4 Budget-Friendly Getaways That Are Perfect for Middle-Class Couples in 2026
Written by
Sean Bryant
Edited by
Rebekah Evans
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Travel is a great way to relax and recharge. It’s also a great way to see different parts of the world. Unfortunately, it can be a significant expense in your budget. Everything from airfare and accommodations to food and activities can add up quickly if you’re not careful.
Luckily, some destinations are ideal for those looking to save money. Here are four budget-friendly getaways that are perfect for middle class couples to take in 2026.
Malta
For those looking to travel outside the United States and experience the Mediterranean without the higher prices of Italy or the French Riviera, Malta should be on your list. You can find highly-rated boutique hotels, guesthouses and apartments at affordable prices. Plus, restaurants and transportation are generally cheaper than in most Western European beach locations.
Malta is full of history, from ancient temples to medieval cities. Plus, couples can take sunset walks along the coast or quiet stone streets to create an intimate feel.
“Malta has pristine beaches that I would say you can swim year-round, but mostly of course in the hotter months between May and October,” said Andrew Cachia, founder of Get Lost on a Budget. “It also has a lot of history with our capital, Valletta, boasting some of the most amazing churches you will ever see, not to mention Mdina, the silent city.”
Thailand
Staying outside the United States, another budget-friendly getaway destination is Thailand. Hotels, food, transportation and activities cost far less than in Europe or the U.S., allowing you to stretch your travel dollars further. Couples can enjoy upscale experiences without paying luxury prices.
Thailand is one of the best destinations in the world for eating on a budget. You can find street food vendors with meals that are fresh and filling and they cost only a few dollars. Or you can choose a sit-down restaurant where the bill is just a fraction of what you’d pay in many other countries.
“Thailand is a country that makes you feel like you’re Elon Musk for a fraction of the price,” Cachia said. “Private service reigns here and you will get high-quality resorts, hotels and beach days for almost nothing.”
Turks and Caicos
If you want to stay a little closer to home, a quick trip to Turks and Caicos might be just what you need. This Caribbean island is known for its clear water and soft sand, especially on Grace Bay Beach, which frequently ranks among the best beaches in the world. Calm, shallow waters make it perfect for swimming.
Turks and Caicos is more about relaxation than packed itineraries. Couples can enjoy beach walks, amazing sunsets and romantic dinners without worrying about how much their trip is costing. However, if you want to mix in a little adventure, you can do that as well with activities like fishing, diving, snorkeling and so much more.
“Since first welcoming guests many years ago, we have seen the Turks and Caicos Islands, with Providenciales in particular, grow into a popular travel destination and welcome an influx of new airline routes introduced across the U.S. and Canada, making the region more accessible,” said Tanya Duelfer, managing director of U.S. operations at Ocean Club Resorts. “Guests know that they can enjoy a picturesque and memorable stay at either of our resorts without going over budget.”
Colombia
For decades, Colombia had a reputation for organized crime and drug production. This kept people away. Now that the stigma has mostly lifted, people are starting to see what everyone has been missing.
Medellín offers big-city experiences at a fraction of the cost of many U.S. or European cities. Hillside views, sunset cable car rides and rooftop cafés create natural date-night moments. Plus, Medellín is full of street art, public spaces and local markets that are free to explore.
“Colombia in general is incredibly diverse, offering everything from modern cities to beachside escapes to lush rainforests,” said Meredith Thomas, founder of Two Packs and a Pup. “But Medellin is perfect for couples who enjoy nightlife. It’s an extremely modern city that still hasn’t lost its local flavor and its popular nightlife zones in El Poblado showcase that. Here, couples can take salsa classes for as little as $4, enjoy an upscale dinner for just $20 and then hit the clubs with live music all night long.”
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