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19 Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada for April 2024

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Our picks for Canada’s best travel credit cards include top cards across numerous categories to help you earn discounts, perks and rewards before your next trip.

• The best travel credit cards in Canada
• Why you should trust us
• Summary of our selections

How travel credit cards work in Canada

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card

Intro offer details: Earn up to $1,200 in value†, including up to 50,000 Aeroplan points† (enough for a round trip to New York City†), and additional travel benefits. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024. †Terms and conditions apply.

Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada from Our Partners

Best travel credit cards in canada, best overall.

Best overall travel card

Scotiabank platinum american express® card.

• Earn up to $2,100* in value in your first 14 months, including up to 60,000* bonus Scene+ points. Offer ends October 31, 2024.
• You will not pay 2.5% foreign transaction fees on any foreign currency purchases, including online shopping and when travelling abroad. Only the exchange rate applies.
• Earn 2X Scene+™ points for every $1 CAD you spend on all your eligible purchases.
• Scene+ points can be redeemed for travel purchase, merchandise and other non-travel rewards such as gift cards and prepaid cards.
• You must redeem a minimum of 5,000 points per travel-related rewards redemption, equivalent to $50 in travel savings. Points must be redeemed within 12 months of the purchase date.
• $399 annual fee.
• Redeem points for any flight, any time through Scene+ Travel, a full-service travel agency. Plus, take advantage of a best price guarantee on airfare.
• Get a Hertz #1 Club Gold membership for special privileges and rental car benefits at over 8,500 locations in 147 countries.
• Enjoy culinary events and experiences, entertainment, luxury fashion, tours, and more through American Express benefits, including American Express Invites, Platinum VIP offers and access to 24/7 premium concierge services for restaurant reservations, show tickets, and gift purchases.
• Lounge access at over 600 VIP airport lounges around the world with a complimentary Priority Pass membership, which includes 10 free visits per year.
• 12 types of insurance provided, including 31-day travel medical benefits — up to $2 million in coverage — for you, your spouse and any dependent children under the age of 65. 10-day coverage available for those over the age of 65.
• Preferred rates: 9.99% for purchases, 9.99% for cash advances.
• To be eligible, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
• Terms and Conditions Apply. Click ‘Apply Now’ for complete details.

If this card doesn’t seem like a good fit for your wallet, take a look at NerdWallet’s selection of the  best credit cards  to help find the right option for you.

Best for: Expedia bookings

Td first class travel® visa infinite* card.

• Earn up to $800 in value†, including up to 100,000 TD Rewards Points† and no Annual Fee for the first year†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.
• Earn a welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Rewards Points when you make your first Purchase with your Card†.
• Earn 80,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $5,000 within 180 days of Account opening†.
• Earn a Birthday Bonus of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points†.
• To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening.
• To receive the first Additional Cardholder first-year annual fee rebate, you must add your first Additional Cardholder by June 4, 2024.
• Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†.
• Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on Groceries and Restaurants†.
• Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on regularly recurring bill payments set up on your Account†.
• Earn 2 TD Rewards Points For every $1 you spend on other Purchases made using your Card† plus earn an annual Birthday Bonus† of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points.
• No travel blackouts†, no seat restrictions† and no expiry† for your TD Rewards Points as long as your account is open and in good standing.
• Each year, you will receive one $100.00 TD Travel Credit on your first Eligible Travel Credit Purchase of $500.00 or more made with Expedia For TD and posted to the Account in a calendar year.
• Interest Rates: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances.
• Go Places on Points: Your Points are worth more when you redeem through Expedia® For TD: Search over a million flights, hotels, packages and more! When you’re ready to book, you can redeem† your TD Rewards Points towards your travel purchase right away.
• Redeem your TD Rewards Points towards making purchases at Amazon.ca with Amazon Shop with Points. Conditions apply.
• Shop online through TDRewards.com Redeem your TD Rewards Points for great deals on a wide selection of merchandise and gift cards.
• Option to purchase TD Auto Club Membership†: and be covered 24 hours a day for emergency roadside assistance services in case something goes wrong when you are out on the road.
• Travel Medical Insurance†: Up to $2 million of coverage for the first 21 days. If you or your spouse is aged 65 or older, you are covered for the first 4 days of your trip. Additional top-up coverage is available.
• Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance†: For Trip Cancellation, up to $1,500 of coverage per insured person, with a maximum of $5,000 for all insured persons, and for Trip Interruption, up to $5,000 of coverage per insured person, with a maximum of $25,000 for all insured persons on the same covered trip.
• To be eligible, $60,000 (individual) or $100,000 (household) annual income is required. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
• †Terms and conditions apply.
• This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
• The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button.

Best for: Airport lounge access

The platinum card® from american express.

• Unlock special experiences with the Platinum Card®.
• Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points – that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away.
• New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership.
• Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada, 2points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases.
• Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit through American Express Travel Online or Platinum® Card Travel Service.
• Enjoy a $200 Annual Dining Credit at some of Canada’s best restaurants.
• Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member extras. You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands.
• Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge Collection™ which unlocks access to over 1300 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience.
• Enjoy flexible ways to use your points such as statement credits for any eligible purchase charged to your Card, new travel purchases booked on American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program, and eligible flights through the Fixed Points Travel Program.
• Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
• Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $600 USD at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts
• Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities.
• Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport.
• You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Hertz and Avis.
• Interest applies in accordance with your Cardmember Agreement, Information Box, and Disclosure statement if the total New Balance is not paid by the Payment Due Date each month. All payments must be received by the Payment Due Date shown on the monthly statement.
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.

Best for: Aeroplan points

American express® aeroplan® reserve card.

• New American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Cardmembers can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points.
• Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points after spending $7,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months.
• Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases in month 13.
• That’s up to $2,600 or more in value when you combine your welcome bonus points and card benefits.
• New Offer: Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 consecutive hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Offer ends December 31, 2024.
• Highest Air Canada earn rate on an Aeroplan payment card in Canada: Earn 3X the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*.
• Standard Earn Rate: Earn 2X the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada and earn 1.25X the points on everything else.
• Get through the airport quicker with Air Canada Priority Check-In, Air Canada Priority Boarding and Air Canada Priority Baggage Handling.
• Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges™* and Air Canada Café™ in North America for you and a guest, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance flight.
• Enjoy your eligible first checked bag free for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights.
• Roll over any unallocated Aeroplan Elite™* Status Qualifying Miles and unused eUpgrade Credits to the following year to enjoy during your travels.
• Get access to more than 1,200 Priority Pass™ airport lounges and enjoy an oasis of comfort before your flight, regardless of your airline or cabin class.
• Insurance Coverage: whether you’re shopping nearby or travelling abroad, you can feel confident knowing you can be taken care of.
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.

Best for: Hotel rewards

Marriott bonvoy® american express®* card.

• Travel to new heights with the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.
• Earn up to 80,000 Points:
• New Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Cardmembers, earn 65,000 Welcome Bonus points after you spend $3,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership.
• Plus, earn an additional 3 points for a total of 5 points on every $1 spent on eligible travel and gas purchases in your first 6 months (up to 15,000 points).
• Offer ends May 6, 2024.
• Earn 5 points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
• Earn 2 points for every $1 in all other Card purchases.
• Receive an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary.
• No annual fee on Additional Cards.
• Redeem points for free nights with no blackout dates at over 7,000 of the world’s most desired hotels.
• Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership.
• Receive 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card. These can be used towards attaining the next level of Elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy program.
• Enjoy an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card each year or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your card.
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. Conditions Apply. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.

Best for: British Airways flyers

Rbc® british airways visa infinite‡.

• Intro offer: Get Up to 60,000 Aviosˆ: Receive 15,000 Avios as welcome bonus upon approval. 35,000 bonus Avios when you spend $6,000 CAD in the first 3 months. Another 10,000 bonus Avios after your first yearˆ.
• Earn 3 Avios for every $1 CAD spent at British Airways and British Airways Holidays
• Earn 2 Avios for every $1 CAD spent on qualifying dining spend
• Earn 1 Avios for every $1 CAD spent on all other qualifying net purchases
• Earn a companion voucher when you spend $30,000 CAD annually. You can either take a companion with you or fly solo instead for a 50% Avios discount on the cost of one reward seat ticket. Plus, you’ll have the flexibility to pay a lower, flat fee to cover taxes, fees and carrier charges and a fixed Avios amount when you make a Reward Flight booking.
• Eligible members who spend a minimum of $30,000 CAD on qualifying purchases on their card in a calendar year (“calendar year” refers to the time period starting from January 1 and ending December 31) will receive a maximum of one Companion Voucher for that calendar year. See ba.com/rbc-visa for full terms and conditions.
• 10% off British Airways flights when you book and pay with your card∞
• Redeem for flights and more – you can spend your Avios on all of the travel things you love, including cabin upgrades with British Airways or reward flights with British Airways and any of the oneworld partner airlines to almost 1,000 destinations worldwide**
• Comprehensive Insurances including 31–day out of country/province emergency medical insurance¹, flight delay insurance², hotel burglary³ and rental car⁴ insurance. Even eligible purchases you make with the card are protected³.
• Luxury Visa Infinite benefits⁵ such as first in line service for exclusive events and hotel and dining exclusives via www.visainfinite.ca
• Complimentary 24/7 Concierge Service⁵.
• Link your RBC card with a Petro-Points membership to instantly save 3₵ per litre on fuel at Petro-Canada stations and earn 20% more Petro-Points and 20% more Avion points
• Get $0 delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash
• Link your RBC British Airways Visa Infinite card with a Rexall Be Well account and get 50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall. Redeem Be Well points faster for savings in store on eligible purchases where 25,000 Be Well points = $10
• Eligibility: This card requires a minimum personal income of $60,000 or a minimum household income of $100,000. Must also be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory of residence.
• Corresponding legal references and product terms are available on the RBC website, which will be available and agreed upon in the customer onboarding process.

Best for: AIR MILES rewards

Bmo air miles®† world elite®* mastercard®*.

• Welcome offer: Get 2,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles and we’ll waive the $120 annual fee for the first year.*
• Get 3x the Miles for every $12 spent at participating AIR MILES Partners and 2x the Miles for every $12 spent at any eligible grocery store*.
• Earn 1 reward mile for every $12 in credit card purchases, everywhere you spend.*
• Get valuable benefits and offers for digital everyday services from a variety of on-demand apps and subscription services.
• Use your card at Costco.*
• Extended Warranty.
• Access over 1 million Wi-Fi hotspots around the world – all at no added cost, and no added fees or roaming charges.*
• Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass.*
• Use less Miles with our exclusive 25% discount on one worldwide AIR MILES flight redemption during the calendar year.*
• BMO AIR MILES World Elite Travel and Medical Protection.*
• BMO Concierge Service.*
• Unlock Mastercard Travel Rewards cashback offers when you travel and shop outside of Canada.
• *Terms and conditions apply.
• BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.

Best for: Newcomers to Canada

Scotiabank passport™ visa infinite* card.

• Earn up to $1,100+ in value in the first 12 months, including up to 35,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived on your first supplementary card. Offer Ends January 3, 2024.
• The only major bank credit card offering you no foreign transaction fees, including for shopping online or abroad.
• Your Award Winning Card For Travel.
• Earn 2 Scene+ points on every $1 you spend on eligible grocery stores, dining, entertainment purchases, and daily transit purchases (including buses, subways, taxis and more).
• Earn 1 Scene+ point on every $1 you spend on all other eligible purchases.
• You’ll earn 3X Scene+ points for each dollar charged to your account on all eligible purchases¹ at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by IGA, Voilà by Safeway, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, IGA West, Les Marchés TradItIon, Rachelle Béry and Co-Op.
• Airport lounge access through complimentary Visa Airport Companion Program membership, plus six complimentary lounge visits per year from the date of enrollment, providing you with access to 1,200+ airport lounges globally, including participating Plaza Premium Lounges.
• Visa Infinite* benefits including Visa Infinite Concierge, Visa Infinite* Luxury Hotel Collection, Visa Infinite* Dining Series, and Entertainment & Lifestyle Offers.
• Access to Scotia SelectPay™.
• To be eligible, $60,000 (individual) or $100,000 (household) annual income is required, or a minimum assets under management of $250,000. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.

If this card doesn’t seem like a good fit for your wallet, take a look at NerdWallet’s selection of the best newcomer credit cards to help find the right option for you.

Best for: Cash back

Bmo cashback® world elite®* mastercard®*.

• Welcome offer: Get up to 10% cash back in your first 3 months and the $120 annual fee waived in the first year.*
• Earn more cash back on the categories that mean the most: 5% on groceries.* 4% on transit including ride sharing, taxis and public transportation.* 3% on gas and electric vehicle charging.* 2% on recurring bill payments like your monthly phone bill or favourite streaming service.* 1% unlimited cashback on all other purchases.*
• Get the highest cash back earn rate on groceries in Canada.†
• Extended Warranty Plus.*
• Purchase Protection Plus.*
• Complimentary membership in Mastercard Airport Experiences provided by LoungeKey.*
• Complimentary Roadside Assistance Program.*
• BMO CashBack World Elite Travel and Medical Protection.*
• †Statement based on a comparison of the non-promotional grocery rewards earn rate on Canadian cash back credit cards as of January 4, 2023.

Best for: WestJet flyers

Westjet rbc world elite mastercard.

• Get up to $450 in WestJet dollars¹ with the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard. Plus, get a Round-Trip Companion Voucher Every Year – for any WestJet destination starting from $119 CAD³ (plus taxes, fees, charges and other ATC).
• Get free first checked bags for the primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same reservation⁴
• Earn WestJet dollars 1.5% on everyday purchases and 2% on flights or packages with WestJet or WestJet Vacations⁸
• WestJet dollars never expire¹⁰ Use your WestJet dollars to book flights anytime so you can travel when and where you want.
• No blackout periods.
• Travel coverage including emergency medical insurance²⁰ as well as trip interruption insurance²¹, hotel burglary¹⁸ and rental car insurance¹⁸. Even eligible purchases you make on the card are protected.
• Link your RBC card with a Petro-Points membership to and instantly save 3₵ per litre on fuel¹² and always earn 20% more Petro-Points¹³ at Petro-Canada.
• Free Boingo Wifi for Mastercard holders¹¹ at over 1 million hot spots.
• Get $0 delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash^. Add your eligible RBC credit card to your DoorDash account to: Get a 12-month complimentary DashPass subscription± – a value of almost $120. Enjoy unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fees on orders of $15 or more when you pay with your eligible RBC credit card.
• Eligibility: This card requires a minimum personal income of $80,000 or a minimum household income of $150,000. Must also be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory of residence.

Best for: Aventura points

Cibc aventura® gold visa* card.

• Earn up to 35,000 Aventura Points (up to $800 in value) during your first year. Receive 15,000 Aventura Points when you spend $3,000 or more in the first 4 monthly statement periods.
• Get a one-time annual fee rebate ($139) for you (the primary cardholder) and up to three authorized users ($50 each): over $189 value.
• Enjoy 4 complimentary visits with the Visa Airport Companion Program.
• Plus, get a NEXUS Application Fee rebate: a $50 value.
• Offer applies to newly approved card accounts only.
• 2x for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre.
• 1.5x on for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations, grocery stores and drug stores, up to $80,000 annual spend.
• 1x for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• 1x for every $4.00 spent on a CIBC Global Money Transfer, through June 30, 2022.
• Redeem points for airline tickets, merchandise, gift cards and more.
• Apply points to your CIBC Aventura card balance or select CIBC financial products.
• $139 annual fee.
• Access to more than 1,300 airport lounges across the globe. Priority Pass membership with 4 complimentary lounge visits a year. Zip in and out of the country with a rebate on one NEXUS™ application fee every 4 years.
• Fly any airline with points that don’t expire.
• Use Aventura Points to cover full airfare including taxes and fees.
• Link your Journie Rewards card to save on every fill-up at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stationsabout the features of this card.
• Visa’s Zero Liability Policy and Fraud Alerts.
• Valuable insurance included: Out-of-Province Emergency Travel Medical Insurance, Flight Delay and Baggage Insurance, Auto Rental Collision and Loss Damage Insurance, $500,000 Common Carrier Accident Insurance, Purchase Security and Extended Protection Insurance, Hotel Burglary Insurance and Mobile Device Insurance.
• Access to installment plans through CIBC Pace It.
• Preferred rates: 20.99% for purchases, and 22.99% for cash advances (21.99% for Quebec residents).
• To be eligible, a $15,000 individual annual income is required and you must be a Canadian resident that has reached the age of majority in your province.

Best for: Students

Cibc aeroplan® visa card for students.

• 1x Aeroplan points per dollar on gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries and Air Canada travel purchases, up to $40,000 annual spend.
• 1x Aeroplan points per $1.50 spent on all other purchases, including gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries and Air Canada travel purchases that exceed the $40,000 threshold.
• Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partners and 170+ online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.
• Aeroplan Points never expire and can be redeemed for a variety of travel, merchandise, gift card, and other rewards offered by Aeroplan’s participating partners and suppliers.
• $0 annual fee.
• Get three free months of Uber Pass for discounts on rides, meals and more. Offer ends September 8, 2022.
• Earn 1 Aeroplan point for every $6 spent on CIBC Global Money Transfer, with no transaction fees or interest as long as you pay your balance on time. Offer ends June 30, 2022.
• Maximize your points by adding up to three additional cards and giving them to your spouse or other family members. Points can be shared with other Aeroplan members in your household.
• Earn points by using your CIBC Aeroplan Visa to automatically make recurring bill payments.
• Receive preferred pricing when paying for flights with your Aeroplan points.
• Save up to 25% on car rentals at participating Budget and Avis locations worldwide when paying with your card.
• Save up to 10 cents per litre at participating Chevron, Ultramar and Pioneer gas stations if you link your card with Journie Rewards.
• Use the CIBC Pace It feature to make installment payments on large purchases.
• Four types of insurance are provided: auto rental collision and loss damage insurance, purchase security, extended protection insurance, and $100,000 in common carrier accident insurance.
• Preferred rates: 20.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances.
• To be eligible, you must have full-time status in a college or university.

Best for: Businesses

Td® aeroplan® visa* business card.

