Recent data reveals a significant downturn in travel between the U.S. and Canada. Current statistics show that Canadian residents are making fewer trips to the United States, marking a worrying trend for cross-border travel.
Decline in Canadian Travel to the U.S.
Statistics Canada reported that Canadian automobile trips to the U.S. fell for the twelfth consecutive month. In December, the number of return trips by auto dropped to 1.3 million. This represents a steep decline of 30.7% compared to December of the previous year.
Air Travel Declines
Air travel also saw a reduction, with 470,700 Canadian return trips recorded in December. This marks an 18.7% decrease when compared to the same month in 2024.
Increase in Non-Resident Travel to Canada
Interestingly, travel from other countries to Canada has seen positive growth. Return trips from non-U.S. residents increased by 10.4%, reaching 1.1 million in December. This suggests that while travel between the U.S. and Canada is down, other international sources are contributing positively.
U.S. Residents’ Travel to Canada
U.S. residents are also traveling to Canada less frequently. There was an 8.9% decrease in air travel from the U.S., and automobile arrivals dipped by 9%. Meanwhile, non-resident trips from countries other than the U.S. rose by 6.6% from the previous year.
Contextual Factors Influencing Travel Declines
The noticeable decline in travel is linked to various factors, including economic and political changes. Since the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump, there have been increased trade tensions affecting perceptions of cross-border travel.
- 1.3 million Canadian auto trips in December 2026
- 30.7% decline in auto trips from the previous year
- 470,700 Canadian air return trips in December
- 18.7% decrease in air travel from 2024
- 1.1 million return trips from other countries to Canada
- 6.6% increase in non-resident trips from other countries
This data underscores a troubling trend for travel between the U.S. and Canada. Stakeholders will need to assess the long-term implications of these statistics on tourism and economic relations.
