The US is one of the most expensive destinations for Canadians — Here's where to go instead
If you're a Canadian looking for yet another reason to put off your next U.S. vacation, look no further. A new report has found that the United States is one of the most expensive countries for Canadians to visit in 2025, requiring an eye-watering average daily budget of $354.
On Tuesday, March 4, the same day American President Donald Trump officially imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian exports and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy, HelloSafe released its latest list of the cheapest and most expensive travel destinations for Canadians.
While the report highlights plenty of budget-friendly travel inspo, it also names the countries that require a hefty wallet — and some of the top ten might make you rethink your next trip (if you weren't already).
The most expensive country to visit is Barbados, where you'll need a jaw-dropping $471 per day to cover accommodation (hotels and Airbnbs), transport (internal flights, trains, buses, taxis) and food (restaurants and groceries). That's before the cost of international flights, too!
Other pricey Caribbean destinations include Antigua and Barbuda ($443) and Saint Kitts and Nevis ($387). While these spots have stunning beaches and luxury resorts, paradise never comes cheap!
The Maldives also makes the list, though that's hardly surprising — those overwater bungalows and private island resorts are not known for being budget-friendly. Grenada follows at $369 per day, and Switzerland, known for its chocolate, skiing, and generally being ridiculously expensive, comes in at $357.
Canada's neighbours to the south sit comfortably in seventh place, tied with Micronesia. Between expensive hotels, pricey meals, and a transportation system that often requires renting a car, it's no surprise that the U.S. ranks so high.
Canadians visiting the U.S. should plan an average daily budget of $354. That's 64% more than staying somewhere here in Canada, which comes in at a more reasonable $216 per day. If you're considering hitting up New York, Los Angeles, or Miami, R.I.P. to your wallet.
If you want to make your loonies go further, there are plenty of destinations where your money will stretch way more. In fact, some of the world's cheapest travel spots cost less for an entire day than just one dinner in the U.S.
According to the report, the absolute cheapest country to travel to is Laos, at just $22 per day. That means what you'd spend on a couple of drinks in the U.S. could cover an entire day of travel in Laos, including accommodation, food, and transport.
If you're looking for adventure on a budget, Kazakhstan is a great option at just $27 per day. You can explore its vast steppes, visit stunning alpine lakes, and experience the unique blend of European and Asian cultures without spending a fortune.
For wildlife lovers, Rwanda ($30 per day) offers lush jungles, breathtaking scenery, and the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see mountain gorillas up close — something that would cost far more in other destinations. Meanwhile, Ghana ($31 per day) is perfect for travellers who love history, food, and vibrant city life.
Georgia ($39 per day) is another super affordable choice. The country (not the U.S. state) is known for its incredible food, cheap wine, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Plus, it's still relatively under-the-radar, meaning you won't have to fight off crowds of tourists.
Of course, flying to some of these places might cost more upfront compared to a quick trip to the U.S. But once you're there, your daily expenses will be way lower — meaning you can stay longer, experience more, and still spend less overall.
Here's a closer look at the full list of the cheapest countries Canadians can visit in 2025.
The cheapest countries to visit in 2025
- Laos – $22 per day
- Kazakhstan – $27 per day
- Rwanda – $30 per day
- Ghana – $31 per day
- Mongolia – $34 per day
- Armenia – $37 per day
- Burkina Faso – $38 per day
- Georgia – $39 per day
- Mali – $41 per day
- Burma (Myanmar) – $49 per day
Canada and the U.S. haven't exactly been besties lately, especially with the ongoing Trump tariff drama. And now, seeing how expensive it is to visit, it's probably a good time to consider expanding your vacation horizons.
Instead of dropping $354 per day in the U.S., you could spend that same budget over two weeks in Laos. Or, you could splurge in a place like Georgia, where $354 could cover almost ten days of wine, sightseeing, and delicious food.
Wherever you go, safe travels Canada!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.
