Canadian Travel Trends in 2025: A Shift Towards Domestic Destinations

Statistics Canada reported a 1.3% increase in travel by Canadian residents during the first quarter of 2025, totaling 77.4 million trips within Canada and abroad. Notably, domestic travel has surged, with provinces such as Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan experiencing over 20% growth in bookings compared to the previous year, according to data from Airbnb.

Airbnb's report highlighted several trending destinations within Canada, with Canmore, Alberta, making the top five alongside West Kelowna, British Columbia; Regina, Saskatchewan; Gatineau, Quebec; and Langley, British Columbia. Canmore's popularity has been bolstered by its recognition as a top "detour destination" by Expedia and mentions from celebrities, further enhancing its appeal to travelers.

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FlightHub's recent "Unveiled" report revealed significant shifts in travel behavior, emphasizing a strong preference for domestic destinations. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) was identified as the most booked airport in Canada, with Toronto itself being the most popular city. This trend reflects a broader inclination towards local travel, particularly in light of economic conditions and changing consumer preferences.

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While domestic travel is thriving, international travel from Canada has also seen notable changes. Countries such as Japan, Brazil, France, Thailand, and Mexico reported nearly double-digit increases in bookings compared to 2024. However, the overall travel landscape remains complex, with Canadian trips to the U.S. experiencing a decline. For instance, return automobile trips from the U.S. dropped by 36.9%, and air travel decreased by 25.8% as of July 2025.

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Despite the growth in certain areas, there are concerns regarding the sustainability of these trends. Critics point to the ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic fears that may hinder long-term travel growth. Additionally, some provinces, like Quebec, have seen more significant declines in travel compared to others, raising questions about regional disparities in tourism recovery.

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Henri Chelhot, CEO of FlightHub, noted, “With Unveiled, we’re spotlighting destinations that offer rich experiences without the high price tag.” This sentiment underscores the evolving travel habits of Canadians, who are increasingly seeking value in their travel experiences. Meanwhile, Krista Kealey from Ottawa Airport Authority highlighted the role of increased direct flights to the U.S. in boosting travel numbers from Ottawa, despite overall declines in cross-border travel.

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• “Banff and Jasper National Parks are global travel destinations, and we’ve seen an increase in international travellers, including Americans, choosing to explore Canada.” — David Barry, CEO and President at Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality.

• “This year’s data demonstrates a trend toward domestic tourism following the U.S. election, a shift accentuated by the current economic conditions,” — Ayoub Hissar, Director of Communications at FlightHub.

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As 2025 progresses, the Canadian travel landscape is marked by a notable shift towards domestic destinations, driven by changing consumer preferences and economic factors. While certain regions and cities thrive, the overall travel dynamics remain influenced by broader geopolitical and economic contexts. The ongoing evolution of travel habits will likely shape the future of tourism in Canada.

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