Tariffs and Politics Deter Canadian Travelers from Visiting the U.S.

Longwoods International survey finds 59% of Canadians less likely to visit the U.S. due to government policies and statements.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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According to a new Longwoods International tracking study, 59% of Canadian travelers say U.S. government policies, trade practices, and political statements make them less likely to visit the U.S. in the next 12 months. However, 45% still plan to visit the U.S. in 2026, with 23% undeterred by the political climate.

Why it matters

The decline in Canadian travel to the U.S. is a significant concern for the American tourism industry, as Canadians are a major source of visitors and spending. The political tensions between the two countries are impacting cross-border travel and creating challenges for businesses that rely on Canadian tourists.

The details

The Longwoods International survey found that 73% of Canadians whose travel plans are influenced by U.S. policies cited both tariffs and statements by U.S. political leaders as the primary negative factors. In the past six months, 26% of Canadian travelers visited the U.S., while 23% cancelled a previously planned trip. Looking ahead, 45% say they would substitute a planned U.S. trip with a domestic trip in Canada, and 24% are shifting to other international destinations.

  • The survey was fielded January 8-10, 2026.
  • The peak of Canadians less likely to visit the U.S. due to politics was 63% in July 2025.

The players

Longwoods International

A leading travel and tourism research consultancy with headquarters in Columbus, Ohio and Toronto.

Amir Eylon

President and CEO of Longwoods International.

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What they’re saying

“Political disputes between the U.S. and Canada continue to be a headwind for Canadian visitation to the U.S.”

— Amir Eylon, President and CEO of Longwoods International (travelindustrytoday.com)

“And the Canadian perception of the safety of travel in the U.S. has steadily declined during the last 10 months.”

— Amir Eylon, President and CEO of Longwoods International (travelindustrytoday.com)

What’s next

The survey findings highlight the ongoing challenges facing the U.S. tourism industry in attracting Canadian visitors, and the need for policymakers to address the political tensions and perceptions of safety that are deterring cross-border travel.

The takeaway

The decline in Canadian travel to the U.S. due to political factors underscores the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries. Businesses and destinations that rely on Canadian tourists will need to adapt their strategies to address these changing travel patterns and perceptions.