International travel from the United States and Canada is at an all-time high, according to MMGY’s new 2025 Portrait of American & Canadian International Travelers™ study. Travelers are showing strong intent to take multiple trips abroad, with a greater emphasis on safety and authentic experiences than on cost.
Americans are planning an average of 2.8 international trips in the next two years, while Canadians are planning 2.2. Americans’ international travel spending increased 10% compared to last year, while Canadians are holding their spending levels steady.
“Demand for travel remains strong, despite consumer uncertainty. This is particularly evident in the search for international experiences,” notes Craig Compagnone, president of the Americas at MMGY Global.
Key findings:
Political climate and security: Political stability and security surpassed cost as the top factors in choosing a destination. 34% of Americans said they had changed their plans due to tariff issues, while 26% canceled trips. In Canada, 23% are less likely to travel to the U.S. in the next three years.
Cruises on the rise: The popularity of ocean cruises increased by 12 points – to 78% for Americans and 61% for Canadians. Younger travelers are turning to more adventurous destinations (Africa, Asia), while older travelers are choosing Europe and the Caribbean.
Combining business and leisure travel: 88% of Americans and 78% of Canadians extend business trips for leisure, creating opportunities for destinations and hotels that meet this need.
Travel advisors return: The complexity of travel is increasing the demand for human guidance. 66% of Americans say they will use a travel agent within the next two years – up from 49% last year. This trend is driven primarily by Millennials.
Premium travel is on the rise: 34% of Americans now routinely fly business or first class, up from 25% in 2024. Despite investing in luxury experiences, 8 in 10 will accept connecting flights for better prices.
The survey was conducted in July 2025 among 2,064 high-income individuals from the U.S. and Canada who had traveled at least once outside North America and the Caribbean in the past three years. About half of respondents had a household income exceeding $100,000, with 7% earning more than $250,000.
- MMGY Global is the world’s leading integrated marketing firm specializing in the travel, hospitality and lifestyle industries.
