VANCOUVER — Recent findings from the Angus Reid Institute reveal a notable decline in the number of Canadians making multiple trips to the United States over the past year. Compared to previous surveys conducted in 2017 and 2023, the percentage of Canadians visiting the U.S. multiple times has decreased by 50%.
Approximately 10% of Canadians report making more than one trip to the U.S. in the last 12 months. In contrast, this figure stood at 19% in 2023 and 21% back in 2017, indicating a significant shift in cross-border travel habits among Canadians.
Concerns Over Winter Travel
As winter approaches, a significant majority—70%—express discomfort with the idea of traveling to the U.S. during this season. This reluctance is compounded by concerns over new border regulations. Two-thirds (65%) of respondents find the requirements for long-stay visitors, which include fingerprinting and registration fees, to be "invasive." These regulations have sparked discussions about privacy and personal freedom, prompting many Canadians to reconsider their plans.
Standing Up for Canada
The data suggests that the decision to limit or avoid U.S. travel is viewed by many as a form of national solidarity. An impressive 69% of those who have reduced their travel cite this reasoning, reflecting a growing trend of prioritizing local travel and experiences within Canada.
Satisfaction with Past Travel Experiences
While the reduction in travel to the U.S. is notable, Canadians who have crossed the border recently continue to report positive experiences. A stable 85% of travelers indicate that their border crossing experience was satisfactory, matching the levels reported in both 2017 and 2023. This consistency suggests that despite the declining numbers, the quality of cross-border travel remains high for those who do choose to make the journey.
Conclusion
The shifting landscape of Canadian cross-border travel underscores changing attitudes and concerns among citizens. With winter travel approaching and new regulations in place, many Canadians are reassessing their travel habits—not just for personal preferences but also as a collective stance for their country. As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and whether Canadians will continue to prioritize domestic travel over trips to the U.S.
For further insights on travel trends and border regulations, consider visiting the Angus Reid Institute and Canada Border Services Agency.
