10 Team Building Activities for Remote Teams That Actually Work

As of February 2026, remote work has become the norm for many organizations, but this shift has not come without its challenges. Did you know that 70% of remote employees feel disconnected from their teams? This statistic highlights the importance of effective team building activities that foster collaboration and communication among remote teams. Here are ten activities designed to bridge the gap and strengthen your remote workforce.

1. Virtual Escape Rooms

• Time Needed: 1-2 hours
• Group Size: 4-10 participants
• Cost: $20-30 per person
• Energy Level: High

Virtual escape rooms provide a thrilling way to engage remote teams. Participants work together to solve puzzles and "escape" within a set time limit. Companies like The Escape Game offer a variety of themes and complexities.

Logistical Notes:

• Ensure all team members have a reliable internet connection.
• Book at least a week in advance for preferred time slots.

2. Online Cooking Classes

• Time Needed: 1-2 hours
• Group Size: 5-20 participants
• Cost: $40-100 per person
• Energy Level: Medium

Bring your team together over a virtual cooking class. Services like Cozymeal offer interactive classes led by professional chefs, covering cuisines from around the world.

Logistical Notes:

• Send ingredient lists in advance.
• Check dietary restrictions before booking.

3. Virtual Trivia Competitions

• Time Needed: 1 hour
• Group Size: 5-50 participants
• Cost: $15-25 per person
• Energy Level: Low to Medium

Trivia competitions can be a fun way to engage teams while also encouraging healthy competition. Platforms like Crowdpurr allow you to create customized trivia games.

Logistical Notes:

• Select a moderator to keep the game flowing.
• Use breakout rooms for larger groups.

4. Online Book Club

• Time Needed: Ongoing, 1 hour per session
• Group Size: 5-15 participants
• Cost: Free to $20 per person (for book purchases)
• Energy Level: Low

Start a virtual book club where team members can discuss a selected book. This fosters collaboration and encourages open dialogue.

Logistical Notes:

• Choose a book that resonates with your team.
• Schedule meetings monthly to maintain consistency.

5. Virtual Team Workshops

• Time Needed: 2-3 hours
• Group Size: 10-30 participants
• Cost: $50-150 per person
• Energy Level: Medium

Workshops on topics like communication, leadership, or diversity can be beneficial. Companies like Skillshare offer sessions tailored for teams.

Logistical Notes:

• Tailor content to fit your team's needs.
• Schedule workshops quarterly for ongoing development.

6. Remote Wellness Challenges

• Time Needed: Ongoing
• Group Size: 5-50 participants
• Cost: Free to $30 per person (for apps)
• Energy Level: Medium

Create wellness challenges that encourage physical activity, mindfulness, or healthy eating. Use platforms like StepBet to track progress.

Logistical Notes:

• Set clear goals and timelines.
• Offer small incentives for participation.

7. Virtual Art Classes

• Time Needed: 1-2 hours
• Group Size: 5-20 participants
• Cost: $30-70 per person
• Energy Level: Medium

Art classes can be a relaxing way for remote teams to bond. Companies like Paint and Sip offer online classes where participants can create art together.

Logistical Notes:

• Send a supply list in advance.
• Encourage participants to share their creations.

8. Online Game Tournaments

• Time Needed: 2-3 hours
• Group Size: 5-50 participants
• Cost: $10-50 per person
• Energy Level: High

Host a tournament for popular online games like Among Us or Jackbox Games. This encourages teamwork and communication in a fun environment.

Logistical Notes:

• Choose games that are easy to learn.
• Use a platform like Discord for communication.

9. Virtual Coffee Breaks

• Time Needed: 15-30 minutes
• Group Size: 2-10 participants
• Cost: Free
• Energy Level: Low

Encourage informal catch-ups through virtual coffee breaks. This can help foster relationships and improve team morale.

Logistical Notes:

• Schedule these breaks regularly.
• Keep them short and casual.

10. Online Charity Events

• Time Needed: 1-2 hours
• Group Size: 5-50 participants
• Cost: Variable
• Energy Level: Medium to High

Organize virtual charity events where teams can participate in fundraising activities. This not only helps the community but also strengthens team bonds.

Logistical Notes:

• Choose a cause that resonates with your team.
• Promote participation through internal communications.

Conclusion

When planning remote team building activities in 2026, consider your team's interests, budget, and logistical needs. Here’s a quick action checklist:

• Choose Activities: Select activities that align with your team's culture.
• Set a Budget: Allocate funds for each activity.
• Schedule: Plan a timeline for implementation.
• Gather Feedback: After activities, solicit feedback for future planning.

By prioritizing connection and collaboration, your remote team can thrive, no matter the distance.