Mother holding up a smiling child in a snowy outdoor setting.

Best Winter Vacation Ideas

5 min read

Last Updated: February 28, 2025

Table of contents

Key Takeaways

Winter vacations offer something for everyone, whether you are a snow enthusiast or prefer to soak up the sun.
You can save on your trip by using discount travel and using good planning.
A credit card that offers travel rewards can help you offset some of the expenses from your winter vacation.

The summer isn’t the only time to plan a vacation. With snow, holidays, and festivities, the winter season can be a magical time to set out on a trip. And best of all, with your credit card, you may be able to save on costs and make your travel adventures even more enjoyable. So, get ready to explore the perfect winter getaway ideas and learn how you can save some money in the process.

Best winter vacation spots for the sports enthusiast

Winter can be a great time for adventure seekers and snow enthusiasts. Ski resorts like Aspen in Colorado, Whistler in Canada, and Zermatt in Switzerland offer awe-inspiring alpine landscapes combined with world-class skiing experiences. You can glide down the slopes, take in the scenery, and create cherished memories with your loved ones.

But, if skiing isn’t your idea of the perfect winter activity, places like Lake Placid in New York, Park City in Utah, and St. Moritz in Switzerland provide many other winter sports to choose from. You can explore activities such as ice skating, snowboarding, sledding, and even ice climbing. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a beginner, these winter hotspots cater to all skill levels and interests.

Funding your winter sports adventure

As you plan your winter getaway, it's crucial to consider your expenses and find ways to make your trip more affordable. It’s best to start planning and saving as early as possible for your vacation. If you know you plan to travel toward the end of the year, you can start setting aside funds every month from the beginning of the year toward your trip. You can book your trip early to find the best rates for hotels and transportation.

Then, you can set a daily budget for food, drinks, activities, and shopping. It’s recommended that you add 10-15% to that number for small emergencies or unforeseen expenses.

Did you know?

With the Discover it^® Miles travel credit card, you can earn unlimited 1.5x Miles automatically on travel purchases and all your everyday purchases.¹ You can turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more.¹

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A travel credit card with a generous rewards program can help you save on the cost of your trip. Travel cards allow you to earn rewards every time you spend. The rewards can help you cover the cost of flights and accommodation, which can help reduce your travel costs, allowing you to enjoy more experiences during your winter trips.

With the convenience of a credit card, you can not only experience the joys of winter sports but also manage your expenses. By using the benefits of a travel rewards credit card and taking advantage of its additional perks, you can make the most of your winter adventures while saving money and enjoying a worry-free journey. So, get ready to hit the slopes, embrace the snowy marvels, and create unforgettable memories in the winter wonderland of your choice.

Best winter family vacation ideas

Winter is a time of captivating cultural retreats and vibrant festivals that take place around the world. One such festival is the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival in China, where you can witness the breathtaking beauty of illuminated ice sculptures against the night sky. It's a truly unique winter experience for you and the whole family.

In Europe, cities like Vienna, Prague, and Berlin come alive with iconic Christmas markets that immerse visitors in the festive spirit. These markets offer an array of local foods, handmade crafts, and live performances that highlight different winter traditions. It's a chance to indulge in tasty treats, find unique gifts, and enjoy all the rich culture around you.

Paying for your winter family vacation

Attending these festivals can be costly, when you factor in the cost of hotel stays, food, and souvenirs. To make the most of your spending and stretch your funds, consider using a credit card with a good reward program. For example, with the Discover it^® Cash Back credit card, you can earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, credit cards equipped with contactless payment options make transactions swift and secure, ensuring that you can enjoy your time at these enchanting winter events without any hassle.

So, whether you're vacationing in China or exploring the bustling Christmas markets of Europe, a credit card can be a valuable tool to enhance your cultural retreats during the winter months. It provides you with the convenience of payment, rewards, and savings, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festivities and create unforgettable memories.

Best warm winter vacation ideas

Winter vacations don’t always have to be cold. While winter brings cold weather to many places, there are special destinations where you can escape to warm and sunny paradises. You can relax under the glowing sun on the beautiful beaches of the Maldives, Hawaii, or the Caribbean islands. These places are perfect for unwinding and exploring colorful coral reefs while snorkeling.

Saving money on a tropical winter vacation

Traveling to these exotic destinations can involve significant expenses, such as the cost of plane tickets, housing, and activities. One way to save is to check out discount travel sites. You can look for package deals that come with tours and experiences. And when you book with your Discover it^® Miles travel credit card, you can earn unlimited 1.5x Miles automatically on travel purchases and all your everyday purchases.¹

If you're dreaming of escaping the winter chill and experiencing the warmth of tropical paradises, remember that a credit card can be a valuable tool to help make your dream trip more convenient and enjoyable.

The bottom line

Winter vacations offer incredible opportunities to explore stunning places and create memories that will last a lifetime. By using a credit card, you can turn your winter travel dreams into a reality while effectively managing your expenses. Whether you're looking for snowy adventures, cultural celebrations, or sunny getaways, a credit card can be a helpful tool to enhance your travel experiences. So, start planning your winter escape, pack your bags, and let your credit card be your companion on an exciting journey filled with unforgettable moments and endless possibilities.

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