13 Budget-Friendly Weekend Trips to Take This January (Under $500)

January always feels like a fresh start—and honestly, it’s a perfect moment to sneak away for a weekend trip that won’t drain your savings. After the holiday rush, I know a lot of us crave travel, but the budget? Yeah, it’s tight.

Here’s the good news: you can absolutely find fantastic places across the U.S. that deliver memorable experiences, comfy stays, and plenty of fun—all for less than $500.

Want a budget-friendly January getaway? Focus on spots with affordable hotels, free or cheap things to do, and easy dining options. Winter usually means lower prices, too. You can wander historic towns, chill on quiet beaches, hike mountain trails, or just soak up local vibes—no need to overspend.

I’ve rounded up thirteen destinations that suit all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re into coastal towns, mountain hideaways, or lively cities, there’s something here for you. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in some tips for stretching your dollars and packing smart for winter.

1) San Antonio, Texas – Explore the Alamo and Riverwalk

San Antonio really surprised me as a budget-friendly January trip. The city blends history, tasty food, and mild weather—without the summer crowds.

The Alamo tops the must-see list. You can walk the 4.2-acre grounds, poke around the old church and barrack, and catch exhibits or tours. It’s all free, and the stories behind the 1836 battle? Genuinely fascinating.

I love strolling the River Walk. The stone pathways wind along the water, lined with restaurants and shops. It feels peaceful, especially in January’s cooler air.

If you’re into history, the Spanish colonial missions (UNESCO sites!) are worth a visit. For a change of pace, the Japanese Tea Garden is another free gem.

Tex-Mex food is everywhere, and most places keep prices reasonable. Plan your weekend with budget lodging, simple meals, and free sights—you’ll easily stay under $500.

2) Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Beach and budget hotels

Myrtle Beach in January? Way more affordable than you’d think. Hotel rates drop, so you can snag 2-star rooms for about $42 a night, or even 3-star spots for $38. Not bad, right?

The off-season means fewer crowds and deals everywhere. February’s even cheaper, but January still beats the summer rush.

You’ll find budget-friendly accommodations along the Grand Strand. Some hotels throw in special weeknight offers, too.

Want extra peace and quiet? Stay in North Myrtle Beach, Garden City Beach, or Pawleys Island. These areas are chill, the beaches are empty, and prices stay low.

Factor in cheap hotels and off-season activities, and you’ll keep your trip under $500. The beach is always open, and plenty of restaurants and attractions operate all winter.

3) Asheville, North Carolina – Mountain cabins and breweries

Asheville’s mountain vibe is perfect if you’re craving a winter escape on a budget. Cabin rentals start around $100-150 a night in January—off-season deals are everywhere.

With over 40 cabin rental companies, you’ll find cozy spots tucked in the woods near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hot tubs and fireplaces? Yes, please.

A two-night stay runs $200-300, leaving room in your budget for food and fun. Asheville’s craft breweries (30+ of them!) often host free tours or cheap tastings.

You can hike for free on trails like the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. The views are stunning, especially with a little winter frost.

Downtown Asheville is walkable, with local restaurants and quirky shops. The food scene covers all price points, so you don’t have to splurge.

Pack warm layers—January temps hover between 30 and 50 degrees. Trust me, nothing beats a cozy cabin night after a chilly hike.

4) Sedona, Arizona – Red rock hiking and affordable inns

Sedona’s red rocks are unreal, and you don’t need a big budget to see them. Most trails are free, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.

Bell Rock is a classic starting point. The trail’s easy, free, and gets you right up close to those famous formations.

If you want to save even more, do a day trip. For overnight stays, check out budget hotels in the Village of Oak Creek—prices there beat central Sedona.

You’ll spend most of your money on food and a place to sleep. Pack snacks and water for hikes to keep costs down. Honestly, you could hike all weekend and barely spend a dime.

January brings mild hiking weather and lower hotel rates after the holidays. It’s the sweet spot for a Sedona adventure.

5) Santa Fe, New Mexico – Art galleries and southwestern cuisine

Santa Fe always surprises me with its artsy vibe and budget-friendly options. The city’s the third-largest art market in the country, and most galleries don’t charge admission.

Canyon Road is the heart of it all, with over 100 galleries showing off everything from Native pottery to modern art. You’ll spot Western paintings, turquoise jewelry, and bronze statues everywhere.

The New Mexico Museum of Art sits in a beautiful adobe building, and many galleries offer free entry.

Food here is a treat—think green chile stew or stacked enchiladas. Most meals run $10-15, so you can try a few places without worrying.

The city’s adobe buildings make downtown walks pretty special. Everything’s close, so you can wander between galleries and restaurants easily. January means fewer tourists and lower hotel rates.

Budget hotels start around $80 a night. Add meals and local transport, and you can swing a full weekend for under $500.

6) Savannah, Georgia – Historic district and riverfront parks

Savannah’s Historic District is a dream for budget travelers. You can walk through 23 park squares shaded by live oaks and Spanish moss—totally free.

The architecture is straight out of a storybook, with 18th and 19th-century homes all over the place.

