What to know
- Domestic travel now accounts for one-third of Flight Centre Canada’s Canadian bookings.
- Peak-season domestic departures are up 17 per cent over last year’s domestic tourism boom.
- Flight Centre Canada says the Canadian dollar, affordability and overtourism are helping drive interest in local travel.
- The list includes Canadian alternatives to destinations such as New Zealand, Napa, Iceland, the Greek Islands, Scotland, and Patagonia.
Canadian travellers are increasingly looking within the country for their next getaway, as cost pressures, exchange rates and overtourism continue to drive travel plans.
Data from Flight Centre Canada shows that domestic travel now accounts for one-third of its Canadian bookings, while peak-season domestic departures are up 17 per cent over last year’s domestic tourism boom.
The shift comes as travellers continue to weigh the cost of bigger trips, the impact of overtourism and the appeal of destinations that feel bucket-list-worthy without requiring the same hassle and a passport.
Ashley Harold, travel manager at Flight Centre Canada, told Now Toronto that the Canadian dollar is one of the biggest factors driving the increased interest in domestic getaways,
“The exchange rate has always been the biggest deciding factor for Canadians travelling. No better to just eliminate that altogether than spending the Canadian dollar and not having to worry about losing any of the value in our dollar,” Harold said.
Harold said affordability is still top of mind for travellers, but Canadians are also becoming more aware of the experiences available across the country.
“A lot of travellers weren’t aware of some of these very similar alternative experiences that Canada has to offer compared to some of these international destinations,” she said.
For those looking to stay local this summer, the company has put together a list of Canadian alternatives that offer similar scenery, food, culture and adventure to some of the world’s most popular travel spots.
Harold said the East Coast and West Coast are standing out in particular, with Cape Breton and other Atlantic destinations drawing strong interest from travellers.
“We’ve seen a huge increase in East Coast travel this year,” she said. “Folks are looking for that Celtic experience; they’re looking for wildlife; they’re looking for what you can get in Ireland and Scotland and throughout the U.K., and they’re realizing that the East Coast really does have that rich culture.”
For Ontario travellers, Harold said the East Coast is especially appealing because of the accessibility.
“It’s a really nice short flight,” she pointed out, adding that convenience is a major selling point right now.
“No one’s looking to have a layover. Shorter flights are preferred.”
Here are Flight Centre Canada’s 10 Canadian destination swaps for travellers looking for a local alternative this summer.
Instead of South Island, New Zealand: Sunshine Coast Trail, B.C.
Travellers dreaming of dramatic coastlines, rugged hiking and wide-open landscapes can look to B.C’s Sunshine Coast Trail.
The route offers a Canadian alternative to New Zealand’s famous outdoor adventure scene, with ocean views, forested paths and a slower pace along the province’s picturesque coastline.
For travellers who want a nature-forward trip without leaving the country, this swap gives the same escape and outdoor adventure.
Instead of Napa: Okanagan, B.C.
Wine lovers do not have to head to California to plan a vineyard-filled getaway. B.C.’s Okanagan is known for its wineries, lake views and warm-weather travel appeal, making it a strong Canadian destination.
Flight Centre Canada points to the region as a place where travellers can taste Canadian grape varietals while still getting the food, wine, and scenery that make wine country trips so popular.
Instead of Iceland: Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park
For travellers drawn to Iceland’s glaciers and dramatic landscapes, Flight Centre Canada recommends the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park.
The destination offers a close-to-home way to experience glacial scenery and mountain views in one of the country’s best national parks.
It also fits into the growing interest in nature-based travel, and those who want the feeling of a major adventure without needing a long-haul flight.
Instead of the Greek Islands: Bruce Peninsula National Park, Ontario
Clear blue water does not have to mean a flight to Greece! Bruce Peninsula National Park, located on Georgian Bay, is being highlighted for its beautiful scenery, including aqua waters, natural beauty, and a summer escape that still feels far from the city.
The park is already a popular Ontario destination, so travellers hoping to visit during peak season should plan ahead and be flexible where possible.
Harold said early booking can make a major difference for popular domestic destinations.
“The trick to booking domestic right now is certainly booking early and being flexible with your dates,” she said.
Instead of England’s Lake District: Thousand Islands, Ontario
Travellers looking for a scenic, history-filled getaway can swap England’s Lake District for Ontario’s Thousand Islands.
Flight Centre Canada points to castle cruises in the region as one way to get a mix of water views, architecture, and old-world charm closer to home.
It is also a more convenient option for many Ontario travellers who want a short trip without the planning involved in an international vacation.
Instead of Cappadocia: International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec
Cappadocia is known around the world for its hot air balloon views, but Quebec has its own colourful alternative.
The International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu offers travellers the chance to take flight and experience a Canadian version of a bucket-list balloon trip.
Instead of the Adirondacks: Charlevoix, Quebec
For a mountain getaway with scenery and resort-style vibes, Charlevoix, Quebec, is recommended.
Travellers can stay at Club Med in Charlevoix and drive the Flavour Trail, which highlights local food producers and regional tastes.
Harold said supporting local businesses is also a key part of travelling more sustainably within Canada.
“It really is such a key part of sustainable tourism, making sure that we are supporting the right businesses while we’re there and seeing the right areas,” she said.
Instead of the Faroe Islands: Magdalen Islands, Quebec
For colourful homes, coastal scenery and red cliffs, Quebec’s Magdalen Islands is your spot.
The destination brings together dramatic landscapes and small-community highlights, making it a strong option for travellers looking for something quieter and beautifully distinctive.
It also fits into the trend of Canadians looking beyond the obvious destinations and exploring places that are more under the radar.
Instead of Scotland: Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
For travellers chasing Celtic culture, coastal drives and world-class gold, Cape Breton is one of the strongest Canadian alternatives.
Check out Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs, both recognized among the world’s top 100 golf courses.
Harold said Cape Breton and the broader East Coast are seeing strong interest this year, especially from travellers who want culture and wildlife.
“They’re realizing that the East Coast really does have that rich culture that you don’t see here in Ontario as much,” she said.
Instead of Patagonia: Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador
Travellers who have Patagonia on their dream list may want to look at Gros Morne National Park.
Flight Centre Canada highlights the Newfoundland destination for its fjords and dramatic landscapes. For travellers from Ontario, Atlantic Canada is also becoming more attractive because it offers big scenery without the long-haul travel time.
As demand continues to grow for domestic trips, Harold said travellers should think beyond the obvious stops and ask locals for recommendations once they arrive.
That could mean choosing local restaurants, shops, accommodations, and experiences instead of defaulting to major chains.
For Harold, the appeal is simple: Canadians can have a memorable summer trip while also supporting communities at home.
“The experience is just as good, if not better,” she said. “You’re supporting your own country’s economy.”
