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New year, new trips. January doesn’t scream “peak season” the way summer does—and to be honest, that’s the way we like it. Fewer crowds, friendlier fares, and the chance to either lean into the coziness of winter or jet off somewhere warm. Whether you’re plotting a big adventure, sneaking in a long weekend, or just craving sun on your face (come January, you’ll be begging for it), these destinations are well worth considering for an early-2026 escape.
Our Travel Expert Lousson Smith has carefully curated these selections for January, though some deals come with availability as early as October 2025 or as late as May 2026. So depending on your schedule, you can find a trip that works for you.
Note: These (or similar) deals were sent to our members over the past several weeks. The exact deal may no longer be active, but you may find something similar by downloading our app or searching on Google Flights. Rather than taking this newsletter as gospel, think of it as a guide for how you should approach your flight search for January trips.
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Your big 2026 adventure: Japan
Depart from: 100+ US airports
Availability: January–March and May 2026, with some late 2025 availability
Going deal price: $750 roundtrip
Set a flight alert
It feels like everyone you know has either gone to Japan or is planning a trip there now. If you haven’t made it in 2025, then 2026 is your year. With flight capacity to Asia steadily climbing since the pandemic, fares to Japan have stayed surprisingly reasonable, especially if you plan ahead. January and February bring smaller crowds and crisp winter air, making it easier to soak in onsens, wander neon-lit cityscapes, and warm up over steaming bowls of ramen.
Getting there: Fly into Tokyo (HND, NRT), Kyoto (KIX), or Osaka (KIX, ITM)—take your pick. And check out our guides for each city to get your adventure started.
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A domestic getaway: Charleston
Depart from: 30+ US airports
Availability: October 2025–March 2026
Going deal price: $150 roundtrip
Set a flight alert
Charleston doesn’t need high temps to charm. In the cooler months, the cobblestone streets feel quieter, the history tours less crowded, and the BBQ joints just as smoky and satisfying. Winter also means flight deals are easier to snag, so you can slip away for a weekend of Southern staples—think hearty comfort food, buzzy cocktail bars, and plenty of walkable history—before the spring rush hits, or before the kids head back to school.
Getting there: Fly into Charleston (CHS). And check out our Charleston Travel Guide for what to see, eat, and do.
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A warm escape: Cancún or Tulum
Depart from: 30 US airports
Availability: November 2025–February 2026
Going deal price: $325 roundtrip
Set a flight alert
If your January resolution is “more sunshine, less winter coat,” Mexico’s Gulf Coast delivers. Fares to Yucatán Peninsula hotspots have been mellow lately, and early-year prices are some of the most competitive you’ll find. Between all-inclusive resorts and easy beach access, this is one of the simplest ways to trade snow for sand. Bonus: You’ll find fewer crowds than peak spring break season—but all the turquoise waters you’re dreaming of.
Getting there: Fly into Cancún (CUN) or Tulum (TQO). A handful of the most beautiful places in Mexico are found on the peninsula—start planning your trip with our guide.
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Fun for the family: Costa Rica
Depart from: 60+ US airports
Availability: October 2025–April 2026
Going deal price: $305 roundtrip
Set a flight alert
Believe it or not, Costa Rica is one of the easiest international trips for families—and one of the most rewarding. Short flights, no special vaccines, and plenty of family-friendly hotels make logistics simple. Plus, you can spot monkeys and sloths in the rainforest, soak in hot springs, and splash around on calm beaches. Pick your adventure, and prepare for a school break that’s equal parts exciting and relaxing.
Getting there: Fly into San Jose (SJO) if your trip centers around the rainforest and volcanoes; fly into Liberia (LIR) if you’re spending most of your time on the Pacific coast beaches. Start planning with our guides to Costa Rica and the best places to visit throughout the country.
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Where Lousson’s going in January: Miami
Depart from: 60+ US airports
Availability: October 2025, January–March 2026
Going deal price: $179 roundtrip
Set a flight alert
Miami isn’t exactly a secret, but sometimes a classic winter getaway is exactly what you need. January hits the sweet spot: warm enough to ditch the heavy coat, cool enough to avoid peak Florida humidity. Beyond the beaches, you’ll find Cuban heritage in Little Havana, art-filled mansions like Vizcaya, and, depending on your timing, the buzz of the College Football Playoff National Championship. It’s a quick escape that packs in more than just sunshine.
Getting there: Fly into Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL). Get started with our Miami Travel Guide.
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With Travel Expert:
Lousson Smith
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Lousson is the Senior Lifecycle Marketing Specialist at Going. Day to day, he manages campaigns and finds great deals worth booking so you don't have to find them yourself. His favorite place in the world to visit is Japan. As an avid musician, Lousson centers a lot of his travel around experiencing some of the best music the world has to offer.
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