As I’m writing this, the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals are starting to die down. If you got the travel deal of your dreams, great! But if you’re still trying to make up your mind about where to go, or if even the best deal still seems a bit beyond your budget, maybe it’s time to look for a destination dupe.
What’s that, you ask?
A destination dupe is somewhere that offers all the benefits of your dream vacation, with a smaller price tag.
Fred Harrington is a travel expert with SaveMyCent, a digital savings platform that helps online shoppers save money. He says:
The rise of destination dupes reflects a wider trend among travelers; more and more often, we’re seeing more people prioritise value per experience when choosing where to go. Swapping big-name destinations for lesser-known alternatives can cut travel costs by 30 to 50%, particularly on accommodation and meals, so it’s really a no-brainer. Plus, you’ll usually experience a much more authentic version of local life, without heavy tourist crowds.
Read on to learn about his 10 destination dupes for travelers looking to stretch their holiday fund a little further in 2026. You’ll also find a few of our pros and cons.
Dreaming of Thailand? How about Vietnam?
Everyone I know who has been to Vietnam has come back raving about it. They’ve also said the same about Thailand. But Vietnam tends to be cheaper and less-crowded. Both destinations offer incredible food and memorable scenery.
If you’re drawn to Thailand’s beaches, temples, and night markets, Vietnam offers a similar Southeast Asian experience for even more affordable prices.
Fred harrington, savemycent.com
Insight: This is a piece of advice you’ll see me repeating throughout this article. A destination can be as expensive or as budget-friendly as you make it, and cutting the budget doesn’t always have to mean a lesser experience. Some of my best travel memories are of small local restaurants away from the tourist path. Do your research before going anywhere, and talk to people who have been to get their tips.
Dreaming of Turkey? How about Albania?
Turkey is a hugely popular travel destination now, and as its popularity grows, so does the price tag. But if you still want your fill of sun, coast, historic ruins, and Mediterranean food, Fred calls Albania “Turkey’s laid-back cousin.” He goes on to describe the Albanian Riviera as “an underrated gem that boasts turquoise water and dramatic cliffs, while towns like Berat and Gjirokastër offer UNESCO-worthy charm.”
Albania is rapidly gaining traction as one of Europe’s best-value beach destinations.
Fred Harrington
Insight: Reviews about Albania from returning travelers tend to be hit and miss. There are comments about its undeniable beauty and rich history. At the same time, the country is still finding its footing as a tourist destination so don’t expect five-star facilities everywhere you go. While some comment on the friendliness of locals, others say that they encountered a less-friendly welcome and suggest the country isn’t quite ready yet.
Dreaming of Greece? How about Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast?
If the islands of Greece and the blue waters of the Aegean Sea are calling to you but the prices are not, Fred suggests Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast instead. In places like Sunny Beach and Sozopol, you’ll still have stunning beaches and a nightclub scene that attracts world-renowned DJs, but accommodation and eating out is much cheaper than it would be in Mykonos or Santorini.
Insight: Bulgaria’s resorts are quickly gaining popularity for their all inclusive nature, fabulous beaches, and five-star quality. At the same time, you can still enjoy Greece on a budget if you do some careful planning by focusing on some of the smaller islands.
Dreaming of the Maldives? How about the Philippines?
Want to stay in an overwater bungalow and jump straight into a turquoise lagoon each morning when you wake up? Want to have a paradise vacation like a rockstar but then you see the price of an exclusive Maldives resort and think again? Fred recommends the Philippines, where you can live out your tropical paradise dreams for less.
Insight: Returning visitors typically share their love of the beaches and nature in the Philippines, as well as the ease of getting around (English is widely spoken). However, many also say that the island infrastructure, especially away from the key resorts, is lacking. Also pay attention to your surroundings and don’t be tempted to stray too far off the beaten path.
Dreaming of Paris? How about Budapest?
What to do if you’re craving the romance of Paris – moonlit walks along the river, watching the world pass by from a sidewalk cafe, the architecture… but then you check your bank balance and it’s not conjuring up “joie de vivre”? Have you considered the Hungarian capital of Budapest? It offers many similar attractions to its French cousin but at a fraction of the price.