• Earn up to 60,000 Aeroplan points¹, with no Annual Fee in the first year¹. Conditions Apply. Account must be opened by June 3, 2024.
• Earn 2 Aeroplan points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada, including Air Canada Vacations.
• Earn 1.5 Aeroplan points for every dollar spent on eligible travel, dining and select business categories, such as shipping, internet, cable and phone services.
• Earn 1 Aeroplan point for every dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• Earn points twice when paying with a TD Aeroplan Visa Business Card and providing an Aeroplan number at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and more than 170 online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore.
• Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, merchandise, gift cards and more. They can also be used to pay down the card’s balance.
• Linked cards earn 50% more Aeroplan points and Stars at participating Starbucks stores.
• $149 annual fee — rebated in the first year.
• Free first checked bag for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights.
• One free one-time guest pass to Maple Leaf Lounges for every $10,000 in net purchases. Maximum of 4 passes a year.
• Reach Aeroplan Elite Status more quickly by earning 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and one Status Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 in net purchases.
• Access online reporting, review business expenses, managing existing credit limits and apply spend controls through the TD Card Management Tool.
• Visa SavingsEdge program: save up to 25% on eligible business purchases.
• Travel benefits: travel medical insurance (up to $2 million in coverage for the first 15 days for those under 65; coverage lasts for 4 days for those 65 and older); common carrier travel accident insurance (up to $500,000 for covered losses), trip cancellation insurance (up to $1,500 per insured person; maximum of $5,000), trip interruption insurance (up to $5,000 per insured person; maximum of $25,000), flight/trip delay insurance (up to $500 if a flight or trip is delayed for longer than 4 hours), delayed and lost baggage insurance (up to $1,000 of overall coverage per insured person), auto rental collision/loss damage insurance (covers the full cost of a car rental for up to 48 days), hotel/motel burglary insurance (up to $2,500), mobile device insurance (up to $1,000 in coverage).
• Toll-free emergency travel assistance services.
• Receive a rebate of up to $100 on NEXUS enrolment application/renewal fee costs once every 48 months.
• Save a minimum of 10% on the lowest available base rates in Canada and the U.S., and a minimum of 5% on the lowest base rates internationally on qualifying car rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations.
• Visa Zero Liability protection, Verified by Visa and instant alerts to prevent fraudulent card use.
• Purchase security and extended warranty protection.
• Minimum credit limit of $1,000.
• Interest rates: 14.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances.

Best for: USD purchases

Rogers™ mastercard®.

• No annual fee.
• 10% cashback on eligible purchases for the first three months, up to $1,000 spend.
• 2% unlimited cash back on all eligible purchases if you have 1 qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw.
• For cardholders who don’t have a qualifying service, earn 2% unlimited cash back on U.S. dollar purchases and 1% unlimited cash back on all other eligible purchases.
• 1.5x More cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases – that’s a 3% cash back value.
• Get five free Roam Like Home days in 185 destinations for talk, text and data.
• Pay your bill using your mobile phone device.
• Transaction monitoring and fraud alerts.
• Balance protection insurance helps pay your minimum payment in the event of illness, disability or job loss.
• To apply, you must be the age of majority, be a resident of Canada, and have not filed for bankruptcy in the last seven years or have worked with a trustee under a formal Consumer Proposal.

Best for: Rewards on travel spending

Td® aeroplan® visa infinite privilege* credit card.

• Earn up to $2,900 in value† including up to 85,000 Aeroplan points (enough for a round trip to Honolulu†) and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.
• Earn a welcome bonus of 20,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase with your new card†.
• Earn an additional 40,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $10,000 within 180 days of Account opening†.
• Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $15,000 within 12 months of Account opening†.
• Earn 2 points† for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®).
• Earn 1.5 points† for every $1 spent on eligible gas, grocery, travel and dining purchases.
• Earn 1.25 points† for every $1 spent on all other purchases made with your Card.
• Earn points twice when you pay with your Card and provide your Aeroplan number at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and at 170+ online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore.
• Global Airport Lounge Access†: Receive a complimentary membership to the Visa Airport Companion† Program hosted by Dragonpass International Ltd. and take advantage of six lounge visits included for each Cardholder per membership year at over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide. Enroll through the Visa Airport Companion App or through visaairportcompanion.ca
• Complimentary Visa Infinite Concierge† : On-call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the Visa Infinite Concierge can help with any Cardholder request — big or small, to help you get the most out of life whenever you travel, shop and use your Card.
• Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection†: Receive seven exclusive benefits when you book your stay through the Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection featuring over 900 of the world’s most intriguing properties. Enjoy an additional 8th benefit at over 200 properties, exclusively for Visa Infinite Privilege cardholders.
• Travel Medical Insurance†: Up to $5 million of coverage for the first 31 days. If you or your spouse is aged 65 or older, you are covered for the first 4 days of your trip. Additional top-up coverage is available.
• Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance†: For Trip Cancellation coverage of up to $2,500 per insured person, with a maximum of $5,000 for all insured persons, and for Trip Interruption coverage of up to $5,000 per insured person, with a maximum of $25,000 for all insured persons on the same covered trip.
• Flight/Trip Delay Insurance†: Up to $1,000 in coverage per insured person if your flight/trip is delayed for over 4 hours.
• Delayed and Lost Baggage Insurance†: For delayed baggage over 4 hours, up to $1,000 of coverage per insured person for the purchase of essentials, such as clothing and toiletries. For lost baggage, up to $2,500 of coverage per insured person.
• Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance†: Up to $500,000 of coverage for covered losses while travelling on a common carrier (for example, a bus, ferry, plane, train or auto rental).
• Save time at the border with NEXUS: Enroll for a NEXUS and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate (up to $100 CAD)†. Additional Cardholders can also take advantage of this NEXUS rebate.
• To be eligible, $150,000 annual personal income or $200,000 household annual income is required. Also, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.

Best for: NEXUS rebates

Cibc aventura visa infinite card.

• Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre.
• Earn 1.5 points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations, grocery stores and drug stores, up to $80,000 annual spend.
• Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on other purchases or on category spending in excess of the $80,000 annual limit.
• Earn 1 Aventura Point for every $4.00 spent on a CIBC Global Money Transfer. There are no transaction fees, and you won’t be charged interest as long as you pay your balance by the payment due date.
• Use Aventura Points to cover full airfare, including taxes and fees.
• To redeem your points for hotel stays, vacation packages, cruises, merchandise, gift cards and one-of-a-kind activities, visit the CIBC Rewards Centre.
• Use your Aventura Points to help pay down your credit card balance or contribute them to select financial products.
• Enjoy an annual fee rebate every year for the primary cardholder of up to $139 if you have a CIBC Smart Plus Account.
• Out-of-province emergency travel medical insurance.
• Flight delay and baggage insurance.
• Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance.
• Auto rental collision and loss damage insurance.
• $500,000 common carrier accident insurance.
• Purchase security and extended protection insurance.
• Hotel burglary insurance.
• Mobile device insurance.
• Kick back in a comfortable lounge before boarding and enjoy your four complimentary visits with the Visa Airport Companion Program. Zip in and out of the country with a rebate on one NEXUS application fee every four years.
• Score luxury upgrades, tickets and tours through Visa Infinite Exclusive Offers.
• Fly any airline with points that don’t expire. Access personalized travel booking and trip planning with no booking fees through the Aventura Travel Assistant.
• Link your Journie Rewards card to save on every fill-up at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stations.
• To be eligible, a $60,000 individual or $100,000 household minimum annual income is required.

Best prepaid card

Ac™ conversion visa* prepaid card.

• General fees and features: There’s no fee to order the card, no fee to load it, and no annual fee.
• Purchases: No fees for CAD purchases and no conversion fees when you make a purchase in one of 10 supported foreign currencies. There’s a 2.5% foreign conversion fee for transactions made in a currency other than the 10 supported currencies. The daily (24-hour) maximum point-of-sale purchase limit is $2,999.99 CAD equivalent.
• Reload methods: To load funds onto your card, use your mobile app or sign onto your account at acconversion.cibc.com. The website also works on your phone or tablet on the go. The maximum load amount for a single transaction is $2,999.99 CAD equivalent.
• Lock in a great exchange rate each time you load. That means you don’t have to worry about exchange rate fluctuations. Plus, there’s no extra conversion fee.
• Shop with foreign currency on global e-commerce sites.
• Manage your funds from the palm of your hand with the AC conversion App. Reload as you go so you never run out of currency on your trip. Check your balance, keep track of your spending, transfer money from one currency to another, and retrieve your PIN.
• Protected by advanced chip and PIN technology to minimize fraud and theft. It also comes with Emergency Card Replacement Service, Emergency Cash Service and Protection from unauthorized use of cards or account information.
• Sign up for your card online or at a CIBC Banking Centre in Pearson Airport. You don’t need to be a CIBC client to order a card. No credit check is required.

Best for: Premium travel perks

Cibc aeroplan® visa infinite privilege card.

• Get up to 110,000 Points: You’ll receive 20,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase, another 30,000 points if you spend $6,000 or more during your first four monthly statement periods, and 60,000 more points as an additional anniversary bonus if you have at least $25,000 in net eligible purchases posted on your account during the first 12 monthly statement periods. This offer only applies to newly approved card accounts.
• 2x Aeroplan points on Air Canada purchases, including Air Canada Travel Vacations.
• 1.5x Aeroplan points on gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries, travel and dining, up to annual $100,000 spend.
• 1.25x Aeroplan points on other purchases.
• Earn points twice by providing your Aeroplan number at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and over 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.
• Points can be redeemed for flights, car rentals and hotel stays, as well as complete vacation packages like cruises and all-inclusive resort visits. Points can also be redeemed for gift cards and merchandise sold through the Aeroplan eStore.
• $599 annual fee, which can be reduced by up to $139 each year if you have a CIBC Smart Plus account.
• An annual Worldwide Companion Pass, worth up to $599, to any destination in the world that Air Canada flies when you spend $25,000 on your card.
• Exclusive access to Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Program, Visa Infinite Dining Series and the Visa Infinite Wine Country Program.
• Reach Aeroplan Elite status sooner by earning 1,000 Status Qualifying miles and one Status Qualifying segment for every $5,000 you spend on eligible purchases.
• Save up to 25% on car rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations.
• Authorized users can access travel benefits when travelling without you by linking their Aeroplan number.
• Access to CIBC Pace It, an installment plan designed to help you pay off large or unexpected purchases over time at a lower interest rate.
• 13 types of insurance provided, including 31-day travel medical benefits (10 days if you’re 65 or older on your departure date) — worth up to $5 million in coverage per insured person.
• To be eligible, $150,000 (individual) or $200,000 (household) annual income is required. You must be a Canadian resident who has reached the age of majority in your province or territory and who hasn’t made a bankruptcy claim in the last seven years.

Honourable mention: Flat-rate rewards

Cwb world elite® mastercard®.

• Reward yourself faster by earning 2 points for every $1 spent on your purchases, up to a $25,000 annual spending limit. After that, earn 1 point per $1 spent.
• Earn more with CWB Rewards partners by earning up to 30 rewards points on every $1 spent.
• Redeem CWB Rewards powered by Brim as cash back or to pay for purchases.
• Free Global Wi-Fi access to over 1 million Boingo Wi-Fi hotspots.
• Lounge access, exclusive restaurant offers, airport transfers and security fast track with Mastercard Travel Pass.
• Feel fully protected with 15 types of insurance coverage, including mobile device insurance.
• To be eligible, an $80,000 annual income or $150,000 household income is required.

Methodology: How we evaluate cards

NerdWallet Canada selects the best travel rewards credit cards based on overall consumer value as well as their suitability for specific kinds of travellers. Factors in our  evaluation methodology  include each card’s annual fee, foreign transaction fees, rewards earning rates, ease of use, redemption options, domestic and international acceptance, promotional APR period, bonus offers, insurance offers, and cardholder perks such as automatic statement credits and airport lounge access.

Summary of the best travel credit cards

Travel rewards credit cards earn points or miles as a reward for making eligible purchases. The type and rate of rewards you earn depends on the travel credit card you have. Additionally, how you can use those rewards may depend on the loyalty program associated with your card.

Why get a travel credit card?

Travel rewards credit cards account for 22% of credit cards in Canada, according to a 2021 report by Payments Canada. Outside reduced travel costs, travel cards can offer travel insurance, airport lounge access , baggage fee discounts, no foreign transaction fees and more. The right travel credit card can help you plan trips and access upgraded services that may have once been out of reach.

Types of travel credit cards in Canada

Generally speaking, there are three different categories of travel rewards credit cards. Knowing how they differ will help you determine what card is best for you.

General travel rewards credit cards

If you’re not loyal to one specific airline or hotel chain, then a general travel rewards program is something that will interest you. The points you earn can typically be used for any type of travel redemption, such as airfare, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and even vacation packages. Since your points don’t belong to one specific program, you have more options.

Some general travel rewards credit cards only allow you to use your points when booking travel through their online portal, while others let you use your points for any travel purchases you charge to your card.

Airline rewards credit cards

Airline credit cards allow you to earn points or miles for a specific airline. What’s interesting about airline credit cards is that the points you earn can usually be used on any airline that’s part of their network.

For example, Aeroplan is the loyalty program for Air Canada. Even if you don’t have one of the best Aeroplan credit cards, you can redeem your points for a flight on any carrier that’s part of the Star Alliance network. There are also some general travel rewards programs, such as Air Miles , that also earn miles and can offer some additional value.

Depending on the tier of your airline rewards credit card, you may get additional perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding and increased status. Having an airline credit card is highly lucrative if you frequently fly with one airline or network.

Hotel rewards credit cards

While some people love the idea of free flights, getting a luxury stay at a nice hotel appeals to other people. Some would argue that hotel rewards are better than airline rewards since some hotel chains have a greater reach. For example, Marriott has over 7,000 properties in 130+ countries, so no matter where you’re travelling, it won’t be hard to find a room where you can use your points.

Hotel rewards credit cards will also typically include benefits that will make your stay more comfortable. For instance, you could get early check-in and late check-out. You could also get free high speed WiFi or enhanced status.

Additional rewards to look for in a travel card

Besides the main rewards categories that come with travel credit cards, consider the additional perks that are included. These extra perks can often be the thing that helps you choose one card over another.

Consider the following benefits that often come with travel rewards credit cards:

• Free checked bags. Airlines charge anywhere from $30-$60 per checked bag, each way, so getting free checked bags can save you a fair amount of money.
• Airport lounge access. Some credit cards include airport lounge access , plus free annual lounge passes. These benefits could easily have a value of over $300, so it can offset any annual fee you might pay.
• Travel insurance. An extensive travel insurance package is included on some credit cards. This could cover things such as medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and more.
• No foreign transaction fees. Many credit cards charge a 2.5% fee when you make a purchase in any currency that’s not Canadian dollars. You simply pay the straight exchange rate if your card has no foreign transaction fees .
• Extended warranty. Many credit cards will lengthen your warranty up to one additional year as long as you charge the full cost of the purchase to your card.
• Price protection. If you find a lower price after making a purchase, some credit cards will give you back the difference if it falls within a specific period.
• Concierge service. A credit card concierge can help you with basic tasks such as booking travel, ordering fits and securing event tickets.

As you can see, the list of additional benefits you can get with your travel rewards credit cards can be pretty extensive. Some of the best travel credit cards in Canada will have many of the above benefits, but not all of them. Always prioritize the perks that are important to you when applying for a credit card .

Travel credit card pros and cons

• Earn points or miles to reduce travel costs, like discounted flights and hotel stays.
• Get additional perks, like travel insurance, discounted baggage fees, airport lounge access and more.
• Earn introductory bonus points when you sign up for certain travel credit cards.
• Some cards let you transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• Many travel credit cards carry annual fees.
• Blackout periods may restrict when you can redeem your points.
• Introductory bonus offers may require you to spend a large sum of money in a short period of time.
• Some travel rewards points expire if you don’t use them quickly enough.

Using travel rewards

Understanding travel credit card earn rates.

The earn rate on a travel credit card is the number of rewards points or miles you earn on each dollar spent.

Some cards offer a flat rate, meaning you earn the same rewards on every purchase. For example, you may earn 2 points for every $1 you spend with your card.

Most rewards credit cards have a tiered rewards structure when making purchases. The type of structure can vary quite a bit between cards. For example, you may have an accelerated earn rate on purchases made in certain categories, such as travel, groceries, gas and drugstores. All other purchases will use the lower base earn rate.

Ideally, you want to choose a credit card with an accelerated earn rate that is aligned with your spending habits.

“You have to make sure the loyalty program is going to let you do what you want,” says Laura Scheck, vice president of credit cards at Scotiabank. “Or else you’ll end up with points that you can’t necessarily use. And no one wants to be in that situation. Points are fun!”

Additionally, travel credit cards may deliver additional points or miles when you make purchases with their main partner, if they have one. For example, an Aeroplan credit card gives you an accelerated earn rate on Air Canada purchases. Some loyalty programs even have a network of partners where you can earn additional points or miles.

How to calculate the value of travel credit card points

Knowing how to calculate the value of your points or miles is essential since not every redemption value is the same. By establishing a baseline value for your points, you can decide if specific redemptions are worth it — even if you’re not getting the maximum value.

The formula used to determine the value of one point is as follows:

Cash value of the redemption x 100 / number of points required = Cost per point

Let’s say you want to fly from Vancouver to Toronto, and it’s going to cost $585 in cash, or 25,000 Aeroplan points, plus $75 in taxes. You would use the following formula. Note that since you have to pay $75 in taxes, you’d have to subtract that amount from the cash value for an accurate assessment.

$510 x 100 / 25,000 = 2.04 cents per point

This formula can be applied to any redemption regardless of the loyalty program. For example, let’s say you want to redeem 13,400 points for a $100 gift card. Your formula would be the following:

$100 x 100 / 13,400 = .75 cents per point

The flight is a better bang for your points if these redemption options are available with the same program.

Do travel rewards points ever expire?

It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been a loyalty program member or how many points you’ve accumulated; you can lose everything if you’re not paying attention.

Generally speaking, most loyalty programs that belong to an airline or hotel have a defined expiry date of 12 – 18 months. However, that only applies if there’s been no account activity in your account during that time. If you earn or redeem just one point during that time, your clock would reset. Even if you’re not travelling anytime soon, you could make a small redemption or donate some points to ensure you don’t lose the rest of your points.

When it comes to bank credit card rewards programs, it’s unlikely your points will expire as long as your credit card account is in good standing. Your account would only fall out of good standing if it becomes delinquent or your credit card is used for fraudulent activity.

