Winter opens up a world of travel possibilities across America. Whether you crave snowy ski runs, festive city lights, or warm sandy beaches, there are Best Weekend Trips in the US to suit every taste. In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll show you how to turn chilly months into an adventure-packed season. From adrenaline-filled mountain escapes and tropical getaways to cozy holiday markets and national-park adventures, we cover everything you need to plan your perfect winter vacation. Get ready to discover top winter destinations, travel tips, and engaging ideas that will make your getaway unforgettable.
Many travelers see winter as a prime time to explore. In fact, surveys show that well over half of Americans plan a winter trip each year, often taking three to seven nights away to celebrate the season. Trip planning experts note that cities like New York, Las Vegas, Orlando, Honolulu and Key West frequently top the list of winter travel destinations. Meanwhile, travel agencies predict a record number of people on the move this holiday season – over 119 million Americans are expected to journey 50+ miles during year-end holidays. Whether you want warm winter vacations in the USA or snowy slopes, this guide will inspire ideas for short & sweet escapes and longer festive getaways alike. Read on for detailed suggestions, insider tips, and FAQs to help you choose the ideal winter trip.
Why Winter Is a Great Time to Travel
Winter often means fewer crowds and lower prices, making it a great season for travel. Here’s why heading out of town when the thermometer drops can be a brilliant idea:
- Off-Season Deals & Fewer Crowds: Many popular destinations are less crowded in winter, so you can snag better hotel rates and enjoy attractions without long lines. For example, ski resorts often offer discounted lift tickets and packages.
- Seasonal Activities: Winter brings unique experiences like skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, or even dog-sledding. Cities light up with holiday decorations, winter festivals, and Christmas markets, adding magic to your trip.
- Scenic Beauty: Snow-covered landscapes have a special serenity. National parks and mountains that were crowded in summer become peaceful winter wonderlands.
- Warm Getaways: If you prefer sun over snow, many U.S. destinations (like Florida or Hawaii) offer beach warmth in winter – a nice break from the cold. In fact, some Americans choose a sunny beach break as their favorite winter vacation.
Experts note that holiday travel has become a season of its own. With Christmas and New Year spanning two weekends and weekdays in 2024, many people treat winter break just like a summer holiday. Winter travel is great for checking off bucket-list experiences (like seeing the northern lights or partaking in festive parades) while enjoying off-season perks.
Key takeaways: Winter travel combines low-season advantages (good deals, less crowding) with special seasonal charm (snow sports, holiday events). Both family trips and romantic escapes thrive in winter, whether you seek cozy mountain cabins or tropical beaches.
Snowy Mountain Escapes: Ski and Snow Adventures Winter magic: Snowy mountain peaks in Glacier National Park, Montana – perfect for skiing and snowy getaways.
For snow lovers, America’s mountains offer some of the best weekend trips in the US. The Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, Cascades and Appalachians are dotted with world-class ski resorts and winter lodges. Colorado alone saw a projected 14 million skier visits in 2023–24, highlighting how popular ski vacations are in the USA. If you want to carve turns or simply enjoy a cozy mountain retreat, these are top picks:
- Park City, Utah: Home to world-famous slopes and the Sundance Film Festival. Park City Mountain and Deer Valley resorts offer vast terrain for all levels, plus a charming historic downtown. Park City often makes travel lists for winter because of its snow reliability and amenities.
- Aspen & Snowmass, Colorado: Aspen’s luxury scene (hotels, dining) and Snowmass’s family-friendly vibe make this ski area special. A long weekend here means world-class skiing and après-ski fun.
- Vail & Breckenridge, Colorado: Vail is known for its resort village and expansive runs, while Breckenridge boasts a lively old town and consistent snowfall. Both are ideal for winter honeymooners and families.
- Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Flanked by Grand Teton National Park, Jackson offers challenging terrain and panoramic views. It’s perfect for advanced skiers or anyone who loves a rustic Western atmosphere.
- Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada: A short drive from San Francisco, Tahoe has multiple resorts on its shores. Heavenly, Squaw/Alpine Meadows and Northstar are famous for deep powder and sunny ski days. Tahoe also has casinos (in Nevada) and great ski schools.
