According to a recent poll conducted by Canada Pulse Insights, nearly half of Canadians are planning to take one or more vacations within the next six months, indicating a robust interest in travel despite ongoing economic concerns. The survey revealed that 49% of Canadians intend to go on vacation before April 2027, which includes travel during March Break. In contrast, 51% of respondents reported that they do not have any vacation plans for the upcoming period.
The poll highlighted that Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean are the most popular destinations, with 30% of vacation planners eyeing these regions for their trips. Similarly, domestic travel remains a key consideration, with 22% planning to travel to another province or territory within Canada, while 21% expect to vacation within their own province. Europe trails closely behind as a preferred destination for 17% of respondents, followed by the United States at 16% and Asia, including Southeast Asia, at 14%.
When focusing on Ontario, the survey indicated that 29% of vacation planners from the province anticipate traveling to Mexico, Central America, or the Caribbean, in stark contrast to the 17% planning a trip to the United States. This preference for international travel, especially to warmer destinations, comes amidst strained relations between Canada and the U.S. characterized by a tariff war and ongoing trade discussions.
Vacation Intentions by Region
Vacation intentions exhibit significant regional variations. Alberta and British Columbia lead the pack, with 57% and 55% of residents, respectively, planning to travel within the next six months. Ontario follows closely behind at 49%, while 45% of Quebec residents and only 32% of those in Atlantic Canada expressed intentions to take a trip during this timeframe.
Notably, household income plays a critical role in vacation plans. The survey found that just 24% of Canadians in households earning less than $50,000 are planning vacations, compared to 73% of those with an income of $150,000 or more. This stark contrast underscores the influence of financial resources on leisure travel decisions.
Age demographics also illustrate differing travel intentions. Among Canadians aged 18 to 34, 55% plan to travel, a rate significantly higher than the 44% of individuals aged 55 and older who expressed similar intentions. This suggests that younger Canadians may prioritize travel more than their older counterparts.
Continued Interest in Domestic Travel
The poll further indicates that many Canadians still value domestic travel options as part of their vacation plans. Among Atlantic Canadians, a substantial 41% expect to visit other provinces or territories, while 42% plan to travel within their own province. In Ontario, however, only 20% of vacation planners anticipate visiting another province, with 18% intending to stay within their own province.
Interest in U.S. travel varies by province; about 20% of vacation planners in Alberta expressed plans to visit the United States, while 19% from Saskatchewan-Manitoba and 17% from both British Columbia and Ontario indicated the same. Comparatively lower interest was observed in Quebec at 13% and in Atlantic Canada at just 5%.
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The survey was conducted online from October 1 to 8, 2026, involving 1,531 Canadian adults. The results were weighted to align with Statistics Canada population estimates. The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of this size is plus or minus 2.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. It is crucial to note that the findings reflect travel intentions rather than confirmed bookings, with respondents allowed to select multiple destinations, leading to a total that exceeds 100% for certain categories.
