TRAVELSAVERS Canada 2026 Outlook: Strong Sales, More Fees, AI Adoption

TRAVELSAVERS Canada advisors are entering 2026 confident of growing sales and their professional value – even amid headwinds on the horizon. 

That’s the key takeaway from a new survey of advisors affiliated with TRAVELSAVERS Canada agencies. Of those surveyed,  71%  expect revenue growth in the year ahead.

The survey revealed that this optimism is fueled by sustained demand for travel, which consumers increasingly view as a vital part of their lives rather than a discretionary luxury. 

And survey respondents say travellers are turning to advisors for their expertise, especially for creating and booking personalized itineraries and luxury journeys.

“Looking ahead to 2026, the outlook is incredibly positive,” said Jane Clementino, Senior Vice President and General Manager of TRAVELSAVERS Canada. 

“Travellers are prioritizing experiences more than ever, seeking personalized and meaningful journeys. Advisors are perfectly positioned to meet this demand, providing the guidance and expertise that turn ordinary trips into truly unforgettable adventures.”

Advisors Assert Value Through Fees

Reflecting growing confidence in their worth, the survey found that 70% of advisors now charge professional fees:

• 28% charge for transactions.
• 16% charge for time.
• 11% collect multiple fee types.
• 9% charge for specialized services such as FIT design or air ticketing.
• 6% apply plan-to-go fees rolled into bookings.

An additional 18% are considering introducing fees in the future. This trend reflects both industry shifts, such as reduced airline commissions and pandemic-era losses, as well as the rising demand for tailored, time-intensive itineraries. Advisors are also using fees to reinforce their professionalism and the value they deliver to clients.

AI Adoption Accelerates 

Generative AI is rapidly becoming a trusted time-saving tool for advisors, with usage more than doubling in the past year: from 20% to 50%. TRAVELSAVERS’ AI Connect program has further fueled adoption and awareness.

More advisors report that they’re familiar with AI, even if they haven’t tried it:

• 25% now use it frequently, up from 11 per cent.
• 25% use it occasionally, rising from 9 per cent.
• 25% say they are still not knowledgeable enough about it, down from 33%.

Advisors also view AI in a more positive light:

• 44% now see it as a great tool, up from 27%.
• 15% say they’re still not familiar enough with AI, down from 32%.

“In just one year, we’ve seen a dramatic shift in advisors embracing AI as a powerful ally rather than a threat,” said Tim Paul, TRAVELSAVERS Vice President of Marketing. 

“AI can be an incredible partner, helping busy advisors work smarter and faster. Those using our AI Connect program say they can’t imagine life without it.”

Anticipated Challenges for 2026

Despite their optimism, advisors remain mindful of potential obstacles for next year. The top concern is the persistently high cost of travel, cited by 43% of respondents.

Competition is also on their radar:

• 29% worry about suppliers marketing directly to consumers.
• 24% point to online travel agencies.
• 16% cite competition from AI.