Canadian travellers avoiding U.S. trips over politics, study finds

A new study from travel and tourism research firm Longwoods International shows that U.S. politics and policy are influencing travel decisions for Canadian travellers, with 63 per cent of respondents saying they are less likely to visit the U.S. because of the current political climate.

Of those influenced by U.S. policy and politics, 80 per cent cited U.S. tariffs and economic policy as a negative factor, while 71 per cent pointed to political statements by U.S. leaders—up from 64 per cent in April.

Respondents also reported concerns about political discontent in the U.S., American rhetoric regarding Canadian sovereignty and U.S. positions on social issues.

“More than 20 million Canadians visited the U.S. in 2024, more than from any other country,” said Amir Eylon, president and CEO of Longwoods International. 

“But Canadian visitation to the U.S. in 2025 dropped 19% through June, compared to the same period in 2024.”

Of those Canadian travellers citing concerns over U.S. policy, 42 per cent said they are replacing U.S. trips with domestic travel within Canada. 

Another 30 per cent said they’re choosing other international destinations instead, with Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean ranking highest.

The survey was conducted July 10–13, 2025, using a national sample of 1,000 Canadian adults aged 18 and older. 

The sample was drawn from a consumer panel and reflects Canadian demographics for age, gender and province.

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