Published Date: April, 29th 2025
Author: Global Travel & Diplomacy Desk
Source: GlobalWorldCitizen.com
A growing number of Canadians are rejecting travel to the United States in 2025, sparking what many are now calling a Canadian travel boycott — a direct response to President Donald Trump’s trade wars, political rhetoric, and what many describe as hostile border treatment.
A new survey by Longwoods International reveals that 60% of Canadian adults are now less likely to visit the U.S. in the next 12 months. Even more alarming — over one-third of Canadians have already canceled upcoming trips, delivering a massive blow to the U.S. tourism sector and international goodwill.
Canadian Tourism Decline in 2025: Key Survey Insights
According to the 2025 survey:
60% of Canadians say they’re avoiding U.S. travel due to Trump-era policies and rhetoric
36% have canceled planned trips to the U.S.
Only 42% believe the U.S. is welcoming to Canadian tourists
Just 38% feel international travelers are valued by America
40% of Canadians plan to vacation within Canada
27% are choosing destinations in Europe and Mexico instead
Economic Consequences: U.S. Tourism Industry Faces Major Losses
In 2024, Canada was the #1 source of international visitors to the United States:
20.4 million Canadian tourists
Over $20.5 billion USD in spending at U.S. attractions, hotels, restaurants, and stores
But in 2025, Oxford Economics predicts:
- A 20.2% drop in Canadian inbound tourism
- A projected loss of billions in export revenue
More troubling stats from USTA:
32% drop in Canadian cross-border road trips- 13.5% decline in Canadian air travel to U.S.
- 17% drop in Western European visitors
- 10% decline from South America
A second year of decline from Asian markets- Overall 14% drop in inbound international travel to the U.S. (March 2025 YoY)
“Every 1% drop in international tourism = $1.8 billion in lost export revenue”
— U.S. Travel Association
At the current rate, the U.S. stands to lose $21 billion+ in 2025 alone.
Why Are Canadians Boycotting U.S. Travel?
Canadians are voicing concern over:
Trump’s annexation threats, suggesting Canada become the “51st state”
Tariff wars damaging Canada-U.S. trade relations
Border harassment and increased visa detentions
Viral headlines of Canadian travelers being searched, detained, or deported
“These stories—true or not—are creating real fear,” says Geoff Freeman, CEO of the U.S. Travel Association.
What Canadians Still Appreciate About America
Despite the tension, many Canadians still admire U.S. culture and travel offerings:
- 80% say the U.S. has amazing attractions
57% would still enjoy visiting iconic cities and parks
Major events like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics continue to attract interest
“We’re the United States of America. We have world-class national parks, cities, and global events,” says Freeman.
GlobalWorldCitizen.com Insight: When Politics Disrupts Tourism
This shift is about more than canceled vacations — it’s a warning sign for international diplomacy. Tourism is a form of soft power and global connection. When that trust erodes, nations drift apart.
Key Takeaways:
Political rhetoric impacts international behavior
Border treatment affects global perception- Tourism is diplomacy — and diplomacy matters
Final Word from GlobalWorldCitizen.com
The Canada-U.S. travel breakdown in 2025 is a wake-up call for policymakers. If America wants to remain a top global travel destination, it must repair relationships, restore trust, and respect international visitors.
Tourism is not just business — it’s a bridge between nations.
At GlobalWorldCitizen.com, we’ll continue reporting on:
- Global tourism trends
- International diplomacy & border relations
Cross-border economic impacts
Travel shapes perception — and perception drives prosperity.