High fuel prices are leading many Canadians to cancel or cut back on road trips this summer, according to a new survey. The rising costs are driven by turmoil in the Middle East, including the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.
Survey Reveals Impact of High Gas Prices
A survey conducted by Probe Research for the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada found that two-thirds of Canadian drivers (about 66%) cite high gas prices as the reason for canceling or reducing road trips. Despite this, 81% of those surveyed still plan to take at least one day or overnight trip. However, 70% believe that high gas prices are the "new normal" and here to stay.
Cross-Border Trips Not a Priority
Gas prices have soared since the Strait of Hormuz closed due to the war between the United States and Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for one-fifth of the world's oil. Fuel costs were about $1.30 per liter before the war began in February, but prices have risen to as high as $1.90 per liter in some parts of Ontario.
This greatly affects cross-border trips as well. More than two-thirds (68%) of Canadians do not plan a U.S. road trip this year. Over 51% canceled cross-border trips last year, and only 10% plan to head south of the border in 2026, the survey noted.
"With gas prices continuing to impact travel plans, many Canadians are looking for practical ways to save at the pump," said Carol Hochu, president and CEO of the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, in a media release.
The survey queried 1,000 Canadian drivers from April 6-14 via a national online panel. A probability sample of the same size would yield a margin of error of +/-3.1%, 19 times out of 20.
