Canadians plan to put more money toward well-earned trips this year as they look forward to taking time away. Travel Pulse Canada
Most Canadians feel a strong need to get away. A new nationwide survey shows that 81 per cent of people say they feel desperate for a vacation. After years of uncertainty and stress, many households plan to pack their bags in 2026 and spend more than they did last year to do it.
The survey questioned more than 2,000 Canadians and found a clear rise in travel plans and budgets across the country.
Travel spending set to surge
Canadians plan to spend a combined $47.6 billion on vacations in 2026. That figure marks a 22 per cent jump from the previous year. On average, households expect to set aside $4,169 for travel. Those planning trips outside Canada budget even more, with international trips averaging $6,354 each.
These numbers show how important travel has become for many families. Even with higher prices, people continue to see vacations as a priority rather than a luxury.
Not everyone feels ready to travel
Despite strong interest, not all Canadians feel confident about travelling this year. About 31 per cent of respondents said they may not travel at all. Among that group, three out of five pointed to financial concerns as the main reason.
Rising costs, household expenses, and general economic pressure continue to hold some people back. For these Canadians, travel plans remain uncertain as they try to balance leisure with daily needs.
Dollar value shapes travel choices
The weak Canadian dollar also affects travel decisions. Nearly half of respondents said currency value will change how they plan their trips. Some people plan to adjust where they go, while others rethink how often they travel.
About 17 per cent said they will choose cheaper destinations to make their money go further. One-third plan to take fewer trips overall due to factors such as inflation, interest rates, and global tensions.
These concerns push many travellers to stay closer to home or shorten their vacations.
Age plays a key role
Age strongly influences how Canadians view travel risks and costs. People over 55 appear the least worried. More than half of them said economic issues and world events do not affect their travel plans at all.
Younger adults feel more pressure. Only 40 per cent of people aged 18 to 34 shared the same confidence. The number dropped further to 35 per cent among those aged 35 to 54. These age groups often juggle housing costs, family expenses, and job uncertainty, which affects how freely they can travel.
Travel remains a priority
Despite challenges, the desire to travel remains strong across Canada. Many people feel ready to spend more to take a break, even if that means making adjustments along the way. As 2026 approaches, travel continues to reflect both hope and caution for Canadian households.
