Everyone wants to make the most of their summer – whatever that means to them. It could involve more time spent out in the sun, day trips, nights out or vacations. In fact, a new Skyscanner survey reveals 68% of Canadian travellers are still looking to book their summer holidays.
“It’s not just about where you go but how you plan,” Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s travel expert, said in a statement.
“Canadians are taking a more intentional approach this year, looking to extend every aspect of their time off, from stretching their budget and travel time to staying flexible and exploring more destinations.”
Travelling further on the Canadian dollar
The survey highlights a growing trend among Canadian travellers: Stretching their dollars without sacrificing the experience. In fact, 45% say they’re open to choosing destinations where their money goes further, a sign that value is becoming a top priority in vacation planning.
For many, this shift is influencing how and when they travel. Nearly half (46%) are opting for budget-friendly accommodations, freeing up more funds to spend on experiences that matter, like local tours, food and cultural attractions.
Canadians are also getting smart about timing. Roughly a third are extending their summer by travelling during the shoulder season — those quieter weeks just before or after peak summer — to sidestep the highest prices and the busiest crowds. And they’re flexible: A majority are willing to shift their travel dates to take advantage of lower fares.
According to Skyscanner, the most budget-friendly day for Canadians to fly is Friday, with the week of August 25 emerging as the cheapest travel window, ideal for squeezing in a late-summer escape.
And perhaps most telling of this mindset shift: 76% say they’re open to skipping the tourist hotspots altogether in favour of lesser-known destinations that offer authenticity without the inflated price tags.
Popular destinations for Canadians
Given Canadians’ flexibility on their vacation plans, there’s plenty of quality travel options for them both domestically and internationally.
Of course, prices for flights change daily and you can take advantage of seat sales or by using points from your travel credit card, but currently, the 10 most affordable destinations are:
- Calgary – flights from $364
- Halifax – flights from $371
- Kelowna – flights from $475
- St. John’s – flights from $553
- Puerto Vallarta – flights from $557
- Nassau – flights from $619
- Montego Bay – flights from $619
- Charlottetown – flights from $659
- Castries – flights from $701
- Buenos Aires – flights from $723
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
