Canadian travel spending in the United States experienced a notable decline in 2025, with expenditures falling by $3.3 billion compared to 2024. This change reflects a broader shift in travel preferences amidst ongoing political and trade tensions. Official reports indicate that Canadian spending on U.S. travel dropped from $22.1 billion in 2024 to $18.8 billion in 2025, highlighting a significant decrease in cross-border tourism.
While travel to the United States waned, Canadians increased their spending on international travel to other destinations by $3.6 billion, totaling $22.8 billion. This surge was particularly evident in travel to Europe and Asia, with visits rising by nearly 14% and almost 17%, respectively. These figures suggest that Canadians are opting for alternative international destinations, steering clear of their southern neighbor.
The decline in U.S. travel was mirrored by a substantial drop in border traffic between the two countries. Return trips from the United States to Canada, whether by road or air, decreased by about 25% in 2025 compared to the previous year. July saw the most pronounced reduction, with crossings plummeting by roughly one-third. This trend of reduced travel volumes has persisted into 2026, with numbers still significantly lower than past levels.
Officials have noted that these statistics reflect a sustained shift in Canadian travel behavior, moving away from the United States. This pattern is expected to continue, as Canadians increasingly explore global destinations beyond their traditional visits to the U.S.