10 Team Building Activities for Remote Teams Under $100 in 2026

As remote work continues to be the norm in 2026, team building activities have become essential for fostering collaboration and connection among dispersed teams. Surprisingly, 70% of remote workers report feeling isolated, which can hinder productivity and engagement. Thankfully, you can invest in team bonding without breaking the bank. Here are ten budget-friendly activities designed for remote teams, each under $100 per participant.

1. Virtual Escape Room

• Time Needed: 1.5 hours
• Group Size: 4-8 people
• Cost: $25/person
• Energy Level: High
• Description: Engage your team in a thrilling online escape room experience. Teams will solve puzzles and riddles to "escape" within a set time.
• Logistical Notes: Choose a reputable provider like The Escape Game or Enchambered, and ensure all participants have stable internet connections.

2. Online Cooking Class

• Time Needed: 2 hours
• Group Size: Up to 20 people
• Cost: $75/person
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Description: Hire a chef to guide your team through a cooking lesson, creating a meal together virtually. It's a fun way to collaborate and learn new skills.
• Logistical Notes: Send out ingredient lists ahead of time, and consider dietary restrictions.

3. Virtual Trivia Competition

• Time Needed: 1 hour
• Group Size: 10-50 people
• Cost: $20/person
• Energy Level: Low to Moderate
• Description: Organize a trivia game using platforms like Kahoot or Quizizz. This friendly competition can spark laughter and camaraderie.
• Logistical Notes: Prepare categories relevant to your team’s interests for a more engaging experience.

4. Online Game Tournament

• Time Needed: 2-3 hours
• Group Size: 8-40 people
• Cost: $15/person
• Energy Level: High
• Description: Host a tournament featuring popular online games like Jackbox Party or Among Us. It’s a great way to break down barriers and build relationships.
• Logistical Notes: Ensure everyone has access to the games and consider a prize for the winning team.

5. Virtual Team Wellness Challenge

• Time Needed: Ongoing (4 weeks)
• Group Size: Any
• Cost: $50/person
• Energy Level: Varies
• Description: Encourage healthy habits with a month-long wellness challenge. Participants can track steps, hydration, or mindfulness activities.
• Logistical Notes: Use apps like Strides or Habitica to track progress and motivate participants.

6. Online Art Class

• Time Needed: 1.5 hours
• Group Size: Up to 15 people
• Cost: $90/person
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Description: Hire an artist to lead a virtual painting or crafting session. This creative outlet can be therapeutic and fun.
• Logistical Notes: Send out art supplies in advance or provide a list of materials participants need to gather.

7. Virtual Book Club

• Time Needed: 1 hour (monthly)
• Group Size: 5-20 people
• Cost: $10/person (book purchase)
• Energy Level: Low
• Description: Start a book club where team members read and discuss a chosen book each month. This promotes thoughtful conversation and connection.
• Logistical Notes: Choose books that resonate with your team’s interests and encourage participation in discussions.

8. Online Fitness Class

• Time Needed: 1 hour
• Group Size: Up to 30 people
• Cost: $20/person
• Energy Level: High
• Description: Hire a fitness instructor to lead a virtual yoga, Zumba, or HIIT class. This boosts morale and team energy levels.
• Logistical Notes: Ensure participants have enough space and equipment for the chosen activity.

9. Virtual Scavenger Hunt

• Time Needed: 1 hour
• Group Size: 5-20 people
• Cost: $30/person
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Description: Create a list of items or tasks for team members to find or complete in their homes. This can lead to hilarious discoveries and stories.
• Logistical Notes: Use platforms like GooseChase to facilitate the hunt and keep it organized.

10. Online Team-building Workshops

• Time Needed: 2 hours
• Group Size: Up to 25 people
• Cost: $90/person
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Description: Engage a facilitator to lead a workshop focused on skills like communication, problem-solving, or time management.
• Logistical Notes: Tailor the workshop to address specific team challenges for maximum impact.

Comparison Table of Activities

| Activity | Time Needed | Group Size | Cost/Person | Energy Level | Best For | Insider Tip | |-----------------------------|-------------|--------------|-------------|--------------|---------------------|-----------------------------------| | Virtual Escape Room | 1.5 hrs | 4-8 | $25 | High | Team bonding | Book early for availability | | Online Cooking Class | 2 hrs | Up to 20 | $75 | Moderate | Skill-building | Send ingredients in advance | | Virtual Trivia Competition | 1 hr | 10-50 | $20 | Low | Fun engagement | Customize trivia to your team | | Online Game Tournament | 2-3 hrs | 8-40 | $15 | High | Social interaction | Offer prizes for winners | | Wellness Challenge | Ongoing | Any | $50 | Varies | Health-focused | Use tracking apps for motivation | | Online Art Class | 1.5 hrs | Up to 15 | $90 | Moderate | Creativity | Provide supply lists in advance | | Virtual Book Club | 1 hr/month | 5-20 | $10 | Low | Intellectual growth | Choose engaging and relatable books| | Online Fitness Class | 1 hr | Up to 30 | $20 | High | Physical wellness | Ensure space for movement | | Virtual Scavenger Hunt | 1 hr | 5-20 | $30 | Moderate | Fun and laughter | Use apps for organization | | Team-building Workshops | 2 hrs | Up to 25 | $90 | Moderate | Skill enhancement | Focus on team-specific challenges |

Our Top Picks

• Best for Skill Development: Online Cooking Class - $75/person
• Best for Fun & Engagement: Virtual Escape Room - $25/person
• Best for Health & Wellness: Online Fitness Class - $20/person

Conclusion

Team building for remote teams in 2026 doesn't have to be costly. With these ten activities, you can foster collaboration and connection without exceeding $100 per person. Choose the options that resonate best with your team's culture, and start planning your next offsite today!

Action Items:

1. Select your preferred activities from the list.
2. Schedule a meeting to discuss logistics and gather team input.
3. Book vendors and send out invites to ensure participation.