- Big Sky, Montana: For a wild, expansive ski experience, Big Sky offers the longest continuous runs in the U.S. It’s less crowded than major resorts and has terrain for all levels, plus heli-skiing nearby.
- Stowe, Vermont: On the opposite coast, Vermont’s Green Mountains host Stowe, often called the “Ski Capital of the East.” It’s a classic New England ski town with good snow, charming villages, and famous Toboggan Chute rides.
- Killington, Vermont & Sugarbush, VT: These resorts are also among the largest in the Northeast, drawing East Coasters for long-weekend ski trips. They often open early in the season and offer terrain parks and night skiing.
- Sugarloaf, Maine: If you’re in New England, Sugarloaf has the highest lift-served peak east of the Rockies. Winter foliage and rugged terrain make for a scenic escape.
- Sun Valley, Idaho: A historic ski destination with groomed runs and nordic trails. It’s a quieter spot for those looking to avoid the throngs of Colorado.
Pro travel tips: Pack plenty of layers (base layers, fleece, waterproof shell). Book ski lessons or equipment rental in advance – many resorts offer online discounts. Driving to mountain towns can be part of the fun (e.g. road-tripping to Colorado or Utah), but check weather alerts and have winter tires or chains ready. Many resorts also have cozy lodges, spas and outdoor hot tubs – perfect for unwinding after a day in the snow.
For a quick long weekend trip, consider flying into Denver and driving to your ski area, or choose one of these destinations with nearby airports (e.g. Salt Lake City for Utah, Jackson Hole, or Reno for Tahoe). Winter weekends at the mountains mean hitting fresh morning powder and sipping hot cocoa by a roaring fire – classic American winter fun.
Sunny Winter Retreats: Beach and Warm-Destination Vacations Escape the cold: A sunny Hawaiian beach with palm trees – a perfect winter getaway to thaw out and relax.
Not everyone wants snow in winter – and thankfully, the USA has warm winter getaways too. If you prefer a beach towel to skis, head to these sunny destinations for your next getaway:
- Hawaii (Big Island, Oahu, Maui): Hawaii is famously warm year-round. Hawaii’s islands offer stunning beaches and tropical weather even in December. Honolulu (Oahu) is a bustling city with Waikiki Beach nightlife, while Maui’s resorts are ideal for couples. This winter Honolulu was #4 and Maui frequently ranks among top winter destinations. Whale-watching season runs through spring on Maui and Big Island, adding adventure.
- Florida (Miami, Key West, Orlando): Florida’s beaches and theme parks shine in winter. Miami Beach and Clearwater have warm sands and vibrant nightlife in December. Key West (Florida Keys) is legendary for its laid-back vibe, historical tours (Ernest Hemingway’s home, Fort Zachary Taylor) and perfect weather. Many guidebooks call Key West a “perfect winter getaway.” Orlando offers sunny warmth plus world-famous attractions: Disney World, Universal Studios and water parks – all decked out with holiday decorations in winter.
- California (San Diego, Los Angeles, Palm Springs): Southern California stays mild in winter. San Diego’s beaches (La Jolla, Coronado) and attractions (San Diego Zoo) are pleasant in winter sun. Palm Springs (inland) is a desert oasis – golf courses, spas and palm trees with temps in the 60s–70s are common. If you crave a bit of beach but still want city life, Los Angeles (Venice Beach, Santa Monica) has cooler but comfortable winter days.
- Arizona (Sedona, Phoenix, Tucson): Arizona is a desert paradise in winter. Sedona’s red-rock scenery is breathtaking, and winter hiking here is very pleasant (highs in the 50s–60s). Phoenix and Scottsdale have upscale resorts, golf, and even Sonoran Desert hiking. The Grand Canyon area (just north of Flagstaff) is snowy on the rims but the south side stays fairly warm and is much less crowded than summer.
- Texas (Austin, San Antonio, South Padre Island): Texas cities are cozy but often reach the 60s or low 70s in winter. Austin has live music and indoor/outdoor cafes, and the warm waters of the Gulf are nearby. South Padre Island on the Gulf Coast is a surprise winter beach destination with warm sea breezes and sand.