Head to River Street for waterfront views, shopping, and dining. The cobblestone streets make for a great stroll, and watching the ships go by never gets old.

Museums, monuments, and restored homes dot the Historic District. Many don’t charge admission, so your budget stretches further here.

January weather is mild, making it easy to explore outdoors. No summer heat, no crowds—just peaceful walks through squares and parks.

Everything’s close together, so you won’t spend much on getting around. Budget hotels near the action keep your weekend under $500.

7) Portland, Maine – Coastal charm and seafood dining

Portland in winter? I love it. The city’s compact, so you can walk pretty much everywhere. January brings smaller crowds and better hotel deals.

Budget-friendly hotels start around $100 a night, especially outside the Old Port. You’ll still be close to all the good stuff.

Seafood here is the real star. Whether you want a lobster shack or a cozy sit-down spot, you’ll find fresh catches everywhere. The Porthole is a favorite for quality seafood that won’t wreck your budget.

Plan on $15-25 for meals at casual places. Lobster rolls, chowder, fried clams—classic Maine without the fancy price tag.

You can walk the Eastern Promenade for ocean views or check out shops on Congress Street. The Portland Head Light is just outside town and totally free to visit.

A weekend here usually runs $400-450 per person, including food and gas if you’re driving. January is cold, so bring warm layers and embrace the coastal winter.

8) Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Winter skiing and lodges

Lake Tahoe straddles California and Nevada, offering 13 ski resorts for all skill levels. It gets over 500 inches of snow each year, and most days are sunny—ideal for skiing.

Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood are favorites. Beginners can find gentle slopes, while more advanced skiers get their pick of challenging runs.

January’s a smart time to visit for deals on lodging. Check South Lake Tahoe or nearby towns for budget stays. Some resorts bundle lift tickets with hotels for extra savings.

Buy multi-day lift passes instead of singles to save more. Bringing your own gear helps, but if you need rentals, book online ahead of time for discounts.

San Francisco is about a four-hour drive away. Reno’s even closer—less than an hour to the slopes. Tahoe makes a doable weekend trip without pricey flights.

9) Nashville, Tennessee – Music scene and budget-friendly accommodations

Nashville’s music scene is electric, and you don’t have to spend a fortune. Broadway pulses with live music every night, and most bars don’t even charge cover. You can catch amazing musicians for free—just tip if you’re feeling it.

Finding affordable hotels is easier than expected. Plenty of budget options sit near downtown, or you can try Opryland and airport areas for even lower rates (and sometimes free shuttles).

If you stay just outside downtown, like near Vanderbilt or Brentwood, you’ll get quieter nights and better value. These neighborhoods keep you close to the action without the big-city price tag.

You don’t need a fancy hotel to enjoy Nashville. Clean, comfy rooms are everywhere, so you can save your cash for hot chicken, the Country Music Hall of Fame, or a few extra rounds at your favorite honky-tonk.

10) Charleston, South Carolina – Historic tours and beaches

Charleston just gets it right. You get centuries-old architecture, palm trees swaying, and wide beaches—all without blowing your weekend budget.

I wandered the cobblestone streets and found free or super cheap historical tours nearly everywhere. One day, I joined a $20 walking tour that took us past antebellum homes and hidden gardens. If you’re more of a solo explorer, just strolling the historic district on your own feels like time travel.

The beaches? Totally free. Folly Beach and Isle of Palms are both just a quick drive from downtown. I spent hours just soaking up sun and watching surfers, and honestly, you don’t need to spend a dime.

If you visit in January, you’ll find budget hotels and vacation rentals starting around $80-120 a night. That off-season timing really helps with deals.

Southern food in Charleston is a treat, and you don’t have to pay top dollar to eat well. I found local spots serving up fresh seafood and classic dishes at prices that left room for dessert.

Getting around is easy since most historic sites cluster downtown. I walked everywhere, only grabbing a car when I wanted a beach day.

11) San Diego, California – Beaches and low-cost attractions

San Diego’s got 70 miles of coastline and, surprisingly, you don’t need a celebrity budget to enjoy it. I spent entire days at La Jolla Cove, Pacific Beach, and Coronado Beach without touching my wallet.

January is the sweet spot for deals. Hotel rates dip, and flights are usually cheaper since the crowds have thinned.

Balboa Park is a must. You can wander beautiful gardens and marvel at Spanish Colonial architecture for free. The park has 17 museums, and if you time it right, you’ll catch free admission days.

I packed a picnic and rented a bike, which let me explore the coast without spending much on food or transportation. The weather’s usually in the 60s, perfect for hiking, sunset watching, and even catching a few free cultural events.

A $500 budget covers basic lodging, meals, and a few paid attractions, with plenty left for all the free stuff.

12) Kansas City, Missouri – Barbecue and cultural museums

Kansas City surprised me with how much you can do on a budget. The BBQ scene is legendary, and thankfully, you don’t need deep pockets to eat well.

I visited the Museum of BBQ at Crown Center and dove into the world of American barbecue—from Carolina to Memphis to Texas and, of course, Kansas City. The interactive exhibits made the history come alive.

