Canadian Domestic Travel Boom Continues, Small Towns and International Destinations See Significant Growth

Domestic travel in Canada has surged by over 10% in the first half of 2025, with 12 out of 13 provinces and territories experiencing growth. Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan saw bookings increase by over 20%. Non-US international travel has also risen, with bookings to destinations like Japan, Brazil, France, and Mexico surging.

Domestic travel in Canada has surged by over 10% in the first half of 2025, with 12 out of 13 provinces and territories experiencing growth. Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan saw bookings increase by over 20%. Non-US international travel has also risen, with bookings to destinations like Japan, Brazil, France, and Mexico surging.

The surge in domestic travel is evident across the country, with nearly every province and territory reporting growth. Small towns and rural communities have been particularly impacted, driving economic benefits beyond major hubs. According to Airbnb data, domestic bookings jumped by more than 10% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024 [2].

The growth in domestic travel is not limited to urban areas. Coastal towns, mountain escapes, and rural communities have seen a surge in bookings. Popular destinations include West Kelowna, BC, Regina, SK, Gatineau, QC, Langley, BC, Whistler, BC, Canmore, AB, Blue Mountain, ON, and Ucluelet, BC. This trend highlights the diverse appeal of Canada's landscapes and communities [2].

Canadians are also expanding their horizons abroad. There has been a nearly double-digit increase in international bookings to destinations outside the US, with significant growth in bookings to Japan, Brazil, the Philippines, France, Thailand, and Mexico. Popular international destinations include Sumida, Japan, Naniwa Ward, Japan, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Casablanca, Morocco, Nakano, Japan, São Paulo, Brazil, Yuma, Dominican Republic, Paris, France, Los Cabos, Mexico, and Bahia de Banderas, Mexico [2].

The growth in travel is also reflected in Airbnb's data. Canadians are booking with Airbnb more than ever before, with a seismic shift in travel behavior showing no signs of slowing down. This trend supports local economies and communities, as travelers choose to explore closer to home and spend their travel dollars locally [2].

The surge in domestic and international travel is a significant economic boost for Canada. It supports local businesses, communities, and hosts, contributing to the overall economic recovery. For investors and financial professionals, this trend indicates a strong demand for travel-related services and infrastructure, presenting opportunities for growth and investment.

References:
[1] https://www.ainvest.com/news/rbc-strategic-capital-allocation-navigating-macroeconomic-shifts-profit-recovery-2025-2508/
[2] https://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4128670.html