According to a recent survey, around a third of Canadians say they’d reconsider travelling to the U.S. if relations improve. Notably, most respondents said that they would remain hesitant even if a deal is reached.
The survey highlights a growing reluctance among Canadians to travel to the United States, driven by concerns over the U.S. political climate, safety, and a desire to protest.
Conducted by Earnscliffe Omni for FlightHub from June 13-15, 2025, the poll surveyed 1,529 adult Canadians through the Léger LEO panel.
The findings reveal how political and economic factors shape travel decisions, with many Canadians expressing hesitation even if diplomatic relations improve.
This shift is further reflected in a 19% drop in U.S. flight bookings compared to June 2024, signaling a significant change in travel behavior.
Why Canadians Are Avoiding U.S. Travel
The survey uncovers deep concerns influencing Canadian travelers. Four in ten respondents (40%) cite the U.S. political climate and public safety as reasons to avoid traveling south.
A similar proportion (36%) say their decision is a form of political protest, reflecting frustration with current U.S.-Canada relations.
Additionally, one in three Canadians (33%) report feeling unsafe or unwelcome in the U.S., a sentiment that underscores the impact of diplomatic tensions.
These concerns go beyond politics. For many, travel is not just about leisure but a way to engage with the world.
Ayoub Hissar, Director of Brand Marketing & Communications at FlightHub, notes the following. “The diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Canada seem to have left a mark on many Canadians, illustrating how symbolic travel can be.”
He emphasizes that travel decisions now hinge on safety, economic factors, and political considerations, making them deeply personal and symbolic choices.
Would Improved Relations Change Minds?
Even with potential improvements in U.S.-Canada relations, hesitation persists. Only 35% of respondents say a trade deal lowering tariffs would make them more likely to visit the U.S.
Similarly, 38% would consider traveling if the Canadian dollar strengthens, and 37% might be swayed by a significant improvement in diplomatic relations.
These numbers suggest that while economic and diplomatic progress could encourage some, most Canadians remain cautious.
Interestingly, younger Canadians, aged 18-24, are more open to reconsidering U.S. travel. Nearly half (47%) say a trade deal would make them more likely to visit, and 48% feel the same about improved diplomatic ties.
This generational difference highlights a potential shift, with younger travelers showing more flexibility in response to positive changes.
A Decline in U.S. Travel Bookings
The survey’s findings align with real-world trends. FlightHub reported a 19% drop in U.S. flight bookings in June 2025 compared to the previous year.
This decline reflects the broader sentiment captured in the survey, where political and safety concerns outweigh the appeal of visiting the U.S.
For many Canadians, these factors create a mental barrier, making destinations closer to home or elsewhere more attractive.
Travel as a Form of Engagement
The data reveals that travel decisions are no longer just about convenience or cost. “Travel is much more than leisure; for some, it’s a form of engagement,” Hissar explains.
For roughly a third of Canadians, improved diplomatic relations could prompt them to reconsider U.S. travel. However, for others, deeper repairs in trust and perception may be necessary before they feel comfortable crossing the border.
This hesitation reflects a broader trend where travelers weigh the symbolic weight of their choices. Avoiding the U.S. can be a way to express disapproval of its political climate or policies.
Conversely, choosing to travel could signal openness to reconciliation if conditions improve. The interplay of safety, economics, and politics creates a complex decision-making process for Canadian travelers.
Looking Ahead
The survey sheds light on the evolving nature of travel preferences in the face of strained U.S.-Canada relations. While a minority of Canadians might be swayed by better trade deals or a stronger Canadian dollar, most remain wary.
The significant drop in flight bookings underscores this cautious approach. As diplomatic efforts continue, rebuilding trust will be key to restoring Canadian confidence in U.S. travel. For now, many are opting to stay home or explore other destinations, signaling that deeper repairs are needed to mend this cross-border relationship.