Destination dupes: the smart travel trend for 2025
Think travel is getting too pricey or too crowded? You’re not alone. That’s why destination duping is taking off in 2025 — and it's one trend that's actually worth copying.
What is destination duping?
Let’s be clear — duping someone is usually a bad thing. But when it comes to travel, "destination duping" (short for duplicating) is exactly what savvy travellers are doing this year.
Instead of heading to over-touristed or expensive destinations, more people are opting for lesser-known places that offer similar experiences — often at a much better price, and without the crowds.
Why is it trending now?
The world has rediscovered travel in a big way following the Covid-19 pandemic, but it’s now a much more expensive activity. Popular destinations like Venice and Bali are even limiting tourism through entrance fees and taxes.
As a result, adventurous travellers — often inspired by social media — are taking the road less travelled and discovering lesser-known places that offer similar experiences. They save money, enjoy longer holidays, and often travel more sustainably by staying closer to home.
The result? Travellers are looking for better value, more unique experiences, and a chance to say, “I went there before it was cool.”
Our top destination dupes for 2025
Here are some brilliant swaps for your next trip:
- Panama instead of Costa Rica – lush rainforests, adventure, and fewer tourists
- Costa Rica instead of Australia – similar biodiversity, with less travel time (and cost)
- Namibia instead of South Africa – striking landscapes, wildlife, and authentic culture
- Buenos Aires or Budapest instead of Paris – European elegance without the Parisian price tag
- Indonesia instead of the Maldives – dreamy tropical escapes for much less
- Romania instead of Iceland – raw natural beauty, legends, and volcanic charm
- Ephesus in Turkey instead of Pompeii – ancient ruins without the Italian crowds
- Albania instead of Greece – Mediterranean beaches minus the big bills
- Colombia instead of New Zealand – dramatic mountains, vibrant cities, and coastal adventure
These aren’t one-to-one replicas — they’re experience-based alternatives. That means you can still enjoy the same type of vibe, landscape, or activities... just in a place that’s more affordable, less crowded, and often closer to home.
Before you book your dupe destination...
Dupe destinations can be magical, but keep in mind:
- They may be less developed for tourism — do your research!
- Check visa requirements early (Travelisa can help with that).
- Sort out essentials like travel insurance, local connectivity (think eSIMs), and transport in advance.
Want help with the visa preparation? Explore Travelisa's services.
Destination duping isn’t about faking it — it’s about finding your own version of a dream trip.
It’s budget-savvy, often more sustainable, and lets you discover places that haven’t yet made it onto every influencer’s feed.
So where will you go next? Maybe it’s time to dupe the destination, not the experience.