Travel industry braces for busy winter season as Canadian travellers ready for sun

Travel agents predict a busy season ahead, saying Canadians are ready to visit top sun destinations after two winters of COVID-19 restrictions kept many at home.

While airfares have so far remained steady, experts predict a price spike for fall and winter flights as demand returns.

They said that demand could spike further if remaining COVID-19 restrictions such as vaccine mandates are lifted, encouraging travellers who were previously hesitant to fly due to the restrictions.

"I think the combination of all those things will drive travel through the roof, higher than pre-pandemic," said Martin Firestone, president of insurance provider Travel Secure Inc.