33% of Canadians planning a bucket-list trip in 2024

A new travel trend report finds many Canadians are planning a vacation this year and some want to cross off a bucket-list destination.

Despite struggles with the cost of living and high gas prices, the travel industry is recovering, according to the 2024 Global Travel Trends Report from American Express Travel.

The report found 82 per cent of Canadians plan to spend more or the same amount of money on travel this year.

“The Global Travel Trends Report highlights the continued desire for Canadians to prioritize unforgettable travel, from spontaneous trips to once-in-a-lifetime experiences,” said Vanessa Crooker, vice president of brand, partnerships and lifestyle benefits at American Express Canada.

In fact, 33 per cent of Canadians are planning on taking a major trip — either a bucket list trip or dream vacation — this year.

The major trip varies — some want an “immersive adventure, often somewhere totally remote.”

Videos

Read More

Read More

Learn more

Read More

For others, it’s a longer trip that’s full of new and diverse experiences such as visiting multiple countries.

Expedition cruises to places such as to Antarctica, the Galapagos or Alaska are popular amongst all generations with 28 per cent of millennials and gen Z; 27 per cent of gen X and 24 per cent of baby boomers who said they are planning a bucket-list trip interested in this type of experience.

While adventure trips such as trekking to see gorillas, climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro or a safari are more popular with millennials and gen Z (31 per cent) and gen X (19 per cent). Only 12 per cent of baby boomers are interested in this type of trip.

The largest number of travellers planning a bucket-list trip were planning a big trip visiting several countries in one region — mainly Europe.

There are many sources of inspiration for these types of trips. Travellers turn to friends or family (52 per cent), social media (39 per cent), and travel websites (37 per cent) for ideas.

“People are travelling to make memories in 2024,” said Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel in the report. “While everyone’s motivation for booking a trip is unique – whether it’s taking a solo getaway to recharge or embarking on an expedition cruise or safari – the trips that are trending are sure to be transformative…”

The information for the report was based on a survey conducted between Jan. 31 and Feb. 8, 2024 among a sample of 2,005 US adults, 1,007 Australian adults, 1,002 Canadian adults, 1,002 UK adults, 1,002 Japanese adults, 1,006 Mexican adults and 1,005 Indian adults who have at least a $50,000 income equivalent and typically travel at least once a year.

See the full 2024 Global Travel Trends Report here.

Lead photo of the Galapagos: Karen Longwell