Insights into Canadian Snowbirds’ Reduced But Steady US Winter Visits

Canadian Snowbirds’ Travel Preferences Amid Border Tensions

Recent surveys have shed light on the travel intentions of Canadian snowbirds—those who spend winter months in warmer climates—revealing that despite various border challenges, a significant number still prefer to spend winter in the United States. However, a notable decline in these travellers opting for the U.S. highlights changing trends and growing interest in alternative destinations.

Snowbird Advisor’s Travel Intention Survey, conducted late in 2025, indicates that approximately 70% of Canadian snowbirds intend to spend the winter season in the US. This group remains the most loyal among Canadian travellers to the United States, even in the face of ongoing border scrutiny and occasional travel restrictions.

The recent border incidents, such as the rejection of a Canadian surrogate by US Customs due to financial concerns, and the demanding document requirements faced by American travellers entering Canada, have contributed to a more complex travel environment. Nevertheless, snowbirds’ connection to the US remains considerably stronger than other Canadian travel segments.

Decline in US Destinations Among Snowbirds

Though 70% is a strong majority, it reflects a decline from the previous year’s 82%. This 15% dip signifies that while loyalty remains, alternative destinations are increasingly attracting Canadian snowbirds. Regions like Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, and Portugal are rising in popularity, offering diverse climates and cultural experiences.

23% of respondents indicated plans to spend winter outside the US, a significant jump compared to only 12% the previous year, reinforcing the idea that international and warmer shores beyond the US are enticing more travellers.

Future Interest in US Travel Remains Positive

Despite some snowbirds choosing new locations this year, a majority remain open to returning to the United States in the future. Over half (54%) of those not visiting the U.S. this winter expressed willingness to consider future trips there. This is a hopeful signal for American tourism sectors, which have faced billions in losses recently due to these shifts.

The average time snowbirds plan to spend away during the winter remains consistent, with about 62% expecting to stay between three and six months, just slightly below last year’s figures. This pattern underscores the sustained commitment to extended seasonal travel, even if the destination is changing.

Trends in Travel Duration and Spending

Canadian snowbirds generally invest in long winter stays, favouring multi-month visits for leisure and climate relief. However, the broader Canadian travel trend shows more frequent but shorter U.S. trips, with 39% of Canadians choosing same-day visits in the recent spring. This shift to shorter visits correlates with reduced spending by Canadians in the U.S., revealing an evolving travel dynamic that could influence seasonal tourism economies.

Guidance from Canadian Snowbirds Association on U.S. Travel

While some border frustrations have led to apprehension, especially after incidents involving fingerprinting and processing fees, the Canadian Snowbirds Association (CSA) continues to encourage travel to the United States. They emphasise preparedness and understanding of U.S. border procedures to mitigate potential hassles during entry.

Such guidance is crucial as border policies fluctuate, especially during peak travel seasons. The willingness of snowbirds to endure these conditions underscores their strong attachment to US winter destinations.

A Brief Historical Context of Canadian Snowbird Travel

The tradition of Canadian snowbirds travelling southward during winter months has evolved alongside broader historical ties between Canada and the United States. From the late 19th century onward, the adjacency and cultural familiarity between the two countries have fostered a unique seasonal migration pattern.

Historically, snowbird travel emerged for comfort, escaping harsh Canadian winters by heading to southern US states like Florida. This pattern was bolstered by improvements in transport accessibility and the rise of retirement culture focused on warmer climates.

Over time, economic factors and more diverse international travel options have introduced alternatives, expanding the winter getaway map for Canadians beyond the U.S. This evolution continues to shape travel preferences today, balancing traditional loyalty to American destinations with the allure of tropical beaches, European charm, and cultural variety found elsewhere.

Impact on Tourism and Travel Future

The shifts noted in Canadian snowbird patterns provide a glimpse into the fluid nature of international tourism. Border policies and travel experiences directly influence where and how people choose their seasonal escapes. For tourism-dependent regions along the U.S.-Canada corridor, these dynamics highlight the importance of adaptive strategies to accommodate evolving traveller expectations.

As global travel continues to recover and diversify after recent challenges, destinations with strong marine and coastal attractions—such as popular yachting areas in Florida and the Gulf Coast—will likely play a key role in maintaining Canadian winter visitor traffic. The varied activities available around beaches, marinas, and sailing routes add layers of opportunity for tourism growth tied to this demographic.

Table: Popular Destinations Among Canadian Snowbirds

Conclusion: Navigating Changes in Canadian Winter Travel

The Canadian snowbird community remains a crucial segment in winter tourism, with a majority still favouring the United States for their seasonal escapes despite recent border tensions and a modest decline in numbers. The increased interest in international destinations beyond the U.S. indicates a diversification in travel preferences, reflecting broader global trends.

For coastal and marine regions popular with snowbirds, especially those offering rich boating and yachting activities, these patterns present both challenges and opportunities. The desire for sun-drenched beaches, sailing adventures, and marinas filled with yachts ensures that destinations catering to these needs continue to attract this seasonal wave of travellers.

GetBoat.com is an international marketplace for hiring sailing boats and yachts, offering options to suit every taste and budget. As the travel landscape evolves, platforms like GetBoat provide valuable gateways for snowbirds and all travellers seeking adventure on the water, helping them tailor perfect boating charters, from serene lake escapes to oceanic voyages through clear waters and bustling marinas.