Canadians love to travel. Whether it be to escape the winter (snowbirds), for a summer vacation abroad, or any travel for that matter, the best travel credit cards in Canada can help you save a ton of money.
These credit cards offer a combination of rewards, including comprehensive travel insurance, free airport lounges, sign-up bonuses, and travel perks that can make your vacations much more enjoyable.
Because the cards on this list are awesome and offer real value, you will also find some of them on my list of best cash back credit cards and best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees in Canada.
Featured Travel Credit Card
Neo Travel Card
Rewards and Perks: Earn up to 5% real cash back on purchases, 2% cash back on foreign currency transactions, 1.5x cash back boost when you book travel, hotel, and car rentals at Neo partners, Priority Pass airport lounge access at over 1,300 locations worldwide, and comprehensive travel insurance coverage.
Welcome offer: 15% cashback on your first purchases, plus a $25 welcome bonus.
Interest rates: 19.99% – 26.99% for purchases.
Annual fee: $4.99 monthly subscription (cancel anytime)
Credit score required: Poor or bad credit score.
Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada for 2023
Many of these two cards are the epitome of everything you want in a great card: high earn rates, easy and flexible redemption, solid sign-up bonuses, multiple perks, and a reasonable annual fee.
Read on to see what each card offers for perks and benefits, their annual fees, income eligibility, and any downsides.
1. Scotiabank Gold American Express Card
Scotiabank Gold American Express Card
Best travel credit card in Canada
Annual fee: $120
Rewards: Earn up to 6x Scene+ points on groceries, 5x pts. on dining, food delivery, & entertainment, 3x pts. on gas, and 1x pts. on everything else.
Welcome offer: Get up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points in the first 12 months and no annual fee for the first year.
Interest rates: 20.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: $12,000
Recommended credit score:
Good
On Scotiabank’s website
The Scotiabank Gold American Express is one of Scotiabank’s best credit cards, with a top-notch earn rate and a variety of redemption options. It offers:
- $120 annual fee (waived in the first year)
- Earn 25,000 bonus Scene+ points ($250 value) when you spend $1,000 in the first 3 months plus an extra 20,000 bonus points ($200 value) when you spend at least $7,500 in the first year (total bonus valued at $450)
- Earn 6 points for every $1 spent at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, Foodland, and other partner stores
- Earn 5 points for every $1 spent on groceries, dining, and entertainment
- Earn 3 points for every $1 you spend on gas, daily transit, and streaming services
- Earn 1 point for every $1 spent elsewhere
- No foreign transaction fee (a 2.5% savings on foreign currency purchases)
- Comprehensive travel insurance including travel emergency medical, flight delay, trip cancellation/trip interruption, travel accident, rental car, hotel/motel burglary, delayed and lost baggage insurance.
- Purchase security and extended warranty
- Discounted Priority Pass membership (35% off) with access to 600+ VIP airport lounges worldwide
- Special access to events with American Express Invites
- Up to 25% discount on AVIS and Budget car rental
- Complimentary 24/7 concierge services
The 5-6% rewards rate for this card on grocery, dining, and entertainment purchases are great. Add in the $450 bonus offer (45,000 points), and the $120 annual fee is easily paid off.
Personal income eligibility for the Scotiabank Gold Amex is very low at $12,000 per year. You can also read my complete Scotiabank Gold American Express review.
2. American Express Cobalt Card
American Express Cobalt Card
Best for travel rewards and perks
Annual fee: $155.88 (in monthly payments of $12.99)
Rewards: Earn up to 5X points on high-spend categories.
Welcome offer: Earn as many as 30,000 bonus Membership Rewards points in the first year.
Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases and 21.99% on cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: No minimum income or credit limit requirements.