- Southern US (New Orleans, Louisiana): Mardi Gras season draws winter crowds to New Orleans. The city has mild weather in January–February (50s–60s) and lively street festivals, as well as incredible food and music. It’s a vibrant city break with a bit of southern warmth.
- US Territories (Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands): If you can venture a bit farther without leaving the “USA,” consider Puerto Rico (San Juan’s beaches and rainforests, warm Caribbean climate) or the US Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, St. John). These American territories have beautiful Caribbean beaches and no passport needed for US citizens.
These warm winter escapes are especially nice for travelers who want a beach vacation off-season. For example, Florida’s winter weather often hovers around 70–80°F, making it ideal for surfing, boating, or just lounging in a hammock. The key term here is “comfortably warm,” without summer crowds or intense heat. Even a quick weekend trip to Miami or Honolulu can feel like a long vacation.
Weekend trip ideas: Fly into Miami or Orlando for a 3-day beach and theme park combo; drive to Palm Springs or Sedona for a spa and nature break; or book a nonstop flight to Honolulu for 5 days of sun (weekday travel tends to be cheaper). Remember to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for coastal evenings, and you’ll be ready to swap snow for sand.
Festive City Breaks & Seasonal Events
Wintertime means holidays, and many U.S. cities celebrate in a big way. For a mix of culture, food, nightlife and festive cheer, consider a winter city break:
- New York City, NY: Often ranked the #1 U.S. winter destination, NYC is iconic at Christmastime. See the Rockefeller Center tree, ice-skate in Central Park, window-shop along Fifth Avenue, and watch the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square. Broadway shows, world-class museums and cozy holiday markets (like Bryant Park’s) provide entertainment for all ages. Even if you bundle up, the city’s holiday lights and events make a New York winter magical.
- Chicago, IL: The Windy City builds snowmen and lights up the Navy Pier Ferris wheel in winter. Millennium Park’s ice rink (by “The Bean” sculpture) is free to use, and the Christkindlmarket offers German treats and crafts. Chicago’s museums (Field Museum, Art Institute) are warm spots on a cold day. Plus, lake-effect snow can create beautiful frozen-lake vistas.
- Washington, DC: The nation’s capital hosts ZooLights at the Smithsonian National Zoo, as well as festive decorations at monuments and embassies. The National Christmas Tree by the White House is an annual tradition. DC has mild winters, and the city’s indoor attractions (Smithsonian museums) are perfect for holiday escapes.
- New Orleans, LA: Famous for its Mardi Gras celebration (late winter), NOLA still shines in December with holiday lights along the riverfront and French Quarter festivities. The weather is cool but seldom freezing. Sample Creole cuisine, catch live jazz, and maybe take a swamp tour for a unique winter adventure.
- Las Vegas, NV: Sin City is actually one of the top winter trip spots. The desert locale means mild days (50s–60s). Vegas offers nonstop entertainment: world-class shows, casinos, luxurious hotels and holiday displays (the Bellagio fountains are choreographed for Christmas music at night). Many families and couples plan short winter getaways here for the fun factor.
- Anaheim, CA: Home to Disneyland and California Adventure, Anaheim decked out its theme parks in holiday decorations through New Year’s. A Disneyland winter weekend gives kids (and kids at heart) a magical Christmas experience with lights, parades, and seasonal attractions.
- Aspen, CO: Mentioned above for skiing, Aspen is also a chic winter town. It’s worth a visit even if you’re not skiing: the frozen Maroon Bells, holiday festivals, and upscale dining make for a posh city/lodge trip.
- Boston, MA: The Freedom Trail in winter, the festive decorations along Newbury Street, and the first snowfall over the Charles River make Boston charming. Plus, New England clam chowder and fireside pubs are a cozy treat after a chilly day.
- San Francisco, CA: The city is cool (50s) but comfortable. Ride cable cars in the fog, visit Alcatraz, and enjoy holiday light displays in Union Square. For nature, Muir Woods is beautiful with misty redwoods and possible snow.
- Miami, FL: Miami’s South Beach and Art Deco District get holiday lights. The Art Deco Weekend has festive concerts and vintage cars. Warm weather and vibrant culture make Miami a lively winter city break.
