Why Canadians are traveling less to the U.S.
In 2025, Canadians are spending far less of their travel dollars in the United States, redirecting nearly $20 billion annually elsewhere. This shift is reshaping tourism flows and creating ripple effects on both sides of the border.
Americans are reacting with mixed feelings. Some lament the economic loss in border towns and resorts, while others say fewer visitors ease traffic, crowding, and strain on local attractions. The divide highlights how travel is about more than just dollars; it’s also about perception and daily life.
A major shift in numbers
Statistics Canada shows domestic tourism spending is projected to hit $104 billion in 2025, while international visitors to Canada will spend around $34 billion. Both figures are closing in on pre-pandemic levels.
Meanwhile, cross-border visits to the U.S. dropped by more than 12% in early 2025. That translates into billions of lost U.S. tourism revenue, reinforcing the scale of this Canadian pivot. Analysts say the shift could become the “new normal” if trends hold.
Why the U.S. is losing out
Traveling south of the border has grown less appealing. Canadians cite long waits at crossings, stricter documentation, and rising costs once they arrive.
Hotels, meals, and entertainment are pricier than before, making many trips feel less worthwhile. For some Canadians, the hassle now outweighs the reward, encouraging them to look closer to home or farther overseas.
Inflation and currency challenges
Currency fluctuations have hit Canadian travelers hard. With the Canadian dollar weaker against the U.S. dollar, everyday expenses in America feel inflated.
Families compare costs and often find domestic or international trips more affordable. This shift in purchasing power is a key reason many Canadians are rethinking trips to the U.S. Economists warn the trend could persist if currencies remain mismatched.
Politics at play
Beyond economics, politics shapes decisions. Trade tensions and polarized political rhetoric have made some Canadians less comfortable visiting the U.S. in recent years.
Travel is emotional as much as practical, and feeling unwelcome affects choices. For others, avoiding the U.S. is a way to sidestep political stress while still enjoying travel experiences elsewhere.
Post-pandemic preferences
COVID-19 reshaped travel priorities. Canadians increasingly prefer wellness retreats, cultural immersion, and nature escapes over crowded shopping malls or theme parks.
Domestic destinations and overseas retreats offer these experiences with fewer barriers. From yoga in British Columbia to cultural tours in Europe, travel now emphasizes enrichment as much as relaxation.
Domestic travel on the rise
Local tourism is booming. Canadians are exploring their own provinces, fueling hotels, restaurants, and attractions from coast to coast.
British Columbia’s mountains, Ontario’s big cities, and Saskatchewan’s prairies are drawing steady traffic. For many, “staycations” offer the comfort of home while still delivering new discoveries.
Popular spots like the Magdalen Islands, Algonquin Park, Blue Mountain, Waterton Park, and St. John’s are also trending, showing how diverse Canada’s backyard escapes have become.
Niagara remains a favorite
Niagara Falls is seeing a renewed wave of Canadian visitors. Once overshadowed by U.S. getaways, the region has invested in trails, restaurants, and upgraded lodging.
Families are rediscovering the falls as both an iconic and affordable trip. Niagara proves that classic destinations can reinvent themselves for modern travelers.
Beyond borders to new horizons
When Canadians do travel abroad, the U.S. is no longer the default. Instead, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean are attracting their attention.
Long-haul trips feel more rewarding compared to shorter U.S. visits. This reflects a new mindset: if travel requires planning and money, it should deliver experiences that feel truly different.
The Caribbean connection
Canadians have always loved the Caribbean, but now the region is seeing record numbers. Affordable all-inclusive resorts, direct flights, and cultural ties make it easy.
Destinations like Jamaica, St Lucia, and the Dominican Republic are reporting stronger arrivals from Canada. Sunny escapes feel simpler and friendlier than crossing into the U.S.
Europe’s steady draw
Europe continues to appeal to Canadians across age groups. Countries like Portugal, Italy, and Spain lure visitors with culture, cuisine, and competitive airfare.
Budget airlines and seasonal travel deals sometimes make a week in Europe cost no more than a trip to Florida. That value drives travelers across the Atlantic instead of south of the border.
Asia’s growing appeal
Asia is capturing more of Canada’s outbound travel spending. Countries like Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand combine affordability with cultural depth. For Canadians willing to fly farther, Asia offers an unmatched adventure.
Comparing costs, many find it makes as much sense as a U.S. vacation, but with far more novelty. Direct flight options from major Canadian cities are expanding too, making Asia more accessible than ever.
The impact at home
Redirected spending strengthens Canada’s economy. Tourism is projected to contribute nearly $183 billion in 2025, supporting around 1.8 million jobs nationwide. Hotels, restaurants, and airlines are benefitting from this domestic loyalty.
Communities that once relied on U.S. day-trippers now thrive thanks to Canadians choosing to spend locally. This spread of spending also fuels investments in infrastructure and local events, ensuring the benefits reach beyond the big cities.
The U.S. tourism hit
For the U.S., the loss is significant. A Forbes report highlighted a 33% drop in Canadian visitors in June 2025 alone, costing billions in missed revenue. Some regions are rebranding to attract visitors from Europe and Asia, but recovery is proving slow.
Border towns, ski resorts, and theme parks that once depended on Canadian traffic are especially impacted. Local economies must now adapt to fewer northern neighbors coming through.
Why Canada feels easier
Ease is a huge factor in the shift. Traveling domestically avoids currency exchanges, paperwork, and long border waits. For many, the convenience also means more frequent weekend trips rather than one expensive international vacation.
Families can pack the car and go without worrying about fluctuating costs. Improved Canadian infrastructure and new events make staying home even more attractive than before.
A boom for smaller regions
Smaller provinces like Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia are emerging winners. Tourism boards have leaned into campaigns showcasing unique local culture and scenery.
Visitors are spreading beyond the big cities, giving rural economies a lift. This diversification ensures tourism benefits more Canadians than ever. Check out more insights from IATA’s 2024 report to see where travelers are really flying, and why the patterns may surprise you.
The road ahead
Experts say that unless U.S. travel becomes cheaper and easier, Canadians will keep looking elsewhere. The shift isn’t just temporary; it reflects deeper changes in habits.
For Canada, this redirection is a golden opportunity to shine as a destination in its own right. For the U.S., it’s a reminder of how quickly traveler loyalty can shift.
Canadians aren’t crossing the border like they used to, and some states are feeling it more than others. Here’s where the drop is hitting hardest.
Would you rather see Canadian tourists return, or keep the quieter roads and parks? Share your take.
Read More From This Brand:
- Why Asheville Is a Model for Green Living
- A Beginner’s Guide to America’s Quirkiest Roadside Attractions
- Why Rio and Machu Picchu Are the Bucket List Duo of 2025
Don’t forget to follow us for more exclusive content right here on MSN.
This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
