5 Underrated Holiday Travel Destinations That Won't Break the Bank

Traveling can be costly, especially during the holidays. With many people planning trips to see friends and family, destinations get more expensive this time of the year. But, like most people, you might have vacation days you want to use up, making it an excellent time to get out of town.

Thankfully, there are still some locations you can visit that won't upend your personal finances. Here are five ideas you may want to consider this holiday season.

1. Canada

Our neighbor to the North could be just the place to visit this holiday season to save some money. For many in the U.S., it may be possible to drive across the border and skip the purchase of plane tickets.

If you head to beautiful Quebec, you can stay at the apartment hotel Sonder Maisonneuve in Montreal for as little as $98 per night in December.

There are many free things to do in Montreal this winter, too, including the Great Montreal Christmas Market outside Place des Arts and the Christmas Village at Atwater Market. History buffs will love that the city projects images of historical figures on older buildings in Old Montreal every weekend in December.

2. Mexico

If you're looking for somewhere warmer to go to, and I don't blame you, then the United States' other close neighbor may be your best destination.

A quick search for hotel rooms brought up the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa in the beach town of Puerto Vallarta. Stunning views of the water can be yours for as low as $155 per night, according to Google.

And with Puerto Vallarta's average high temperature of 82 degrees in December, you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the weather. Save me a chair at the pool.

3. Las Vegas

If you're looking for an inexpensive destination (depending on your gambling preferences), you can score some good hotel deals in Las Vegas this holiday season. I found a deal on the Downtown Grand Las Vegas hotel for as low as $152 per night.

There are also free activities in the city, including the Arts Factory gallery in downtown Las Vegas and a botanical garden display in the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden. Great parks are also nearby, including the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and Death Valley National Park.

4. The Dominican Republic

If you're looking for a destination that's a little exotic but still won't break the bank, then consider Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic.

With plenty of beaches to enjoy and an average December high temperature of 86 degrees, there will be many opportunities to rid yourself of the winter blues. I found an inexpensive room at the Hotel Riazor in Santo Domingo, starting at just $73 per night. Just remember to pack sunscreen.

5. A staycation in your city

Planning a staycation could be one of the best ways to save money on traveling and keep your credit card tab low while still having plenty of fun. The money you'll save by not booking a flight could be used to stay at a nice hotel or a fancy dinner out.

No matter how big or small the place you live, there are likely some fun things to do there this holiday season. My small city has a free Christmas parade, a small Christmas village in our downtown park, and even an ice skating rink.

It pays to think like a tourist when planning your staycation. Do a little research to find a few restaurants you haven't been to before or a theater show you've been meaning to see.

Maximize your trip with a bit of planning

Spontaneity can be a great way to enjoy your vacation, but spending a little time planning what you'll do at your destination can go a long way toward keeping your costs down while traveling.

For example, if you have a few days where you're spending money on entertainment, dining out, and shopping, then plan an off day where you take in the local views, stroll around a park, or visit a free museum to save money.

Setting up a simple budget ahead of time will help you plan for things you want to do on your vacation and also help keep your finances on track.