Aug 28, 2025
Even as inflation squeezes household budgets, Canadians aren’t giving up on their travel dreams. Statistics Canada reports that Canadians spent $52.9 billion on international travel in 2024, a 4.9% jump from the previous year. A Sunwing Vacations survey found 61% of Canadians plan to travel internationally in the next year, with 55% eyeing all-inclusive packages for upfront value.
“Canadians are savvy in how they spend their money, and travel is no exception,” says Samantha Taylor, chief marketing officer at Sunwing Vacations.
Travel savings Canada: Why vacations still matter
"Quality time on vacation is a top priority for Canadians and their families — even in the current economy — and they are willing to make trade-offs to turn their dream vacations into reality. They also know there is real value in booking an all inclusive package thanks to transparent, upfront pricing”, Taylor added.
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Despite rising costs, Canadians are finding creative ways to make travel affordable. According to the survey, popular strategies include:
- Travelling during off-peak seasons (60%)
- Booking in advance to take advantage of early booking rates (56%)
- Looking for all inclusive vacation deals which include one upfront price that covers the full cost of the vacation (39%)
- Setting up a vacation fund (39%)
Younger Canadians are especially experience-driven. A Wealth Formula poll shows that 78% of millennials and Gen Z plan to prioritize experiences over goods.
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How to save for a trip with a TFSA or a travel fund
To keep vacations within budget, many households are cutting back at home. The biggest budget costs include:
- 86% are cooking more meals at home
- 80% are reducing non-essential purchases
- 80% are using coupons and shopping sales
Those looking to bank a few bucks for travel can also find help among financial experts. In particular, many financial professionals suggest setting up a separate account where all money saved for travel can be stored. As a result, many financial experts recommend:
- Opening a high-interest savings account (HISA) to grow travel funds faster
- Using a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) as a dedicated travel fund to keep your savings tax-free
- Taking advantage of cash-back or travel rewards credit cards to offset costs
All-inclusive deals Canada: The hidden costs to watch
While all-inclusive packages remain popular for their transparent pricing, travellers should compare what’s included. Free room upgrades (21%), waived baggage fees (17%) and discounted excursions (14%) were top motivators. But Canadians should also check for hidden resort fees, exchange rate mark-ups and restrictions on included perks.
How to save when booking all-inclusive vacation travel
All-inclusive packages are popular among Canadians because of their upfront pricing, but not all deals are created equal. While many travellers see value in knowing the total cost before they leave home, it’s important to understand how to maximize savings and avoid unexpected charges.
Ways to save on all-inclusive vacations:
- Book early or last-minute: Early bird discounts can save up to 25% on popular resorts, while last-minute deals often drop prices sharply if you’re flexible with dates, according to a 2024 Sunwing Travel Trends report.
- Use rewards points: Many Canadians are offsetting costs with Aeroplan, RBC Avion and Amex points, which can be redeemed for package deals.
- Travel mid-week: Departing on a Tuesday or Wednesday can often shave $100 to $200 per person compared to weekend departures.
- Look for added perks: Some packages include free room upgrades, checked baggage or resort credits for excursions — small extras that can save families hundreds.
But looking for savings is only half the battle. You also need to be mindful of hidden fees. To help, here's a lit of hidden fees to watch out for:
- Resort fees: Some resorts charge daily fees not included in the advertised price.
- Currency exchange rates: Packages priced in U.S. dollars can end up costing more once converted to Canadian dollars.
- Excursions and extras: Off-resort activities, premium alcohol and à la carte dining may not be fully covered.
- Airport taxes and transfers: Not all packages include airport transfers or departure taxes, which can add $50 to $150 per traveller.
Pro tip: Before booking, always check what’s included in the “all-inclusive” label. Comparing two similar packages side by side can reveal big differences in what you’ll actually pay once you arrive.
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For Canadians, the best value comes from booking transparent packages that clearly outline what’s included — and using rewards points or off-season travel dates to cut costs even further.
Read more: The ultra-rich are bailing on volatile stocks right now — these 4 shockproof assets are their new safe havens
Cheap vacations Canada: Staycations and eco-friendly travel
For cost-conscious or eco-minded travellers, domestic trips are a growing option. Exploring Canada’s national parks, booking local getaways during off-seasons and considering train travel can cut costs while supporting sustainable tourism.
Regional travel trends
According to the Sunwing survey:
- British Columbia residents are the most likely to travel internationally (73%)
- Québec travellers are the most value-conscious, with 84% focused on avoiding overpaying, above the national average of 78%
Off season travel savings: Why timing is everything
One of the most effective ways Canadians are keeping vacation costs under control is by travelling during the off-season. Airlines and hotels typically lower prices when demand is weaker, which means travellers can save hundreds — sometimes thousands — on flights, accommodations and tours.
For example, flights to Europe in the fall or spring can be 20% to 40% cheaper compared to peak summer months, according to data collected by Statista. In Canada, popular destinations such as Banff, Whistler and Prince Edward Island also offer significantly reduced rates for lodging and attractions once the summer crowds leave.
Beyond cost savings, off-season travel often means shorter lines, fewer crowds and a more authentic experience. Travellers can also take advantage of shoulder season weather, which in many destinations is still pleasant enough for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
To maximize savings:
- Book flights mid-week when prices are often lower.
- Target shoulder seasons (spring and fall) instead of peak winter or summer holidays.
- Bundle flights and hotels with an all-inclusive deal for extra discounts.
For Canadians looking to stretch their travel budget, off-season travel isn’t just cheaper — it’s often a more enjoyable way to see the world.
Bottom line: Smart travel spending Canada
Travel remains a priority for Canadians, even in uncertain economic times. By combining smart travel spending strategies, dedicated savings tools and value-focused vacation planning, Canadians are finding ways to turn their dream getaways into reality — without breaking the bank.
—with files from Nicholas Sokic
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Romana King is the Senior Editor at Money.ca. She writes for various publications, and her book -- House Poor No More: 9 Steps That Grow the Value of Your Home and Net Worth -- continues to be an Amazon bestseller. Since its publication in November 2021, this book has won five awards, including the New York CPA Society's Excellence in Financial Journalism (EFJ) Book Award in 2022.
