A growing number of Canadians are choosing to avoid travel to the United States, marking a sustained decline in cross-border tourism. Many travelers, frustrated with US political decisions, have opted to stay within Canada or reroute long journeys to avoid passing through the US. This trend has persisted throughout the year and shows no indication of slowing down.
Personal Decisions Reflect a National Shift
Nova Scotia resident Kristy Gammon once visited the US regularly for ski trips in New York and to watch baseball games in Baltimore. However, she now avoids even driving through the US on her way to Ontario. She said the move is a protest against policies introduced by the Trump administration, which she believes have damaged relations with Canada and undermined core values.
Deepening Decline in Cross-Border Travel
Recent data from Canada’s statistics office shows a sharp decline in the number of Canadians entering the US. Air travel dropped nearly 24 percent, while car travel fell more than 30 percent compared to last year. Canadians have historically made up a quarter of all international visitors to the US, representing more than $20 billion in annual spending. Because travel numbers continue to fall, the US tourism sector has felt the impact.
Trade Tensions Influence Travel Choices
Many Canadians began reducing travel to the US after the introduction of new tariffs and trade restrictions. The US imposed duties on several Canadian goods, including those related to steel and car manufacturing. These measures were intended to narrow the US trade deficit, though they also sparked frustration among Canadian consumers. Public remarks from the US president about Canada have further strained perceptions.
Efforts to Attract Canadian Visitors
Tourist destinations in the US have attempted to counter declining numbers. Some regions, such as Montana’s Glacier National Park area, launched promotional campaigns offering deals to Canadians. The initiatives highlight a desire to rebuild cross-border tourism, yet many travelers remain reluctant due to political concerns and rising tensions between the two nations.
Canadian Tourism Sees a Boost
While US travel numbers have fallen, Canada’s domestic tourism industry has surged. Canadians are increasingly spending their vacation budgets at home, supporting national attractions and regional travel. From May to August 2025, domestic tourism generated a record C$59 billion, driven largely by residents choosing to avoid international travel.
Snowbirds Also Rethink Winter Travel
Canadian snowbirds, typically retirees who winter in US states like Florida, are also changing their habits. Surveys show a steep drop in planned US trips among older travelers, with many choosing to remain in Canada. Some have even sold their seasonal homes in the US due to dissatisfaction with current political dynamics and border policies.
A Boycott That May Continue
Gammon said she and her friends are committed to avoiding the US for the foreseeable future. Although she misses past visits, she said significant political changes would be needed to reverse her decision. Many Canadians feel similarly, creating uncertainty over how long this collective boycott will last and how deeply it will affect the US tourism landscape.
