Why January Is The Best Month To Travel: Fewer Crowds,Better Prices,& Incredible Destinations
why I travel in january
Every destination has a peak season, and lately, shoulder seasons are becoming shorter and shorter as travel expands and traveler schedules become more flexible. Over the years, I’ve traveled in every month of the year, but there is one month that has become our consistent favorite. Surprisingly, no matter where we go, it’s never too crowded and prices are almost always a bit lower.
Our favorite month to travel is January.
Our habit of traveling in January actually started out of necessity. Our daughter was born on our first anniversary, so for the next 18 years, taking an anniversary trip during our actual anniversary week wasn’t an option. Instead, we postponed our anniversary trips until January—and quickly realized how well it worked.
Here’s why January became our go-to month:
The long MLK weekend in the U.S. gave grandparents a break from school schedules and our kids a chance to stay with them
After an exhausting holiday season, a break from the hustle was very much needed
It was the perfect time to travel to warm destinations and escape the winter blues
Crowds were fewer as most people returned to school and work routines
Peak season was fading, which meant better pricing and availability
In 2023, we became empty nesters, and technically, we could have gone back to celebrating our anniversary in October. But even then, January still felt like the perfect month to travel.
Over the last few years, we’ve leaned into the Southern Hemisphere, where January is actually an ideal time to visit destinations like Australia, New Zealand, South America, and Antarctica. Being empty nesters also gave us the freedom to travel longer—three to four weeks at a time. Slower travel has allowed us to explore more deeply, cover more ground, and truly settle into a destination rather than rushing through it.
This January, we’re off again—this time as a family. We headed out just after the New Year began for a chance to disconnect and reconnect before the kids returned to college. A 10-day trip to Panama felt like the perfect way to be together after celebrating the holidays at home.
If January travel is starting to pique your interest, there are so many destinations worth considering.
Many of the Caribbean destinations offer culture, an old world feel, plus the warm weather we crave in the middle of winter! Photo credit: Kathryn Maingot@vesperklm
warm weather escapes & beach getaways
If you’re craving sunshine, a break from the cold, or a romantic escape, January is ideal for many Caribbean destinations. Consider Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Barths, Anguilla, and other islands that offer warm weather, crystal-blue water, and a relaxed pace.
If Barbados is on your radar, check out this article I contributed to about Barbados. If it's an island you've yet to explore and if you are looking for the perfect resort in Barbados, this post will help you find the right now. When you’re ready to start planning, I’d love to help ensure your stay is seamless at any of these incredible properties.
Each island has its own beauty and reasons to go. Can you feel the calm? Photo credit: Mark Jordan @markjordan36
culture, adventure, & history
For travelers who want a mix of culture, adventure, and history, I highly recommend Panama. A 10-day trip through this small but diverse country gives you the chance to explore highland mountains, cloud forests, coastal beaches, the Panama Canal, and the charming streets of Casco Viejo.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, your partner, or solo, Panama truly packs a punch for such a compact destination.
You’ll find a little a bit of everything in Panama! Photo credit: Cristhian Carreño @criiissthian.
southern hemisphere adventures
Have more time and ready to explore somewhere new? Head south—by that, I mean the Southern Hemisphere. Options are endless, but some of my all-time favorites include Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica, Chile, and Argentina.
I’ve shared several blog posts on traveling through South America, including one with my honest take on hiking the famous Laguna de Los Tres Trail. These trips require extra planning and more time on the ground, but they are absolutely worth the effort. Planning early allows you to secure the best hotels, attend major events like the Australian Open, and budget properly for a truly epic adventure.
asia in january
Craving something completely different? If Asia hasn’t made it onto your travel list yet, January is a fantastic time to go. It’s the dry season in many regions, especially in Southeast Asia:
Thailand – Clear skies and comfortable temperatures in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the southern islands
Vietnam – Warm and dry in the south; cooler but pleasant conditions in the north
Myanmar – Dry and cool, ideal for exploring Bagan and Inle Lake
Cambodia – Comfortable weather for visiting Angkor Wat and beyond
ski season without the crowds
Prefer snow over sand? January is also an excellent time for a ski vacation. Snow coverage is usually solid, but holiday crowds have dissipated as people return to work and school routines.
One of my favorite hidden gems for skiing is Whitefish, Montana. I’ve written more about why it’s such a special destination, and it’s well worth considering if you want great skiing without the chaos.
Final Thoughts
While the weather at home might feel less than ideal, don’t overlook the idea of traveling in January. Whether you’re planning a quick tropical getaway, a ski trip without the crowds, or finally tackling a dream destination, January offers more opportunity than most people realize.
I’d love to hear—does this change your mind about January travel? If so, drop a comment below and tell me which destination has piqued your curiosity.
Happy travels, friends!
Celebrate and Explore in January!
