Banff offers a stunning winter landscape, with snow-covered mountains and scenic views that draw visitors each year. Travel Pulse Canada
A new national survey shows a clear shift in where Canadians plan to travel next year. The study found that 62 per cent of Canadians say they are less likely to visit the United States in 2026 compared to last year. Only eight per cent say they feel more likely to travel south of the border.
The survey, conducted by YouGov and commissioned by Flight Centre Canada, reflects a growing change in travel habits across the country.
Travel Patterns Continue to Shift
Recent data from Statistics Canada shows that Canadian travel to the United States dropped again in January, even as overall international travel rose by 11.1 per cent. The decline follows a sharp 28 per cent drop in trips to the U.S. during 2025.
Industry leaders say Canadians still want to travel, but they now choose different destinations.
“What hasn’t changed is Canadians’ desire to travel, only how they are deciding where to go,” the Flight Centre report notes.
Chris Lynes, Managing Director of Flight Centre Travel Group Canada, says spending patterns have changed over the past year.
“Over the past year, we’ve seen a redistribution of Canadian travel spending,” says Chris Lynes, Managing Director of Flight Centre Travel Group Canada.
“While U.S. travel has softened, outbound travel to other international destinations and interest in domestic trips has strengthened. If sustained, this could permanently reshape where Canadian travel dollars flow.”
Concerns Shape Travel Choices
The survey shows that many Canadians feel less comfortable travelling to the United States. Political and cultural issues rank as the top concern for 57 per cent of respondents. Border delays and travel rules worry 53 per cent. Safety concerns influence 46 per cent, while 44 per cent point to cost and exchange rates.
These concerns appear to push travellers toward other options.
Canada and Europe Lead the Way
Canada now ranks as the most popular travel choice for 2026. About 37 per cent of respondents place Canada at the top of their travel wish list.
Europe also attracts strong interest, with 25 per cent naming it their first choice. Mexico and Asia each receive nine per cent support.
Popular Canadian destinations include Banff and Lake Louise. Abroad, travellers show growing interest in Croatia, the Azores, and regions in Italy such as Sardegna and Umbria.
Among younger Canadians, Asia stands out. Fifteen per cent of Gen Z respondents name it as their top destination for the year.
Cost Remains a Key Factor
Travel decisions this year feel different for many Canadians. Eighty-six per cent say their outlook on travel has changed.
Nearly 58 per cent say price will determine where they go. At the same time, one in five Canadians say they would pay more to travel within Canada to support local businesses and jobs.
The survey included responses from more than 1,000 Canadians. It suggests that travel habits may continue to shift in the coming years as Canadians look for value, comfort and meaningful experiences.