How to redeem travel credit card rewards

Some credit card rewards programs only let you redeem points or miles through their rewards portals. Others allow point redemption for any eligible purchase you make with your credit card.

Rewards programs offered through banks typically have their own website where you can make redemptions. They often have separate tabs where you can choose from travel, gift cards, merchandise, and financial rewards. While this can be handy, you’re typically limited to their offerings — what you see is what you get.

Airline and hotel loyalty programs will almost always allow you to redeem your points or miles directly on their website or mobile app. When searching for flights or hotels, you’ll likely see a box that says “use points.” The prices displayed will be in points, so you’ll know exactly how much you’ll need to make a redemption.

Knowing where to go to redeem your points is important, but you may also want to familiarize yourself with the different point redemption systems.

Travel reward point redemption options

Not all rewards programs are created equal, especially when it comes time to cash in your travel points. These three redemption models tend to be the most popular among travel credit cards:

Consistent points

Consistent points hold a constant value, regardless of season or travel destination. This point redemption model is the most transparent and user-friendly of the three.

Fluctuating points

The value of fluctuating points can be impacted by several factors, including travel destination and time of year. A point may carry less value when travelling during peak season instead of in the off-season. This model can make it challenging to determine the value of your points when trip planning. Look for any provider-issued charts or tables that outline what factors impact the value of your points.

Point transfers

Point transfers let you transfer points to affiliated rewards programs. This model may be useful for those trying to take advantage of multiple rewards programs. The catch? The value of your points may be different once they’ve been transferred, which means you’ll need to figure out the transfer ratio before you make a decision.

What to know about credit card travel insurance

For many, travel insurance is essential — especially when venturing outside Canada. While it’s likely the last thing you want to worry about when on vacation, medical emergencies happen. And your federal, provincial and territorial health plans may not cover the medical expenses you incur while travelling. That’s where travel insurance comes in.

Not only does travel insurance help cover medical expenses, it can also offer trip cancellation coverage, vehicle damage insurance, flight delay insurance and more.

You can get travel insurance from a third party, like a travel agent or insurance provider, but many travel credit cards offer it , too — and at no added cost to the cardholder.

Out-of-province travel emergency medical insurance

Travel medical insurance isn’t only for those travelling outside Canada; it can also provide coverage for those exploring another province or territory. Your provincial plan may not extend to emergency medical expenses incurred out of province. Out-of-province medical insurance can provide coverage for a range of medical needs and services, from prescription medication to emergency evacuations and hospital stays.

If your travel card offers out-of-province medical insurance, ask your provider about coverage limitations. Your medical expenses may not be covered if they’re the result of a pre-existing medical condition or high-risk activity, like bungee jumping or motorized racing.

Travel accident insurance

This type of insurance can be useful in the event of accidental injury or death while travelling on public or ticketed transportation, sometimes referred to as a common carrier. Some policies only cover accidents that happen on airplanes while others encompass a wider range of common transports, like trains, ships and buses.

Travel interruption/cancellation insurance

Trip cancellation coverage reimburses non-refundable travel expenses if your trip gets cancelled. Eligible cancellation circumstances may include dangerous weather conditions, pregnancy complications or the death of an immediate family member.

Trip interruption coverage activates once you’ve departed and reimburses non-refundable travel expenses if your trip is cut short. Again, not every circumstance will qualify for trip interruption coverage. Covered reasons for heading home ahead of schedule are often similar to those that qualify for cancellation coverage.

Flight delay insurance

Flight delays are frustrating, but they happen. If your flight is postponed and you need to book a place to stay or grab a bite to eat while you wait, flight delay insurance may reimburse those costs.

Lost/delayed baggage insurance

If your bags are delayed, this type of insurance will cover the cost of essential items you may need to purchase — like clothes or toiletries — while you wait for your bags to arrive. And if your bags are lost outright, you may be covered up to a predetermined amount for your lost property.

Rental car collision/loss damage insurance

If you plan to rent a car on your next trip, collision and damage insurance may come in handy. This insurance covers costs associated with theft or damage to your rental car. But it doesn’t replace liability insurance — the insurance that provides coverage if you injure someone or damage another vehicle on the road.

Your personal auto insurance policy may come with liability insurance that extends to rental vehicles, but contact your insurance provider to confirm you’re covered before you hit the road.

To take advantage of your credit card’s collision and damage insurance, you’ll need to decline coverage offered by your car rental company.

Hotel/motel burglary insurance

If your hotel or motel room is broken into while on the road, this coverage will reimburse you for the loss of stolen goods up to a set amount. Not all stolen items may be eligible for reimbursement.

How to choose the right travel credit card

Every credit card is good for at least one thing, so deciding on which card is best for you can be difficult. Here are some important criteria you can use to compare different travel credit card options.

Welcome bonus

If you’re trying to decide between several travel cards with similar rewards, the tiebreaker can often be the sign up bonus. Some credit cards offer a generous welcome offer that covers the annual fee or jumpstarts your rewards collection with thousands of free points or miles.

Every credit card has a base earn rate, but many of the best travel credit cards in Canada have an increased earn rate for specific bonus categories — like the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, which offers up to 8x the points per dollar spent on travel through its online Expedia portal.

If you have a general travel credit card, you could earn extra points on categories such as groceries, gas, pharmacies and more, like the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card , which offers 2x the points on food, drink and groceries . The earn rate is essential since choosing a card that lines up with your spending habits can quickly increase the number of points or miles you earn.

If you’re firmly against paying an annual fee for your credit card, you’ll instantly narrow down your choices. That said, there are some instances where an annual fee is worth the cost . Travel credit cards with a yearly fee typically have more benefits than their fee-free counterparts.

Reward flexibility

Having a lot of points is meaningless if it’s hard to redeem them. Look for a loyalty or rewards program where you know you’ll be able to use your points without much trouble. This means programs with no blackout dates and multiple redemption options.

You’ll also want to consider whether the program has any transfer partners, as that’s another way to use your points. Additionally, knowing if and when your points expire is key to ensuring you don’t lose your hard-earned rewards.

Perks and benefits

Besides the type of rewards, welcome bonus and earn rate, additional perks may sweeten the deal and sway your decision.

“Lounge access is always very important,” says Scheck. “It’s nice to have as you’re catching your flight. It’s a little bit quieter — a bit of an oasis from the rest of the airport.”

Another make-or-break consideration? Foreign transaction fees. Scheck says they can really add up, especially if you’re making a lot of transactions while travelling. A card with no transaction fees, like the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card , can help you save in the long run.

Scout for travel card perks when comparing your options: 

• Seat upgrades.
• Room upgrades.
• Premium lounge passes.
• Entertainment ticket presale access.
• Car rental discounts.
• Priority check-in and boarding.
• Various types of credit card insurance.

How to apply for a travel rewards credit card in Canada

Make sure you’re eligible.

Different travel credit cards have different eligibility criteria, so check whether you meet a card’s requirements before you begin the sign-up process. Here are some general eligibility criteria you may encounter when applying for a travel credit card:

• Canadian resident with a Canadian credit file.
• Age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
• Minimum annual income thresholds.

Fill out the application

When you apply for a credit card , you’re typically able to follow an online application process that can be completed from the card issuer’s website. Here’s a general rundown of the application process:

• Review the card’s details, terms and conditions.
• Enter your personal information, including your full name, date of birth, residential address and mobile phone number.
• Enter your Social Insurance Number.
• Enter your financial information, including your annual income and monthly expenses.
• Verify your identity by submitting photos of your original government-issued ID, like your passport or Driver’s Licence.
• Review the information you’ve supplied and submit your application.

Keep in mind that applying for a credit card may impact your credit score .

Tips to maximize your travel credit card rewards

If you’ve decided that a travel credit card is for you, follow these few tips to ensure you get the most out of your credit card rewards .

• Pay your bills in full and on time, so you don’t pay any interest.
• Make sure you meet the minimum spending requirement to get your welcome bonus.
• Pay attention to your earn rate and use your rewards card on purchases that earn extra points.
• Research your rewards program so you know what you can do with your points or miles.
• Calculate the value of your points before making a redemption.
• See if your loyalty program has a partner network where you can earn additional points.

Although choosing a travel credit card may require you to do some research, the value you get is often worth it. Getting free stuff on points feels great, especially if it’s something you’ve been saving a long time for.

FAQs for Canada’s Travel Reward Credit Cards

Yes, travel credit card rewards can expire. Most loyalty programs that belong to an airline or hotel have a defined expiry date of 12 – 18 months. However, that only applies if there’s been no account activity in your account during that time. If you earn or redeem just one point during that time, your clock would reset.

When it comes to bank rewards programs, your points may never expire as long as your credit card account is in good standing. Of course, your account would only fall out of good standing if it becomes delinquent or you use your credit card for fraudulent activity.

In most cases, a good credit score — generally 660 to 724 — is required to get the best travel credit cards. However, some secured credit cards and prepaid options offer rewards, and are more suitable for people with lower credit scores.

DIVE EVEN DEEPER

23 Best Credit Cards in Canada for April 2024

NerdWallet Canada’s picks for the best credit cards include top contenders across numerous card categories. Compare these options to find the ideal card for you.

Interest charges don’t need to be a mystery. Use our credit card interest calculator to see how much interest you’d owe if you carry a credit card balance.

25 Best Rewards Credit Cards in Canada for April 2024

Compare the best rewards credit cards in Canada across numerous rewards categories, including travel, cash back and more, to find the ideal card for your spending preferences.

6 Simple Ways to Save on Your Next Family Vacation

Travelling off-season, booking early and redeeming credit card points are simple ways to vacation smart and save big.

About the Author

Shannon Terrell is a lead writer and spokesperson for NerdWallet, where she writes about credit cards and personal finance. Previously, she was a writer, editor and video host for financial…

By Nate Siegel

Fact Checked: Scott Birke

Updated: April 18, 2024

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Rewards programs

• Best travel rewards programs
• Best loyalty rewards programs
• Best Aeroplan credit cards
• Aeroplan Points Guide
• Best Air Miles credit cards
• Air Miles Points Guide
• Aeroplan vs. Air Miles vs. Avion
• Scene+ Points guide
• BMO Rewards guide

Best credit card guides

• Best Canadian credit cards
• Best cash back credit cards
• Best balance transfer credit cards
• Best travel credit cards
• Best rewards credit cards
• Best no annual fee credit cards
• Best low interest credit cards
• Best credit card offers

Best travel credit cards in Canada for 2024

Just how far can your Canadian travel credit card take you? Whether you’re a bargain hunter, snowbird, frequent flyer or bonus surfer, we’ve handpicked the best credit card for travel points in Canada list to help you fly and stay for less (or for free!).

Methodology: How we chose the best credit card for travel points in Canada list

Money.ca rates travel credit cards on a scale of 1 to 5 (with 5 being the best) and are based on the following criteria: rewards programs, sign-up bonuses, annual percentage rate (APR), annual fee, foreign transaction fee, customer service, security, acceptance, credit score requirements and additional features. For more, read Money.ca’s complete review methodology .

Different categories of cards are rated using different weightings and each card is rated according to its primary category. Money.ca’s business relationships have no effect on ratings.

Best travel credit card in Canada for Aeroplan points

Td aeroplan visa infinite.

• Rates & Fees

1.5 points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)†

1 point Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other purchases†

2x Earn points twice with Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore.†

50% Earn 50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your card to your account.†

1 NEXUS application fee rebate every 48 months†

1st checked bag free for you and up to 8 travel companions†

$139 Annual Fee Additional cardholder is $75.†

20.99% Purchase APR APR for purchases 20.99%†

22.99% Cash Advance APR APR for cash advances 22.99%†

22.99% Balance Transfer Rate APR for balance transfers 22.99%†

2.50% Foreign Transaction Fee Foreign transaction fee: 2.50%†

Excellent Recommended Credit Score

$60,000 Required Annual Personal Income

$100,000 Required Annual Household Income

Welcome Offer Ends Jun 3, 2024

Earn up to $1,200 in value† including up to 50,000 Aeroplan points†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.

Why we chose the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card as the best Air Canada credit card

Aeroplan is the most popular travel reward program among our readers, and the Aeroplan card that currently brings the most value for its annual fee is the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card.

Key features of this travel reward credit card:

Earn rates: 1.5 Aeroplan points† for every $1 spent on eligible everyday purchases such as groceries, gas, anddirect through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®) made with your card. Every other purchase earns 1 point† per $1 spent.

Travel insurance: Up to $2M travel medical coverage for 21 days for those under the age of 65 (first 4 days if you or your spouse is aged 65 or older) with additional top-up coverage available†. Trip cancellation and interruption†, delayed and lost baggage†, and flight/trip delay insurance† also included.

Extra travel features: Free checked bag when flying Air Canada (share free first checked bags with up to 8 travel companions).†

TD Expedia travel: Be sure to book your travel with expediafortd.com to find amazing deals and offers exclusive to TD card holders

TD credit score: As a Visa Infinite card, you'll need your credit score to be in the "very good" range to increase your likelihood of approval.

Aeroplan estore login: Log in to the Aeroplan estore to find discounts and savings exclusive to Aeroplan members—save on flights, link to partners for better redemptions, and more.

More details:

• Enroll for NEXUS and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate†

• Plus, share free first checked bags with up to 8 travel companions†

• You get travel† and car rental insurance†, included with the card as well as additional VIP perks such as a free first checked bag for the cardholder and travel companions (up to eight) on the same reservation for Air Canada originated flights† and more.

This offer is not available for residents of Quebec. For Quebec residents, please click here .

†Terms and conditions apply.

Best Canadian travel credit card for a big sign-up bonus

Scotiabank passport visa infinite.

3x Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and more

2x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options (including ride shares, buses, subways, taxis and more)

1x Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases

$150 Annual Fee

20.99% Purchase APR

22.99% Cash Advance APR

22.99% Balance Transfer Rate

5.00% Balance Transfer Fee

0.00% Foreign Transaction Fee

Good Recommended Credit Score

Welcome Offer Ends Jul 1, 2024

Earn up to $1,300* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived

Why we chose the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card

The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card comes with a great welcome offer. But this big sign-up bonus is also backed up by other value-added travel features, like complimentary Visa Airport Companion Program membership plus six complimentary lounge visits per year, no foreign transaction fees, and a well-rounded travel insurance package.

Key features of this travel card:

Regular earn rates: Earn 3X Scene+™ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland & Participating Co-ops, and more eligible grocers.¹ Earn 2 Scene+™ points on every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, entertainment purchases, and daily transit purchases (including buses, subways, taxis and more), and earn 1 Scene+™ point on every $1 you spend on all other eligible purchases.

Travel insurance: Full suite of travel insurance, including rare coverage for senior citizens

Extra travel features: Visa Airport Companion Program membership + 6 free lounge entries annually

No foreign transaction fees

Learn more by reading our complete Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card review . You can also use our guide to compare more credit card offers and sign-up bonuses .

¹ Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card to learn more.

Best Canadian travel credit card for lounge access

Bmo ascend™ world elite®* mastercard®*.

5x 5x the points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchases*

3x 3x the points for every $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases and recurring bill payments*

1x 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else*

23.99% Cash Advance APR

23.99% Balance Transfer Rate 21.99% for Quebec residents

2.50% Foreign Transaction Fee

$80,000 Required Annual Personal Income

$150,000 Required Annual Household Income

Welcome Offer Ends May 31, 2024

Get up to 90,000 points and the annual fee waived in the first year for both the primary cardholder and authorized users.*

Why we chose the BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* Mastercard®*

Those who appreciate comfy furnishings, free Wi-Fi and good food and drink during a long flight layover might be inclined to drift into an airport lounge—but lounging gets pricey if you don’t have free access privileges. First, there’s the per-entry fee, usually around $30 or so. And many airport lounges require you to pay an annual membership fee as well. Frequent travellers/loungers can avoid these ballooning costs by using the BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* Mastercard®*, which grants complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass,* with four annual complimentary passes. That feature alone is worth as much as the card’s annual fee.

Why we like the card:

The lounge access feature has high real-world value: entrance with DragonPass will normally cost $32 USD each, and the BMO card’s four annual passes can be used either for the cardholder or a guest. And DragonPass isn’t some obscure program with a few random hole-in-the-wall lounges at airports you’ll never stop in. It’s one of the largest lounge networks in the world, with about 1,300 lounges worldwide.

Lounge access aside, the card also offers a number of other features that are a godsend to travellers, like a thorough set of travel insurance* and very respectable sign-up BMO reward bonus points*.

Earn rates: 5x the points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchases,* 3x the points for every $1 spent on eligible dining and entertainment purchases and recurring bill payments,* 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else.*

Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance*

Airport lounge access: Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass,* with four annual complimentary passes.

Additional benefits: Access over 1 million Wi-Fi hotspots around the world – all at no added cost, and no added fees or roaming charges*; special cash back opportunities with participating global merchants*

Learn more by reading our complete BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* Mastercard®* .

*Terms and conditions apply

Best card for travel points in Canada with accelerated earning

American express cobalt.

5x the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.

3x the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada

2x the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada

1x additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online

1x point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else

$100 USD up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities when charged to the room for a stay of 2 or more consecutive nights through The Hotel Collection from American Express Travel

$155.88 Annual Fee 12.99/mo

21.99% Purchase APR on purchases

21.99% Cash Advance APR

Fair Recommended Credit Score

$0 Required Annual Personal Income

$0 Required Annual Household Income

Earn up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points

Why we chose the American Express Cobalt card

Earn rate: Earn 5x the points per $1 spent on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery (think cafes, restaurants, bars, and more), earn 3x the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada (e.g. Apple TV+, Crave, Disney+, Netflix, Spotify and more), earn 2x the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada (think taxis, flights, subway, trains, etc.) and earn 1 point per dollar spent on everything else (plus 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online).

Insurance: Out of province/country emergency medical insurance, travel accident, flight delay, lost luggage, hotel burglary, rental car insurance and more—the Cobalt comes packed with travel insurance. It'll even pay up to $1,000 for mobile device insurance in the event of theft, loss, or accidental damage anywhere in the world (you just have to have bought your phone with the card within 2 years from date of incident).

Learn more in our Amex Cobalt review .

Read more: Best American Express cards in Canada

Best travel rewards credit card for no foreign transaction fees

Scotiabank gold american express® card.

6x Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more

5x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.

5x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agency stores.

3x Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more.

