By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Canadian travel to the US has plummeted for the seventh consecutive month, with car trips down 36.9% and air travel down 25.8% in July compared to the previous year. This decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including fallout from antagonistic trade policies and threats from the White House, as well as Canada’s ongoing cost of living crisis. While US residents’ land travel to Canada also decreased, air travel saw a slight increase. The diverging economic trajectories of the two countries further contribute to these trends.
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Canadians steer clear of US as travel from north falls for seventh month | Canada: The numbers are speaking volumes, and they paint a clear picture: Canadians are increasingly hesitant to cross the border and travel south. It’s been a steady decline, month after month, and the trend continues. This isn’t just a slight dip; we’re talking about substantial decreases, as the data from Statistics Canada shows a significant drop in both car and air travel for Canadians heading to the United States.
This reluctance isn’t just a statistical blip. The reasons behind it are layered and complex, stemming from a mix of concerns and a shift in priorities. One major factor is the overall feeling of unease and the perceived risks associated with traveling to the US. Many feel that the political climate and certain policies have made the US a less welcoming and, in some cases, a potentially unsafe destination. The very idea of having your phone searched and seized at the border without cause is a red flag, and the thought of facing questioning based on online opinions is something many find unacceptable.
The impact of political rhetoric and policy is undeniable. Policies and the general atmosphere of the US have created a sense of uncertainty and caution among potential travelers. It seems like the border has a “Closed for Renovations” sign up, with many Canadians questioning if they will ever want to cross again. The idea of needing an apology from the US administration before returning is a sentiment I’ve heard echoed in many conversations. The feeling that they are being treated as less than allies and friends has had a real impact on travel decisions.
The shift isn’t just about avoiding the US; it’s also about embracing other options. There’s a definite sense of, “if not the US, then where?” And the answer seems to be, “Everywhere else.” Many are opting to spend their money within Canada, supporting local economies and enjoying the beauty and diversity of their own country. Others are turning to destinations like Mexico, which is often viewed as an accessible, affordable, and more welcoming alternative. The ability to travel to warmer climates without the worry is something many are embracing.
The financial aspect also plays a role. The exchange rate makes a trip to the US significantly more expensive. With prices already inflated in the US, Canadians are looking for value, and spending almost 1.5 times more for everything just doesn’t make sense. The cost has become a deterrent, pushing people to look for better value in other destinations.
This trend is having a noticeable impact. Hotels in some Canadian cities are seeing more tourists than ever before, with many visitors explaining they would normally drive to the US, but are changing plans, and choosing to travel to the beautiful landscapes of Canada. The focus is on the benefits of staying in Canada. This is a shift in the tourism landscape and a signal that the behavior of the travel is changing.
Of course, it’s not just about the US. The US, in turn, is seeing a decline in visitors from the north. There is a real sense of mutual distancing, as the political and social landscapes diverge.
This change is about more than just a decline in tourism numbers; it reflects a deeper shift in attitudes and priorities. It’s a decision driven by concerns about safety, value, and the overall experience of traveling south.
The future remains uncertain. But for now, the message from Canada to the US is clear: “We’re staying home.” The decision to avoid travel south is a conscious one, fueled by a complex web of political, economic, and social factors.