4 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2026
Written by
Sean Bryant
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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Travel has gotten expensive. Everything from flights, hotels and even that morning coffee with an ocean view all seems to cost more than ever.
But here’s some good news. Prices are starting to shift, and a few dream destinations that once seemed out of reach could actually become affordable in 2026. From the turquoise waters of Bora Bora to the mountains of Colorado, there are places where your travel budget might finally stretch a little further.
If you’ve been holding off on that big trip, now’s the time to start planning, because these four destinations are about to give you a lot more vacation for your money.
French Polynesia (Tahiti, Bora Bora)
Tahiti and Bora Bora are dream vacation spots for many people. Unfortunately, getting there has always been extremely expensive. Not only are they in a remote location of the world, but there have been limited flight options and expensive luxury resorts.
Things are changing. With new routes from the United States to French Polynesia and more budget-friendly accommodations, this luxury destination is becoming more attainable to a wider number of people. Plus, when you book your trip during the shoulder season months of April to June or September to October, you’ll be able to boost your savings even more.
“French Polynesia will always be bucket-list material, but it’s about to be easier and cheaper to reach,” said Jesse Neugarten, founder and CEO of Dollar Flight Club. “United is moving San Francisco-Tahiti to daily service for summer 2026, and Hawaiian is adding a second weekly Honolulu-Papeete flight starting March 2026. More nonstop seats typically mean better sale fares and award space, especially if you target shoulder weeks.”
Greece
Greece has long been a classic travel destination, but due to demand, prices have always been higher than in many other European locations. Unfortunately, the country is experiencing an economic downturn, which is driving prices down. That’s good news for those looking to book vacation plans in 2026.
If your plan includes visiting some of the Greek islands, consider small, lesser-known places like Naxos or Paros. These are much cheaper alternatives to Santorini.
“Greece crushed it post-pandemic, but 2026 looks more buyer-friendly,” said Neugarten. “A pipeline of new hotels from Athens to the islands, plus early signs of softer growth, set the stage for promos and less sticker shock if you look at late spring and September.”
Romania
Romania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. However, because of increased demand from digital nomads over the past few years and high airfare costs, it’s been an expensive travel destination.
With tourism infrastructure expanding and more direct flights from Western Europe, things are starting to change. 2026 could make it possible to explore Transylvania or the Carpathian Mountains for less.
“Romania is a European country that also holds some of the most beautiful architecture, beaches and art museums, but at half the cost of Italy,” said Amanda Lima, founder and CEO of Sereni Journeys. “Spend a day or two in Bucharest and visit the Romanian Athenaeum and the National Museum of Art. Then spend another day in a small beach village called Vama Veche. The most affordable flights round-trip to Romania next year start around $340.”
Summit County, Colorado
Colorado is a year-round travel destination. Skiers and boarders love the fluffy white powder in the winter. But the hikers and bikers love taking advantage of the hundreds of miles of trails during the summer months.
Summit County is home to several popular resorts, including Keystone, Breckenridge and Copper Creek. And while prices, especially during ski season, have always been expensive, things might look better in 2026. New hotels like the Kindred Resort, along with additional vacation rental supply, could make it more affordable, especially during the spring and fall.
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