3x Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services.

1x Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases.

$120 Annual Fee $29 for each supplementary card

Very Good Recommended Credit Score

Earn up to $650* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points.

Why we chose the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card

The lustre of a huge sign-up bonus tends to dim down after the first year ends, and it’s not worth holding onto a card if it doesn’t have long-term value. That’s what makes the Scotiabank Gold American Express® card stand out: Its regular, daily earn rates are so high that it gives permanent value far and above its annual fee.

The Scotiabank Gold American Express® card rewards spending in the categories that the average person drops most of their money on, like 6X Scene+™ points on every $1 CAD you spend in Canada at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, Foodland, and more eligible grocers.¹ Plus, earn accelerated rates at restaurants, other eligible grocery stores, bars and food delivery in Canada (5X Scene+ points for every $1 CAD spent); and eligible gas, select streaming services, and transportation (3X Scene+ points for every $1 CAD) in Canada. There are two fine-print details that really make the card’s earn rates stand out:

• Unlike many American Express cards, these high earn rates are valid for both stand-alone stores *and* chain stores

• Aside from earning huge rewards domestically, the Scotiabank Gold American Express® card is also a big asset for spending overseas, because it waives foreign transaction fees while still earning 1X Scene+ point for every $1 on purchases made in a foreign currency.

Key features of this travel rewards credit card:

Earn rates: Earn 6X Scene+™ points on every $1 CAD you spend in Canada at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, Foodland, and more eligible grocers.¹ Earn 5X the Scene+™ points for every $1 CAD spent on other eligible grocery stores, restaurants, fast food, and drinking establishments (including food delivery and food subscription services), as well as on eligible entertainment purchases (movies, theatre, and ticket agencies). Plus, you’ll get 3X the Scene+™ points for every $1 CAD spent on eligible gas, daily transit, and eligible select streaming purchases, and 1X point per $1 spent on every other purchase.

Travel insurance: The card includes a range of travel insurance coverage, earning it a place on our list of the best credit cards for travel insurance.

No foreign transaction fees: The usual 2.5% fee on foreign currency purchases is waived

Flexible point redemption policy: Book flights, hotels and a wide variety of other travel services through Scotiabank, or order through another travel platform and then apply the points you’ve earned after the charge shows up on your card statement. Points can also be redeemed to cover travel taxes and booking fees, which is a rarity among Canadian travel credit cards.

Learn more by reading our complete Scotiabank Gold American Express® card review .

¹ Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more.

Best Canadian travel credit card for no-fee rewards

American express® green card.

1 MR point Earn 1 Membership Rewards point per $1 spent.

1 bonus point Earn 1 additional MR point for every dollar charged to your card with Amex Travel Online.

$0 Annual Fee No annual fee

Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards® points1*

Why we chose the American Express® Green Card

If you’re looking to earn travel rewards but aren’t ready to commit to a credit card with an annual fee, the American Express® Green Card is an excellent place to start. As we mentioned, this credit card has no annual fee, and you can request up to 9 supplementary cards for additional cardholders to supercharge your earnings rate. When you use this credit card, you’ll earn one point per dollar spent on everything. There are no complicated rewards schedules or earnings categories, making it easy to calculate your expected rewards within a year.

You can redeem your membership points in a variety of ways, not just travel. You can use your membership points to pay for purchases on your credit card statement, book travel with American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program, buy merchandise, gift cards or make purchases directly through Amazon.ca .

On top of this card's generous welcome offer (see above), cardholders have access to American Express invites, allowing exclusive access to a wide variety of exclusive opportunities, including early and reserve ticket sales, early access cinema screenings, and priority lines and bar access at major Canadian theatres.

• Earn rates: 1 point earned per dollar spent with no maximum earning limit.

• Point transfers: Change points to other popular travel reward programs, like Aeroplan and Avios, at a 1:1 transfer rate.

• Extra features: Zero liability, 24/7 customer service, American Express presale ticket access, reserved ticket access, Front of Line E-Updates, American Express Experiences – Cardmember Offers and Events, additional special access for all members

• Annual fees: $0

Learn more in our Amex Green Card review.

Best travel card for USD cash back

Rogers™ world elite® mastercard®.

3% Earn 3% unlimited cash back on purchases made in U.S. dollars.

1.5% Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on everything else.

$0 Annual Fee To maintain eligibility, you must spend at least $15,000/year.

19.99% Purchase APR Increasing to 20.99% April 2024

$25 Welcome Bonus in cash back rewards upon first card purchase within 3 months of receiving your card2

Why we chose the Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard®

Foreign transaction fees—the 2.5% penalty that credit cards charge every time you make a purchase in a non-Canadian currency—are a huge waste of money for Canadian travellers. Unfortunately, most Canadian credit cards still charge this fee, and technically the Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® does as well. But the Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® more than makes up for that by giving cardholders 3% in cash back rewards on all U.S. dollar purchases. This not only makes up for the 2.5% fee, but it also results in a 0.5% cashback surplus on your U.S. travels.

The Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® is a more appealing option for frequent U.S. travellers than other no foreign transaction fee cards in Canada because most cards in that category merely waive the foreign transaction fees without giving the extra cash back on top. And aside from giving cash back on U.S. dollar transactions, the Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® also yields 1.5% in cash back rewards on purchases in CAD$.

It’s unusual for any credit card to offer this much cash back on all purchases, both foreign and domestic, but this is all the more impressive given that the card has no annual fee. Plus, it offers some travel insurance protections, as well as complimentary membership to Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass granting access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide at $32 USD per person per visit.

• U.S. currency cash back: 3% cash back rewards on all U.S. dollar purchases

• Local cash back: 1.5% cash back rewards on all purchases in CAD$ (unlimited)

• Paid access to airport lounges

• Some travel insurance

Learn more by reading our complete Rogers™ World Elite® Mastercard® review .

Expert tip: Look past the welcome bonus to compare the best travel credit cards

Don’t get caught up on just the welcome bonus when considering travel credit cards. Consider things like transfer partners and spending categories to ensure you get the most from your travel credit card. Travel credit cards can be incredibly lucrative when you pick the right one. Not all travel cards are equal and it’s important to consider several factors before deciding on the right one for you. Most of us get caught up in the draw of high earn rates and welcome bonuses but you will also want to look the different spending categories, the value of the rewards, whether the rewards can be transferable to other partners (and at what rates), if there are spending caps and limits on how many points you can earn, and of course any added perks and benefits such as travel insurance, lounge access, or discounts with certain brands and companies.

— Hannah Logan , Money.ca credit card, saving and travel expert

Compare the top travel credit cards in Canada

This offer for TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card is not available for residents of Quebec. Please see  Quebec residents, please  click here .

How to choose the best travel credit card for you

When comparing one travel credit card to the next, be mindful of the card features that are most relevant for your particular lifestyle and spending habits. Do you regularly fly to all corners of the globe? It might be worthwhile to get a card with free airport lounge access, so you can relax during long layovers. Do you prefer to travel with your partner? You might single out cards that offer a free annual companion fare.

There are credit card features purpose-built for all lifestyles. The benefits listed below are common for many of the most competitive travel cards in Canada, and it’s a good idea to review them before applying for a new card.

Compare each travel credit card's sign-up bonus

A large, lump-sum bonus of miles or rewards points is a great reason to apply for a new credit rewards card.

Just keep in mind that many sign-up bonuses are contingent upon the cardholder spending a certain amount in the first few months of cardmembership. But it’s usually worthwhile to try to meet this minimum spending requirement, as a big sign-up bonus might be enough for a short or long-haul flight.

Some sign-up bonuses might also waive the card’s first year annual fee, so those looking for value upfront should prioritize this feature.

Read:  Best credit card sign-up bonuses  

Compare earn rates for travel credit cards

One of the most important features of any travel credit card, and the feature with the most longevity, is the card’s earn rate. Look for a card that earns miles or rewards points rapidly, and in the categories where you most frequently spend (e.g. groceries, gas, etc.).

You might also want to keep your eye out for a card with a high ‘flat’ earn rate, meaning it earns rapidly on all spending you do, not just in specific categories.

Read:   Best rewards credit cards

Consider the redemption flexibility for each travel rewards credit card

Some travel credit cards earn miles and membership reward points quickly, but the process of redeeming those miles and rewards might be a headache.

For instance, what if you can only redeem within one rewards program, which has a limited flight selection? Or what if you can redeem rewards for the core price of a flight, but not for additional flight taxes and fees?

When selecting a credit rewards card, it’s important to pay attention to the rewards program’s flexibility when redeeming. It’s equally important to understand the real-world value of points or miles depending on what you’re redeeming them for.

Read:  The Canadian loyalty program bible

Compare annual fees

Paying an annual fee for the privilege of using a credit card can be annoying, so depending on your perspective you may want to prioritize travel credit cards with no fee, or those with perks that you know deliver equivalent or greater value to the card’s annual fee.

There’s a range of great travel cards in both camps, from cards with a $0 fee that still earn some miles or rewards, to those with fees reaching $900, but that come with an enormous amount of built-in value, justifying the high annual fee.

We don’t feature cards that can’t justify their annual fee, and when issuers increase a card’s annual fee without a commensurate increase of a value package, we call them out on it.

Read:   Best no fee credit cards

Foreign transaction fees

This feature is appreciated most by travellers who often fly abroad or shop online at sites that don’t process CA$.

Foreign transaction fees are typically 2.50% of any purchase not in CA$, and they are charged by the vast majority of Canadian credit cards. Paying with one of the rare credit cards that waive these fees can save quite a bundle throughout a trip.

Read:   Best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees

Compare travel credit cards' lounge access

It’s no fun to suffer through uncomfortable airport benches, spotty Wi-Fi and expensive food for hours on end. Access to an airport lounge, of which most airports have at least one, will save these pains and more—and are worthwhile even for a short time.

Membership programs like Priority Pass and LoungeKey offer access to worldwide lounges, over 1,000 each, and they come for free with a number of travel cards. Some cards even grant a set number of free lounge entry passes each year.

Those who spend a lot of time in airports, or who simply detest the crowds, should look for this perk.

Read:  Best credit cards with lounge access

Does it come with travel insurance?

Your Canadian health insurance is useless once you travel overseas—and much of it won’t be applicable if you even travel outside your home province. That’s why it’s essential to make sure you have special insurance to cover you in the event of illness or injury while travelling.

You can buy a policy individually from an insurer (see our guide to the  Best Travel Insurance in Canada  if you opt for that route), or you can look for a credit card that comes with a fleet of travel insurance covering overseas medical emergencies, flight cancellations, interruptions, delays, baggage, rental cars and more.

Read:  Best credit cards for travel insurance

Companion fare

Travellers who like to fly with a spouse, friend or relative on trips can use a companion fare or voucher to discount the price of that companion’s second ticket. This might be an annual perk, giving a credit card substantial value over time.

Companion fares are usually secondary perks on upper-tier travel cards with other appealing features as well, like a good earn rate, a large introductory bonus, or insurance.

Read:   Best credit cards for companion tickets

Compare processors and acceptance

A card’s payment processor—Visa, Mastercard, or Amex—can influence where and how the credit card can be used.

For instance, Amex cards often feature superior travel rewards and privileges, but some merchants might accept only Visa or Mastercard. The  best Amex cards  are often designated as ‘charge cards’ rather than credit cards, meaning that a cardholder must pay off the card’s balance in full every month, lest they be charged a very high penalty.

We recommend readers get an Amex card for its superb earn rates and features, but to always carry a Visa or Mastercard as well to pay at merchants that don’t accept Amex.

Travel credit card vs. hotel credit card: What’s the difference?

A hotel credit card is a credit card that focuses on maximizing your rewards for your favourite hotel chain. This means that you’ll be earning points towards free hotel stays, meals offered through on-site restaurants, and complimentary late checkouts.

However, some hotel credit cards give similar perks to travel credit cards, in the way that you can transfer your points to several participating airline rewards programs. So, while travel credit cards will likely offer a better conversion rate for points to travel rewards, you still have the potential to earn many of the same travel perks with a hotel card.

Our favourite hotel credit card is  The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card . Not only can Marriott Bonvoy® reward points be redeemed at more than 7,000 hotels worldwide with no blackout dates within the Marriott, Ritz-Carlton and Delta families, but you can also transfer your points to more than 40 participating airline rewards programs.

What happens to your points if you cancel a travel credit card?

Say you’ve spent a good amount of time accumulating your travel points over the past several years, and are now ready to cancel your travel credit card—where do your rewards points go? Will you lose them or are they yours to keep and store for future use?

While the answer to this question can vary depending on the terms of your credit card and the credit card provider, your airline rewards are usually safe. Usually, your rewards are deposited in a frequent flier account, which is separate from your credit card, should it close for whatever reason.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that you can lose access to your points if you don’t use them fast enough. Some frequent-flier programs will expire your points if there isn’t activity in your account for a long period of time, so check the fine print that came along with your account.

FAQs: Best travel credit cards in Canada

Which travel credit cards are accepted worldwide.

The generalization that Visa and Mastercard are more widely accepted than Amex is not necessarily the case abroad like it is in Canada. American Express carries a lot of prestige and has a large network in foreign countries, and before travelling it’s best to check on a country-by-country basis about which card processors are most widely accepted. Merchants in some areas may inexplicably tend to support Mastercard over Visa, for example. For more, read our guide on where Amex is accepted in Canada .

Which travel credit cards offer the best travel insurance?

Out-of-province medical coverage is what most refer to when they say they want the best insurance that their credit card can provide. Medical coverage is measured by the amount of time it covers you while you’re travelling and the maximum age limit that it covers. Aside from out-of-province medical coverage, it’s also good to have insurance for delays and interruptions, your baggage, rental car and other potential liabilities. The best cards combine all into one, like the Desjardins Odyssey® World Elite® Mastercard or the Scotiabank Gold American Express® .

Can I get a travel card with low/bad/fair credit?

There are travel cards in Canada accessible to applicants with credit scores in the mid-600 range or higher. These travel cards designated for those with average/fair credit scores likely won’t feature the most sought-after travel perks, like lounge access or extensive travel insurance, but they should at least earn some travel rewards or miles for regular spending. Keep in mind that your credit score will also affect your credit limit. For more read our best credit card for fair credit guide.

Will applying for multiple travel credit cards ruin my credit score?

It’s best to minimize the number of credit card applications you make within a period of a few months. Each credit card application review will typically require a hard credit check, and many hard credit checks in a short period could damage your credit score and suggest to a potential lender that you aren’t creditworthy.

American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.  BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information.

About our author

Nathan Siegel has a professional and educational passion for finance. He follows trends in the Canadian banking sector, compares competing products, and pores over fine print to make personal finance choices easier for Canadian consumers. In his spare time he loves running, swimming, and dogs of all kinds.

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The content provided on Money.ca is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter.

The best travel credit cards in Canada

The options may differ from those in the United States, but Canadians with wanderlust have no shortage of rewards-earning credit cards. Whether you're looking for cash back, nearly-free flights or hotel stays, there are credit cards that can help you accomplish your travel goals.

There are other options to consider as well. Are you looking for a card with no annual fee or are you willing to pay a fee to get premium perks like lounge access at airports?

The best travel credit cards — in Canada or anywhere else — should come with a welcome bonus after completing a spending requirement and should offer benefits that justify keeping that card in your wallet year after year. Let's look at the best options for Canadians and highlight what we like about each of these cards.

Comparing the best travel credit cards in Canada

Before getting into the details of each card, below is a summary of the cards we think are worth considering. Here's an overview of the cards' key perks, annual fees and potential earnings:

^ The information for these cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. # The figures in the table above and in the discussions below are quoted in Canadian Dollars (CAD).

Details on the best travel credit cards in Canada

American express cobalt card.

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 30,000 bonus points during your first year as a cardmember by earning 2,500 bonus points for each billing period in which you spend $500 or more on purchases.

Annual fee: No annual fee but a monthly fee of $12.99.

Why we like it: Cardmembers can earn valuable Membership Rewards points , which can be redeemed with airline programs like Air Canada Aeroplan and Air France-KLM Flying Blue and hotel programs Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy. Additionally, you can access several American Express benefits like Amex Offers and The Hotel Collection without the higher fees attached to premium credit cards.

American Express Aeroplan Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 50,000 bonus Aeroplan points. Earn 35,000 points after spending $3,000 or more on purchases within the first six months of cardmembership. Plus, earn 2,5000 bonus points for each billing period in which you spend $500 or more on purchases during the first six months of cardmembership.

Annual fee: $120.

Why we like it: A free checked bag for 10 people (you and up to nine companions) could easily cost more than $120, so using this perk once a year could easily justify the annual fee. Additionally, those pursuing Aeroplan elite status can accelerate through progress by spending on the Amex Aeroplan card. Cardmembers also get access to valuable American Express perks.

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 85,000 bonus Aeroplan points. Cardmembers can earn 55,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases in the first six months of cardmembership. Plus, earn 5,000 bonus points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $1,000 or more on purchases during the first six months of cardmembership.

Annual fee: $599.

Why we like it: Those looking for premium perks with Air Canada can find them in the Amex Aeroplan Reserve card. Benefits like lounge access, priority check-in and priority boarding are complemented by reimbursement for application and renewal fees to Nexus. There are additional perks with the Rocky Mountaineer, such as bonus earning rates, seat upgrades and even room upgrades on train packages that include a hotel. There's also the ability to earn a companion pass for someone to join you on an economy ticket flying with Air Canada or its subsidiaries, but you'll need to spend $25,000 on your card to earn this benefit.

BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Earn 2,000 bonus Air Miles after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. Plus, the annual fee will be waived during the first year. This offer ends July 31, 2023.

Why we like it: Those looking for a card with a moderate annual fee and points that can be redeemed in myriad ways have found that combination in the BMO Air Miles card. Plus, if you apply before July 31, 2023, the annual fee on your card will be waived during the first year.

BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 60,000 bonus points. Get 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases during the first three months after account opening. Also, earn 2,500 bonus points during each month in which you make at least $2,000 in purchases on your card — valid for 12 months after the introductory three-month period.

Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee, then $150.

Why we like it: Earning rates are strong, offering 5 points per dollar on a broad travel category and 3 points per dollar on dining, entertainment and recurring bill payments — categories in which many people spend regularly. Additionally, there are premium insurance perks to help in case something goes wrong during your trip, and you'll also get four free visits per year to airline lounges. The points your earn are flexible, allowing you to redeem points against a wide range of travel purchases or redeem your points for a deposit into a BMO savings or investment account.