Engaging experiences: Look out for special seasonal events: ice wine festivals, parades (NYC Thanksgiving, Parade of Lights in Seattle, etc.), or even Chinese New Year celebrations in winter months. Many cities offer discounted hotel packages in January and February, since crowds dip after New Year.
In short, winter city breaks combine indoor comforts (heated hotels, restaurants) with unique outdoor charm (snowy streets, twinkling lights). They’re perfect for weekend trips in the US where you want culture plus a dash of holiday magic.
Outdoor Winter Adventures and National Parks
America’s vast outdoors don’t close in winter – in fact, some places transform into quiet wonderlands. If you love nature, here are winter adventures to consider:
- Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana): Winter turns Yellowstone into a steamy wonderland. Geysers like Old Faithful erupt amid snowdrifts, and wildlife (wolves, elk, bison) is easier to spot against the white. You can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or take guided snowcoach tours in the park. A winter Yellowstone trip is peaceful (no cars inside – tour buses only) and uniquely beautiful.
- Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona): The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open year-round. Winter days are cool (20s–40s°F) but often clear, and morning sun glints off canyon walls dusted with snow. The Inner Canyon remains warm if you hike down (ten-degree change per 1,000 feet), so some bring extra layers just in case. Winter crowds are minimal, so you get secluded canyon views and crisp air.
- Zion and Bryce Canyon (Utah): Zion’s lower elevations stay around 30–50°F in winter – not too cold. You can hike scenic trails (Emerald Pools, Watchman) with just a dusting of snow. Bryce Canyon, higher up, often has 1–2 feet of snow, making its orange hoodoos pop against white. Winter here is peaceful and the night sky is incredibly clear.
- Great Smoky Mountains (NC/TN): The most-visited US park is quiet in winter. Roads may close above 6,000 feet, but lower trails (e.g. Cades Cove) are open. The Smokies under frost or light snow are gorgeous and much less crowded than fall. Nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Asheville also have festive events.
- Acadia National Park (Maine): Acadia’s coastal and mountain areas can be visited in winter if you’re prepared for chill (teens to 30°F). The park has many miles of carriage roads where you can snowshoe or ski amidst frozen ocean views. Bar Harbor and nearby Camden are quaint places to stay with winter charm (crab cakes and maritime history).
- Death Valley National Park (California/Nevada): If you truly want warmth, Death Valley in winter is perfect. Daytime highs often reach the 60s–70s°F in December. Winter wildflower blooms can even cover the desert floor. Just watch for occasional cold snaps (it can drop into the 30s at night).
- Hiking and Road Trips: Many national parks like Arches/Canyonlands (Utah) and Big Bend (Texas) are comfortable in winter and extra peaceful. Blue Ridge Parkway or Skyline Drive (VA) are drivable in December when the fall colors linger. Or plan a drive along the California coast with stops at Big Sur and Paso Robles vineyards – you’ll avoid summer fog and crowds.
Equipment note: Not all roads are plowed early in the season, so always check park alerts. Pack traction devices (microspikes or chains) if driving mountainous roads. Warm layers, hats and gloves are essential. But rewards are big: winter sunrise at Yosemite’s Half Dome, or the Milky Way over Saguaro cacti, are once-in-a-lifetime sights without the usual heat and crowds.
Family-Friendly Winter Vacations
If you’re traveling with kids (or just feel like a kid again), winter can be a fantastic time for family vacations. Many attractions tailor their activities to the holiday season:
- Theme Parks in Full Festivity: Disney World (Florida) and Disneyland (California) both celebrate winter with special events. There’s snow in Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks, holiday parades, and Cinderella Castle lit up like a Christmas tree. Universal Studios Orlando also decorates with Grinchmas and a Hollywood-style tree lighting. Off-season crowds are smaller than summer, making rides and shows more accessible.
- Indoor Water Parks: Consider resorts with massive indoor water parks (Great Wolf Lodge in Wisconsin or PA, Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin or Texas). Kids can swim and play in 80°F water parks any day, regardless of chilly air outside. These make great long weekend trips where the whole family stays cozy and active.