Recommended credit score:
Good
On Amex’s website
The American Express Cobalt is not just a travel card; it is also great for earning rewards on your everyday spending. Here’s what you get:
- $12.99 monthly fee ($155.88 annual)
- Earn up to 30,000 in bonus points ($300 value) in your first year
- Earn 5 points for every $1 spent at grocery stores, restaurants, bars, and cafes
- Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on streaming subscription services
- Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on gas, travel, and transit purchases
- Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases
- Comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency travel (up to $5 million), flight and baggage delay, hotel/motel burglary, lost or stolen baggage, car rental, and travel accident insurance (up to $250,000)
- Purchase protection plan and extended warranty
- Access to VIP perks, including Amex Invites with Front Of The Line Access to in-demand events
- Multiple rewards redemption options
- Free supplementary cards
In addition to great travel rewards, the Amex Cobalt card also has one of the highest earn rates for grocery and food purchases in Canada.
Its 30,000 bonus points are achievable and only require you to charge at least $500 to the card every month.
American Express offers multiple ways to use your points, including:
- Flights through their Fixed points Program, e.g. a long-haul flight between the U.S. and Canada requires 40,000 points at a maximum ticket price of $700.
- Instantly for purchases on almost anything.
- Ticketmaster.ca, where 2,000 points are equivalent to $20.
- Amazon.ca, and more.
3. Neo Travel Card
You can turn your Neo Card™ into a premium travel credit card by subscribing to Travel perks for $4.99 per month. This unlocks over $360 in annual value.:
- 2% cash back on foreign currency transactions
- Priority Pass airport lounge access at over 1,300 locations worldwide
- A 1.5x cash back boost when you book travel, hotel, and car rentals at Neo partners
- Comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including emergency travel medical, trip cancellation, flight delay, and more
- SmartDelay free airport lounge access when your flights are delayed by more than one hour
These benefits are in addition to standard offers on the Neo Card™, including an average of 5% cash back and up to 15% cash back on first-time purchases at over 10,000 stores across Canada.
Cardholders can use the Neo App to view and explore cash back offers based on their location.
You can subscribe to Travel perks when you need it and cancel at any time. Learn more about Neo perks.
Best Travel Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access
If you want a travel credit card that’s excellent for airport lounge access and premium perks, The Platinum Card from American Express is a good bet.
4. The Platinum Card from American Express
American Express Platinum Card
Top credit card for VIP perks
Annual fee: $699 (and $175 annual fee for additional cards)
Rewards: Earn 3x Membership Rewards Points on dining and food delivery, 2x pts. on travel and 1x pts. on everything else.
Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 bonus points if you spend $7,500 in the first 3 months.
Interest rates: Variable (charge card)
Minimum income requirement: N/A
Recommended credit score:
Very Good
On Amex’s website
Best Prepaid Travel Credit Cards
These prepaid cards are light on your wallet, and you won’t have to worry about interest or hefty annual fees. They offer the convenience of credit cards and help you waive foreign currency transaction fees.
5. KOHO Premium Prepaid Mastercard
KOHO Extra (Premium) Prepaid Mastercard
Best premium prepaid card in Canada
Annual fee: $9/month or $84/year
Rewards: Earn 2% cashback on 3 categories of spending, and earn 0.5% cash back on other purchases. Up to 6% cash back at partner retailers.
Welcome offer: $20 sign-up bonus when you enter our CASHBACK promo code.
Interest rates: 0%
Minimum income requirement: None
Recommended credit score:
None
On KOHO’s website
The KOHO premium Mastercard waives the foreign currency transaction fee and pays up to 2% instant cash back on your purchases.
Here are some of the benefits offered by KOHO:
- No FX fees
- Automatic savings using the roundup feature
- Earn 2% interest on your balance
- Earn cash back on purchases with 2% on three categories of spending and at select merchants
- Get a $20 welcome bonus after you make your first purchase with the card (CASHBACK promo code is automatically applied via our link)
- No monthly account fees for the basic account ($9 for KOHO Premium)
- Price matching
- Free financial coaching
- 1x free international ATM withdrawal/month
Read our KOHO Premium review.
6. CIBC AC Conversion Prepaid Visa Card
Use this CIBC travel prepaid card to hold 10 currencies. Fund the card to earn 1% cash back on all purchases.
