MMGY Study Reveals Surge in Outbound Travel Among U.S. and Canadian Travelers

What's Happening?

A recent study by MMGY Global, titled the 2025 Portrait of American & Canadian International Travelers, indicates a significant increase in outbound travel intentions among U.S. and Canadian citizens. The survey, conducted in July 2025, involved 2,064 adults from the U.S. and Canada who have traveled outside North America or the Caribbean in the past three years and plan to do so again in the next 12 months. The study highlights that U.S. travelers are planning an average of 2.8 international trips over the next two years, while Canadians are planning 2.2 trips. Additionally, U.S. travelers' spending on international vacations has increased by 10% since last year. The study also notes a shift in travel priorities, with safety and political stability now more important than cost. Furthermore, there is a growing interest in ocean cruising and the blending of business and leisure travel, known as 'bleisure'.

Why It's Important?

The findings of the MMGY study underscore a growing trend in international travel among North Americans, which could have significant implications for the travel industry. The increased demand for international experiences suggests a potential boost for airlines, hotels, and travel agencies specializing in overseas trips. The emphasis on safety and political stability over cost indicates that travelers are willing to invest more in secure and stable destinations, potentially influencing tourism policies and marketing strategies. The rise in 'bleisure' travel highlights a shift in how business trips are perceived, offering opportunities for destinations and service providers to cater to this hybrid travel model. Additionally, the resurgence of professional travel planning suggests a renewed appreciation for human expertise in navigating complex travel arrangements.

What's Next?

As the demand for international travel continues to grow, travel industry stakeholders may need to adapt their offerings to meet the evolving preferences of travelers. This could involve enhancing safety measures, providing more personalized and authentic experiences, and expanding services that cater to 'bleisure' travelers. The increased interest in ocean cruising may lead to the development of new itineraries and the expansion of cruise lines into emerging markets. Travel advisors are likely to see increased demand for their services, particularly from Millennials planning multigenerational trips. The industry may also witness a shift towards premium travel experiences, as more travelers opt for business or first-class flights.

Beyond the Headlines

The MMGY study reveals deeper implications for the travel industry, including the potential for long-term shifts in travel patterns and consumer expectations. The focus on safety and political stability may lead to changes in destination marketing and the prioritization of secure travel environments. The blending of business and leisure travel could redefine corporate travel policies and influence the design of business-friendly leisure destinations. The resurgence of professional travel planning highlights the enduring value of human expertise in an increasingly digital world, suggesting a balance between technology and personal service in travel planning.