4 Cheap Travel Spots for 2026 — and Why You Should Plan Now
Written by
Chris Adam
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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Planning for trips can sometimes be one of the best parts about travel. But all the talk about tariffs from the Trump administration has some consumers wondering what travel costs will be like next year.
For those who are thinking about where to go in 2026 — and how to travel on the cheap — here are four recommendations from travel experts for cheap spots to get away without breaking the budget.
American Southwest
One place to consider is the American Southwest.
“This part of the country is becoming a goldmine for budget travelers,” said Jasmine Charbonier, a travel expert and founder of Your Tampa Bestie. “The whole region is investing heavily in tourism infrastructure while keeping prices low to attract visitors.”
According to Budget Your Trip, a trip to Phoenix, Arizona, costs an average of $276 per day, while travelers will spend an average of $165 per day in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Montana
Charbonier called Montana “a hot secret.”
“Those fancy mountain lodges that used to cost a fortune? They’re scrambling to fill rooms now that international tourism’s shifting,” she said. According to the Mountain Journal, visitor statistics are showing a decline in bookings and travel plans, particularly from international visitors.
Portugal
According to Charbonier, her go-to recommendation for Europe is Portugal. She’s seeing some four-star hotels going for $85 per night for advance bookings. Plus, she said the food is cheap as well.
According to Budget Your Trip, a traveler will spend just $191 per day, on average, in Portugal. It noted that Portugal is a moderately priced place to visit when compared with other countries in Europe.
Southeast Asia
“Malaysia’s becoming the new Thailand — but without the crowds,” Charbonier said. “I’ve been sending lots of clients to Penang lately — you can still get beachfront resorts for under $100 per night. The street food scene’s incredible and dirt cheap.”
According to Marguerita Cheng, CFP, travel expert and CEO of Blue Ocean Global Wealth, not only are Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam affordable and accessible, but they offer something for just about any traveler.
“From beaches to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage sites, there is truly something for everyone,” Cheng said. “Cuisine from Southeast Asia is incredibly diverse. Each country has its signature dishes.”
Further, Cheng said Asia has perfected the indoor shopping mall — another reason it’s a great spot for travel in 2026.
Consider Booking Now
If you want to get better deals, Charbonier said you should book now.
“Here’s the thing about these tariff impacts, they’re making everything weird,” Charbonier said. “Airlines are already adjusting their long-term pricing strategies. Some hotels are practically begging for advance bookings. They’re offering crazy incentives.”
According to Travel Weekly, tariffs may cause an increase in the prices of hotels, airlines and cruise ships, as well as imported goods associated with leisure. Planning ahead and booking in advance for a 2026 vacation could help you save on costs and avoid any potential price increases.
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