- Science and Nature Centers: On cold or snowy days, big cities like Chicago, Boston, or Washington have world-class museums (shedd Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, Smithsonian Museums) that are both educational and entertaining. Many museums host winter-themed exhibits or holiday workshops for kids.
- Wildlife Parks & Zoos: Places like the San Diego Zoo or the Georgia Aquarium are fun no matter the season. Some zoos have special after-dark light shows (ZooLights). Near Yellowstone, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in Montana is open year-round to learn about wildlife rescue.
- Festivals for Kids: Many towns have family-friendly winter festivals. Leavenworth, WA (a Bavarian-themed village) has a big Christmas Lighting Festival in December. Frankenmuth, MI claims the “World’s Largest Christmas Store” – fun for all ages. Ice castles and winter carnivals pop up in Minnesota and Colorado.
- Sweet Tooth Tours: If your family likes food tours, do a hot cocoa or gingerbread-house tour. New York City, Aspen and Breckenridge have famous holiday “chocolate tours.” Some mountain resorts build life-size gingerbread houses or have Santa’s workshops kids can visit.
- Ski Lessons for Kids: Many ski schools (Vail, Snowmass, Alta, etc.) have programs for kids as young as 4 or 5. A family ski trip can be a great introduction to winter sports for children. Resorts often have childcare options so parents can ski knowing little ones are safe.
Pack smart: For families, layering is key (kids get cold faster). Pack waterproof boots and snow pants for any outdoor play. Bring portable snacks or a thermos of hot chocolate for the journey. If flying, booking early January often means cheaper fares than holiday week.
Ultimately, winter family vacations mix indoor fun (hot chocolate by a fireplace) with exciting outdoor adventures (first time on skis, or seeing snow for the first time). The memories – building the first snowman of the season, enjoying a train ride to see light displays, or watching a storybook parade – can last a lifetime.
Planning and Packing Tips for Winter Trips
A little preparation goes a long way to ensure smooth winter travel. Here are practical tips to optimize your trip:
- Book Early: Popular winter destinations (especially ski resorts and tropical escapes) can sell out quickly for holiday weekends. Reserve flights and accommodations 1–2 months in advance for best choices. Look for package deals combining hotel and lift tickets or attractions – these pop up often.
- Pack in Layers: Temperatures can swing widely. Bring thermals or moisture-wicking base layers, fleece mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell. Even if you’re headed to a warm destination, airplanes and hotels can be chilly with air conditioning. Always pack a light jacket and warm socks – it’s better to shed a layer than freeze in one.
- Road Trip Ready: If driving, ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter. Keep a winter emergency kit (blankets, flashlight, snacks, water, shovel, ice scraper). Check tire treads – winter or all-season tires can improve safety. On icy roads, go slow and steady. In fact, AAA expects nearly 90% of holiday travelers to drive this year, so be ready for busy freeways and possible winter storms.
- Stay Flexible: Weather can change. Leave an extra travel day for unexpected snowstorms or flight delays if you can. If booked into hotels, confirm if they have cancellation policies accommodating weather issues.
- Book Local Experiences: Research unique local winter experiences: hot springs near mountain lodges (like in Colorado or Utah), lantern-lit tours (some ski towns offer evening sleigh rides), or farm-to-table winter dinners (like Vermont maple dinners in cabins). These make your trip special.
- Tech and Apps: Download apps for weather updates, road conditions (state DOT apps for mountain passes), and ski resort notifications. Also, a travel app like TripIt or Google Maps with offline maps can be handy in remote areas.
- Travel Insurance: Consider short-term travel insurance that covers winter weather cancellations. If a blizzard cancels flights or a resort closes lifts, insurance can reimburse some of your losses.
- Mind the Sun: Winter sun can be intense, especially at high altitudes or on reflective snow. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses. At southern destinations like Florida and Arizona, UV levels are still high in midday.
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: Cold air is dry, so drink water regularly. Pack snacks (granola bars, trail mix) especially on road trips or long flights. It helps maintain your energy for sightseeing or outdoor fun.
Tip: Check if your phone plan covers data in U.S. territories if traveling to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, etc. Otherwise, plan wifi access at hotels and cafes. Also research local currency (no visa needed in U.S. territories) and time zones (continental U.S. is Eastern-Central-Mountain-Pacific; Hawaii and Alaska are additional zones).
