Chartering South for the Winter

Every winter, hundreds of thousands of Americans and Canadians flee their homes for brightness and warmth. Once the cold weather starts to set in, residents in the northern states and Canada seek the opportunity to head south for the winter, planning to return home when the weather warms back up. Booking a private flight is an excellent way for snowbirds to reach their winter destination comfortably and stress-free.

Chartering South for the Winter

What is a Snowbird?

Several species of birds, like snow geese, leave their homes in the winter and fly south to spend the season in warmer temperatures. However, birds are not the only ones who prefer warmer temperatures over cold, snowy weather. Every year, travelers throughout the United States and Canada do the same.

For travelers, snowbirds are those who travel south during the winter months to escape the cold weather of the northern parts of the country. Snowbirds often travel south to avoid the snowstorms and overall gloomy weather of colder states and enjoy more moderate temperatures. Once the weather warms up in the spring, they return home for the season.

Most snowbirds are retirees and elderly individuals looking to spend their winters around similar company in popular retirement cities. Many snowbirds even have second homes in these areas for this reason. However, snowbirds are starting to become a more diverse group. With the rise in remote working, many young people in their 20s and 30s, and even families, are also jumping onto the trend.

How to Prepare for Winter Travel

Between the holiday season and the number of snowbirds traveling south, winter travel can be quite busy. Commercial flights are often booked weeks in advance, tickets are more expensive, and the airports are much busier. Fortunately, booking a private flight will help you avoid the extreme crowds and the stress of traveling on a commercial airline.

Although private flights are a much more convenient option than commercial flights, they are still in high demand. Therefore, if you plan to book winter flights, you should do so early.

Where Do Snowbirds Travel?

Snowbirds travel south to escape the cold temperatures of areas like the Midwest and the Northeast United States. The most popular destination for these snowbirds is a part of the Southern United States called the Sun Belt. This area of the United States consists of a line of southern states, including California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida.

The Sun Belt fittingly received its name from a large amount of sunshine and higher temperatures it sees compared to the states farther north. Within the Sun Belt are several cities that make for great year-round getaways that attract tourists every season, like Miami, Orlando, Tampa, New Orleans, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.

However, there are plenty of snowbird destinations that are lesser-known as tourist locations, providing the opportunity to relax and work remotely in a warm and laid-back environment. Many of these cities are also growing in population year-round as the Sun Belt becomes a more attractive region for travelers to settle down in general.

Popular Destinations for Snowbirds

Snowbirds travel all throughout the Sun Belt, choosing locations from exciting tourist destinations to cities that make for a quiet, warm escape. Everyone has a different vision when planning their winter season, envisioning everything from great nightlife to tranquil outdoor recreation. When planning your snowbird travels, you have plenty of great options, including the following.

Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale is an under-the-radar but wonderful winter getaway. With a long list of attractions and winter high temperatures around 70 degrees, it is easy to spend the season in Scottsdale without missing home. Scottsdale is an urban environment planted in the middle of a stunning desert. Inside the city, one can enjoy the many art galleries and museums, the spas, the nightlife, or even the over 50 golf courses. Outside the city, the area offers plenty of hiking and even the opportunity to see native rock art and ruins.

Altogether, Scottsdale has everything one could ask for. Fly into Scottsdale Airport (SDL) to reach this winter escape.

South Padre Island, TX

South Padre Island is a great winter destination for individuals and families alike. With pristine beaches that stretch for over 30 miles and high temperatures that rarely stray from around 70 degrees, South Padre Island is hard to beat. The island offers everything from dolphin watching to live music. The island also has a ton of other activities for the whole family, like nature centers, boat tours and shopping.

Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) provides the best access to all the island has to offer.

Palm Beach, FL

Palm Beach has enough opportunity for exploration to last all winter long. The area offers direct access to the coast and is also considered the gateway to the Everglades. Snowbirds can spend time fishing, boating, snorkeling, hiking and more. If you are looking for a warm place to relax, Palm Beach has 47 miles of coastline and 29 beach parks. During the winter, the temperature in this lovely getaway sits in the mid-70s.

Palm Beach International Airport is the best choice for reaching this winter paradise.

Savannah, GA

This charming coastal city has a wealth of history and plenty to do, and the temperature rarely falls below 60 degrees at the lowest. Savannah has a little something for everyone, including pleasant beaches at Tybee Island, tons of historic architecture to explore and a bustling city market featuring artists and live music. Savanna also has a ton of great food to enjoy, making it easy to spend a few months in the city while the cold passes.

Snowbirds should plan to fly into the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) for the easiest access to the city.

Temecula, CA

Temecula is located between Los Angeles and San Diego. With winter temps that hover around 70 degrees, it has plenty to offer snowbirds, especially those who enjoy a more relaxed experience. This inviting region provides a ton of activities to keep you occupied, including a multitude of golf courses and an abundance of wineries. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can even embark on a hot air balloon ride and take in the beautiful landscape from above.

Travelers to Temecula can fly into Carlsbad Airport (CLD), Santa Ana Airport (SNA) or San Diego (SAN) for the most convenient commute.

Book Your Snowbird Flights Early

Joining the snowbird crowd is a great way to spend your winter in a warm and sunny location. Be sure to start your planning early, as winter flights will book fast. If you are ready to book your own snowbird flights, contact JetCharter.com. Our 24/7 concierge service is available to help you set your travel plans and will answer any questions you may have along the way.

Wherever you hope to spend your winter, JetCharter.com will ensure you get there safely, as we follow some of the highest safety standards in the industry. Plus, with the extensive amenities we offer, we strive to provide you with an elite travel experience. Book with JetCharter.com today.