Why Canadians Are Avoiding Travel to the U.S.

by Abilasha Kamalanathan

In recent weeks, there has been a noticeable shift in travel patterns, with many Canadians avoiding trips to the United States. While the U.S. has historically been a top destination for Canadian travelers, recent changes in air travel, rising costs, and geopolitical uncertainties have led many to reconsider their plans. The key reasons behind this trend, including trade disputes, rising airfare prices, consumer confidence issues, and the growing popularity of domestic and alternative international destinations.

This year, many Ontario students have chosen alternative destinations, with Europe becoming a popular choice over the U.S.

Oliva recently visited New York during March Break shared that, “although the flight price was higher, the city felt quieter, and there were noticeably fewer Canadian tourists than usual.”
One of the most significant factors influencing Canadians’ decision to avoid the U.S. is the ongoing uncertainty surrounding trade relations between the two countries. Recent tensions, including potential tariffs and economic instability, have made many Canadians cautious about traveling to the U.S. The fear of policy changes and the potential financial impact of trade disputes are prompting travelers to seek alternative destinations where they feel more certain about the political and economic climate.

Another key factor contributing to the avoidance of U.S. travel is the rise in airfare prices. As airlines reduce the number of flights between Canada and the U.S., the remaining tickets are becoming more expensive. The reduction of over 320,000 seats through to October 2025 means that those looking to fly south are facing higher ticket prices. With the added financial uncertainty caused by inflation, many Canadians are opting for more affordable alternatives, including domestic travel within Canada or trips to Europe.

The decline in consumer confidence is also a major reason why Canadians are holding off on U.S. trips. Many Canadians are feeling financially strained, with higher living costs and uncertain economic conditions. As a result, spending money on international travel is no longer as appealing. The rising cost of living, combined with political and economic uncertainties, is leading Canadians to rethink their travel priorities. Instead of flying to the U.S., many are choosing to explore the rich cultural and natural offerings of Canada.

Moreover, the disruption in flight schedules and cancellations has made it more difficult for Canadians to travel to the U.S. Airlines like Air Canada are struggling with capacity issues, particularly in terms of connecting flights through U.S. hubs. These issues make it harder for travelers to rely on flights to the U.S., further dissuading them from making such trips.
In response to these challenges, many Canadians are turning to alternative destinations. WestJet, for instance, has added numerous flights to Europe, with cities like Dublin and Edinburgh benefiting from this shift. Europe is becoming an increasingly attractive option for Canadian travelers, offering cultural experiences similar to those found in the U.S. But unlike the uncertainty surrounding U.S. travel, Europe is perceived as a stable and accessible alternative. Additionally, with domestic travel on the rise, Canadians are flocking to national parks, ski resorts, and other local destinations, further decreasing the demand for U.S. travel.

With more Canadians opting for domestic travel or exploring international locations like Europe, the U.S. is losing its appeal as a go-to destination for Canadian travelers. Whether due to financial concerns or a desire for certainty, it is clear that many Canadians are reevaluating their travel plans and choosing to stay closer to home.