CIBC AC Conversion Visa Card
Earn 1%* cashback on purchases
Holds 10 currencies at once
No monthly account fees
Enjoy Visa’s Zero Liability
Best Travel Credit Card For Hotel Stays
Premium credit cards come in various flavours. These two cards take the top spot for the best sign-up welcome bonuses.
7. The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card
Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card
Best for Marriott Bonvoy points and perks
Annual fee: $120
Rewards: Earn up to 5X Marriott Bonvoy points on eligible purchases.
Welcome offer: Earn 65,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months. Plus an extra 10,000 points when you spend between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership.
Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases and 21.99% on cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: No minimum income or credit limit requirement.
Recommended credit score:
Good to Excellent
On Amex’s website
The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card offers one of the best rewards for hotel stays for Canadians. It replaces the Starwood Preferred Guest SPG card.
- $120 annual fee
- Earn a welcome bonus of up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points when you charge $1,500 to your card in the first 3 months
- Earn 5 points for every $1 spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties
- Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases
- Redeem points for hotel stays at more than 7,000 hotels, including names like the Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Marriott Hotels, Le Meridien, and Sheraton
- Get one free night every year (worth up to 35,000 points)
- Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status
- Free supplementary cards
- Free Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status when you spend up to $30,000 each year
- 15 Elite night credits each year
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Access to American Express Invites such as Front of The Line Advance Access
- Purchase protection and extended warranty
The 50,000 bonus points are earned after you charge $1,500 in purchases to your Card in your first three months.
When you look at the value of the bonus points and add in the 15 Elite night credits and annual free night, this card is worth every penny.
Lastly, you can easily transfer your Marriott Bonvoy points to several other frequent flyer programs in exchange for miles.
Best Travel Card With No Foreign Transaction Fee
When you use your credit cards abroad, the foreign transaction fees add up. At a cost of 2.5% or more, these no-FX fee cards come in handy.
8. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card
Best for no FX fees and travel perks
Annual fee: $150
Rewards: Earn 3x Scene+ points on eligible grocery purchases, 2x pts. on dining, entertainment and transit, and 1x pts. on everything else.
Welcome offer: Up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points and no annual fee for the first year.
Interest rates: 20.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: $60,000
Recommended credit score:
Very Good
On Scotiabank’s website
For a combination of zero foreign transaction fees and premium travel perks, the Passport Visa Infinite Card is a top contender.
- $150 annual fee (waived in the first year)
- Earn up to 40,000 bonus Scotia Rewards points ($400 value)
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, FreshCo, and other partner stores
- Earn 2 points per $1 spent on grocery, dining, entertainment, and transit purchases
- Earn 1 point on all other purchases
- No FX mark-up on foreign currency purchases
- Complimentary Priority Pass membership with 6 free airport lounge visits per year
- Comprehensive travel insurance, including travel emergency medical, trip cancellation and interruption, travel accident, flight delay, delayed and lost baggage, rental car collision loss/damage waiver, and more
- Purchase protection and extended warranty
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite’s 40,000 bonus point is worth $400 in travel costs. Earn 30,000 points when you spend $1,000 in the first 3 months and an additional 10,000 points if your annual card spending is $40,000 or more.
The annual complimentary Priority Pass membership and 6 free lounge visits are worth around $379, which more than covers the card’s annual fees. Add in your savings from foreign transaction fees, and this card has very little competition.
You need a minimum personal income of $60,000 (or $100,000 household income) to qualify for this card. You can also read my complete Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite review.
Best Travel Credit Cards for Students
Want to pay low annual fees and earn reasonable rewards or cash back? Consider the RBC ION+ Visa or Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card.
9. Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card
You can apply for this credit card with a credit score of 600+ and an annual income of $12,000 or higher.
Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card
Best no-fee cash back credit card
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: Earn up to 2% unlimited cash back in up to 3 spending categories and 0.50% on all other purchases.
Welcome offer: Get an extra 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in spending in the first 2 months ($100 value).
