Sixty-one per cent of Canadians are planning to travel this year, but a strong majority (70%) are unlikely to visit the U.S., primarily due to the current political environment.
The Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada (THIA) is releasing details from its 2025 Smart Traveller Survey results, revealing Canadian travel sentiments.
The U.S. is historically Canadian’s most popular travel destination because of its proximity. The top reasons Canadians are avoiding travel to the U.S. this year include:
- To support Canada during the tariff dispute (57%)
- Because of the political leadership (51%)
- Because the Canadian dollar is too weak (34%)
“We’re seeing more Canadians consider their political views and economic conditions when planning travel,” says Will McAleer, THIA spokesperson. “While Canadians may be taking fewer trips to the U.S., they’re fortunately still planning to travel. With many Canadians now considering destinations further abroad, travel health insurance is more essential than ever to protect against unexpected medical bills and provide critical 24/7 emergency travel assistance.”
The survey also revealed that 50 percent of Canadians consider unexpected travel expenses (cancellations, medical emergencies) among their biggest financial concerns when planning a vacation. Regardless, 23 percent of Canadians said they would travel abroad without travel health insurance to save money. That number doubles (47%) for Gen Z respondents, Canadians aged 18-28.
“Exploring new activities and embracing a carefree mindset is part of the adventure of travelling, especially for young people,” notes McAleer. “However, being in an unfamiliar place—sometimes with a language barrier—can increase risks and make Canadians of all ages more vulnerable to potential injuries and illnesses. In many instances, these medical emergencies come at a shockingly high cost. This is why travel health insurance is a must-have for all travellers, both young and old, especially when financial concerns are top of mind.”
Unexpected medical treatment abroad is a major risk to Canadian budgets, so obtaining and understanding travel health insurance coverage is one way to combat that risk and ensure a stress-free vacation.
THIA’s Tips for Smart Travel:
- Know your policy – Insurance companies, insurance brokers and travel agents are available to answer any policy questions. Is extreme weather included in cancellation coverage? Make sure to ask the provider about Travel Advisory exclusions and benefits.
- Know your trip – Will you be visiting a region that has a Canadian government travel advisory? How long will you be gone? Find a policy that is specifically tailored to your trip.
- Know your health – Consult a health care provider if you have any questions.