Budapest offers affordable hotels and much cheaper (but still amazing) wine. Add to that the city’s famous thermal spas, and you have the recipe for a magical getaway.
Fred harrington
Insight: It’s hard to rival Paris but it can be pricy if you’re not careful. However, it doesn’t have to be. It’s a very walkable city, the Metro is affordable, and good food can be found for a great price if you skip the obvious tourist traps. Reviews of Budapest are mixed, depending on which parts of the city you explore. But then, you could say that about anywhere.
Dreaming of Amsterdam? How about Kraków?
Amsterdam attracts millions of tourists every year, all keen to explore the canals and the art museums (plus a few other activities for which the city is known). And those numbers are becoming a problem as Amsterdam struggles with overtourism. So, if you’re looking for an alternative rather than contributing to the problem, why not head to Poland, and Kraków? The city also has its fair share of cobbled streets, culture, history, museums, and nightlife, but it’s friendlier on the wallet and not as crowded. Polish beer is an added bonus!
Insight: Kraków gets great reviews online, with visitors praising it as a very safe city. It makes an excellent pre-Christmas destination with snow-dusted medieval streets and winter markets.
Dreaming of Australia? How about South Africa?
Australia is definitely one of my bucket-list destinations with its landscapes that stretch further than the eye can see, incredible coastal routes, and its unique wildlife. So if you’re considering that, you might be surprised by Fred’s alternative suggestion: South Africa. According to him, it offers a similar appeal but is more affordable. You’ll still have amazing scenery, wineries, and a different but equally impressive array of wildlife.
Insight: You won’t get any arguments from me about South Africa. I adored my month there and felt perfectly safe traveling solo. I would go back in a heartbeat. Be warned though – if you’re thinking this will be much easier and quicker to travel to than Australia, think again. My flight from Atlanta to Johannesburg took a little over 17 hours, one of the longest single leg flights in the world (just behind a few to Australia). That’s a lot of inflight movies and seat time.
Dreaming of Bali? How about Sri Lanka?
Bali conjures up images of a tropical paradise. Whether you want to laze on the Instagram-perfect beach or temple-hop to spiritual bliss, you can find it on Bali. It’s also become a big draw for digital nomads – why sit in an office when you can work on the beach! But have you considered Sri Lanka as an alternative? You can still enjoy beach life or rural escapes, but you don’t have to pay the hefty price tag.
Insight: This is another case where either destination can be a high-dollar or a budget-friendly experience, depending where you stay, what you do, etc. Live White Lotus style for big bucks or skip the tourist places for the local diners. In Bali and Sri Lanka, the choice is yours.
Dreaming of Spain? How about Bosnia & Herzegovina?
I must admit, when considering an alternative to Spain, Bosnia & Herzegovina doesn’t immediately spring to mind. Nevertheless, Fred advises that the country offers warm hospitality, rich history, and scenic views. He says, “Explore Sarajevo’s Ottoman charm or hike through the waterfalls of Kravica—all with a daily spend that won’t sting.”
Insight: Winters can be harsh, especially inland, so it’s advisable to wait until spring to visit. Don’t expect everyone to speak English. Also, remember that not so long ago this was a war zone. In rural areas, landmines may still be a problem, so skip the solo hikes in unmarked areas.
Dreaming of Mexico? How about Guatemala?
We absolutely loved our trip through Mexico’s Copper Canyon region some years ago. From sunrise over the canyon to the beautiful streets of El Fuerte, the entire visit was truly memorable. However, it is safe to say that Mexico has developed a bit of a bad reputation for travelers, some deserved, some not so much. So if you still want the Latin American color but are concerned about safety, Fred suggests looking at Guatemala. He advises, “Think colonial towns like Antigua, Mayan ruins in Tikal, and the volcanic beauty of Lake Atitlán, all while keeping your travel budget firmly in check.”
Insights: If you want to see Mexico or Guatemala without staying in a beach resort, I suggest a group tour, especially if you do not speak Spanish. Your tour guide will have insider knowledge and contacts to make sure you see all the best bits. If traveling solo to either country be sure to check current travel advisories for your area.