Canadians Choosing to Stay in Canada this Summer

A lot of Canadians are planning to travel this summer, but they are largely staying within our borders and keeping a closer eye on the budget. Two recent polls, from Leger and from Redion (formerly Europ Assistance) questioned Canadians about their summer plans, revealing similar findings. More than half of those polled (66 percent and 56 percent) are planning a trip this summer. Of those travelling for leisure, Leger reports 77 percent intend to remain in Canada — a number that is consistent with last year and down slightly from 2024. Redion notes a “continued shift toward domestic travel,” citing Canadians’ increasing tendency to choose destinations closer to home.

According to the Leger poll, part of the decision to stay in Canada is driven by cost factors. The most cited factor affecting travel decisions was cost/inflation (48 percent). Other factors noted were personal finances (36 percent) and airfare costs (25 percent).

Gas prices were listed as the top factor affecting summer travel plans by 37 percent of respondents to the Leger poll. While the cost of gas is shaping travel plans, it isn’t enough to stop people from travelling, as 69 percent of Canadians indicate that gas prices are having a noticeable negative impact on their summer travel plans, but many are scaling back rather than cancelling outright. 

Redion asked respondents about the impact of safety and security on travel plans. Thirty-two percent stated that it is a key consideration for them, with a growing number stating they are unwilling to travel because of safety concerns. 

"Canadian travelers continue to demonstrate a strong desire to explore, even in a more complex and uncertain global environment,” says Rob Iafrate, CEO, Head of Branch Canada for Redion. “What is changing is how they travel — with greater emphasis on safety, flexibility, and trusted support throughout their journey."

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