North Americans plan record levels of international travel

Safety, personalization, and premium experiences are shaping future trips

Sep 22, 2025

International travel demand among U.S. and Canadian travelers is reaching new highs, with more trips planned, increased spending, and shifting priorities. According to MMGY’s 2025 Portrait of American & Canadian International Travelers™, safety, political stability, and authentic experiences are outweighing cost as the main drivers of travel decisions.

Key takeaways

  • Rising travel intent: U.S. travelers plan an average of 2.8 international trips in the next two years; Canadians plan 2.2.
  • Safety over cost: Political issues and tariffs are altering travel plans, with many canceling trips or avoiding destinations perceived as unstable.
  • Cruising goes mainstream: Interest in ocean cruises has surged, especially among younger travelers seeking adventurous itineraries.
  • Bleisure growth: Nearly 9 in 10 Americans and 8 in 10 Canadians extend business trips into leisure, cementing the trend.
  • Return of travel advisors: Two-thirds of Americans expect to use travel advisors, driven largely by Millennials planning complex family trips.
  • Premium upgrades expand: A growing share of travelers now choose business or first class, while strategically balancing cost with flexibility.

Get the full story at MMGY

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