If you live in Montana right about now, you're entertaining every option to stay warm, all while making sure your car starts and the pipes to your home don't freeze. In a matter of weeks, the weather took a major turn, and the temperatures plummeted. While many are doing their best to endure winter conditions, others have a plan in mind to quickly escape the cold. We're not talking months at a time, but just a week-long or weekend trip to clear their minds of snow-covered walkways and crazed wind chill factors. A quick jaunt by plane (NON-STOP flight) to select "warmer" places in the nation could do the trick. First up, good ol' Las Vegas, Nevada. Yes, a staple choice for many that offer affordable airfare rates. Namely, Allegiant's flight out of Missoula, Bozeman, or Billings is year-round and very reasonable. Although temps usually only reach 60 degrees this time of the year in Vegas, it's a far cry from -11 below in Big Sky Country.

Los Angeles, California, is another good option to escape the cold. Affordable flights to LA are available directly through select airlines or a 3rd party vendor such as Priceline or Expedia. Avoid the hassle and cost of renting a car in Cali and rely on the luxury of Uber or Lyft to visit Venice Beach, Disneyland, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and much more! Although drive time to and from the destinations mentioned ranges from 20 to 45 minutes, the experience of Southern California will be well worth it. Paul Panisko, our TSM Director of Content, recently made the Disney trip! Glad he was able to break away from the cold for a few days. However, I'm still wondering where my Mickey mug is. Lol! Okay, back to the script. So, hotel, Vrbo, and Airbnb reservations are your best bet, but book now for better options and prices. After all, at 70 degrees or warmer, the sun is calling your name. Of course, you could also fly to other cities in Cali, like beautiful San Diego and Palm Springs, for a memorable snow-free time.

Another common traveling choice among Montanans is Phoenix, Arizona, or any low desert destination. Current temps in Phoenix this time of year average around 70 degrees, as well. Again, non-stop flights are available out of Montana to Arizona, and the price is right. Now, to narrow your chances of getting the flu or a harsh cold upon your return, practice good hygiene during your trip and go the length of wearing a mask if need be. Jumping from one climate to another can become a factor, so pull out all the stops; load up on vitamins C & D, rest up, and aim for fun in the sun! Remember, there are several more prime destinations for warm weather outings nationwide this time of the year, so be adventurous and check your options. In the meantime, hopefully, the ones mentioned in this article will help cure the wintertime blues.

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