A recent survey conducted by the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada (THIA) reveals a significant generational divide in Canadian travel intentions toward the United States. While 61 percent of Gen Z Canadians (born 1997-2012) have the U.S. on their vacation itinerary this year, only 14 percent of Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) say the same.
Generational Travel Trends
The 2026 Smart Traveller Survey, conducted in March, found that 45 percent of Gen Z respondents are likely to travel to the U.S. next year, compared to just 8 percent of Boomers. Among those traveling in 2026, 48 percent of Millennials (born 1981-1996) and 28 percent of Gen X (born 1965-1980) plan to visit the U.S.
Reasons for Avoiding U.S. Travel
Political tensions between Canada and the U.S. are the primary deterrent for Boomers, with 51 percent citing this as their main reason to avoid cross-border travel. In contrast, Gen Z’s biggest obstacle is cost (36 percent), followed by a lack of paid time off (22 percent).
Financial Sacrifices Among Gen Z
Data from flight comparison site Skyscanner shows that 56 percent of Gen Z Canadians made financial sacrifices to afford their most recent vacation. Two-thirds (66 percent) said skipping meals out was worth it to fund their trip, while 50 percent cut back on buying new clothes. Additionally, 48 percent are willing to book cheaper activities to stretch their budget further.
Domestic and International Alternatives
The survey also found that 36 percent of Canadians are choosing domestic destinations over international travel. Europe has overtaken the U.S. as the top international destination, attracting 26 percent of respondents.
Political Context
Political tensions have escalated due to tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump and his suggestion that Canada could become the 51st state. Heightened border security has also discouraged travel. Statistics Canada data shows cross-border travel from Canada to the U.S. declined for the 14th consecutive month in March 2026, with passenger numbers at eight major airports falling 7 percent from March 2025.
THIA spokesperson Will McAleer commented: “We’re seeing a clear generational split among Canadians as they consider both their political views and economic conditions when planning travel. Despite ongoing political tensions, younger Canadians still show strong interest in travel to the U.S., instead citing rising costs as their biggest barrier to travel. Meanwhile, older travellers continue to be deterred by cross-border political uncertainty.”