Eight museums here offer free admission. I checked out art, history, and quirky local collections, all without paying for tickets.

With over 30 free activities around the city, you’ll never run out of things to do. I spent my weekend hopping between outdoor spaces, cultural hotspots, and local landmarks.

Kansas City makes budget travel shockingly easy. Affordable dining and free museums mean you can plan a whole weekend for under $500—including your stay and getting around, thanks to the city’s compact layout.

13) Austin, Texas – Live music and outdoor activities

Austin’s vibe is infectious—and you don’t need to spend a lot to join in. Free live music pours out of venues all over town, and yes, it really is the “Live Music Capital of the World.”

I stretched my budget by hanging out in Zilker Park, a massive green space perfect for hiking, picnics, or just people-watching. Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed swimming hole, only costs a few bucks and is worth every penny.

The city’s full of free attractions. I wandered past colorful murals in East Austin and joined the crowds at Congress Avenue Bridge to watch millions of bats fly out at sunset. Some museums even have free admission days if you plan ahead.

Food trucks and markets kept my food spending low. I ate some of the best Texas BBQ and tacos for a fraction of what I’d pay in a sit-down restaurant.

January weather stays comfortable—usually in the 50s and 60s. That means you can be outside all day. It’s totally possible to enjoy Austin for under $500 per person for a weekend.

How to Maximize Your Weekend Trip Budget

Keeping your weekend trip under $500 isn’t magic, but it does take some planning. I focus on three things: booking at the right time, getting there affordably, and finding places to stay that don’t eat up my whole budget.

Smart Booking Strategies

I usually book trips on Tuesday or Wednesday because prices drop then. Airlines and hotels tend to release deals early in the week, and I’ve found better rates than on Fridays.

Setting up price alerts on Google Flights or Hopper has saved me more than once. I get notified when fares dip, so I can pounce.

Off-peak travel is a game-changer. January weekends after New Year’s are much cheaper than holiday weekends. Sometimes, leaving Friday afternoon instead of morning saves me money too.

Bundling bookings can unlock discounts. I’ve saved 10-20% by booking flights and hotels together on travel sites.

Searching in incognito mode helps avoid those sneaky price jumps after repeated searches.

Affordable Transportation Options

If my destination is within 200-300 miles, I’ll drive. It’s cheaper than flying and gives me a car to explore. Splitting gas with friends makes it even more affordable.

Buses and trains can be a steal. FlixBus and Amtrak offer weekend deals starting at $20-50 for regional routes.

I check alternate airports nearby, too. Sometimes flying into a smaller airport within 90 minutes of my target city saves $100-200.

For car rentals, I use discount sites or credit card perks. I book the smallest car I need and skip extra insurance if my card covers it.

Money-Saving Accommodation Tips

Hostels with private rooms run $40-70 per night and feel more like boutique hotels these days.

If I’m traveling with friends, vacation rentals like Airbnb or Vrbo let us cook and split costs.

Staying just outside downtown can save 30-40% on hotels. I look for spots near public transit to get around easily.

Hotel loyalty programs are worth signing up for. Free membership often means 10-15% off and points toward future stays. I always look for hotels with free breakfast—it can save $15-20 per person every day.

What to Pack for a January Weekend Getaway

Packing for January means prepping for cold weather but keeping it light. I focus on layers, versatile gear, and not overstuffing my bag.

Winter Essentials

The base layer is everything. I pack thermal underwear or moisture-wicking long sleeves—they keep me warm without bulk.

One good coat does the trick. A waterproof, insulated jacket handles just about anything January throws at me. I usually wear it while traveling to save space.

Don’t forget these cold weather accessories:

• A warm hat that covers your ears
• Insulated gloves or mittens
• Scarf or neck warmer
• Wool or thermal socks (2-3 pairs)

I bring at least one sweater or fleece for layering. Dark colors are my go-to—they hide stains and match everything. Two pairs of jeans or warm pants are usually enough for a weekend.

Multi-Use Travel Gear

A small crossbody bag or backpack is my day bag and personal item on flights. Multiple pockets make it easy to grab my phone, wallet, or a snack.

For shoes, I wear my bulkiest pair and pack one more that works for walking and casual dinners. Waterproof boots are a lifesaver if it’s snowy or wet.

A reusable water bottle (the kind that folds up) saves money and space. I always bring a multi-port phone charger, too.

Travel-size toiletries in refillable bottles keep my bag light and TSA-friendly. I only bring what I’ll actually use for a weekend.

Packing Light for Short Trips

Three shirts max for a two-night trip—wear one, pack two. Everything should layer and mix easily.

Here’s my go-to packing list:

Category	Quantity
Shirts	2-3
Pants	1-2
Underwear	3 pairs
Socks	3 pairs
Pajamas	1 set
Shoes	2 pairs total

Packing cubes help compress clothes and keep things organized. I roll my clothes to save space and avoid wrinkles. Shoes go in plastic bags to keep everything else clean.

A carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) is plenty for most weekends. No checked bag fees, and I breeze through the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Budget weekend trips in January are totally doable. Here’s what people ask me most—and how I make it work.