BMO CashBack World Elite Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Get up to 10% cash back in your first three months from account opening and a waived annual fee during the first year. The 10% back rate applies to the following limits: $500 on groceries, $300 on transit, $300 on gas and EV charging, $500 on recurring bill payments and up to $1,000 on other purchases. This offer ends July 31, 2023.

Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee, then $120.

Why we like it: Not everything can be paid for with frequent flyer miles; using a cash-back rewards card can help you offset purchases where you can pay with points and miles. With an annual fee waived during the first year and strong earning rates in common spending categories, this can be a great card to round out your earning and your redeeming.

BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 60,000 bonus points and enjoyed a waived annual fee during the first year. Get 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. Receive an additional 2,500 bonus points for each subsequent month in which you make at least $2,000 in purchases — valid for the next 12 months.

Why we like it: Earning 5 points per dollar on groceries, gas transit, dining out and ordering in is quite the combination. But you can boost your earnings to 5.5 points per dollar by adding an authorized user to your account. Bonus earning rates will apply to purchases made by both the primary account holder and the authorized user, meaning your rewards pile up even faster.

Business Platinum Card from American Express

Current welcome offer: Earn 80,000 bonus Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first three months of cardmembership.

Annual fee: $499.

Why we like it: The Canadian version of the Amex Business Platinum Card offers numerous perks and is one of the best travel credit cards in Canada regarding business spending and business travel. Along with access to numerous airport lounges, you'll get elite status with rental car programs and Marriott Bonvoy for hotel stays as well as premium travel perks at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) . That's on top of the card having no preset spending limit, meaning it adapts to your purchasing and payment behaviors, which can be great for businesses that spend a lot of money on the card.

CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card

Current welcome offer: Earn 10,000 bonus Aeroplan points after making your first purchase on the card.

Annual fee: $0.

Why we like it: There's no annual fee, but cardholders earn rewards with Canada's biggest airline loyalty program. Other perks include access to award flight deals exclusive to Aeroplan credit card holders and discounts on gas, which can be extremely valuable for those who spend a lot on fuel.

CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 80,000 bonus Aventura points during the first year. Get 50,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first four monthly billing periods. Get an additional 30,000 bonus points as an account anniversary bonus for keeping your account open the second year.

Why we like it: Those looking for flexible travel perks have a quality combination of these benefits in the CIBC Aventure Visa Infinite card. The $499 annual fee is offset by $200 in travel credits available each year, up to $100 in Nexus fee credits available every four years and six complimentary airport lounge visits per year. Other perks include savings on gas purchases and discounts on rental cars; these perks can be extremely valuable for those who use them often to save hundreds or thousands of dollars a year. Plus, you earn Aventura points, which you can use on flights for free (or heavily discounted) travel.

CIBC U.S. Dollar Aventura Gold Visa Card

Current welcome offer: Get up to 10,000 bonus Aventura points. Earn 7,500 bonus points after your purchase and another 2,500 points after completing five activities within 60 days of account opening: Share your email address with CIBC, sign up for electronic statements, add an authorized user to your account, have a CIBC checking account and add your card to an eligible mobile wallet.

Annual fee: $35.

Why we like it: Canadians who frequently travel to the U.S. or shop with U.S. retailers will love a card that avoids currency conversion and foreign exchange fees on purchases. There is a modest welcome bonus and a modest annual fee starting in the second year for the CIBC U.S. Dollar Aventura card. Plus, Aventura points can be used to pay for flights and can be moved between your Aventura-earning accounts to allow you to add up to the points needed for your next redemption.

HSBC World Elite Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 80,000 bonus points plus an annual fee rebate during the first year. Receive 20,000 bonus points on account opening and another 40,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 within 180 days of account opening. Receive another 20,000 bonus points on your account anniversary.

There is a different offer for Quebec residents: Earn up to 110,000 bonus points during the first year. Receive 20,000 bonus points on account opening and another 70,000 bonus points after you keep your account open and active for 180 days. Then, receive another 20,000 points on your account anniversary.

Annual fee: $149.

Why we like it: Points are worth 0.5 cents each and can be redeemed against any travel purchases on your card, providing great flexibility. The annual $100 travel credit provides value against incidental expenses during your trip, and the anniversary bonus points are worth $100. These benefits easily provide positive value over the annual fee on the card.

Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card

Current welcome offer: Earn 50,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after spending $1,500 on purchases within the first three months of cardmembership.

Why we like it: Marriott Bonvoy. has a global footprint, so earning points with this hotel program can help you earn free nights at hotels on your next trip. It should be easy to get more than $120 in value from your annual free night award (worth up to 35,000 points), plus the card has built-in perks to help you reach higher status tiers with Marriott Bonvoy if you want additional perks during hotel stays.

MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Earn 5,000 bonus points after spending $500 or more on purchases during the first 90 days from account opening and another 5,000 points after enrolling for paperless statements within 90 days of account opening.

Plus, earn up to 10,000 additional bonus points by receiving 4 points per dollar on restaurant, grocery, digital media, membership and household utility purchases during your first year. This is limited to the first $10,000 of combined purchases in these categories during the first 90 days from account opening, then 2 points per dollar.

Why we like it: The MBNA Rewards Platinum card has no annual fee but provides discounts on car rentals. If you rent cars often, it could be worth holding this card just for that perk and for the anniversary bonus points each year.

National Bank World Elite Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 60,000 bonus points in the first year. Receive 30,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening and another 10,000 points if you sign up for Mastercard credit card payment insurance for a minimum of three months. Receive another 20,000 bonus points on your first account anniversary if you spend at least $12,000 on purchases during the first 12 months from account opening. This offer ends Jan. 13, 2023.

Why we like it: The National Bank World Elite Mastercard provides up to $150 in annual travel credits, which is the same dollar amount as the annual fee. That means all other perks and points provide positive value, such as lounge access, points on purchases and the welcome offer during the first year.

RBC British Airways Visa Infinite

Current welcome offer: Receive up to 60,000 bonus Avios during your first year. Get 15,000 Avios on account approval and another 35,000 bonus Avios after spending $6,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. Receive another 10,000 Avios on your account anniversary. This offer ends Feb. 28, 2023.

Annual fee: $165.

Why we like it: The earning structure on this card isn't great, but the companion award can provide incredible value when redeeming Avios and bringing a companion along with you. You'll pay the taxes and fees on this ticket (which can be hefty), but you won't pay any Avios for this person to join you. This is valid on British Airways flights only and can provide serious value in business or first class.

RBC Cathay Pacific Visa Platinum

Current welcome offer: Receive up to 40,000 bonus Asia Miles. Get 15,000 bonus miles on account opening and another 25,000 miles after spending $7,000 on purchases within three months of account opening.

Why we like it: This is the only credit card in Canada that earns Asia Miles directly. Asia Miles (the rewards program of Cathay Pacific) has some incredible sweet spots for redemptions with its Oneworld alliance partners. The RBC Cathay Pacific card comes with a moderate annual fee and perks that can save you money on gas and food delivery while earning Asia Miles on purchases.

Rogers World Elite Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Earn a $25 bonus after making your first purchase within three months of account opening.

Why we like it: For a card with no annual fee, the Rogers World Elite Mastercard provides numerous shopping and travel protections. If you don't have these on another credit card, putting purchases on this card to protect your belongings and your vacations could be a smart move — especially since it costs you nothing to keep this card in your wallet.

Scotiabank Gold American Express Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points during the first year. Receive 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. Receive another 20,000 bonus points after spending $7,500 on purchases during the first year from account opening. This offer ends April 30, 2023.

Why we like it: The Scotiabank Gold Amex has a quality earning structure, earning up to a 6% return on grocery purchases and 5% return on entertainment. Points can be redeemed for past travel purchases up to a year after the fact or to pay for travel bookings in the rewards center, and there are no foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside Canada.

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points in the first year. Get 30,000 bonus points by making at least $1,000 in purchases within three months of account opening. Receive another 10,000 bonus points on your account anniversary after spending $40,000 on purchases during the year. This offer ends April 30, 2023.

Annual fee: $150.

Why we like it: The earning structure isn't overly exciting, but the $150 annual fee can be offset easily by the value received from six complimentary lounge visits and car rental privileges. If you use these frequently, finding value in the Scotiabank Passport Visa can be easy. Those who don't rent cars often may struggle to justify the $150 annual fee.

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 70,000 bonus Scene+ points. Receive 50,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. Earn another 20,000 bonus points after spending $10,000 on purchases within 14 months of account opening. This offer ends Jan. 3, 2023.

Annual fee: $399.

Why we like it: The Scotiabank Platinum Amex offers great travel benefits without needing to track bonus categories on spending. You'll earn 2 points per dollar on all purchases and not needing to track rewards programs is a bonus for people who want simplicity from their credit cards.

TD Business Travel Visa Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 150,000 bonus TD Rewards Points and up to $247 in annual fee rebates. Receive 30,000 points after your first purchase and another 60,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. Earn 5,000 bonus points each month in which you spend $2,500 on purchases — valid for the first 12 months from account opening. Also receive an annual fee rebate for the primary cardholder and up to two additional cardholders during the first year. This offer ends Jan. 3, 2023.

Why we like it: Cardholders can redeem points against travel purchases or for bookings with Expedia for TD or redeem points as a statement credit, providing flexibility after earning points in some interesting bonus categories. For businesses with travel expenses or purchasing goods in other currencies, this card can help you rack up many points.

TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 145,000 bonus TD Rewards points plus waived annual fees during the first year. Get 20,000 bonus points after making your first purchase within three months of account opening and another 115,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases within 180 days of account opening. Receive a birthday bonus of up to 10,000 bonus points (equal to 10% of the points earned in the previous year, up to 10,000 points maximum). This offer ends May 28, 2023.

Annual fee: $139.

Why we like it: The TD First Class Visa offers a wide range of travel protections to help if you encounter problems during a trip, so making travel purchases on this card could be a smart idea. The card has a robust earning structure, car rental discounts and easy paths to offset the annual fee through travel credits and birthday bonus points.

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 105,000 Aeroplan points during the first year. Get 20,000 points after making your first purchase within 90 days of account opening. Receive another 30,000 points after spending $3,000 within 90 days of account opening. Plus, receive 55,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 within 12 months of account opening. This offer ends Jan. 3, 2023.

Why we like it: Regular flyers with Air Canada and its Star Alliance partners who want premium perks during their trips will find them in the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege card. You'll get access to Maple Leaf lounges, priority benefits at the airport to help you avoid lines and reimbursement for Nexus application fees. Plus, you can earn a companion fare after spending $25,000 on purchases during your cardmember account year. This perk can be extremely valuable when bringing a companion on a flight for just $99 plus taxes and fees.

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card

Current welcome offer: Earn up to 55,000 bonus Aeroplan points. Get 10,000 points after making your first purchase within 90 days of account opening and another 20,000 points after spending $1,500 on purchases within 90 days of account opening. Earn another 20,000 bonus points after spending $7,500 on purchases within 12 months of account opening. Plus, enjoy no annual fee during the first year. This offer ends Jan. 4, 2023.

Why we like it: Avoiding checked baggage fees is a key perk for travelers, and you'll find that on the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite. There's a modest annual fee of $139, but you may save more than that on checked bag fees for you and your companions each year. You can also receive reimbursement for your Nexus application fee, providing further value.

The Platinum Card

Current welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first three months of card membership. Earn another 20,000 bonus points after making a purchase between 14 and 17 months of card membership.

Annual fee: $699.

Why we like it: Those looking for a premium travel experience should look no further. The Canadian version of The Platinum Card is easily one of the best travel credit cards in Canada for its many benefits. They includes lounge access, Nexus fee reimbursement, up to $200 in travel credits and elite status with three different hotel programs. You'll also earn Membership Rewards points, which you can use with multiple airline and hotel loyalty programs .

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite Business

Current welcome offer: Receive 25,000 bonus points automatically on your first billing statement.

Annual fee: $175.

Why we like it: Points can be redeemed at a flat rate of 1 cent per point to pay for purchases, so you never have to worry about whether you're getting good value on your redemptions. Redeem points for statement credit, pay for in-store purchases or pay for travel. You can attain even better value by transferring points to WestJet Rewards, American Airlines AAdvantage, British Airways Executive Club and Asia Miles since these transfers are available through the Avion Elite status offered to cardholders. Transfers are at a 1-to-1 ratio, except for American Airlines; this transfer has a 1-to-0.7 transfer ratio.

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

Current welcome offer: Get 250 WestJet dollars after your first purchase and another 200 WestJet dollars after spending $5,000 on purchases and setting up pre-authorized bill payment transactions within the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $119.

Why we like it: This is a great card for fans of Canada's second-largest airline. The companion pass can provide great savings, depending on how you use it. Plus, the free Wi-Fi benefit from Boingo can provide savings to those who use public Wi-Fi and need to use more than their free allowance.

Bottom line

Whether you're looking for a card with premium perks or no annual fee, there should be something for everyone as you review the top travel credit cards in Canada.

From the chart above and the reasons why we like each of these cards, look for cards that offer the benefits you want while charging an annual fee acceptable to you. It's also worth looking for cards that earn bonus points or extra cash back in categories where you spend regularly. Once you find a card (or cards) to match your travel style, travel goals and spending habits, read the details before applying.

Also, ensure you understand how to earn the welcome bonus since you don't want to lose out on that.

Additional reporting by Nancy Carr.

The Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada for April 2024

What you should know.

• Best travel credit cards usually require a good credit score and an annual income of $60,000 for an individual and $100,000 for a household.
• Best travel credit cards in Canada usually have an annual fee that can usually be covered with a high sign-up bonus, rewards, and other perks.
• Travel credit cards are different because they target different types of travelers. For example, some credit cards may have high rewards for gas, while others have no FX fees.

About Travel Credit Cards

There are various types of travel credit cards because of different kinds of travelers. Some people may prefer to travel abroad, while others rent a vacation home outside the city or spend time in the wild. Most travel credit cards are some of the best credit cards in Canada , but it is still best to pick the one that will provide the most value to you.

This guide will begin by helping you understand your travel credit card priorities. It will walk you through understanding earn rates, additional benefits, and the optimal redemption process. Once you know what you're looking for, this guide will empower you to compare the travel credit cards on the market to see which offers the best value for you. With most credit cards offering instant approval , you can get a new travel card in less than a week. Continue reading to become an expert on Canada's best travel credit cards.

Best Credit Cards for Travel

How we Sort Credit Cards: We sort credit cards based on spending categories and the card's annual fee. We estimate the dollar value of the rewards you would get based on your spending categories, and we subtract the annual fee the card charges to get the best credit cards for your spending habits. We also use the salary to filter out cards based on the minimum income requirement.

• Receive 800 Air Miles points when you spend $1,000.00 during the first 3 months .
• 0.99 % Balance Transfer Rate for 9 Months with a 2 % transfer fee .

Purchase: 20.99%

Cash: 22.99%

Transfer: 22.99%

No Income Required

1 Air Miles Point ≈ ¢ 10

• 3 Air Miles Points for each $ 25 spent on: gas .
• 2 Air Miles Points for each $ 25 spent on: grocery .
• 1 Air Miles Point for each $ 25 spent on: everything else .

• Receive 10000 AMEX points when you spend $1,000.00 during the first 3 months .

Cash: 21.99%

1 AMEX Point ≈ ¢ 1

• 2 AMEX Points for each $ 1 spent on: AMEX travel .
• 1 AMEX Point for each $ 1 spent on: everything else .
• Extended Warranty
• Purchase Assurance

• Enroll in online banking within the first 2 months and earn 500 Aventura points.

Household: $15,000

1 Aventura Point ≈ ¢ 0.625

• 1 Aventura Point for each $ 1 spent on: gas, grocery, drugstores and CIBC Travel .
• 1 Aventura Point for each $ 2 spent on: everything else .
• Common Carrier

• Receive 2500 MBNA points when you make 1 purchase in the first 3 months .
• Enroll in online banking within the first 3 months and earn 2500 MBNA points.

Purchase: 19.99%

Cash: 24.99%

1 MBNA Point ≈ ¢ 1

• 2 MBNA Points for each $ 1 spent on: grocery, restaurants and recurring bills .
• 1 MBNA Point for each $ 1 spent on: everything else .
• Mobile Device

How to Choose the Best Travel Credit Card

It may be challenging to pick the best travel credit card because there are many options. On average, a good travel credit card will have a welcome bonus, rewards program, travel insurance , and other perks like airport lounge access and companion vouchers. We organized and summarized the information about different credit cards so you could easily find the card that would benefit you the most.

Best Travel Credit Card by User Persona

Some of the best travel credit cards in Canada are Aeroplan credit cards because they have good rewards as well as generous perks such as travel insurance, airport lounge access and welcome bonuses. Cash back credit cards can also be great travel credit cards because they may offer high cash back on relevant purchases and offer great perks as well.

Depending on your traveler type, you may prefer one card over another. Getting multiple cards that will maximize your points across different categories may also make sense. If you choose to get various travel credit cards, ensure that the annual fees you pay for each card are justified by the rewards you earn.

Credit card points can be a great way to earn rewards, but different points have different values. Many reward points have a value of ¢1, but some points may only be worth ¢0.1 or any other arbitrary value. When you compare different credit cards, you should compare the dollar equivalent of rewards points you get instead of simply comparing the amount of rewards points you get.

This table compares the best travel credit cards based on their category earn rate. We have estimated the actual value of each point to give you the most accurate understanding. You can also view the estimated point value as the cashback percentage per dollar spent. Look for cards that maximize the real point value for your top spending categories. The credit cards are sorted based on the highest average points from your selected categories.

Additional Benefits of Travel Credit Cards

Additional perks and benefits are key features when choosing a travel credit card. Common benefits include airport lounge access, annual travel credits, insurance, and more. However, these benefits come at a cost, with a yearly fee significantly higher than a regular credit card. When deciding if the price is worth it, always consider the value of the benefits you will receive.

Welcome Bonus

A one-time welcome bonus is a crucial travel credit card benefit. A welcome bonus can provide hundreds of dollars worth of points and rewards that usually far exceed the annual cost of your credit card. While it is important to compare cards based on the welcome bonus, other perks and points are also essential to look at. Once the bonus ends, the travel credit card should still provide you value, especially if it has a hefty annual fee.