By planning ahead and packing smartly, you’ll spend more time enjoying your winter vacation and less time worrying about logistics.
Packing Checklist for Winter Travel
- Layers: thermal tops/bottoms, sweaters or fleeces, waterproof jacket.
- Warm accessories: hat/beanie, gloves or mittens, warm socks.
- Footwear: waterproof boots (for snow) and comfortable shoes. Sandals if headed to the tropics.
- Travel documents: ID/passport, reservation confirmations (printed or app).
- Gear: ski/snowboard equipment (if not renting), sunglasses, camera.
- Health/safety: any needed medications, first aid, hand warmers.
- Tech: phone charger, power bank, travel adapter (some cabins); headphones and entertainment for long rides.
Packing cubes or compression bags can help organize your winter clothes. Remember, it’s better to have an extra sweater you don’t need than to shiver all trip.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What are the best ski resorts for families?
A: For a family ski trip, look at resorts known for family programs and gentle slopes. Park City, UT has excellent ski schools and many beginner runs. Breckenridge, CO and Keystone, CO (around Denver) offer childcare and kids’ clubs. In New England, Smugglers’ Notch, VT is famous for family-oriented activities beyond skiing (indoor pools, ropes courses). Also consider Wisconsin’s Cascade Mountain (near Madison) or Ohio’s Mad River Mountain for affordable family ski outings.
Q: Can I find warm-weather destinations in the continental US during winter?
A: Absolutely. The southern parts of the country remain mild. Southern Florida (Miami, Key West), southern California (San Diego), and southern Texas (South Padre Island) often see 60s–70s°F days even in January. Arizona and parts of New Mexico can also be warm. These make weekend trips in the US to the sun quite easy – often just a short flight or drive from many states.
Q: Is January a good time to visit national parks?
A: Yes, January can be a magical time for many parks (though some facilities or roads may close). Parks in milder climates (Joshua Tree, Death Valley) are great then. Others like Yellowstone or Yosemite offer snowy scenery and fewer crowds – just be prepared for winter conditions. Check each park’s winter accessibility. For example, Badlands NP (South Dakota) has beautiful winter light, and Acadia NP (Maine) has quiet woods under snow. Lower-elevation parks like Grand Canyon South Rim or Zion are very comfortable in winter.
Q: What should I pack for a winter beach vacation in Florida or Hawaii?
A: Even in warm destinations, pack light layers. Days will be beach-warm, but evenings or air-conditioned spaces can be cooler. Bring swimwear, a hat, sunscreen, sandals, plus a light sweater or hoodie for dusk. A lightweight rain jacket can be handy too (Florida can rain year-round). Don’t forget a water bottle to stay hydrated in the sun.
Q: Are there off-season travel deals in winter?
A: Yes – after New Year’s, many places see low occupancy, so hotel prices drop in January/early February (before spring break peaks). Airlines often have cheaper fares (watch for “shoulder-season” deals). Ski resorts may offer midweek discounts. Sign up for newsletters of hotels or tour operators for winter sales. Also, travel websites sometimes bundle flights+hotels at lower rates.
Q: How can I make my winter trip more eco-friendly?
A: Consider taking public transport when possible (many ski resorts have shuttles from airport). Stay at hotels with green practices (LED lights, key card power controls, towel reuse). Pack reusable water bottles (plastic bans are common in national parks). Support local businesses – buy local crafts or food – to reduce your carbon footprint.
Plan Your Dream Winter Getaway
There you have it – a comprehensive guide to the best weekend trips in the US for winter. From snowy ski slopes and winter wonderlands to warm beach retreats and city celebrations, America offers a stunning range of winter vacations. Start by choosing the vibe you want (snow or sun, adventure or relaxation), then pick a destination from the ideas above. Book early and pack smart to make the most of deals and weather.
Whether you’re carving powder on a Colorado mountain, sipping a hot toddy by a Vermont lodge fireplace, or building sandcastles on a Hawaiian shore, these trips promise memorable experiences. Best long weekend trips in the US are right around the corner once you embrace winter travel. So go ahead – plan that getaway, pack those bags, and enjoy the season to the fullest!