Expedia Reveals Most Affordable Travel Destinations for 2026

From U.S. cities like Laughlin, Nevada to international hubs like Salvador, Brazil, the travel search engine highlights budget-friendly options.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 3:33pm

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Expedia has released its list of the most affordable domestic and international travel destinations for 2026, with a focus on lesser-known cities and secondary hubs where hotel rates are under $150 per night. The top U.S. destinations include Laughlin, Nevada, Bakersfield, California, and El Paso, Texas, while the international list is topped by Salvador, Brazil, Bogotá, Colombia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Why it matters

As affordability remains a top priority for many travelers, Expedia's data provides valuable insights into destinations that offer cultural experiences and activities without breaking the bank. This information can help consumers plan more budget-conscious trips, especially to cities that may not be typical vacation hotspots.

The details

Expedia's analysis looked at hotel rates, airfare, and other costs to determine the most affordable destinations for 2026. In the U.S., the list skews towards smaller cities and secondary hubs like Laughlin, Nevada, a riverside gambling town, and Bakersfield, California, known for its country music scene. Internationally, the destinations range from classic favorites like Salvador, Brazil, to lesser-known spots like Mérida, Mexico, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

  • Expedia released the 2026 affordable destination rankings on March 3, 2026.

The players

Expedia

A leading online travel search engine and booking platform.

Laughlin, Nevada

A popular and affordable resort town located on the banks of the Colorado River, known for gaming and water recreation.

Salvador, Brazil

An old town in Brazil known for its art museums, beaches, and festivals, as well as being the spiritual home of the country's Afro-Brazilian culture.

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What’s next

As travel demand continues to rebound, consumers can use Expedia's data to identify budget-friendly destinations for their 2026 trips.

The takeaway

Expedia's list of affordable travel destinations for 2026 highlights the value and cultural experiences available in lesser-known cities, providing travelers with more options to plan trips that fit their budgets.