A good strategy to utilize welcome bonuses is to apply for relevant cards before making large purchases. For example, if you plan a trip, receive the card before purchasing your flight, accommodation, and car rental. This way, you can receive the bonus through purchases you would have already made. Another approach is making purchases on behalf of family or friends and having them pay you back. Below, you can find some of the best welcome bonus offers for Canadian credit cards:

Airport Lounge Access

Some travel credit cards offer free or discounted airport lounge access. Lounge access is ideal for long layovers because it provides complimentary food, bartenders, baristas, and more. Some lounges have amenities like showers, sleep pods, and luggage storage. The following cards offer a full lounge access membership included in the card fee.

Companion Voucher

Another valuable travel credit card benefit is the ability to fly a friend or family member with you at a discount. While you must pay cash to buy tickets with a companion voucher, some co-branded airline cards offer heavy discounts on round-trip flights for guests.

For example, the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard allows you to pay only $119 (plus taxes and fees) for a round-trip companion flight between Canada and the Continental US. Additionally, you can pay $399 to fly a companion anywhere else WestJet flies. You can use the voucher each year to save hundreds of dollars. You can only use the voucher on flights offered by the co-branded airline. Additionally, some cards have minimum annual spending requirements to receive this benefit. Below are some of the best travel cards in Canada offering companion vouchers:

Another massive benefit of travel credit cards is the inclusion of multiple types of insurance. However, it can be tough to understand what you are receiving with abstract terms. This subsection will demystify the common types of insurance included with your travel card.

Before we begin, note that you must typically charge the total expense to your card for the insurance to activate. For example, you'd need to pay for your phone using the relevant credit card entirely to take advantage of mobile insurance.

No Foreign Exchange Fees

A common misconception about credit cards is that they offer unfavorable exchange rates. You can receive better exchange rates through your credit card than by using a Canadian bank to convert the currency .

While the exchange rates are low, most credit cards apply a 2.5% surplus fee. This fee can quickly add up if you frequently spend in foreign currencies. Additionally, some cards will also charge a 2.5% fee on refunds. These fees could add up when booking and canceling hotels, flights, and other expenses.

As a benefit, some credit cards offer no foreign exchange fees . This removes the standard 2.5% fee applied to foreign transactions. Some cards offering this perk include:

Annual Travel Credits

Another popular benefit of a travel credit card is an annual travel credit. You can redeem this credit for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotels, and vacation packages. While these cards typically have a higher annual fee, their generous credits help reduce costs. The best travel cards that offer this benefit are:

Redeeming Travel Credit Card Points

Knowing how to redeem points is just as important as knowing how to earn them. Improper redemption may quickly put your efforts of getting high rewards to waste. The key here is to understand the value of your points and how to unlock their value best. Travel credit card points are usually best spent on travel-related redemptions. For example, applying your reward points to a hotel stay is generally better than using your points to purchase a gift card.

You should understand the value of your points. You can begin by referencing the following table to understand their base value redeemable as a statement credit. Any redemption that values your points higher may be worthwhile.

Calculating Redemption Value

Now that you understand the average value of your points, the next step is to calculate if the redemption is beneficial. To begin, you must calculate the proposed redemption value to compare it with the average value of your points. If the redemption values your points higher than the average, it's optimal. Otherwise, it's better to save your points for another redemption. To calculate the proposed redemption value, you must:

• Determine the required amount of points as shown in your rewards app.
• Estimate the dollar cost of the redemption by comparing it with online platforms.
• Solve for the proposed redemption value by dividing the estimated cost by the required points.
• If you need to pay taxes on top of your redemption, use this formula: (Estimated Cost - Tax) / Required Points.
• Compare the proposed redemption value per point with the average cost per point.

For example, let's pretend you want to book a domestic flight that requires 30,000 Aventura points. After researching the flight cost, you find it would cost $350 if booked with cash. To calculate the proposed redemption value, we must divide 350 by 30,000 to reach ¢1.16 per point. Since this is lower than our average valuation of ¢1.25 per Aventura point, it's not an optimal redemption, and you should save your points.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get a priority pass for free.

Get a credit card with a priority pass as a bonus. Many high-end travel credit cards offer priority passes with their credit card. They can be unlimited or limit the number of lounge access points in a year. Some travel credit cards also offer a discount on airport lounge access. Most credit cards only provide to partnered lounges. Canadian credit cards usually partner with Priority Pass and DragonPass for airport lounge access.

Priority Pass vs. DragonPass Membership

Priority Pass membership offers access to more lounges. However, the DragonPass membership offers more exclusive airport lounges not available with the Priority Pass. If you frequent Pearson Airport in Toronto, the Plaza Premium lounges are now only available through DragonPass. Ultimately, your best membership will depend on your travel needs and preferences.

What Credit Cards Offer Mobile Device Insurance?

A few credit cards in Canada offer mobile device insurance as a benefit. This insurance will protect you if your phone is lost, damaged, or stolen. There are many horror stories of unsuspecting tourists losing their phones through pick-pocketing. However, you must have paid the total purchase price of the phone using your relevant card. We have included the top cards offering this benefit and links to their fine print pages below:

• BMO Eclipse Visa Infinite : Up to $1,000
• American Express Cobalt : Up to $1,000
• Brim World Elite Mastercard : Up to $1,000

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Travel Rewards Credit Cards in Canada

What is a travel credit card.

A Travel Credit Card is like other credit cards, except it allows you to earn travel Rewards Points on everyday purchases. Points can then be redeemed for flights, hotels and other eligible rewards items. A Travel Credit Card is an ideal choice for people who travel and are looking to optimize their spending.

Compare the Best TD Credit Cards for Travel Rewards points

Td first class travel® visa infinite* card.

Earn up to $800 in value FCT-ROC-18 , including up to 100,000 TD Rewards Points UDI-NQ-EN-11  and no Annual Fee for the first year UDI-NQ-EN-11 . Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.

Interest: Purchases

Interest: Cash Advances

View Details

TD Platinum Travel Visa* Card

Earn up to $370 in value UDINQEN13SUP18 , including up to 50,000 TD Rewards Points UDINQEN13  and no Annual Fee for the first year UDINQEN13 . Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by September 3, 2024.

TD Rewards Visa* Card

Earn a value of $50 UDINQEN14 , UDINQEN14plus in TD Rewards Points to use on eligible Amazon.ca purchases plus, no Annual Fee. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.

TD Business Travel Visa* Card

Earn a value of up to $1,122 d1 ,   d25   in TD Rewards Points (that's up to 175,000 TD Rewards Points) d1  with no Annual Fee in the first year d1 . Conditions Apply.  Account must be opened by June 3, 2024.

Benefits of a TD travel credit card

Aside from travel Rewards Points, you also enjoy additional perks - depending on the card you choose.

Affordable travel

If you love to globe-trot, a good travel credit card can make it more affordable without having to change your spending habits.

Redemption flexibility

You have the flexibility to choose how you want to redeem the points you've earned, whether on everyday perks or for travel.

Shop with confidence

Your Travel Credit Card allows you to make purchases safely and securely without the need for cash while travelling.

Travel with peace of mind

TD’s fraud detection systems can detect suspicious or unauthorized transactions, giving you the same security - home & abroad.

How to choose a travel credit card

You have a lot of choices when it comes to finding the best credit card for Travel Rewards Points, so it helps to know what to look for to get the most out of your card and your reward points.

Earning TD Rewards Points Choose a Travel Credit Card that best suits your spending habits. TD Travel Rewards Credit Cards are designed to help you achieve travel goals sooner by earning Rewards Points on everyday purchases.

Additional benefits There can sometimes be additional perks worth investigating. TD Travel Rewards Credit Cards come with exciting travel benefits such as Discounts and savings on rentals from Avis Rent-A-Car and Budget Rent-A-Car. You can also earn 50% more TD Rewards Points at participating Starbucks® stores. Conditions apply.  Learn more .

Frequently Asked Questions

How do travel credit cards work.

Travel credit cards work like other rewards credit cards, except they award TD Rewards Points to cardholders for making travel-related purchases and offer them travel-related rewards. Travel rewards points are awarded when eligible purchases are made. Travel credit cards may include features like travel insurance and airport lounge access. Check the cardholder agreement for details.

What travel benefits come with TD travel credit cards?

TD travel credit cards have various built-in travel insurance benefits such as Flight/Trip Delay Insurance or Travel Medical Insurance and Emergency Travel Assistance Services may also be included. Review your Cardholder agreement for more details.

What is a TD Rewards Point worth?

TD Rewards Points have great value in travel savings. Every 200 TD Rewards Points redeemed is worth $1 in travel savings off the cost of travel purchases made through Expedia® for TD. Redemptions can only be made in 200 TD Rewards Points increments.

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Annual interest rates, fees and features are current as of March 5, 2024 unless otherwise indicated and subject to change.

• $189: Annual Fee Rebate for the Primary ($139) and first Additional Cardholder ($50) for the first year;
• $100: TD Travel Credit on your first Eligible Travel Credit Purchase of $500 or more made through Expedia For TD;
• $50: TD Rewards Birthday Bonus equal to 10% of the number of TD Rewards Points earned while using the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* card over the 12 months preceding the Primary Cardholder’s birthday, up to a maximum of 10,000 TD Rewards Points (travel value at Expedia For TD of up to $50). Previously earned points on other Rewards Cards, Acquisition Bonus Points, or other Promotional Rewards Points earned do not count towards your Birthday Bonus;
• Welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Rewards Points earned when you make your first Purchase with your Card (travel value at Expedia For TD of $100);
• Additional Bonus of 80,000 TD Rewards Points earned when you spend $5,000 within 180 days of Account opening (travel value at Expedia For TD of $400);

2  Account must be approved by September 3, 2024. Welcome Bonus of 15,000 TD Rewards Points will be awarded to the TD Platinum Travel Visa*  ("Account")  only after the first Purchase is made on the Account. To receive the additional 35,000 TD Rewards Points  ("Additional Bonus") , you must make $1,000 in Purchases on your Account, including your first eligible Purchase, within 90 days of Account opening. Rebate of the Annual Fee is only for the first year for the Primary Cardholder and the first Additional Cardholder added to the Account. To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening. To receive the first Additional Cardholder Annual Fee Rebate you must add your first Additional Cardholder by September 4, 2024. Annual Fee Rebate will be applied within 2 monthly statements from the date of the statement with the first Annual Fee charge. The Primary Cardholder is responsible for all charges to the Account, including those made by any Additional Cardholder. Offer may be changed, withdrawn (excluding Quebec), or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated. This offer is not available customers who have activated and/or closed a TD Platinum Travel Visa* Account in the last 12 months. We reserve the right to limit the number of Accounts opened by and the number of TD Rewards Points awarded to any one person. Your Account must be in good standing at the time the Welcome Bonus points and Additional Bonus points are awarded. Please allow 8 weeks after the conditions for each offer are fulfilled for the Welcome Bonus TD Rewards Points to be credited to your TD Rewards Account.

3  Limited Time Promotional Offer includes a Welcome Bonus, Monthly Bonus, Mobile Wallet Bonus Offer and Annual Fee Rebate Offer (described below and collectively the "Offer"): Welcome Bonus of 30,000 TD Rewards points ("Welcome Bonus") is only available to the Primary Business Cardholder of TD Business Travel ® Visa Card account ("Account") with an Annual Fee of $149 ("$149 Account"). $149 Account must be opened and approved by June 3, 2024.

Welcome Bonus will be awarded to the Primary Business Cardholder of the $149 Account only after the first Purchase is made on the $149 Account, where such Purchase is made within 90 days of account approval. The “Primary Business Cardholder” means the individual who is issued TD Business Travel ® Visa Card account with an Annual Fee of $149. Please allow eight - twelve weeks for your Welcome Bonus Points to be awarded.

To qualify for a monthly bonus of 10,000 TD Rewards Points ("Monthly Bonus") in the first 12 months after Account approval (up to a total maximum of 120,000 Monthly Bonus Points), the Primary Business Cardholder must have at least $2,500 in net Purchases posted to their Account each month by the last day of each monthly billing period. Once you have earned 120,000 Monthly Bonus Points during the first 12 months following Account approval, you will no longer be eligible for additional Monthly Bonus Points. Purchases made during a billing period but posted after the end of that billing period will not count towards eligible Purchases for that month and count towards eligible Purchases for the next billing period. For example, if your monthly billing period is from March 15 to April 14, a Purchase made on April 14 (transaction date) and posts on April 15 (posting date) will not count for eligible Purchase for that month and will count towards spend in the next month's billing period. If the March 15 to April 14 period was your 12th monthly billing period, then the Purchase that was made on April 14 and posted on April 15 would not count toward this Offer.

Limited Time TD Business Travel ® Visa Card Promotional Offer ("Mobile Wallet Bonus"): Applies to the TD Business Travel® Visa Card that is also an $149 Account. Mobile Wallet Bonus starts March 5, 2024 and ends on June 3, 2024 (the "Offer Period"). The $149 Account will earn 25,000 bonus TD Rewards Points (the "Bonus Points") when a Primary Business Cardholder makes at least $250 eligible Purchases using an eligible mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay), where such Purchases are made within 90 days of account approval that are not subsequently rescinded, the subject of a chargeback request or otherwise disputed.

The Annual Fee rebate portion of this Offer ("Annual Fee Rebate Offer") is available only for the first year after Account approval, for the (i) Primary Business Cardholder, and the (ii) first two Additional Cards issued for the same business if any. The rebate of the $49 Annual Fee for the first two Additional Cards issued on the same business, if any, is for the first year only. Account ("$149 Account") must be opened by June 3, 2024. To receive the Additional Cardholder first -year annual fee rebates for Additional Cardholders ("Additional Cardholder Annual Fee Rebate"), you must add your Additional Cardholders to your Account by June 4, 2024.  The Annual Fee for any subsequent $149 Accounts or Additional Cards issued to the same business will continue to apply. The Annual Fee will be rebated within two monthly statements from the date of the charge. The full Annual Fee will be charged to the Primary Business Cardholder Account and the Additional Accounts (if applicable), after the first year. The Offer may be changed, withdrawn, or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated. This Offer is not transferable. If you have opened an Account in the last 12 months, you will not be eligible for this Offer. We reserve the right to limit the number of $149 Accounts opened by one person, and the number of Welcome Bonus points, the Monthly Bonus points and the Mobile Wallet Bonus Offer points awarded to any one business. Offers may be changed, withdrawn, or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise specified. Your Account must be open, active in Good Standing at the time the Welcome Bonus points, Monthly Bonus points and the Mobile Wallet Bonus Offer points are awarded. Please allow 8-12 weeks after the conditions for each element of the Offer are fulfilled for the Welcome Bonus points, the Monthly Bonus points, and the Mobile Wallet Bonus points to be credited to the TD Business Travel ® Visa Card Account associated with the Primary Business Cardholder, as designated by the Business. Closing your Account or transferring to another TD Credit Card may result in forfeiture of any bonus points not yet awarded.

4  Account must be approved by June 3, 2024. To receive 15,152 Bonus TD Rewards Points awarded to the TD Rewards Account associated with the TD Rewards Visa*  ("Account") , you must keep your Account open, active and in good standing for 90 days after Account opening. Offer may be changed, withdrawn (excluding Quebec) or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated. Your Account must be in good standing at the time the Welcome Bonus TD Rewards Points are awarded. Please allow 8 weeks after the conditions for each offer are fulfilled for the Welcome Bonus TD Rewards Points to be credited to your TD Rewards Account. This offer is not available customers who have activated and/or closed a TD Rewards Visa* Account in the last 12 months. We reserve the right to limit the number of Accounts opened by and the number of TD Rewards Points awarded to any one person.

5 You are responsible for ensuring the mobile phone number we have on file is accurate and for notifying us of any changes. We will send the TD Fraud Alerts text message instantly upon detection of suspicious activity; however, receipt of the text message may be delayed or prevented due to a variety of factors such as technology failures, service outages, or multiple third-party involvement. TD Fraud Alerts text messages will only be sent to customers who have a Canadian mobile phone number and a Canadian mailing address in their TD Customer Profile.

6  Offer ends September 3, 2024. The value of up to $370 could be earned in the first year of Account opening and is based on the combined value of:

• $124: Annual Fee Rebate for the Primary ($89) and first Additional Cardholder ($35) for the first year;
• Welcome Bonus of 15,000 TD Rewards Points earned when you make your first Purchase with your Card (travel value at Expedia For TD of $75;
• Additional Bonus of 35,000 TD Rewards Points earned when you spend $1,000 within 90 days of Account opening (travel value at Expedia For TD of $175;

Every 200 TD Rewards Points redeemed through Expedia For TD are worth $1 in travel savings.

7  1 TD Rewards Point is worth $0.0033 towards purchases at Amazon.ca that are eligible for the Shop With Points program. 3 TD Rewards Points minimum redemption. These are highlights of the Amazon.ca Shop with Points program for TD Rewards points (“SWP for TD”). SWP for TD is provided by Amazon.ca. To use your TD Rewards points to pay for an order at Amazon.ca, your eligible TD credit card must be linked to your Amazon.ca account. For more information, including how to enroll in SWP for TD and terms, conditions and restrictions, visit  https://www.amazon.ca/tdrewards . Amazon.ca is operated by Amazon Services International, Inc. The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its affiliates are not liable or responsible for SWP for TD or any of the services and products offered/provided by Amazon.ca. SWP for TD may be amended or cancelled at any time without notice.

9 Offer ends June 3, 2024. The value of up to $1,122 could be earned in the first year of Account approval and is based on the combined value of:

• $247: Annual Fee Rebate for the Primary ($149) and up to two Fee Rebates for two Additional Cardholder ($49 each) for the first year; Additional Cardholders must be added by March 5, 2024.
• Welcome Bonus of 30,000 TD Rewards Points earned when you make your first Purchase with your Card (travel value at Expedia For TD of $150);
• Monthly Bonus up to 120,000 TD Rewards Points earned when you spend $2,500 in Purchases each month for the first 12 months of account opening (travel value at Expedia For TD of $600);
• Mobile Wallet Bonus Offer up to 25,000 TD Rewards Points earned when a Primary Cardholder makes at least $250 eligible purchases using an eligible mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay), (travel value at Expedia For TD of $125); within 90 days of account opening.

® The TD logo and other trademarks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank or its subsidiaries.

* Trademark of Visa International Service Association; Used under license.

