In a notable shift in travel trends, Canadians spent $3.3 billion less on trips to the United States in 2025 compared to the year prior. This decrease in travel expenditure highlights changing preferences amid ongoing political and trade tensions between the two nations. Official statistics reveal that Canadian travel spending in the U.S. dropped from $22.1 billion in 2024 to $18.8 billion in 2025.
Conversely, Canadians have shown a growing interest in other international destinations. Spending on travel outside the United States surged by $3.6 billion, reaching a total of $22.8 billion in 2025. Notable increases were observed in travel to Europe and Asia, with a rise of nearly 14% and 17% respectively, indicating a clear preference for these regions over the U.S.
The decline in travel to the U.S. was also reflected in border traffic statistics. Throughout 2025, there was a sharp decrease in return trips from the U.S. to Canada via both road and air, plummeting by about 25% compared to the previous year. The most significant reduction occurred in July, where crossings fell by approximately one-third.
This trend appears to persist into 2026, with travel volumes to the United States still significantly lower than in previous years. Officials suggest this data points to a lasting change in travel behavior among Canadians, who are increasingly looking beyond the U.S. for international experiences.