Canadians have long been known for their love of travel, from sunny winters in Florida to quick cross-border shopping trips. But the landscape of Canada-U.S. border travel has changed dramatically in 2025. New fingerprinting and registration requirements for long-term U.S. visitors are sparking widespread concern among Canadians. Combined with safety issues, political tensions, and a renewed sense of national pride, many are now choosing to explore destinations closer to home instead.

A recent study shows that seven in ten Canadians feel uneasy about travelling to the U.S. this winter, calling the new fingerprinting rules “invasive.” These changing attitudes reveal more than travel hesitation; they mark a broader shift in how Canadians view their southern neighbour.

Travel to the U.S. Falls Sharply

According to new research, the number of Canadians taking multiple trips to the United States has dropped by half compared with 2017 and 2023. Only about one in ten Canadians made more than one trip south in the past year, down from 19% in 2023 and 21% in 2017. Trips by car and air are also declining sharply. Statistics Canada reports a 35% drop in car trips and 27% in air travel to the U.S. since 2024.

The decline is being driven by both emotional and practical reasons. Many Canadians feel that travelling south no longer offers the same comfort or freedom it once did. Others cite the new fingerprinting and registration process for extended visits as intrusive and unnecessary.

Why Canadians Are Staying Home

While the U.S. once symbolised convenience and warmth, today it represents a set of growing concerns. Top reasons Canadians are reducing their travel include:

• Political climate and safety fears: Eight in ten respondents cited the U.S. political environment as a deterrent.
• Patriotism and principle: Nearly 70% said they are staying home “to stand up for Canada.”
• Border treatment: More than 65% worry about uncomfortable or invasive experiences with border agents.
• Cost and currency: Younger Canadians point to high costs and a weaker exchange rate.

Interestingly, those who still visit the U.S. report no significant change in their border experience. About 85% said their crossing experience remained positive — the same level reported in earlier years.

Where Canadians Are Travelling Instead

The sharp drop in Canada-U.S. border travel has created new momentum for domestic and alternative destinations. Two in five Canadians say they are travelling within Canada or to destinations outside North America instead.

Here’s how preferences are shifting:

Destination	Percentage
Within Canada	42%
Outside North America	42%
Mexico	21%
Skipping travel altogether	16%

From coastal getaways in British Columbia to vibrant city breaks in Toronto and Montreal, Canadians are rediscovering the beauty of their own country. This trend is giving local tourism a timely boost and helping small businesses thrive in communities across the provinces.

Border Fears Among Non-Travellers

Even though most recent travellers describe their experience as smooth, Canadians who have stayed home feel differently. Among those who haven’t crossed the border in the past year, the following worries are most common:

• 71% fear their personal information may be collected or stored.
• 70%are concerned about having their phones inspected.
• 69% worry about being questioned more aggressively.
• 63% fear being denied entry altogether.

These numbers show that even perception can be powerful. While border procedures remain largely unchanged, growing mistrust and privacy worries are shaping how Canadians plan their travel.

Canada U.S. Border Travel Reflects a Shift in National Sentiment

The decline in Canada-U.S. border travel is more than a temporary pause. It reflects a deeper cultural moment, one where Canadians are prioritizing safety, privacy, and national pride over convenience. As more Canadians choose to travel within their own borders, they are helping to strengthen local tourism and show confidence in Canada’s own diversity of experiences. From coast to coast, Canada continues to stand as one of the world’s safest, friendliest, and most welcoming destinations for both residents and newcomers alike.