Canadian residents are traveling to the United States far less frequently, with return trips plunging 22% in January 2026 compared to the previous year. This marks the 13th consecutive month of decline, according to Statistics Canada. The ongoing trend reflects a significant shift in cross-border travel behavior, influenced by a combination of political tensions, economic factors, and evolving border policies.
The decline in travel began in early 2025, coinciding with increased trade tensions and President Donald Trump's repeated suggestions that Canada should become the "51st state". Concerns about stricter U. S. immigration policies and safety have further contributed to Canadians' hesitancy to visit the U. S.. A Global News exclusive Ipsos poll indicated that a majority of Canadians felt they could never trust Americans the same way again.
Statistics Canada's data indicates that the decrease spans both automobile and air travel. In January 2026, automobile return trips from the U. S. fell by 26.3%, while air travel saw a 12.8% decline. While travel to the U. S. has decreased, Canadians are still eager to explore other destinations, with a 10.6% increase in return trips from overseas destinations. Destinations like Japan, Europe, and the Caribbean are gaining popularity as alternatives.
The drop in Canadian visitors is having a noticeable impact on border communities and businesses in the United States. Some businesses in states like Washington, that rely on Canadian tourism, have already been forced to close. Meanwhile, the "Buy Canadian" movement is gaining momentum, encouraging Canadians to explore domestic travel options and support local businesses.