Interest rates: 19.95% for purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: $12,000
Recommended credit score:
Fair to Good
On Tangerine’s website
Best Travel Credit Card for WestJet Rewards
10. WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
The WestJet RBC World Elite card is a great card for maximizing your WestJet Rewards.
- $119 annual fee
- Earn 2% back on all WestJet flights and travel packages
- Earn 1.5% on your general spending and save 3 cents per litre when you buy gas at Petro Canada
- Free first checked bags on WestJet flights for the primary cardholder and up to 8 guests
- Annual round-trip companion voucher
- Comprehensive travel and purchase insurance coverage
- Complimentary 24/7 concierge service
11. RBC Avion Visa Infinite
Another RBC travel credit card to consider is the RBC Avion Visa Infinite.
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card
Competitive RBC rewards credit card
Annual fee: $120
Rewards: Earn 25% extra points on travel-related purchases.
Interest rates: 19.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: A minimum annual personal income of $60,000 or household income of $100,000.
Recommended credit score:
Good or better
On RBC’s website
Best Travel Credit Card for Low-Interest
12. HSBC +Rewards Mastercard
The HSBC +Rewards Mastercard will save you on interest costs if you carry a balance from month to month.
HSBC +Rewards Mastercard
Best for low-interest rates
Annual fee: $25
Welcome offer: Earn 35,000 points when you spend $2,000 within 180 days of account opening ($175 travel value).
Rewards: Earn up to 2 points per dollar on eligible purchases.
Interest rates: 11.9% on both purchases and cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: None
Recommended credit score:
Good
On HSBC’s website
Best No Fee Travel Credit Cards
If you don’t like the idea of paying annual fees in exchange for travel rewards, these cards charge $0 annual fees, offer travel insurance, flexible rewards, perks, and more.
13. Tangerine World Mastercard
Tangerine World Mastercard
Excellent no-fee cash back card with travel perks
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: Earn up to 2% unlimited cash back in 2-3 spending categories and 0.50% on all other purchases.
Welcome offer: Get an additional 10% cash back valued at $100 in the first 2 months.
Interest rates: 19.95% for purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: $12,000
Recommended credit score:
Fair to Good
On Tangerine’s website
The Tangerine World Mastercard offers up to 2% cash back on purchases, and cardholders enjoy access to insurance and a complimentary airport lounge access membership.
- No annual fee
- Rental car collision/loss damage insurance
- Mobile device insurance
- Mastercard Airport Experiences Provided by Loungekey
- Purchase protection and extended warranty
- Access to Boingo Wi-Fi for Mastercard
14. MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus Mastercard
MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus Mastercard
Good no-annual-fee cash back card
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: Earn 2 points per $1 spent on groceries, restaurants, and bill payments. Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Interest rates: Purchases 19.99%, cash advances 24.99%.
Minimum income requirement: No minimum income is advertised.
Recommended credit score:
Very Good
On MBNA’s website
The MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus takes top-tier status in the no-fee cash back and travel rewards categories.
- No annual fee
- Earn 2 points per $1 spent on gas, groceries, and restaurant purchases
- Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- Flexible rewards redemption, including travel, cash back, and merchandise
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Purchase protection and extended warranty
This card has a cap of $10,000 on each purchase category eligible for the 2% earn rate. Learn more in this review.
15. Rogers World Elite Mastercard
Rogers World Elite Mastercard
Best credit card for USD cash back
Annual fee: $0
Rewards: 3% unlimited cash back in U.S. dollars, 1.5% unlimited cashback on other purchases.
Welcome offer: $25 in cashback on the first purchase made within three months.
Interest rates: 19.99% for purchases, and 22.99% for cash advances
Minimum income requirement: $80,000 minimum income or $150,000 household income.
Recommended credit score:
Very Good
On Rogers’s website
The Rogers World Elite Mastercard often features among the best cards with no foreign transaction fees; however, its reward offerings were recently downgraded.
