Canadians are turning their backs on the US in droves, and it’s shaking up the travel industry. But where are they going instead? For years, Canadians have been the lifeblood of US tourism, accounting for a staggering 28% of foreign visitors in 2024. Yet, since January 2025, that number has plummeted by 23%, costing the US an estimated $4 billion. So, what’s behind this dramatic shift? And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about politics—it’s a cultural movement.
The catalyst? Former US President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods and his controversial suggestion that Canada should become the 51st US state. This sparked a wave of national pride, with many Canadians embracing the unofficial motto “elbows up”—a hockey term symbolizing resilience and defiance. As a result, a growing number of Canadians are boycotting US travel, now in its 12th consecutive month with no signs of slowing. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this boycott a temporary reaction or a permanent shift in travel habits?
Travel writer Emilie Brillon exemplifies this trend. “I used to explore both Canada and the US,” she explains, “but last March, I made a conscious decision to focus solely on Canada. We even canceled a family trip to the Grand Canyon and reinvested that budget into our own economy.” This sentiment is echoed by Toronto publicist Tracy Lamourie, who bluntly declared, “I’m never crossing the border again. Between the 51st state rhetoric and human rights concerns, the US is now on my no-go list.”
While Canadians are traveling less to the US, they’re not staying home. Domestic travel within Canada has surged in 2025, and Canadians are increasingly exploring destinations like Mexico, Portugal, the Bahamas, and Belize. Statistics Canada reports a nearly 12% rise in Canadian visitors to Mexican cities, and spending in places like Buenos Aires, Osaka, Copenhagen, and Curacao has doubled compared to 2024. But here’s the real question: Is this a strategic shift or a temporary backlash?
The impact on US destinations is undeniable. Vermont, Las Vegas, Ft. Lauderdale, and Upstate New York are all feeling the pinch, with significant declines in Canadian visitors. Meanwhile, airlines like Air Canada are capitalizing on this trend by expanding non-stop routes to Europe and the Caribbean, making it easier for Canadians to bypass the US altogether. “We’re strategically increasing access to key destinations while strengthening economic ties,” said Air Canada executive Mark Galardo.
So, what does this mean for the future of US-Canadian relations? And is this boycott a reflection of deeper political divides or simply a matter of national pride? One thing is clear: Canadians are voting with their passports, and the US is taking notice. What do you think? Is this boycott justified, or is it an overreaction? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
