10 Underrated Team Building Activities for Remote Teams in 2026
10 Underrated Team Building Activities for Remote Teams in 2026
As we navigate the evolving landscape of remote work in 2026, team building remains a critical component for maintaining engagement and collaboration. Surprisingly, studies show that 74% of remote teams report feeling disconnected, highlighting the need for innovative and effective activities. Here are ten underrated team building activities designed specifically for remote teams that can foster connection and teamwork without requiring everyone to be in the same physical space.
1. Virtual Escape Rooms
- Time Needed: 1-2 hours
- Group Size: 4-10 participants
- Cost: $20-$30 per person
- Energy Level: High
- Best For: Problem-solving skills and collaboration
Virtual escape rooms are an engaging way to enhance teamwork through puzzle-solving under pressure. Teams work together to decipher clues and complete challenges, fostering communication and camaraderie.
2. Online Cooking Classes
- Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours
- Group Size: 5-20 participants
- Cost: $50-$75 per person
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Best For: Creative expression and teamwork
Cooking classes led by professional chefs can be a fun way for team members to bond over shared culinary experiences. Each participant can cook from their own kitchen while following along, encouraging collaboration and creativity.
3. Virtual Book Club
- Time Needed: 1 hour (monthly)
- Group Size: 6-15 participants
- Cost: Free (or $15 for a book)
- Energy Level: Low
- Best For: Building connections through shared interests
A virtual book club encourages team members to explore new ideas and perspectives while fostering deep discussions. Choose a theme or genre each month to keep it fresh and engaging.
4. Online Trivia Competitions
- Time Needed: 1 hour
- Group Size: 5-50 participants
- Cost: $10-$15 per person
- Energy Level: Moderate to High
- Best For: Fostering friendly competition
Trivia competitions can be tailored to include company history, pop culture, or random facts. This fun activity encourages teamwork and communication while providing a break from daily tasks.
5. Virtual Wellness Challenges
- Time Needed: Ongoing (weekly check-ins)
- Group Size: Any size
- Cost: Free to $30 for app subscriptions
- Energy Level: Variable
- Best For: Promoting health and well-being
Wellness challenges can include steps tracking, meditation sessions, or healthy cooking contests. Encouraging employees to participate in health-oriented activities can boost morale and foster a sense of community.
6. Remote Art Workshops
- Time Needed: 2-3 hours
- Group Size: 5-15 participants
- Cost: $50-$100 per person
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Best For: Creativity and self-expression
Art workshops, such as painting or pottery, allow team members to express their creativity while working together. Sending participants art supplies in advance can enhance the experience.
7. Virtual Game Nights
- Time Needed: 2 hours
- Group Size: 5-20 participants
- Cost: Free to $10 per person
- Energy Level: High
- Best For: Building rapport and fun
Hosting a game night with online platforms like Jackbox Games or Tabletop Simulator can bring teams together for a night of laughter and bonding. Choose games that require teamwork for added engagement.
8. Online Language Lessons
- Time Needed: 1 hour (weekly)
- Group Size: 5-10 participants
- Cost: $15-$30 per person
- Energy Level: Moderate
- Best For: Cultural exchange and learning
Language lessons can enhance team dynamics by encouraging collaboration and cultural appreciation. This can also be a fun way to prepare for an international project or client.
9. Virtual Scavenger Hunts
- Time Needed: 1-1.5 hours
- Group Size: 6-30 participants
- Cost: $15-$25 per person
- Energy Level: High
- Best For: Team bonding and creativity
Scavenger hunts can be organized with a mix of fun and challenging tasks that require team members to work together. This activity promotes creativity and quick thinking.
10. Online Philanthropy Projects
- Time Needed: 1-2 hours
- Group Size: Any size
- Cost: Variable (donations)
- Energy Level: Low to Moderate
- Best For: Building purpose and community impact
Engaging in philanthropic activities, such as virtual volunteering or fundraising events, allows teams to work together toward a common goal while making a positive impact.
Conclusion
In 2026, remote teams can thrive through innovative team-building activities that transcend geographical barriers. Implementing any of these ten underrated activities can strengthen team bonds, enhance collaboration, and boost morale.
Action Items:
- Choose 2-3 activities that resonate with your team's interests.
- Allocate a budget and set a timeline for implementation.
- Schedule meetings to discuss and plan these activities.
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