The number of Canadians traveling to the United States has dropped sharply in early 2025, reaching levels not seen since the COVID-19 pandemic. This dramatic decline follows growing political tensions, including U.S. threats of trade tariffs and even suggestions of annexing Canada as the 51st state.
Since February, Canadian officials have encouraged citizens to support local businesses and avoid U.S. travel in response to these tensions. The call was quickly embraced, leading to widespread cancellations of vacations, cruises, and flights south of the border. Many Canadians have also stopped buying American products in solidarity with the “Elbows Up” movement, a national campaign resisting U.S. pressure.
The impact is clear in the latest border crossing data. U.S. Customs and Border Protection reports nearly 500,000 fewer crossings in February 2025 compared to the same month last year. Normally, spring break brings heavy traffic at border checkpoints, but this year, lanes remain unusually empty.
Beyond economic and political concerns, many Canadians now fear mistreatment by U.S. border officials. Disturbing reports have emerged of travelers being wrongfully detained, accused of visa violations, and held in immigration facilities for weeks before deportation. These incidents have prompted travel warnings from multiple countries, further discouraging visits to the U.S.
The trend shows no signs of slowing. If it continues, American businesses that rely on Canadian tourists—including airlines, hotels, and retail stores—could face severe financial strain. Even Canadian snowbirds, who traditionally spend winters in warmer U.S. states, are reconsidering their travel plans.
For now, the message from Canada is clear: Until relations improve and trust is restored, many Canadians would rather stay home than support a country they feel no longer welcomes them. The U.S. tourism industry may soon feel the full weight of this boycott, with no easy solution in sight.
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