visit. 

If you want to experience thrill and excitement, then visit the legendary Rose Hall Great House. It is a grand mansion built in 1770 by John Palmer and his beloved wife. It’s rumored to be haunted by the spirit of the former owner of the mansion. 

Also, do try the famous jerk chicken. It contains a fiery explosion of exotic Jamaican flavors, but if you have low spice tolerance then don’t try it.

Bermuda

This unique has land British charm with the stunning beauty of pink-sand beaches. The temperature in Bermuda in January is around 20°C/ 68°F, which makes it a comfortable vacation spot. You can explore the beautiful Crystal Caves and centuries-old forts like Fort St. Catherine. 

Several religious and scientific rumors revolves around Bermuda. Did you know it is part of the infamous “Bermuda Triangle”? On the contrary, most visitors often appreciate the island’s hospitality. For seafood lovers, it’s a haven. You can relish flavorful dishes prepared with a fine touch of British finesse.

The Bahamas

The island of Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays. It won’t be wrong to call it an adventurer’s paradise. You can expect the temperature to reach 25°C/ 77°F in January. It’s definitely the perfect time to swim with the playful pigs on the Pig Beach. 

Do you remember that beautiful underwater cave in the James Bond movies? Thunderball Grotto is also a part of the Bahamas. You can dive in to witness its beauty and experience a different adventure. The possibilities in the Bahamas are endless. The bustling Nassau, vibrant reefs, and the food are beyond imagination. 

If you’re an introvert, you can book your own secluded piece of paradise and enjoy yourself. Conch is a famous dish that is prepared in a unique style. It is a Bahamian staple that will definitely make your taste buds sing.

Other blogs on the Bahamas:

When is The Best Time to Visit the Bahamas?

Europe

This birthplace of Western civilization is another budget-friendly destination you should visit in January for several reasons. During the off-season, the prices of flights, accommodations, and even attractions are lower than usual. It’s an ideal location for travelers seeking a more authentic and less crowded experience. If you’re planning to travel to Europe, then do visit the following countries: 

Spain

If you are looking for a winter escape that’s both culturally rich and affordable, visiting Spain in January is an excellent choice. You can explore the Andalusian cities like Malaga, Seville, and Granada and enjoy various outdoor activities in southern Spain, where the temperature usually ranges between 15°C/ 59°F to 20°C/ 68°F.

Think of wandering the dreamy courtyards of Granada’s Alhambra or strolling past Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia with its fantastical towers. Wouldn’t that beat being bundled up at home? The food there is worth the trip! 

You can smell the sizzling tapas in the cosy bars and relish the scrumptious seafood coming straight from the coast. Don’t forget to try the delicious paella; you’ll love it. If you visit this time of the year, you can taste Spain’s lively culture through the flamenco show. 

The best part? Airfare and hotel rates in January are cheap because it is an off-season. You can have a lot more money if you visit Spain at this time and splurge on an amazing dinner or a special experience. 

England

Trade away your winter blues for a cozy gateway in England or should I call ‘The Land of the Queen.’ London in January is magical and freezing, so make sure to pack warm clothes. Since there isn’t much crowd during this time of the year, you can visit Big Ben without being shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists. It’s pretty incredible, right?

The classic English pub and hearty fish and chips are worth the trip. And if you’re an art lover or history buff, London’s museums and art galleries are breath-taking. You can also stroll outside Buckingham Palace, and you might end up seeing any member of the royal family. 

The additional bonus? January is off-season, so hotels and flight tickets might be a steal!  That means more money for a fancy dinner, maybe even scoring tickets to a Premier League football (soccer) match.

All in all, England is a culture-filled, cozy, and warm destination you should visit in January.

Ireland

While Ireland might not be the first place you think of for a winter getaway, January offers a unique and surprisingly charming way to experience the less crowded and cozy atmosphere. You can explore iconic attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, Trinity College, or the Guinness Storehouse with hordes of tourists.

Moreover, you can enjoy the milder climate thanks to the Gulf Stream. Do wear a warm coat and carry rain gear. The temperature in January hovers above freezing. You also visit the cozy pubs to enjoy a hearty Irish stew and live music. It is the prime time to experience real Irish hospitality. Ireland is steeped in history. You visit heritage sites like the Giant’s Causeway or the Blarney Stone, and you learn about the rich culture and Celtic traditions.

The fresh seafood chowder, Irish stew, and classic breakfast are comforting and delicious to warm you up on freezing cold days. Visiting Ireland outside peak tourist season will make exploring this beautiful destination more accessible.

Asia

From the temples of Angkor Wat to the Great Wall of China, Asia is known as the home of some of the warmest countries worldwide. This continent showcases breathtaking landscapes like tropical rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and pristine beaches. Moreover, it caters to every travel style. Also, you can explore many destinations that offer excellent value, with affordable food, accommodation, and activities.

Indonesia

Asia is home to 48 unique countries, and Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world. It should be on your travel radar especially in January, because you’ll find comfortably warm temperatures ranging from 25-30°C/ 77-86°F and, most importantly, less crowd compared to the peak season. 

Indonesia is home to stunning attractions, including the LoBeachbeach, Ubud terraces of rice, the Borobudur Temple, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and many more. Moreover, this melting pot of culture showcases vibrant festivals, ancient traditions, and a rich artistic heritage.

The cuisine of Indonesia is a symphony of tantalizing flavors. If you’re visiting it, you must try spicy nasi goreng, savory satays, and traditional rijsttafel. beware aware! It’s the home of the world’s largest lizard. While visiting the forest you might spot these fascinating creatures, so keep your eyes wide open. 

Africa

If you want to have a truly transformative travel experience, then visit Africa. This continent has incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. You should definitely have it on your travel bucket list. There are many countries in Africa where you can find cheap destinations to travel to in January, but Egypt is our favorite.

Egypt

Egypt is the land of pyramids, pharaohs, and the mighty Nile. It’s a captivating destination to visit year-round, but in January, it offers a special blend of fascinating history, comfortable weather, and scrumptious cuisines. The temperature drops to 18-23°C (64-73°F), which makes it ideal for exploring ancient sites like the temples of Karnak and Luxor, Cario’s Khanel-Khalili Bazar, Valley of Kings, and the world-famous Pyramids of Giza. 

You can also savor Egyptian cuisines like sweet baklava, hummus, and kosher on the bank of the longest river in the world, the Nile. In January, you can get your hands on cheaper deals, which means you can have more money to spend on other activities.

Wrapping Up

Phew! It was a tiring roller-coaster journey. It took a lot of effort and time to find the countries in different continents that you can visit in January which are budget-friendly. This guide is full of amazing destinations where you can get your hands on affordable deals on hotels and fares and explore new places without walking shoulder-to-shoulder. 

All the countries we have listed in this blog are just a few out of many. There are many other places you can visit in January without breaking your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the cheapest place to travel in January?

The affordable places to visit in January are:

• Bulgaria
• Thailand
• Belize
• Lisbon
• Cancun
• Tenerife
• Sri Lanka

Where is it best to go away in January?

Those who wish to escape the chilly weather can go to the Maldives, Panama, or the Caribbean. Those who are snow sports fans should visit Switerzland, Vail, or Turkey.