®Aeroplan is a registered trademark of Aeroplan Inc., used under license. Starbucks, the Starbucks logo, and other Starbucks trademarks, service marks, graphics, and logos used in connection with the Offer are trade names, trademarks or registered trademarks of Starbucks Corporation (collectively  “Starbucks Marks” ).

* Trademark of Visa International Service Association and used under license.

® The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

Amazon, the Amazon.ca logo and the smile logo are trademarks of Amazon Services International, Inc. or its affiliates.

Best Travel Credit Cards – April 2024

You can get travel points or benefits with those credit cards.

Here is a table summarizing the different offers. For more details, read on or click on the name of a card.

No foreign currency conversion fees

All these travel credit cards have no foreign currency conversion fees .

This means you won’t pay the 2.5% foreign currency transaction fee usually charged by other credit cards when you use your credit card without foreign currency conversion fees (or when you pay online in foreign currency).

Our choice: Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Card

With this welcome offer for the Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Card, you earn up to 40,000 welcome bonus points (a $400 value) as well as a first-year annual fee waiver (a $150 value):

• 30,000 points after just $1,000 in purchases
• 10,000 points after $40,000 in annual purchases in the first year

Then, each year, if you make at least $40,000 in purchases on the card, you’ll earn an annual bonus of 10,000 points, a value of $100 .

With the Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Card, you earn 3 points per dollar spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by IGA, Voilà by Safeway, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, IGA West, Les Marchés Tradition, Rachelle Béry and Co-Op.

Also, you earn 2 points per dollar for:

• grocery purchases
• dining purchases
• Entertainment
• Transportation

The Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Card is an excellent Visa credit card for this type of purchase.

You can redeem your points for any travel purchases (flights, hotels, all-inclusive and even Airbnb). You can also use your points as cash back rewards with Scene+.

The Scotiabank Passport™ Visa Infinite* Card also offers:

• no foreign transaction fee
• 6 complimentary passes to airport VIP lounges
• Premium insurance for your travels or purchases
• Concierge services

We voted this credit card the Best No-FX Fee Credit Card of 2024. Knowing that the annual fee is waived in the first year, there’s never been a better time to get this credit card for your international travels over the next year!

Outstanding travel insurance

All these travel credit cards offer outstanding travel insurance :

• Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Insurance
• Car rental insurance
• Flight and baggage delay insurance
• Emergency medical insurance

Our choice: National Bank World Elite Mastercard

The National Bank World Elite Mastercard ® is NBC’s best Mastercard credit card.

Right now, with our exclusive welcome offer :

• Get up to 35,000 reward points
• Save on annual fees for the first year
• Get a chance to win $2,000 in travel credits courtesy of Transat

It’s the best time of year to apply for the National Bank World Elite Mastercard ®!

With this card, you earn up to 5 points per dollar on your purchases:

• 5 points per dollar on grocery and restaurant purchases
• 2 points per dollar on gas and electric recharge purchases
• 2 points per dollar on recurring bills
• 2 points per dollar on À la carte Travel
• 1 point per dollar on all other purchases

And since it’s a National Bank Mastercard credit card, you can use it at Costco.

With this card, you have access to a $150 annual travel credit that you can use in any of these categories:

• Airport parking
• Baggage fees
• Seat selection
• Access to airport lounges
• Flight upgrades

In addition, you can enjoy access to DragonPass airport lounges and free Wi-Fi with Boingo. And unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau.

Finally, Milesopedia voted the National Bank World Elite Mastercard ® the Best Travel Credit Card and the Best Credit Card for Insurance in 2023 and 2024.

Access to VIP airport lounges

All these travel credit cards offer access to VIP airport lounges so you can relax or eat before your flight.

Our choice: American Express Platinum Card ®

The Platinum Card® is the Best Premium Travel Card in Canada.

With this welcome offer, you can earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards points :

• 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
• 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 14 and 17 months of Cardmembership

With this card, you get:

• 2 points per dollar for dining purchases
• 2 points per dollar on travel purchases

You can use your Membership Rewards points in many ways:

• Transfer points to airline partners: Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways / Qatar Airways ), Flying Blue, Delta Skymiles, etc.
• Transfer points to hotel programs (Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy)
• Redeem points for statement credits to offset any travel purchase charged to your Card ( 1,000 points = $10 )
• Redeem points for statement credits towards other purchases ( 1,000 points = $10 )

With this card, you also have advantages for your travels:

• $200 Annual Travel Credit
• $200 Annual Dining Credit
• $100 NEXUS Card Statement Credit
• Free, unlimited access for you and one additional traveller to over 1,200 airport lounges in more than 130 countries
• Hilton Honors Gold Elite status (complimentary breakfast at all Hilton hotels)
• Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status
• Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program

Last but not least, the Platinum Card® is distinguished by the numerous insurance coverages offered: theft and damage for rental cars, travel accident of $500,000 Emergency medical expenses (out-of-province or out-of-country), lost or stolen baggage, flight delays and misdirected baggage, hotel or motel burglary, Purchase Protection, Purchase Security.

Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement .

Transferable travel points

With these travel credit cards, you can earn points that can be transferred to other loyalty programs , giving you greater flexibility in using your travel points.

Our choice: American Express Cobalt ® Card

The American Express Cobalt® Card is the best credit card from American Express , whether you want points for travel or cash back.

The welcome bonus is distributed monthly for the first 12 months. You’ll earn 1,250 Membership Rewards points for every $750 in purchases charged to your card during the month (whether in the 1X, 2X, 3X or 5X category). That’s up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points .

You can easily use these points as statement credits for everyday or travel purchases. The value is the same for both: 1,000 points = $10 .

Or you can transfer them into Aeroplan points, Avios (British Airways/ Qatar Airways ), Flying Blue, Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors.

With the American Express Cobalt® Card , you can earn between 1 and 5 points per dollar:

This is a 1 to 5% return on all these purchases.

For example, if you spend $1,000 per month on groceries and/or restaurants and/or food delivery, you’ll earn $50 cash back per month, or $600 cash back per year with this card for this category of purchases!

And if you decide to transfer your points to other programs like Aeroplan, you could get even more value!

In addition, this card provides excellent insurance coverage: rental car theft and damage, baggage delay, lost or stolen baggage, flight delay, $250,000 travel accident, hotel or motel burglary, Mobile Device Insurance, Purchase Security, Purchase Protection Insurance.

Travel points (flights, hotels, Airbnb, etc.)

With these travel credit cards, you earn points that you can easily use for any travel expense charged to your card . You can use any agency or website to book your trip and get the best price.

Our choice: TD First Class Travel ® Visa Infinite* Card

With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card , you can earn up to 100,000 TD Points † and a first year annual fee rebate :

• Welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Points when you make your first Purchase with your Card †
• Earn 80,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $5,000 within 180 days of Account opening † .
• A Birthday Bonus of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points †

Get an Annual Fee Rebate for the first year † .

With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card , you get:

• 8 TD Rewards Points † for every $1 you spend when you book travel through Expedia ® For TD
• 6 TD Rewards Points † for every $1 you spend on Groceries and Restaurants
• 4 TD Rewards Points † for every $1 you spend on regularly recurring bill payments set up on your Account
• 2 TD Rewards Points † For every $1 you spend on other Purchases

This TD credit card is one of the best TD travel rewards cards.

Airline points (Aeroplan, Avios, WestJet, etc.)

All these travel credit cards are co-branded with an airline . With these travel credit cards, you’ll get great value from your points if you travel regularly with the airline or one of its partners.

Our choice: TD ® Aeroplan ® Visa Infinite* Card

With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card , you can earn up to 50,000 Aeroplan points :

• A welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase with your new card †
• 20,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $6,000 within 180 days of Account opening †
• Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 20,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $10,000 within 12 months of Account opening †
• $100 NEXUS fee rebate †
• Up to eight passengers travelling on the same reservation will all enjoy their first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb) when your travel originates on an Air Canada flight †

It’s the best TD credit card for occasional Air Canada travellers.

With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card , you earn 1.5 points † per dollar of eligible purchases for:

• Grocery stores
• Gas stations
• Air Canada purchases, including Air Canada Vacations

Hotel points

All these travel credit cards are co-branded with a group of hotels or earn hotel points. With these travel credit cards, you’ll get great value from your points if you stay regularly at one of the group’s member hotels.

Our choice: Marriott Bonvoy ® American Express ® * Card.

The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card is the best credit card for free hotel nights .

With this exceptional limited-time welcome offer, you can earn up to 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points :

• 65,000 Welcome Bonus points after you spend $3,000 on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
• Plus, earn an additional 3 points for a total of 5 points on every $1 spent on eligible travel and gas purchases in your first 6 months (up to 15,000 points )

It’s the best time of year to get the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card . Don’t wait, this offer ends on May 6, 2024 !

It’s a Card we recommend keeping because each year at renewal, you get an Annual Free Night Award (for up to 35,000 points at hotels worldwide) and 15 Elite Night Credits per year, counting towards your Marriott Bonvoy Elite status.

With this Card, you earn 5 points per dollar on all purchases at Marriott Bonvoy properties and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases .

Finally, this Card comes with comprehensive insurance : baggage delay, lost or stolen baggage, $500,000 travel accident, flight delay, hotel or motel burglary, rental car theft and damage, Purchase Security, Purchase Protection.

Popular travel credit cards

All these travel credit cards are popular with Milesopedia readers. They’re worth considering if you’re planning to travel soon!

CIBC Aventura ® Visa Infinite* Card

The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card is one of the best Visa credit cards with travel rewards .

You can earn up to 45,000 Aventura points with this CIBC digital exclusive offer for Milesopedia readers .

• 15,000 Aventura Points when you make your first purchase †
• 30,000 Aventura Points when you spend $3,000 or more in the first 4 monthly statement periods †

Plus, you can get a first-year annual fee rebate for you (a $139 value) and up to three authorized users ( $50 each; $150 value).

With this CIBC Aventura Credit Card, you get:

• 2 points for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre †
• 1.5 points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores †
• 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases †

The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card also offers:

• Airport lounges access: Visa Airport Companion Program membership with 4 complimentary visits per year
• A NEXUS application fee rebate (a $50 value)

The minimum annual income required for this card is $60,000 (personal) or $100,000 (household).

RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card

With this exceptional offer for the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card, you can earn up to 55,000 Avion points:

• 35,000 Avion points on approval
• 20,000 Avion bonus points when you spend $5,000 in your first 6 months

This offer expires on April 30, 2024, and will not be renewed. Take advantage of it before it’s too late !

You can use your Avion Rewards points for travel or redeem them with other loyalty programs such as :

• American Airlines AAdvantage
• British Airways Executive Club (and Qatar Airways Privilege Club)
• Cathay Pacific Asia Miles
• WestJet Rewards

For example, with the current welcome offer, you can get 55,000 British Airways Avios Points or 550 WestJet Dollars .

With the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card, you earn 1 point per dollar and 1.25 points for travel purchases.

And you’ll benefit from a wide range of insurance coverage: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, Out-of-Province/Country Emergency Medical Insurance, Rental Vehicle Collision/Loss Damage Insurance, Mobile Device Insurance.

Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card

The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card only requires a $12,000 minimum income, making it accessible to as many people as possible.

For a limited time, you can earn up to 40,000 points in the first year, which is a $400 value on travel purchases, including Airbnb.

With the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card, you earn 6 points per dollar spent at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà by Sobeys, Voilà by IGA, Voilà by Safeway, Chalo! FreshCo, Thrifty Foods, IGA West, Les Marchés Tradition, Rachelle Béry and Co-Op.

Also, you earn 5 points per dollar for:

• grocery stores
• Restaurants

And 3 points per dollar on gas, transit and streaming services purchases.

You can redeem your points on travel purchases (flights, hotels, all-inclusive and even Airbnb). You can also use your points as cash back rewards with Scene+.

The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card also offers no foreign currency transaction fees , excellent travel and purchase insurance, concierge service and exclusive American Express benefits (Front of the Line Program).

MBNA Rewards World Elite ® Mastercard ®

With the MBNA Rewards World Elite® Mastercard®, you can earn 5 points per dollar of purchases for:

• Dining purchases
• Grocery purchases
• Digital media purchases (Netflix, Spotify, etc.)
• Memberships
• Household utility purchases (electricity, etc.)

Everywhere else, you will get 1 point per dollar .

Enough to make the MBNA Rewards World Elite® Mastercard® the best MBNA credit card for restaurants, groceries, digital media, subscriptions and household utilities.

Knowing that Mastercard recognizes Walmart Supercenters as grocery stores, this is the best credit card for Walmart customers!

Plus, depending on your province of residence, you’ll get a welcome bonus of between 20,000 and 30,000 points, a value of $200 to $300!

And each year, you will receive Birthday Bonus Points equal to 10% of the total number of Points the Account earned in the 12 months before the month of your birthday, to a maximum Birthday Bonus each year of 15,000 Points.

American Express ® Gold Rewards Card

Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards points with this welcome offer for the American Express® Gold Rewards Card . That’s a $600 value for travel or any purchase on the Card.

You can also transfer your points to airline partners such as Aeroplan, Avios (British Airways / Qatar Airways ), Flying Blue, and hotel partners (Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors).

With this Card, you get many benefits like:

• $100 annual travel credit
• Priority Pass membership and 4 complimentary Plaza Premium visits per year
• $50 NEXUS credit

You earn 2 points per dollar for travel purchases, and at:

• gas stations

And 1 point per dollar everywhere else.

BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard

The BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard is one of the best World Elite Mastercard credit cards with travel points in Canada. With our exclusive offer, you can get up to 100,000 bonus points :

• 55,000 points after $4,500 in Card purchases in the first 3 months
• 3,750 points per month after $2,500 in monthly purchases from the 4th to the 15th month (up to 45,000 points )

Plus, the annual fee is waived in the first year for both the primary cardholder and authorized users.

With the BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard , a premium credit card from BMO, you get:

• 5 points per dollar on travel purchases
• 3 points per dollar on dining purchases
• 3 points per dollar for entertainment purchases
• 3 points per dollar on recurring bill payments

And 1 point for every $1 spent everywhere else, including at Costco. You can use BMO Rewards points for all travel purchases made through the agency or website of your choice (flights, hotels, car rentals, all-inclusive resorts, Airbnb, etc.) or for rewards and gift cards on the BMO Rewards platform.

The BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard also offers:

• Four annual complimentary passes to airport VIP lounges
• Excellent Premium insurance for your travels or purchases
• a premium concierge service

Frequent Asked Questions about travel credit cards

Here are frequently asked questions in the milesopedia community about credit cards in Canada.

Why choose a credit card linked to a rewards program?

By signing up for rewards programs (it’s free!), you can earn points on your purchases that can be redeemed for things like hotel nights , flights, car rentals and cash back . Why deprive ourselves of it?

What is the best credit card with Reward Points?

With the many credit cards on the market, Milesopedia offers you to compare credit cards , according to your profile and with everything you need to know about current offers. Milesopedia is along your side to help you make the best credit card choice for you.

What is a travel credit card in Canada?

Travel credit cards in Canada allow you to earn points or miles for eligible purchases, according to the loyalty program associated with the card.

Why choose a travel credit card?

These cards offer benefits such as travel discounts, access to airport lounges, travel insurance and more.

What types of travel credit cards are available in Canada?

There are three main categories: travel rewards credit cards from major banks, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards.

How do travel rewards cards work?

They allow points earned to be used for different types of travel and offer greater flexibility in the use of points.

What are the benefits of airline credit cards?

These cards earn points for a specific airline, such as Air Canada or WestJet, which can be used within their network.

Why choose a hotel credit card?

They offer benefits for hotel stays, with rewards that are often more attractive than airline rewards.

What are the additional benefits of travel credit cards?

Travel credit cards can include free checked baggage, access to airport lounges, comprehensive travel insurance, and no foreign transaction fees.

What are the disadvantages of travel credit cards?

Disadvantages of travel credit cards include annual fees, exclusion periods, and possible expiration of reward points.

How do I apply for a travel credit card in Canada?

Check your eligibility, complete an online application for your travel credit card, and meet the minimum income requirements and other specific conditions.

How can you maximize the benefits of your travel credit card?

Pay your bills on time, reach the minimum spend for the welcome bonus, and choose a travel credit card aligned with your spending habits.

What is the best travel credit card in Canada?

There are more than 200 credit cards in Canada. There’s no better travel credit card!

There are several travel credit cards to suit your needs:

• Best AIR MILES Credit Cards
• Best Aeroplan Credit cards
• Best Credit Cards With Insurance
• The Best Credit cards For Airbnb
• Best Credit Cards For Hotels

• Book Travel
• Credit Cards

The Beginner’s Guide to TD

TD is one of Canada’s largest and most popular banks, offering a range of products and services through in-person and online banking.

In This Post

A brief history of td, chequing and savings accounts, td credit cards, td banking app, frequently asked questions.

Toronto Dominion (TD) Bank was created on February 1, 1955, as an amalgamation of The Bank of Toronto and The Dominion Bank.

Over the past seven decades, TD has continued to grow in both size and in the diversity of its offerings.

Beginning with 499 branches at the time of amalgamation, TD now has over 2,200 branches and is currently the second largest bank in Canada and the tenth largest bank in the US.

Key Dates in TD History:

• 1855 – The Bank of Toronto was founded
• 1871 – The Dominion Bank opened its first branch
• 1955 – TD was created through the amalgamation of The Bank of Toronto and The Dominion Bank
• 2000 – TD purchases Canada Trust, expanding its market share in Canada
• 2005 – TD acquires Banknorth, marking its major entrance into US retail banking
• 2011 – TD acquires MBNA Canada’s credit card business

TD has four personal chequing accounts and three personal savings accounts, which we’ll go over in this section.

When considering which type of account to open, it’s important to think about your banking priorities and preferences, and how you tend to use and access your account.

TD also often has promotional offers when you sign up for a specific account or multiple accounts together that can garner you a cash bonus, higher interest rates on savings, and other perks (e.g., merchandise).

Chequing Accounts

Chequing accounts are the best day-to-day account as they tend to offer more monthly transactions and lower fees compared to savings accounts. Plus, they often come with perks such as free Interac e-transfers and rebates on credit card annual fees .

