TRAVELSAVERS launches domestic campaign as Canadians travel closer to home

TRAVELSAVERS Canada has launched a campaign highlighting domestic travel as more Canadians choose to vacation within the country this summer.

The Close to Home campaign features Canadian getaways, destination ideas and travel offers from across the country. 

It also encourages travellers to work with travel advisors to plan trips based on their interests.

The campaign comes as geopolitical uncertainty, fluctuating exchange rates and higher travel costs influence vacation planning. 

“Some of the most memorable travel experiences are waiting right here in Canada,” said Jane Clementino, senior vice-president and general manager of TRAVELSAVERS Canada. 

“This summer, travellers are exploring destinations they may have overlooked, supporting local businesses and discovering just how much their own country has to offer.”

Domestic demand grows

A Leger 360 survey conducted in June found that 77 per cent of Canadians planning a summer leisure trip intend to travel domestically.

According to TRAVELSAVERS, that interest is translating into increased demand for destinations across the country, particularly the Maritimes, Newfoundland, British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies.

"Travellers from Ontario and Western Canada are taking the opportunity to finally experience these bucket-list destinations, while we're also seeing strong demand for Western Canada tours through British Columbia, the Rockies and Alberta from travellers in Eastern Canada," said Mark Silvestri, channel marketing coordinator at Globus. 

"It's clear that Canadians are using this moment to explore iconic parts of the country they may have always wanted to visit."

The trend is also influencing how Canadians travel. 

Rather than trying to include as many stops as possible, some travellers are choosing longer stays and more locally focused itineraries.

"We're seeing strong domestic interest in destinations that offer both iconic experiences and opportunities to connect in a more intimate way with a place," said Amelia Sugerman, senior manager of corporate communications at Collette. 

"The Canadian Rockies continue to attract travellers with their incredible scenery and outdoor experiences, while destinations like Prince Edward Island and the Maritimes are resonating with guests who want to immerse themselves in local culture, food and history. Travellers are looking to slow down, spend more time in their destination, and come away with experiences that feel authentic and memorable."

TRAVELSAVERS said travel advisors can help clients identify lesser-known destinations, find available offers and build itineraries around specific interests.

The Close to Home campaign is designed to provide advisors with Canadian travel ideas and offers they can use when planning domestic vacations for clients.

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