Expedia Unveils Top Budget Holiday Destinations for 2026 Globally

For travellers seeking to maximise their holiday experiences while minimising spending, exciting news has emerged with the release of the most budget-friendly global hotspots for 2026. Expedia has published its comprehensive 2026 Affordable Destinations report, showcasing cities across the United States, Asia, and other regions where authenticity, comfort, and significant savings converge, with nightly hotel costs remaining under $150, approximately £112.

International Budget Destinations

In the international rankings, the most affordable destinations span from beloved classics to lesser-known treasures. Topping the list is Salvador, Brazil, celebrated as the spiritual heart of the nation's vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture. This municipality is renowned for its stunning golden sand beaches, brightly coloured colonial architecture, and a historic old town featuring baroque churches and art museums.

Key Global Highlights

Guadalajara, Mexico, secures the second spot, serving as a major financial hub and a designated host city for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament. Other notable South American entries include Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, and São Paulo, Brazil. Mérida, Mexico, also features prominently, distinguished by its unique fusion of Mayan and colonial heritage.

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Asian cities such as Bangkok, Thailand, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, round out the affordable international list, each famous for their energetic nightlife and economical street food offerings. Edmonton, Canada, known as 'Canada's Festival City' for its year-round events, and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, one of the Caribbean's oldest urban centres, complete the top ten.

Affordable US Destinations

Expedia has also identified the ten most budget-friendly places in the United States, focusing on smaller cities and secondary hubs where average hotel room rates are typically lower. While these locations might not be the initial choice for international travellers, they provide abundant local culture, stunning landscapes, and a wide array of attractions and activities.

Top US Picks

Leading the US list is Laughlin, Nevada, a resort town situated about 90 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Dubbed a 'Mini Vegas', it offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Sin City, with casinos and water-based recreation like boating and jet skiing. In second place is Bakersfield, California, hailed as the 'Country Music Capital of the West Coast' due to its rich music and arts scene, alongside Basque dining and outdoor adventures.

El Paso, Texas, ranks third, boasting some of the lowest crime rates in the US and a cultural blend of American and Mexican influences from its border location. Reno, Nevada, and San José, California, follow in fourth and fifth places, respectively. Other standout cities include Oklahoma City and Tulsa in Oklahoma, and Huntsville in Alabama, all noted for their growing arts and live music scenes, as well as Riverside and San Bernardino in California, which offer easy access to coastal and mountainous areas.