Is U.S. Travel Still Worth It for Canadians in 2026?
Right now, a big question is being asked across Canada: is traveling to the United States still worth the trouble in 2026? That question has become much louder after the Government of Canada issued an updated travel advisory on December 31, 2025, and its impact is already being felt on both sides of the border.
For decades, Canada–U.S. travel was seen as easy and almost routine. Weekend shopping trips, business travel, family vacations, and quick cross-border getaways were all part of everyday life. But that sense of simplicity is now being challenged. Under the new advisory, Canadians are being warned to prepare for stricter entry rules, tighter border security, and more uncertainty when entering the U.S.
It has been made clear that border crossings are no longer just about showing a passport and moving on. Increased scrutiny is now expected at land, air, and sea entry points. Biometric screenings are being introduced more widely, and electronic devices like phones, tablets, and laptops may be inspected. As a result, longer wait times and more detailed questioning are being experienced, especially during peak travel periods.
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Special concerns have also been raised for Canadians with dual citizenship. Those holding passports from countries under heightened U.S. security watch may face additional questioning or, in some cases, denied entry altogether. For travelers planning to stay in the U.S. for more than 30 days, new registration requirements have been introduced, and failure to comply could lead to fines, penalties, or even removal from the country.
These changes are already reshaping travel behavior. Canadians, who make up nearly 70 percent of all international visitors to the U.S., have begun to pull back. Cross-border travel dropped sharply in 2025, and popular destinations like Detroit, Buffalo, and Seattle are seeing fewer Canadian visitors. Hotels, retailers, and tourist attractions in border regions are feeling the financial strain, with billions of dollars in potential revenue now at risk.
At the same time, Canadians are clearly looking elsewhere. Domestic travel within Canada has been rising, with cities like Vancouver, Montreal, and Quebec City becoming top choices. Internationally, Mexico, the Caribbean, and several European countries are gaining popularity, largely due to easier entry rules and a smoother travel experience.
What this advisory signals is more than just a temporary warning. It reflects a shift in how cross-border travel is being managed and perceived. The U.S. border is no longer viewed as effortless or predictable, and that perception alone is enough to change long-standing travel habits.
As 2026 unfolds, a new era in Canada–U.S. travel is taking shape. Canadians are weighing convenience, comfort, and certainty more carefully than ever, and for many, the answer may no longer point south of the border.
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