- No annual fee
- Earn 3% unlimited cash back on USD purchases
- Earn 1.50% cash back on all other purchases
- Comprehensive travel insurance, including car rental collision/damage, emergency medical, trip cancellation/trip interruption insurance
- Purchase protection and extended warranty
- Redeem your cash back rewards as a statement credit at any time (minimum $20), against your phone bill, for Toronto Blue Jays tickets, and more
The minimum personal income to apply for this card is $80,000 per year. Also, you need to spend at least $15,000 annually to remain eligible for the card.
Best Air Miles Travel Credit Card in Canada
Check out these cards for accelerated travel rewards.
16. BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard
BMO Air Miles World Elite Mastercard
Best for earning Air Miles rewards
Annual fee: $120
Rewards: Get 3X Miles on purchases made at Air Miles partners.
Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases and 23.99% on cash advances.
Minimum income requirement: A minimum annual individual income of $80,000 or household income of $150,000.
Recommended credit score:
Good or better
On BMO’s website
The BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard has one of the best earn rates of any AIR MILES credit card in Canada. Here’s how it stacks up:
- $120 annual fee
- Earn 1 reward mile for every $12 spent anywhere
- Earn 2 rewards miles for every $12 spent at any eligible grocery store
- Earn 3 rewards miles for every $12 spent on purchases at participating AIR MILES partners
- 25% discount on one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption during the year
- Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass with access to VIP airport lounges for a fee of $32 USD
- Up to 25% discount at National Car Rental and Alamo Rent-a-Car
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Extended warranty and purchase protection
The $120 annual fee for the BMO AIR MILES World Elite is waived in year one. Since there is no limit to how many miles you can earn with the card, you could easily accumulate several free flights each year.
Like other World Elite cards, you need a minimum personal income of $80,000 to qualify. An alternative card without the income requirement is the BMO AIR MILES Mastercard.
More Travel Rewards Cards For Canadians
There are a few other travel credit cards that are worth checking out if you plan to travel frequently within and outside of Canada.
17. TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card
The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite comes loaded with bonus TD Points and a full annual fee rebate for the first year.
- $139 annual fee
- Earn 9 TD Points for every $1 spent on travel through Expedia for TD (4.5% reward rate)
- Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on everything else (1.5% reward rate)
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Discounted Priority Pass membership
- Up to 10% off car rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations
Note that a personal income of $60,000 or $100,000 household income is required to be eligible for this card.
18. Home Trust Preferred Visa
The Home Trust Preferred Visa is the second card I recommend if you want a travel credit card with zero foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee
- No foreign currency conversion fees
- Earn 1% unlimited cash back on all purchases
- Purchase security insurance
While the Home Trust Preferred has no sign-up bonus, its no annual fee, 1% flat rewards rate, and savings on foreign currency purchases are noteworthy.
Some downsides to this card include its unavailability to Quebec residents and a limit of 10 transactions per day.
19. STACK Prepaid Mastercard
This prepaid Mastercard comes with many of the benefits you want when you are travelling abroad, and more importantly, there are no monthly or annual fees. You can read my detailed STACK review for more information.
- $0 to $7.99 monthly fee
- No foreign currency exchange fees (when you spend $350+ per month using your card)
- No ATM withdrawal fees
- $5 sign-up bonus (when you load $300+ to your new account)
- Earn cash back rewards on your spending
- Automated savings plan and free budgeting tool
- Get rewarded for every friend you refer
20. CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Card
The CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Card offers a noteworthy set of travel benefits and rewards.
- $139 annual fee
- Complimentary Priority Pass membership with four free VIP airport lounge passes
- Earn 2 points per $1 spent on trips purchased through the CIBC rewards centre
- Earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on gas, grocery, and drugstore purchases
- Earn 1 point per $1 for everything else
- Comprehensive travel and purchase insurance
- Nexus card application fee rebate every fourth year (worth $50)
- Mobile device insurance (up to $1,000)
Methodology:
We have considered many factors to determine the best travel credit cards in Canada. These include the benefits from loyalty programs, credit card earn rates, the flexibility of redeeming points, annual fees, premium perks like travel insurance and airport lounge access, and more.
Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada Compared
Can’t be bothered to read through the full post? I have highlighted the best cards (in my opinion) in each category below:
| Credit Card | Best For | Rewards | Annual Fee |
| Scotiabank Gold American Express Card | Top travel credit card | 1-5 Amex points per $1 spent | $120 |
| American Express Cobalt Card | Best travel card for everyday purchases | 1-5 Amex points per $1 spent | $155.88 |
| Neo Travel Card | Travel perks and cash back on FX purchases | Average 5% cash back | $59.88 ($4.99 monthly) |
| Platinum Card from Amex | Best for airport lounge access and premium perks | 1-3x Amex Membership Rewards points | $699 |
| KOHO Premium Prepaid Mastercard | Best no-fee prepaid travel rewards card | Up to 5% cash back | $9 monthly or $84/year |
| CIBC AC Conversion Visa Card | Best for holding multiple currencies | 1% cash back | No monthly fee |
| The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card | Best travel card for hotels | 2-5 Marriott Bonvoy points for every $1 spent | $120 |
| Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card | Best travel card with no FX fees | 1-3 Scotia Rewards points per $1 spent | $150 |
| Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card | Best no-fee travel credit card for students | Up to 2% cash back | $0 |
| WestJet RBC World Elite Card | Best for maximizing your WestJet Rewards | 1.5%-2% back in WestJet dollars | $119 |
| RBC Avion Visa Infinite | Excellent RBC travel credit card | 1 Avion point per $1; 25% more points for travel purchases | $120 |
| HSBC +Rewards Mastercard | Best for low interest | 2 points per $1 | $25 |
| Tangerine World Mastercard | Best for no-fee premium rewards | Up to 2% cash back | $0 |
| BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard | Best Air Miles credit card | 1-3 reward miles for every $12 spent | $120 |
| Home Trust Preferred Visa | Best no-fee card for no FX fees | 1% unlimited cash back | $0 |
| TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card | Best for earning TD Points | 3-9 TD Points for every $1 spent | $139 |
| MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus Mastercard | Best for no fee and travel rewards | 1-2 points for every $1 spent | $0 |
| Rogers World Elite Mastercard | No FX fees with cash back | 1.5%-3% cash back | $0 |
| STACK Prepaid Mastercard | Best for no-fee travel benefits | Instant cash back | $0 |
| CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Card | Best for VIP airport lounge access | 1-2 points for every $1 spent | $139 |
What is a Travel Credit Card?
Travel credit cards are popular in Canada, and there are two main types: those specific to an airline or hotel and those that offer general travel rewards you can use in more ways.
Some allow you to earn points that you can put towards flights and other travel-related discounts. With others, you earn miles directly.
The value of your rewards can be fixed or variable. For example, if you redeem your rewards for flights, your destination, date of travel, class, etc., can all impact the value of the points.
Many also come with travel-related perks like free access to airline lounges and travel insurance coverage.
Types of Travel Credit Cards in Canada
There are several types of travel credit cards to choose from in Canada.
General Rewards
You can redeem these rewards for different types of travel, not just flights. For example, you may be able to redeem them for stays in hotels, cruises and vacation packages.
These credit cards are more flexible, which is why they are so popular, and you are not restricted to using one airline or staying in one hotel chain.
Hotel Rewards
With these cards, you can redeem your points to stay in hotels for discounts or even get free stays. They are linked to specific chains, and you may get extra bonuses like being able to stay free for your birthday.
You may also get other perks like discounts at the restaurant and free Wifi.
Airline Rewards
With airline rewards cards, you can redeem your points for flights on a specific airline or group of airlines.
You can often transfer your points to another airline in a group. For example, Aeroplan is Air Canada’s loyalty program, but you can use your points for any airline in the Star Alliance network.
You may be able to use your points on vacation packages provided by the airline as well as merchandise. In addition, these credit cards often come with additional perks like priority boarding.
How to Choose a Travel Credit Card in Canada
When choosing a travel credit card in Canada, there are several key areas to consider.
