Normally, our travel deals highlight savings at specific properties, but this week we’re thinking bigger. We’re looking at the best seasonal discounts at chains across the country and around the world. And it’s not just hotels, but also buses and trains. Keep reading for ways to save this holiday season regardless of your destination.

Spend Just $1 to try the Bus

Yesterday, Megabus.com announced that is is offering fares as low as $1 or less. Subject to availability, the bus line is offering 200,000 free seats for travel between January 9 and February 28, 2013. Megabus.com has service to over 120 North American cities and focuses on travel comfort, providing environmentally-friendly buses, free Wi-Fi, power outlets and restrooms. To book, visit the website and use the promo code TRYMEGABUS.

Give Back to Save

It’s not just about #GivingTuesday to help those in need. This month, Red Roof Inn is in the giving spirit. If you donate a non-perishable box or canned food item at check in, you will receive 15 percent off your stay. The promotion runs through December 30, 2012, but can not be combined with other offers. To book, visit them online or call  1-800-RED-ROOF.

Ride the Rails Off-Season

Travel through Europe this winter with a 20 percent discount on Eurail Global and Eurail Select passes. Purchase your rail passes by December 31, 2012 and are valid for travel through March 31, 2013.  The Eurail Global Pass gets you access to 23 European countries and the Eurail Select Pass allows you to choose three, four or five adjoining countries out of 24. Click here for more information.

European Weekend

In Europe InterContinental Hotels & Resorts has new weekend escape special. Between December 17 and 31, you can take a weekend break with a minimum of 10 percent discount off best flexible room rates as well as free breakfast. For more savings, book between December 10 and 17, 2012, for up to 30 percent off best room rates and breakfast for weekend travel between January 1 and February 10th, 2013. For more information on participating hotels or to book, visit their website or call InterContinental Hotels & Resorts Central Reservation Office at 1 (800) 424 6835, use the promo code ‘WEEKEND ESCAPES’.

The Apartment Option

Looking for an alternative to staying with family this holiday, but still want the comforts and convenience of home? Consider an extended-stay apartment. This winter, families can get away for the holidays with BridgeStreet Residences, Serviced Apartments and Suites. Options include furnished studios and one to three bedroom apartments, all of which have fully equipped kitchens. Click here to see all the locations. From now until January 6, 2013, you can take advantage of the service suites at rates as low as $75 a night. To book, visit their website or call 800-278-7338. Use offer code: HOLIDAY2012.

For more December travel deals, check out:

• Travel Deals: Dead Week Cruise Guide
• Our Daily Travel Deals and Travel Deals archives
• The Budget Travel section

By Lily J. Kosner for Peter Greenberg.com