Oct 29, 2026

4 Cheapest Countries To Travel to This Winter (And 2 That Are Getting Expensive)

Skip the sticker shock. Four destinations still deliver serious value in the cold months.

With prices climbing again, skipping the big winter getaway and staying home is tempting. Good news is a long, pricey trip isn’t your only option. Plenty of destinations are still a bargain in the cold months, as long as you pick the right place and time.

We asked travel experts which destinations still deliver serious bang for your buck this winter. They pointed to four countries where the trip itself can be surprisingly affordable. They also flagged a few places that have quietly become budget busters, so you know where to think twice before booking.

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Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan will probably be the one location on this list where you have to look on a map to find it. But don’t let that deter you from considering this Asian country. Airfare might be a little expensive, but once you’re there, things get extremely inexpensive. The country’s mountains make it a natural pick for winter sports, and lodging, meals and transportation are priced low.

“Kyrgyzstan still remains slightly under the radar and offers incredible mountains to go hiking or skiing for a fraction of what it'd cost in Europe,” said Juan Castells, founder of Planet of Adventures. “The cuisine is full of exciting flavors, and it's a very safe country to travel, even with language barriers.”

Morocco

Winter is when Morocco is at its most pleasant. Summer temperatures can climb to 100 degrees or higher, but in the cooler months you can wander the medina and souks without melting. Staying in a traditional riad and eating well won’t drain your account, either.

“Outside the Christmas/New Year peak, January and February are a quieter season in Marrakech and the desert, so riads and desert camps are easier to book and, in our experience, rates soften,” said Hassan Kajjoun, founder of Moratra.

“Everyday costs stay low, including local cafés, street food in Jemaa el-Fnaa and shared taxis cost far less than in Europe.”

Thailand

Similar to Kyrgyzstan, flights to Thailand will be the most expensive part of your trip. Once you land, everything gets inexpensive, no matter which city you decide to visit.

“The flight to Thailand can be expensive, especially from Europe or the United States, but nearly everything becomes much more affordable after arrival,” said André Ribeiro, founder and travel expert at Andre On Digital.

“Thailand is particularly worthwhile for someone who wants to escape the cold. January offers warm weather, beaches, temples and outdoor experiences without needing a luxury budget.”

One of the biggest draws to the country is the food. Street food, food courts and small local restaurants give you the chance to eat well for just a few dollars per meal.

Peru

If you’re thinking about traveling to Peru, you won’t be disappointed with the overall costs. However, you should be aware that popular sites like Machu Picchu are becoming increasingly expensive. Traveling in the winter, which is the rainy season, will help keep your costs low.

“One of the cheapest and least crowded times of year to visit Peru is winter,” said Sean Benner, director of product at G Adventures.

“Most travelers visit Machu Picchu during the dry season, so winter brings cooler temperatures, occasional showers and far fewer people on the trails. You can often find lower prices on accommodations and daily adventures.”

Where Things Are Getting Expensive

Not every winter destination is a bargain. According to Brenner, warm-weather locations like the Galapagos Islands get expensive quickly. Flights are costly, and even attractions will set you back quite a bit. And for international travelers, visitors can face national park entrance fees of $200.

Ireland is the other one to watch. Ribeiro noted that timing won’t save you much there, since the country has become extremely expensive compared to most other European destinations. It’s still worth visiting, but you should book your accommodations early if you want a reasonable rate.

The Bottom Line

Staying home isn’t the only way to save this season. Pick a destination where the trip itself is cheap, time your visit for the off-season and book early anywhere prices or crowds are climbing. Your wallet gets a real vacation, and you get to skip the cold without the credit card hangover.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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Written by

Sean Bryant

Sean Bryant is a Denver-based digital marketer and freelance writer specializing in personal finance and real estate. With more than 15 years of writing experience, his work has appeared in many of the industry's top publications.

Edited by

Ashleigh Ray

Ashleigh is an editor specializing in personal finance and banking content, with four years of experience — first at GOBankingRates, then at MoneyLion — turning complex financial topics into advice readers can actually understand and use. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of South Florida and brings that same care for clarity and voice to every piece she edits. She's based in Tampa, Florida.