Rewards
Start by looking at the rewards offered. There are different types of rewards, as explained above. For example, you may prefer a specific airline or hotel chain, and you will want to earn points to redeem on an airline or hotel you will use.
How can you redeem the points? Are they just for travel, or can they be used more generally? For example, you might be able to redeem points for gift cards or merchandise.
Earn Rate
How many points can you earn? Naturally, you want as many points as possible. For example, there may be several Aeroplan credit cards, but some may make earning more points easier.
Many cards provide different ways to earn additional points. For example, you could earn more points by spending on specific categories or in specific places.
Annual Fee
You may be tempted by the rewards, but make sure the cost is worth it. Many of the best travel credit cards have an annual fee, and some cost hundreds of dollars.
Make sure you can take full advantage of your card to make the fee worthwhile.
Welcome Bonuses
Look out for welcome bonuses. These change all the time, but they can be excellent and can be especially useful if you are planning a trip.
You may receive many points or miles just to open the account. Or you may have to spend a certain amount on your card to claim them.
Travel Perks
Travel credit cards often come with additional perks, so check whether any are included.
For example, travel insurance is one of the major perks. You may not need to spend extra on travel insurance for your trip because you are already covered by your credit card, saving you hundreds of dollars.
Other perks include:
- Free checked bags for your flight.
- Free access to airport lounges.
- No fees on foreign currency transactions.
- Concierge service to help with booking trips, events, etc.
- Seat upgrades on flights.
- Room upgrades in hotels.
- Discounts on car rentals
Types of Credit Card Travel Insurance in Canada and How Each One Works
Travel insurance coverage is one of the perks offered by many travel credit cards in Canada. But there are several types of travel insurance.
Some cards may include all of these, while others may only include a few.
With all of these, you should find out about limitations. For example, people with pre-existing medical conditions may not be covered.
Out-of-Province Travel Emergency Medical Insurance
This is the most important type of travel insurance. If you have a medical emergency outside of your home province, it could cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This insurance covers the costs, and the maximum amount is usually high.
Travel Accident Insurance
This insurance covers your medical costs if you have an accident while on transportation.
Sometimes it is limited to travelling by plane. But it may include other types of transport like trains.
This insurance will cover your expenses, but limits are usually lower than those for emergency medical insurance.
Travel Interruption/Cancellation Insurance
If you have to cancel your trip or go home early, you may have lots of expenses to cover, including travel costs. This insurance helps to cover these.
However, check the limitations. You can’t often cancel your trip just because you want to. For example, you may only be able to use this insurance if you fall ill or due to the death of a close relative.
Lost/Delayed Baggage Insurance
If your baggage is lost or delayed during your trip, you can get covered up to the maximum amount stated in the policy.
For example, you may face additional expenses while waiting for your baggage to arrive.
Flight Delay Insurance
Flight delays can be very frustrating. But you may be able to get your expenses covered for things like meals and accommodation, often after a set amount of time has passed.
Hotel/Motel Burglary Insurance
This insurance covers the costs if your items are stolen from your hotel or motel room. But there may be restrictions like the types of items covered and the maximum cost per item.
Rental Car Collision/Loss Damage Insurance
You could get this insurance coverage if you rent a car and are involved in a collision or if it’s stolen.
Your rental car company may offer you a collision damage waiver, but you can use your credit card cover instead.
Primary cover means it will become the primary insurance instead of your personal insurance policy, while secondary means it covers anything your personal insurance does not cover.
How Do Travel Credit Card Points Rewards Work?
To get the most out of your travel rewards, you need to understand how they work.
Earn Rate
The earn rate is the number of points or miles you earn per every dollar spent. The more points you can earn, the better.
Some travel credit cards have a flat rate, while others provide more points for purchases in different categories. Some may have a larger earn rate, and you may earn more when you purchase with a partner, like Air Canada for Aeroplan cards.
Points Value
The value of points can change depending on where you travel to, the time of year you travel, and other factors.
