Celebrating New Year’s Eve abroad is one of those bucket-list experiences that stays with you forever. Whether it’s fireworks over Sydney Harbour, dancing samba on Copacabana Beach, or counting down in Times Square, these trips are about more than just ringing in the new year - they’re about starting it with a memory you’ll treasure.
If you’re thinking about travelling this year, here are the top 5 tips for planning an unforgettable New Year’s Eve trip.
1. Book Early (Really Early)
The world’s best New Year’s Eve destinations, such as Sydney, Edinburgh, Rio, New York, are incredibly popular. Hotels, flights, and event tickets sell out months in advance, so the earlier you book, the better.
Aim to start planning in the summer or early autumn if you want the best choice of accommodation and prices. If you leave it too late, you might find yourself paying double, or missing out altogether.
2. Pick the Right Spot for Fireworks
When it comes to NYE fireworks trips, where you stand (or sit) makes all the difference. In Sydney, you’ll want to secure a spot around Circular Quay or, better yet, book a harbour cruise. In New York, Times Square is the heart of the action, but rooftop bars across the city offer spectacular views without the crowds.
Do a little research before you go to find the best vantage points, it’ll make your night far more enjoyable.
3. Embrace Local Traditions
Part of the fun of celebrating abroad is experiencing how different cultures welcome the new year. In Edinburgh, Hogmanay includes ceilidh dancing and the tradition of singing “Auld Lang Syne.” In Rio, locals wear white for peace and send offerings of flowers into the sea.
Joining in with these traditions makes your trip even more memorable and gives you a story to tell when you get home.
4. Dress for the Weather (and the Occasion)
It might sound obvious, but packing right is key. Sydney and Rio will be hot, so light clothes and sandals are perfect for beach parties and fireworks by the harbour. Edinburgh and New York, on the other hand, are freezing in December, so layers, hats and gloves are a must if you’re standing outside for hours.
Also think about comfort: you’ll likely be on your feet all night, so shoes you can actually walk in will save the day.
5. Capture the Memories
The night itself flies by so quickly, one minute you’re counting down, the next you’re hugging strangers at midnight and watching fireworks fade into the sky. Make sure you capture those little moments, whether it’s snapping a photo, filming the fireworks, or simply writing down your favourite part the next morning.
And when the trip is over, finding a way to carry those memories with you is priceless. That’s where a Journeys Made travel keychain comes in. Add a token for Sydney, Rio, New York or Edinburgh to mark your celebration, a keepsake that reminds you of the night you rang in the new year somewhere unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Planning a New Year’s Eve trip takes a little effort, but the payoff is huge. By booking early, embracing traditions, dressing right and capturing the moment, you’ll create memories that last far longer than the midnight countdown.
Whether you choose Sydney, Edinburgh, Rio or New York, celebrating abroad is one of the most rewarding ways to start a fresh year. And with a Journeys Made travel keepsake, you’ll always have a piece of that night with you, a small reminder of how extraordinary it felt to welcome the year in one of the world’s greatest cities.
