Canadians Favor Staycations: Airbnb Domestic Searches Rise By 20%

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on Apr 30, 2025

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The Rise of the Canadian Staycation

The increase in Canadian staycations is driven by a confluence of factors, making it a compelling and enduring trend. Rising inflation, coupled with increased fuel costs, has made international travel significantly more expensive for many Canadians. This economic reality has pushed many to explore the affordable vacations Canada has to offer, rediscovering the beauty and diversity within their own borders.

• Economic Factors: The rising cost of living is a primary driver. Inflation and high fuel prices make international flights and accommodations significantly less accessible for many. A staycation provides a budget-friendly alternative.
• Rediscovering Canada: Canadians are realizing the vast and diverse landscapes, unique cultures, and exciting activities their own country offers. From the rugged mountains of Banff to the charming streets of Quebec City, there's a wealth of experiences to be had without leaving the country.
• Convenience and Ease: Planning a staycation is often significantly simpler than organizing international travel. There's less logistical planning involved with passports, visas, and navigating foreign languages and customs. This ease of planning makes staycations a more attractive option for busy families and individuals.
• Growing Domestic Tourism Spending: The surge in staycations is reflected in a notable increase in domestic tourism spending. While precise figures vary, anecdotal evidence and industry reports confirm a significant boost to local economies across Canada.

Airbnb's Role in the Staycation Boom

Airbnb has played a pivotal role in the rise of the Canadian staycation. Its platform offers a wide selection of diverse accommodations across the country, catering to various budgets and travel styles. This accessibility has made it easier than ever for Canadians to discover and book unique and memorable vacation rentals.

• Ease of Booking: Airbnb's user-friendly platform simplifies the process of finding and booking vacation rentals in Canada. The extensive search filters allow users to easily find properties that match their preferences and budget.
• Variety of Accommodations: From cozy cabins nestled in the woods to luxurious condos in bustling city centers, Airbnb offers a vast array of properties. This diversity caters to a wide range of tastes and travel styles, including unique stays like yurts, treehouses, and even lighthouses!
• Popular Destinations: Destinations like the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Quebec City, and the Maritimes are seeing a significant surge in Airbnb bookings, indicating a growing preference for these regions amongst Canadian staycationers.
• Airbnb Initiatives: Airbnb itself has actively promoted Canadian staycations through marketing campaigns and initiatives highlighting the diverse range of experiences available across the country.

Popular Staycation Destinations in Canada

Canada boasts a wealth of incredible destinations perfect for a staycation. Several provinces and territories are experiencing particularly high demand.

• British Columbia: Explore the stunning natural beauty of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, renowned for its vineyards, lakes, and outdoor activities. [Link to Okanagan Tourism Website]
• Quebec: Discover the charming historic streets and vibrant culture of Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. [Link to Quebec City Tourism Website]
• Maritime Provinces: Experience the breathtaking coastal scenery and quaint fishing villages of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. [Link to Atlantic Canada Tourism Website]
• Ontario: Enjoy the bustling city life of Toronto or escape to the serene beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park. [Link to Ontario Tourism Website]

The Impact on the Canadian Economy

The rise of staycations has had a significantly positive impact on the Canadian economy. This increased domestic tourism is directly benefiting local businesses and communities across the country.

• Local Economic Boost: Staycations inject money directly into local economies. Canadians are spending their vacation dollars on local restaurants, shops, attractions, and activities, supporting small businesses and creating jobs.
• Hospitality and Tourism Employment: The increase in domestic tourism has led to increased employment within the hospitality and tourism sectors, contributing to economic growth and stability.
• Government Support: Various levels of government have recognized the importance of domestic tourism and have implemented initiatives to support and promote it, further contributing to its growth.

Conclusion

The significant rise in Airbnb domestic searches demonstrates a clear shift in Canadian travel preferences towards staycations. Driven by economic factors and a desire to explore the beauty of their own country, Canadians are embracing the convenience and affordability of domestic travel. This trend is boosting the Canadian economy and enriching local communities. Plan your perfect Canadian staycation today! Search Airbnb Canada for unique vacation rentals and discover the incredible experiences waiting for you across the country. Explore the diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming towns that make Canada a truly exceptional destination for your next Canadian staycation or domestic vacation.