You can work out the value of your points depending on the offer. For example, if a flight costs $500 and you can use 20,000 Aeroplan points to buy it, the value of each point is 500/20,000 ($0.025 per point).
You could compare this with another discount and work out which gives you the most value for your points.
Expiration
Points usually remain active while your account is open, but sometimes they may expire if you don’t use them for a year or 18 months.
But as long as you earn at least one point in that time, you should keep the points.
How to Redeem Travel Credit Card Rewards
Depending on the loyalty program, there are different ways to redeem your miles or points.
You will usually be able to redeem points via the credit card issuer’s website. However, if the rewards are offered by an airline or hotel, you can usually redeem them via the website or app when you book your flight or hotel stay.
Consistent Points
These are where points have the same value whatever you redeem them for, and they are the easiest to use.
Fluctuating Points
These are the most common type of reward points, and the value of the points changes based on how you use them.
For example, the value may depend on your destination, travel date, etc. Your points may also be worth less during peak season.
Point Transfers
This is where you can transfer your points to other loyalty programs. For example, when you earn Amex Membership Rewards, you can often transfer these points to several other loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio.
With other point transfers, your points may be worth less after making the transfer.
How to Maximize Travel Credit Card Rewards
You’ll want to get the most out of your credit card rewards, and there are several things you can do:
- Get your welcome bonus by meeting any minimum spending requirements.
- Make purchases in categories where you can earn more points, like groceries, to increase your earn rate.
- Always calculate how much your points are worth before you redeem them.
- Research different rewards programs and choose the one that allows you to get the most benefits based on your spending habits.
- Always pay off your balance, so you don’t have to pay any interest.
How to Apply for a Travel Credit Card in Canada
Applying for a travel credit card is straightforward. First, you need to choose the right card for your situation.
This is the step you want to spend the most time on because you want to ensure you find the best card for your needs.
Check the requirements of the card. For example, there may be a minimum personal or family income requirement, and your credit score will usually need to be good.
You can normally apply via the website. Simply provide your details, and your application may be accepted or rejected immediately, or it may take longer.
Then just wait for your card to arrive, activate it and start using it.
Benefits of Travel Credit Card
- Save on flights, hotels and other travel-related expenses.
- Enjoy premium perks like free access to airport lounges.
- You may get travel insurance coverage included.
- Earn points for your everyday spending.
- Transfer your points to other loyalty programs.
Downsides of Travel Credit Card
- Some cards have expensive annual fees.
- There may be restrictions when it comes to travel insurance and other perks.
- Sometimes redeeming points can be complicated when the point values change.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are many excellent travel credit cards in Canada, but we recommend the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card as the best overall travel credit card.
You will usually need a score of 660 or over to apply for a travel credit card. You may want to apply for a prepaid travel card if you have a lower score.
There are several factors to consider, including the rewards, earn rate, premium perks, travel insurance coverage, ease of redeeming points, annual fee, and any application requirements like a minimum personal income amount.
Conclusion
Check out this list for some of the best travel credit cards available in Canada. The cards vary in many ways, including annual fees, types of rewards and earn rates, income eligibility, travel insurance coverage, and more.
Depending on what your travel preferences and needs are, one or two of these cards should be able to satisfy your wanderlust requirements and save you money while you are at it!
Related: Best Aeroplan Credit Cards in Canada.
Which card has the best travel reward rate for everyday spending? I travel once or twice a year to Mexico and sometimes to Europe/Asia. I spend around 25000$ a month on my card most of which is everyday spending.
@Daniel: Right now the Scotia Gold AMEX is looking very good. Depending on your tastes for reward type, you could also take a look at the AMEX Cobalt, TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite (for Aeroplan miles) and BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard (Air Miles).
You can read more about the Scotiabank Gold American Express here: https://www.savvynewcanadians.com/scotiabank-gold-american-express-card-review/
I have no Out of Province insurance. Which credit card will give me the best travel medical and cancellation insurance coverage. I may take 2 trips to Florida and one European trip annually. I am currently 68 and good health.
Thank you.