For Canadians, travel has always been more than just a hobby—it is a seasonal necessity. Whether it is escaping the peak of a February freeze or heading to the Maritimes for a summer breeze, the way we explore the world is evolving. In 2026, the Canadian traveller is more sophisticated than ever. We are seeing a shift from “Generic Tourism” to “Value-Driven Adventure.” At Expedia.ca, we understand that in the current economic climate, Canadians are looking for two things: high-impact experiences and smart, strategic spending. Here is how the Canadian travel landscape is being rewritten this year.
1. The “Loonie-Friendly” Destinations: The Rise of the Dupe
With the fluctuating strength of the CAD, Canadian travellers are becoming masters of the “Destination Dupe.” Instead of the high-cost hubs where the exchange rate stings, we are seeing a 55% surge in searches for breathtaking alternatives that offer the same “wow” factor for a fraction of the cost.
- Instead of the Swiss Alps: Canadians are rediscovering Revelstoke, BC.
- Instead of Santorini: They are heading to the rugged, sun-drenched coastlines of Albania.
- Instead of Tokyo: The vibrant, tech-forward streets of Seoul are becoming the go-to Asian hub.
By opting for these “Dupes,” travellers are finding that their budgets stretch further without compromising on the luxury or the “Instagrammability” of their trip. Expedia’s smart-search tools are now helping Canadians find these budget-friendly twins in real-time.
2. “Glow-up” Travel: From Roughing It to Refinement
The era of the “budget backpacker” is fading in Canada. Even the most adventurous hikers from Vancouver to Halifax are looking for a “Glow-up” at the end of the day. This is the trend of High-Low Travel—spending the day trekking through rugged terrain but returning to a boutique hotel with a world-class spa.
Expedia.ca has seen a record number of bookings for “Adventure-Adjacent Luxury.” Canadians want the thrill of the wild, but they also want the 400-thread-count sheets and a farm-to-table meal. We are bridging that gap by partnering with unique stays that offer the best of both worlds.
3. “Set-Jetting” North: Canada as the Main Character
Interestingly, Canadians are also being inspired by their own backyard. With so many global hit series being filmed in Ontario, BC, and Quebec, “Set-Jetting” has become a domestic phenomenon. From the cinematic streets of Montreal to the majestic wilderness of the Rockies, Canadians are booking trips to see the locations that the rest of the world sees on Netflix and HBO.
This domestic “Set-Jetting” isn’t just about pride; it’s about a newfound appreciation for the world-class beauty within our own borders.
4. The “One Key™” Advantage: Travel Smarter, Not Harder
In a market that values every dollar, the One Key™ rewards program has become the Canadian traveller’s best friend. For the first time, you can earn and use rewards across Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo simultaneously.
For the Canadian family booking a summer cottage on Vrbo, those rewards can now be used to discount their winter flight to Mexico on Expedia.ca. This level of flexibility is exactly what the modern traveller needs—a loyalty program that actually works as hard as they do.
4. “Hushpitality” and the Great Northern Silence
As life in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary becomes increasingly fast-paced, the “Quiet Era” of travel has arrived in Canada. We call it “Hushpitality.” Canadians are seeking out remote stays—from geodesic domes in the Yukon to off-grid cabins in Nova Scotia—where the goal is total digital detoxification.
Our data shows that “Star-gazing,” “Forest Bathing,” and “Silent Retreats” are among the top search filters for 2026. Travel is no longer about “doing”; it is about “undoing” the stress of modern life.
Conclusion: Making Every Kilometre Count
The world in 2026 is full of uncertainty, but the Canadian desire to explore remains unshakable. At Expedia.ca, our mission is to ensure that when you decide to pack your bags, you do so with the confidence that you are getting the best value, the best protection, and the best experience possible.
Travel is the ultimate investment in yourself. It broadens the mind, heals the spirit, and creates the stories that stay with us long after the tan fades. Whether you’re looking for a “Loonie-friendly” escape or a luxury “Glow-up” adventure, the journey starts here.
