With travel prices soaring, many Americans are rethinking how and where they vacation. Instead of chasing the usual bucket-list destinations, they're turning to destination dupes—affordable alternative locations that deliver similar charm without the hefty price tag or large crowds.
CouponFollow surveyed 1,000 Americans to explore how budget-conscious travelers are choosing destinations, how much they're saving, and which dupe locations are topping the charts. It also touched on how social media and shifting travel priorities are changing what people now consider the perfect getaway.
Destination dupes are gaining traction as travelers look for smarter ways to spend and reconsider what makes for the ideal getaway.
Nearly two-thirds of travelers (63%) said they preferred the destination dupes over the original locations. The biggest factor driving this trend was affordability, with 73% of travelers saying lower costs were the top reason why they chose a dupe. Over half (53%) also went to these destinations to enjoy fewer crowds. More than 1 in 4 believed these swaps were trendier and cooler than traditional luxury trips.
The top 3 international destination dupes for 2025 reflect travelers' growing focus on value. Ranked No. 1, the Azores—a group of volcanic islands belonging to Portugal—have become a standout alternative to Hawaii. With lush greenery, crater lakes, and geothermal springs, they offer a tropical feel and outdoor adventures at a significantly lower cost.
Coming in at No. 2, Liverpool, England, has become a budget-friendly swap for London. It delivers a rich cultural scene, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife without the capital city's high prices. Ranked third, Croatia continues to gain popularity over Italy. Here, you can enjoy stunning coastlines, historic architecture, and Mediterranean charm with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations.
Travelers are getting more than just budget relief from swapping destinations. Many say the experience itself is better.
For many budget-conscious travelers, destination dupes are saving them money and leading to more satisfying getaways. On average, travelers saved $2,262 by choosing a dupe over the original destination. Even better, 61% said they actually preferred the experience, and nearly half (48%) had no complaints at all.
Social media is helping fuel the trend. Among Gen Z travelers, those between age 18 and 24, 17% said they found their destination dupe on TikTok. It's a reminder that the smartest travel tips or inspiration might be just a scroll away.
Choosing a cheaper travel spot isn't always enough. Budget-conscious travelers still want their getaway to feel like a good deal, and for most, that comes down to value, flexibility, and experience.
Rather than splurging on one expensive trip, 60% of travelers said they'd rather take three affordable ones. Instead of being all about luxury experiences, it's more about making memories without draining your savings. This shift in mindset has redefined what people consider a dream vacation. For 41%, being more budget-conscious is now a top priority, while 29% said flexibility and affordability matter most.
Still, a destination dupe has to deliver. Nearly 4 in 10 travelers said it needs to be at least 20–30% cheaper than the original location to feel like it's worth booking.
As high travel costs continue to shape how people spend, travelers are showing that it's possible to save money on vacation without feeling like you're missing out. Destination dupes are becoming the go-to choice for those who want great experiences at a better price, often delivering fewer crowds and a more authentic feel. For anyone looking to stretch their travel budget, the perfect trip might not be the most obvious one. It could be a well-chosen alternative that offers more for less.
We surveyed 1,000 Americans to explore the growing travel trend of destination dupes (i.e., lesser-known or more affordable alternatives to popular travel spots that offer similar experiences at a lower cost). Of those surveyed, 93% had traveled within the past year, and only their responses were included in this analysis. The age breakdown of respondents was as follows:
The survey was conducted on May 14, 2025.
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