by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 4:35 PM ET, Fri April 18, 2025
A recent Deloitte Canada survey found that 74% of Canadians plan to vacation within Canada this summer, and for good reason: the landscapes are breathtaking, the experiences are rich in culture, and there's a new wave of incentives making travel at home more accessible.
Why Flying Within Canada Is So Expensive
According to a recent report in the Montreal Economic Institute, nearly a third of the cost of a Canadian plane ticket is made up of taxes and fees — significantly more than in the U.S. For example:
- Airport Improvement Fees at Toronto Pearson are now $35, versus $6.16 in U.S. airports.
- Security Charges are rising to $9.94 (domestic) and $34.42 (international).
- Fuel Taxes are 4 cents/litre in Canada, while the U.S. charges only 1.55 cents.
These costs, as The Weekly Voice breaks down, are causing many to rethink air travel altogether. But rather than crossing the border for cheaper flights, more Canadians are embracing the idea of "buying local" when it comes to tourism.
Enter the “Canada Strong Pass”
To combat steep travel costs and encourage exploration, the federal government recently launched the Canada Strong Pass, as reported by blogTO.
The pass offers discounted VIA Rail and domestic airfares, as well as free or reduced entry to national parks and historic sites. The pass is available in single, family, and senior formats.
Travel expert Anisha Chaturvedi told blogTO, it’s the government’s way of encouraging Canadians to see their own country first.
And it’s working — sales of the pass have exceeded expectations.
"At a time when our economy is under attack from President Trump, Canadians are stepping up — helping our neighbours, buying local, and celebrating our beautiful country," stated Liberal leader Mark Carney.
Top 10 Canadian Travel Bucket List for Summer 2025
If you're planning to travel this summer, here's a must-visit list of Canadian gems:
- Tofino, BC – Canada’s surfing capital, with lush rainforests, wild Pacific shores, and hot springs.
- Banff National Park, AB – Iconic turquoise lakes, alpine villages, and unbeatable Rocky Mountain views.
- St. John’s, NL – Taking a road trip from St. John’s to picturesque Trinity and the Bonavista Peninsula allows visitors to sample some of the best that Newfoundland has to offer.
- Ottawa, ON – Canada’s capital is buzzing with culture, festivals, and Indigenous-led experiences.
- Québec City, QC – A taste of Europe without the long flight — cobblestone streets, castles, and charm.
- Prince Edward Island – Red-sand beaches, Anne of Green Gables heritage, and world-class oysters.
- Churchill, MB – Visit in late summer to spot beluga whales — or come back in the fall for polar bears.
- The Cabot Trail, NS – One of the world’s most scenic drives, with coastal cliffs and Celtic culture.
- Whitehorse, YT – Gateway to the Yukon wilderness, the midnight sun, and incredible northern hikes.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON – A wine-lover’s paradise with Victorian charm and theatre culture.
Supporting Local, Exploring Deeply
Travel isn’t just about the destination — it’s about connecting to people and place.
A 2025 Destination Canada report found that 57% of travellers are now seeking Indigenous-led experiences, including workshops, traditional food tastings, and guided land-based storytelling.
As Canadians embrace meaningful travel, this summer promises to celebrate everything that makes Canada extraordinary — from coast to coast to coast.
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