Canadians Embrace Summer Road Trips and Micro-Adventures

As the summer approaches, many Canadians are reshaping their travel plans in response to rising fuel prices and global tensions. This shift is prompting a rethink of how they explore their country, favoring shorter, more local adventures. Discover how these changes are influencing travel behavior and what options are emerging for those seeking to enjoy their summer vacations.

Canadians rethink their travel plans

The ongoing crisis in the Middle East has had a ripple effect on travel plans across Canada. For many, this summer is turning into a journey of micro-adventures rather than international trips. This sentiment is echoed in the experience of Susan Beiderwieden, a retired nurse educator from Victoria, B.C.

Initially, Ms. Beiderwieden aimed to exchange homes in England this fall but found herself reconsidering due to escalating fuel surcharges that made overseas travel increasingly costly. After attempting to arrange a house swap in Montreal with little success and contemplating the risks of air travel, she shifted her focus entirely.

Ms. Beiderwieden's situation is not isolated; as fuel prices soar, Canadians are increasingly cautious about travel expenses. Recent data indicates flight costs have surged significantly, with domestic fares rising by an average of $65 and international flights by $122 compared to the previous year.

The national average for gasoline is also reflecting this trend, currently standing at 186.2 cents per litre, a notable increase of 41% from last year's 131.2 cents per litre. This spike is causing many to reconsider their travel budgets and destinations.

The rise of domestic tourism

Travel experts have observed a notable trend: Canadians are opting for shorter domestic trips as they confront rising travel costs and ongoing concerns over international safety. This shift was already underway due to previous tensions with the U.S., but recent geopolitical events have only accelerated the trend.

• Domestic tourism saw a growth of 2.7% in 2025.
• Spending on vehicle rentals increased by 4.9%.
• Trips from Canada to the U.S. plummeted by 25.4%.

Wayne Smith, director of the Institute for Hospitality and Tourism Research at Toronto Metropolitan University, notes that the inclination for shorter vacations, particularly within an eight-hour drive from home, is becoming more pronounced. Expect this practice to continue as fuel prices remain high.

With many Canadians, like Ms. Beiderwieden and her husband, now planning micro-adventures closer to home, the focus is shifting from lengthy excursions to more intimate explorations of local attractions.

Exploring local destinations

As the appeal of international travel diminishes, many Canadians are uncovering the beauty of their own backyards. From stunning national parks to charming small towns, there are an array of destinations to explore.

For instance, travelers are discovering:

• Parks like Banff and Jasper in Alberta, known for their breathtaking landscapes.
• The vibrant cultural scene in Quebec City, rich in history and architecture.
• Coastal drives along the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.

Vanessa Lewis, a sales professional from Toronto, has also adapted her travel plans this summer. Transitioning to an electric vehicle means she can explore these local attractions without the burden of rising fuel costs, making travel more accessible and sustainable.

The benefits of RV travel

For families like Adriana Paolella's, who typically travel to Europe every other summer, the escalation of travel-related costs has led to a change in plans. Instead of flying abroad, they are opting for an RV road trip to regional destinations such as Pinery Provincial Park, located near Lake Huron.

Traveling by RV offers numerous advantages:

• Increased control over food and accommodation expenses.
• The flexibility to change plans on the go.
• The ability to immerse in nature while enjoying home comforts.

Ms. Paolella notes that this type of travel provides a unique opportunity to bond with family while experiencing the great outdoors without the high costs typically associated with international travel.

Cost-saving travel strategies

As Canadians navigate the challenges of rising travel costs, many are implementing strategies to make their vacations more affordable. CAA spokesperson Kristine D’Arbelles emphasizes the importance of maximizing loyalty programs, which can offer valuable rewards and discounts.

Some effective cost-saving tactics include:

• Using loyalty points from programs like PC Optimum or Scene+.
• Adopting fuel-efficient driving techniques, such as gentle acceleration and minimizing idling, which can cut fuel consumption by up to 25%.
• Planning road trips during off-peak times to avoid high prices and crowded areas.

These strategies not only help in saving money but also enhance the overall travel experience by allowing for more exploration and adventure.

The future of travel in Canada

Looking ahead, Destination Canada projects a robust growth in domestic tourism, estimating a total of $140.9 billion in tourism spending by 2026, marking a 6% increase from 2025. This growth is heavily reliant on the appeal of local destinations, which are surprisingly rich in offerings.

Domestic travel has become a viable option for many Canadians, not only as a response to external pressures but as a way to reconnect with the diverse natural beauty and culture within their own country. As more people choose to explore local attractions, the tourism industry may continue to flourish, leading to a renewed appreciation for Canada's vast landscapes.