Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA) has released new research highlighting significant shifts in winter camping and snowbird travel, with a particular focus on changing behaviors among Canadian travelers. The findings show that while the pull of warmer climates remains strong, traditional travel patterns — especially for Canadian campers — are changing.
According to KOA’s latest data, cross-border travel patterns among Canadians have shifted significantly this year. While intent to travel remains strong, Canadians are simply choosing different destinations.
- 60% of Canadian snowbirds planning to spend a month or longer in warmer climates are choosing international destinations outside the U.S.
- 43% still intend to stay at private campgrounds or outdoor resorts while snowbirding.
“We are seeing the impact of cross-border travel hesitancy within our system,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of KOA. “Reservations from Canadian guests camping in the United States are down compared to last year, while the same pattern is reflected among Americans traveling north. Our latest research concludes that economic confidence, travel insurance requirements, the exchange rate and new border protocols are all affecting traveler behavior.”
This shift has meaningful implications for the outdoor hospitality industry. As Canadian travelers navigate rising travel costs and complex logistics, the long-standing relationships between Canadian snowbirds and southern campgrounds carry renewed importance.
A New Era of Winter Migration
Along with changes in Canadian snowbirding, KOA’s research noted that nearly 1 in 4 of all campers and almost half (47%) of glampers plan to head to warmer destinations this winter. Of those, 57% expect to stay three weeks or longer, signaling a continued appetite for extended seasonal travel. But unlike the classic retired snowbird profile, younger generations, namely millennials and Gen Z, are increasingly shaping winter travel habits.
- 31% of Gen Z and 19% of millennials plan to spend 3-4 weeks in warmer climates.
- Nearly 25% of Gen Z travelers intend to stay a month or more.
These emerging winter wanderers are driven by flexibility and lifestyle, not retirement. KOA’s research shows that many are using school breaks, hybrid or remote work schedules, and holiday windows to spend more time outdoors. Recreation, wellness and affordability are guiding their choices, alongside the year-round desire for sunshine.
Whether for multimonth escapes or shorter seasonal trips, most winter travelers plan to begin their journeys in December. While Florida continues to be the top U.S. destination, younger generations are broadening their travel footprint, with California and Texas gaining traction. As their lodging preferences shift, furnished accommodations — such as glamping tents and cabins — are rising in popularity among Gen Z and millennial travelers who are packing streaming devices, yoga mats and pets rather than towing fifth wheels.
