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60% of Canadians Avoiding U.S. Travel: A New Trend

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. f-canadians-avoiding-u-s-travel-a-new-trend.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 18:04 GMT by Forbes
      Locales: CANADA, UNITED STATES

Toronto, ON - February 17, 2026 - A new wave of data reveals a dramatic shift in Canadian travel patterns, with six in ten Canadians now actively avoiding travel to the United States. This significant decline, reported exclusively to Forbes and corroborated by multiple sources, represents a substantial departure from historical trends and signals deeper anxieties at play. While cross-border travel has always fluctuated with economic conditions, this downturn appears driven by a confluence of factors - economic realities, escalating safety concerns, and a perceived increase in political and social instability south of the border.

The initial survey, conducted in early February by the Polling and Public Opinion Institute (PPOI), polled over 1,000 Canadians nationally. Subsequent analysis by the Canadian Tourism Research Council (CTRC) and independent economic assessments confirm these findings. The 60% avoidance rate is a stark contrast to pre-2020 figures, where Canadian travelers represented a consistently significant portion of U.S. tourism revenue, particularly in border states. Prior to 2020, Canada consistently ranked among the top three sources of international visitors to the U.S., often vying with Mexico for the number one spot.

A Trifecta of Concerns: Economics, Safety, and Politics

The PPOI survey pinpoints three primary drivers behind this trend. Firstly, the economic landscape has dramatically altered the appeal of U.S. destinations. While the Canadian dollar has experienced periods of fluctuation, its current value - approximately 73 US cents as of today - coupled with persistent inflation in both countries, has made U.S. travel considerably more expensive for Canadians. This impacts all aspects of a trip, from accommodation and transportation to dining and entertainment. Many Canadians are opting for domestic vacations or exploring international destinations where their dollar stretches further.

Secondly, and perhaps more concerningly, is the rising anxiety surrounding safety in the United States. Headlines detailing gun violence, particularly in major cities and public spaces, have become increasingly frequent, eroding Canadians' sense of security while traveling. While crime exists everywhere, the perceived higher risk in certain U.S. locations is demonstrably influencing travel decisions. This concern isn't limited to major metropolitan areas; reports of incidents in popular tourist destinations have also contributed to the apprehension.

Finally, a growing segment of the Canadian population expresses unease with the increasingly polarized political climate and social divisions within the U.S. The aftermath of the 2024 presidential election and ongoing debates surrounding social issues have created a sense of instability that is deterring some Canadians from visiting. This isn't necessarily about aligning with specific political ideologies, but rather a desire to avoid potential confrontations or uncomfortable situations while on vacation. Dr. Eleanor Vance, a sociologist at the University of British Columbia, notes, "Canadians generally prioritize a sense of social harmony and predictability. The perceived volatility in the U.S. clashes with those values."

Ripple Effects on the U.S. Economy The implications for the U.S. tourism industry are substantial. Border states, including Michigan, New York, Maine, Washington, and Florida, are particularly vulnerable. Canadian tourists are known for being high-spending visitors, often engaging in shopping, dining, and entertainment activities. The loss of this significant demographic could lead to substantial revenue declines for businesses reliant on tourism. Preliminary estimates from the CTRC suggest potential losses exceeding $8 billion USD in 2026 alone if the trend continues. Industry leaders in these states are actively lobbying for initiatives to address the concerns and incentivize Canadian travel, including currency exchange programs and enhanced security measures.

The Future of Cross-Border Travel The long-term trajectory of this trend remains uncertain. While some experts predict a temporary dip, others believe it signals a more fundamental shift in Canadian attitudes toward U.S. travel. Much will depend on future economic conditions, political developments, and the U.S.'s ability to address the safety concerns of potential Canadian visitors. The U.S. Travel Association is reportedly preparing a comprehensive marketing campaign aimed at re-establishing Canada as a key market, focusing on highlighting safe and family-friendly destinations. However, simply advertising won't be enough. Addressing the underlying anxieties will be crucial to regaining the trust and enthusiasm of Canadian travelers. Furthermore, the rise of "staycations" and increased exploration of domestic Canadian travel options - fueled by initiatives promoting Canada's national parks and cultural attractions - is also contributing to the shift in spending habits.