To learn more, let’s take a look the key characteristics of each of TD’s personal chequing accounts from the simplest to the most comprehensive:

TD Minimum Chequing Account

• Monthly fee: $3.95 (all figures in CAD)
• Included transactions: 12 (additional transactions = $1.25/each)
• Interac e-transfers: $0.50/each (for transactions up to $100) and $1/each (for transactions above $100)
• ATM fees: $2 for non-TD ATMs in Canada, $3 for foreign ATMs in the US and Mexico, and $5 for foreign ATMs in any other country
• Fee waivers: Fees waived for seniors receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and for Registered Disability Savings Plan beneficiaries
• Best for: Individuals with minimal banking needs

TD Every Day Chequing Account

• Monthly fee: $10.95 (waived if a $3,000 account balance is maintained)
• Included transactions: 25 (additional transactions = $1.25/each)
• Interac e-transfers: Free
• Fee waivers: None
• Best for: Individuals who make fewer than 25 transactions per month

TD Unlimited Chequing Account

• Monthly fee: $16.95 (waived if a $4,000 account balance is maintained)
• Included transactions: Unlimited
• ATM fees: $0 for all ATMs in Canada, $3 for foreign ATMs in the US and Mexico, and $5 for foreign ATMs in any other country
• Fee waivers: First year annual fee rebate for an eligible TD credit card
• Best for: Individuals who want the freedom of unlimited transactions and who can take advantage of the credit card fee rebate

TD All-Inclusive Banking Plan

• Monthly fee: $29.95 (waived if a $5,000 account balance is maintained); $22.45 for seniors over the age of 60
• ATM fees: $0 for all ATMs globally
• Fee waivers: Yearly annual fee rebate for an eligible TD credit card
• Additional features: A small safety deposit box (subject to availability) and free personalized cheques
• Best For: Individuals who often use non-TD ATMs and those who can take advantage of the annual credit card fee rebate and the additional product perks

Savings Accounts

TD also offers three savings accounts for clients looking to build their savings while still having easy access to their funds.

Let’s explore these three accounts and what makes each one unique.

TD Every Day Savings Account

• Monthly fee: $0
• Annual interest rate: 0.010%
• Included transactions: One (additional transactions = $3/each)
• Transfers: Free to other TD deposit accounts
• Best For: Individuals looking for a simple place to start saving

TD High Interest Savings Account

• Annual interest rate: 0.050% when account balance is $5,000 or higher; 0% when account balance is below $5,000
• Included transactions: Zero (transactions = $5/each, which is waived if a $25,000 account balance is maintained)
• Best for: Individuals looking for an easy-to-access savings account

TD ePremium Savings Account

• Annual interest rate: 1.85% when account balance is $10,000 or higher; 0% when account balance is below $10,000
• Included transactions: Zero (transactions = $5/each)
• Best For: Individuals who can maintain an account balance of $10,000 or higher

Additionally, for individuals who have newly immigrated to Canada, TD has created a special offer called the TD New to Canada Banking Package .

This offer provides a variety of different financial incentives when you open specific chequing and savings accounts, plus additional rewards-based incentives when you sign-up for a specific credit card.

Student Bank Accounts

TD offers one account specifically for youth (under the age of 23) and students (of any age) who are enrolled in full-time post-secondary education: the TD Student Chequing Account.

TD Student Chequing Account

• Best for: Individuals who are under the age of 23 or who are enrolled in a full-time post-secondary program

Additionally, TD has created a special offer for young students who are new to Canada: the International Student Banking Package .

This package combines the TD Student Chequing Account, the TD Rewards Visa* Card, and the TD Every Day Savings Account and provides additional value to eligible account holders through Amazon gift cards and cash bonuses.

For new students looking to get started in Canada, this package provides both essential products and excellent added value.

US Dollar Accounts

TD has two US dollar accounts available: the US Daily Interest Chequing Account and the Borderless Account.

These accounts are ideal for people who have banking needs in both Canada and the US as they allow you to easily exchange funds between the two countries at a competitive rate.

The US Daily Interest Chequing Account has no monthly fee, making it an excellent account if you find yourself occasionally in need of banking access in the US.

Comparatively, the Borderless Account has a monthly fee of $4.95 (USD) which is waived if the account balance is $3,000 (USD).

This account enjoys a preferred exchange rate and provides account holders with free US bank drafts and basic cheques. These features make it ideal for frequent travellers to the US.

TD offers its clients a range of personal credit cards that provide the opportunity to earn cash back, Aeroplan points, and TD Rewards Points .

Cash Back Credit Cards

TD offers two cash back credit cards: the TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card and the TD Cash Back Visa* Card .

These credit cards are ideal for people who like the simplicity of cash back rewards, which can be used to pay down your account at any time with a minimum of $25.

For an entry-level card, the TD Cash Back Visa* Card has no annual fee and earns 1% cash back on eligible grocery, gas, and recurring bill payments.†

• Earn 1% cash back † on eligible grocery and gas purchases, as well as recurring bill payments set up on your account †
• Then, earn 0.5% cash back † on all other eligible purchases †
• No minimum income requirement
• Annual fee: $0

Comparatively, the TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* has an annual fee of $139 but offers 3% cash back on eligible grocery, gas, and recurring bill payments.†

• Earn 10% cash back † in the first three months, on up to $3,500 spent on eligible groceries, gas, and recurring bills set up on your account †
• Then, earn 3% cash back † on eligible groceries, gas, and recurring bill payments set up on your account †
• Free Deluxe TD Auto Club Membership for roadside assistance †
• Minimum income: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
• Annual fee: $0 for the first year † , then $139
• Application must be approved by June 3, 2024 to receive this offer

We’ve created individual in-depth guides to both of these cash back credit cards, where you can find up-to-date offers and enrollment information – just click above to learn more.

Aeroplan Co-Branded Credit Cards

For individuals looking to earn points with Canada’s most popular and powerful airline loyalty program, TD offers three personal credit cards that earn Aeroplan points on everyday spending.

The three cards are: the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum* Card , TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite* Card , and the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege* Card .

These cards are great choices for Aeroplan members looking to build up their points account balance to access award flights, as each card comes with a welcome bonus and earns Aeroplan points on everyday spend.

The entry-level member of the TD Aeroplan co-branded card family is the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum* Card. This card often features a generous welcome bonus and comes with a few Air Canada perks.

This is a great card to consider if you have a more modest income or want to keep costs down while still earning points towards travel.

• Earn  10,000 Aeroplan points † upon first purchase †
• Plus, earn 10,000 Aeroplan points † upon spending $1,000 in the first three months
• Earn 1x Aeroplan points† on eligible gas, groceries, and Air Canada ® purchases, including Air Canada Vacations ® †
• Preferred pricing on Air Canada ® flights through Aeroplan †
• Annual fee: $89, rebated in the first year †
• Application must be approved by September 3, 2024 to receive this offer

The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite* Card is the next level up in TD’s Aeroplan credit card family.

Much like its Platinum counterpart, this card often comes with a nice welcome bonus, and it also offers cardholders one free checked bag on Air Canada flights and a fee rebate for your NEXUS application.†

This card is a good choice for individuals who travel often and can take advantage of the related perks.

• Earn 10,000 Aeroplan points † upon first purchase †
• Plus, earn 20 ,000 Aeroplan points † upon spending $6,000 in the first 180 days of account opening †
• Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 20,000 Aeroplan points †  when you spend $10,000 within 12 months of account opening †
• Earn 1.5x Aeroplan points † on eligible gas, groceries, and Air Canada ® purchases, including Air Canada Vacations ® †
• Preferred Aeroplan pricing and free checked bags on Air Canada ® flights †
• Annual fee: $139

The third card in the TD Aeroplan family is the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege* Card. Of TD’s three Aeroplan credit cards, this one will come with the highest welcome bonus and the most valuable perks.

This card is ideal for individuals who don’t mind paying the high annual fee and for Air Canada frequent flyers who can maximize the utility of the associated travel benefits, including eUpgrade/Status Qualifying Miles rollover and unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge access.

• Earn 20,000 Aeroplan points † upon first purchase
• Plus, earn an additional 40,000 Aeroplan points † upon spending $10,000 in the first 180 days
• Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan points † when you spend $15,000 within 12 months of account opening †
• Earn 2x Aeroplan points † on eligible Air Canada ® purchases, including Air Canada Vacations ® †
• Earn 1.5x Aeroplan points † on eligible gas, groceries, dining, food delivery, and other travel purchases †
• Aeroplan preferred pricing, free checked bag, priority check-in and boarding on Air Canada flights †
• Unlimited Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge † access
• DragonPass membership † with six free lounge visits per year
• Minimum income: $150,000 personal or $200,000 household
• Annual fee: $599

Check out our in-depth guides for these three Aeroplan cards to learn about up-to-date offers and enrollment information – just click the card names above.

TD Rewards Credit Cards

TD offers three credit cards that earn TD Rewards Points on everyday spending. TD Rewards is the bank’s own rewards program, allowing clients to earn points that can be used for travel, statement credits, and gift cards.

The three TD Rewards cards are the TD Rewards Visa* Card , the TD Platinum Travel Visa* Card , and the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* Card .

TD Rewards Points are particularly valuable when redeemed for travel booked through Expedia® for TD, the bank’s online travel portal operated in partnership with Expedia®.

The TD Rewards Visa* Card is this credit card family’s entry-level offering and offers the opportunity to earn TD Rewards Points on everyday purchases with zero annual fee.†

This is a great card for individuals who are looking for a straightforward, low-cost card that lets them earn towards flexible future travel.

• Earn 15,152 TD Rewards Points† upon keeping your account open for 90 days †
• Plus, earn 4x TD Rewards Points † on eligible travel purchases when you book through Expedia ® for TD †
• Use your rewards for any travel bookings available on Expedia ® for TD †

The TD Platinum Travel Visa* Card is the mid-level card of the TD Rewards credit card family, and new cardholders usually have the opportunity to earn a welcome bonus in the first few months of card membership.

This card also offers elevated TD Rewards Points earning rates, making it a good card for individuals looking to build up their points balance faster.

• Earn  15,000 TD Rewards Points upon first purchase †
• Earn 35,000 TD Rewards Points upon spending $1,000 in the first 90 days †
• Plus, earn 6x TD Rewards Points † on eligible travel purchases when you book through Expedia ® for TD †
• Earn  4.5x TD Rewards Points † on eligible grocery and restaurant purchases †

The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* Card is the premium card offering in the TD Rewards credit card family.

This card often features a generous welcome bonus and a first-year annual fee rebate.

Cardholders will also enjoy excellent earning rates for TD Rewards Points and a $100 accommodations/vacation credit that can be used when booking at least $500 worth of eligible travel through Expedia® for TD.†

This card is a good choice for individuals who are looking to quickly accumulate TD Rewards Points and who can make use of the $100 accommodations/vacation credit.

• Earn 20,000 TD Rewards Points upon making your first purchase †
• Earn  80 ,000 TD Rewards Points upon spending $5,000 within 180 days of account opening †
• Plus, earn up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points back on your birthday †
• Plus, earn 8x TD Rewards Points † on eligible travel purchases when you book through Expedia ® for TD †
• Get an annual TD Travel Credit † of $100 when you book through Expedia ® for TD †
• Annual fee: $139, rebated for the first year †

Click on the credit card names above to access our in-depth guides for the up-to-date offers and enrollment information for the three TD Rewards credit cards.

Low-Rate Credit Cards

TD offers one low-rate credit card in the TD Low Rate Visa* Card .

This card is a good choice for someone who often needs to carry a balance on their card and would benefit from the lower annual interest rate of 12.90%.

This card also often offers promotional interest rates for a set number of months, allowing new cardholders to make bigger or unexpected purchases without incurring as much interest.

TD has an app available for both Apple iOS and Android.

Within the app, clients can access their chequing, savings, credit, and investment accounts. They can move money between these accounts, pay bills, and deposit cheques (by taking a photo of the cheque).

Clients can also send and request money within Canada via Interac e-transfer or to 200+ countries using TD Global Transfer.

Within the app, clients can also keep their debit and credit cards secure with the ability to lock a card if it is misplaced, lost, or stolen. They can then easily unlock the card in the app once it has been found.

If you’re new to the app, TD also provides some very helpful tutorials on their website to help you learn all about the different features.

TD is the second largest bank in Canada, with over 1,000 branches across the country.

TD offers a range of bank accounts, credit cards, and additional products designed to suit a myriad of different client types.

Whether you’re a student, a newcomer to Canada, or someone perusing new banking options, TD’s diversity of offerings are certainly worth exploring.

What do I need to open a TD bank account?

To open a TD bank account, you’ll need your personal information including full name, birthdate address, phone number, and email address.

Additionally, you’ll need to provide two valid forms of identification, and if the bank account you plan to open will earn interest, you’ll also need to provide your Social Insurance Number for tax reporting purposes.

Valid forms of identification can include a Canadian driver’s license, health card, or passport, Canadian birth certificate, Old Age Security card, Certificate of Indian Status, citizenship certificate, permanent resident card, and more.

You can learn more about the ID requirements from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada’s website. (https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/banking/opening-bank-account.html)

What do I need to open a TD credit card?

To open a TD credit card, you’ll need your personal information including full name, birthdate, address, phone number, and email address.

Different credit cards will have different requirements, and for some credit cards you will be required to provide additional financial information such as your employment status (past and present) and your income.

How do I contact/access TD?

There are multiple ways to contact/access TD in Canada.

Information about TD and their personal banking products and services can be found on the TD website .

If you are already a TD client with either a personal bank account or personal credit card, you can sign in to your account on your computer and use the EasyWeb Messaging feature on the website to message with a live agent between the hours of 9am and 11pm Eastern Time Monday to Friday and between 10am and 7pm Eastern Time on Saturday and Sunday.

Alternatively, you can sign in on the TD App and select Contact Us from the menu, followed by Call Us. This will connect you with a live phone agent during business hours as long as you’re physically in Canada.

You can also reach out by telephone:

• For bank accounts, you can call 1-866-222-3456 (English) and 1-800-895-4463 (French)
• For credit cards, you can call 1-800-983-8472 (options for French and English), 1-877-233-5558 (Cantonese), and 1-877-233-5844 (Mandarin)

If you’d prefer to speak to someone in person, you can walk in to your local TD branch, or you can first make an appointment online .

Prince of Travel is Canada’s leading resource for using frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and loyalty programs to travel the world at a fraction of the price.

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Business Platinum Card from American Express

120,000 MR points

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

85,000 Aeroplan points

American Express Platinum Card

100,000 MR points

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

Up to 85,000 Aeroplan points†

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What Are The Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada?

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

If you frequently travel abroad from Canada or often make payments in foreign currencies, you'll probably know that there are many credit cards out there which cater to your needs. But with so many options at your fingertips, it's not always easy to find out which is the best for you.

Fortunately for you, our team has compared the top credit cards in Canada for annual fees, travel rewards, FX rates, insurance and protections, and much more to select what we believe are undeniably the four best cards on the market. So, no matter whether you're taking your family on vacation to Europe or just making a simple online transaction in US dollars, our carefully-selected options will cater to your every need!

If traveling as cheaply as possible is your goal, then a full-on credit card might not be your best bet. We recommend checking out KOHO 's range of debit cards, whose Extra or Everything plans charge no FX fee.

Tangerine also offers the Money-Back Credit Card , which lets you build credit and take advantage of cashback while paying no annual fees.

Best Credit Card in Canada for Travel

• 01. Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card scroll down
• 02. American Express Cobalt® Card scroll down
• 03. TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege Card scroll down
• 04. BMO AIR MILES® MasterCard® scroll down
• 05. KOHO: an alternative to credit cards scroll down

Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card

Tangerine's Money-Back Credit Card is a credit card without an annual fee focusing on credit building and cash back . At 2.5% per transaction, it's not the cheapest travel credit card, but it can still be a good bet since it doesn't charge an annual fee.

• Annual Fee:  $0
• Interest (Purchases): 19.95%
• Interest (Cash Advance): 19.95%
• Foreign Transaction Charge:  2.5%
• Rewards, Insurance, and Protections:  Purchase Assurance and Extended Warranty, 2% Money-Back Rewards on everyday purchases

American Express Cobalt® Card

The American Express Cobalt® Card is an excellent choice for travel, offering benefits such as generous rewards , insurance, and no foreign transaction fees, ensuring a rewarding and cost-effective travel experience.

• Annual Fee:  $155.88
• Interest (Purchases): 20.99%
• Interest (Cash Advance): 21.99%
• Foreign Transaction Charge: $0
• Rewards, Insurance, and Protections:  Amex Membership Reward points, Mobile Device Insurance, travel insurance, etc.

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege Card

The most premium credit card on this list, TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege Card has a high annual fee but comes packed with perks like comprehensive trip insurance, airport lounge access, travel benefits on Air Canada, and points.

• Annual Fee: $599
• Interest (Cash Advance): 20.99%
• Foreign Transaction Charge:  $0
• Rewards, Insurance, and Protections: Travel Medical Insurance, Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Flight Delay Insurance, Global Airport Lounge Access, Air Canada travel benefits, etc.

BMO AIR MILES® MasterCard®

Another credit card without annual fees, BMO AIR MILES® MasterCard® is a good choice if you're looking for fair travel benefits without paying high annual fees , which includes rewards, miles, and basic trip insurance.

• Annual Fee: $0
• Interest (Cash Advance): 22.99%
• Rewards, Insurance, and Protections: Car rental discounts, Miles accrual, extended warranty and purchase protection, BMO Roadside Assistance, etc.

KOHO Debit Card: A Credit Card Alternative

If you want to save money while spending overseas, you can take advantage of low-cost foreign exchange spending with KOHO 's Extra and Everything plans — a complete alternative to traditional credit cards in Canada !

With KOHO's innovative mobile finance platform, you can earn 1% or more cash back and 5% interest on balances. Plus, enjoy no foreign transaction fees if you are an Extra or Everything member. Compared to credit cards, this means that KOHO's debit card can save you money if you can afford to keep your number of transact or withdrawals to a minimum while travelling abroad.

What's more, KOHO offers instant notifications and real-time spending insights, empowering you to stay on top of your travel expenses. With KOHO as your trusted financial companion, you can embrace a seamless and secure travel experience abroad!

• Essential Plan:  $4 per month ($0 if you set up recurring direct debits or deposit $500 per month)
• Extra Plan: $9 per month
• Everything Plan: $19 per month
• Foreign Transaction Charges:  1.5% (0% on Extra or Everything plan)
• Travel Insurance and Protections: N/A
• Travel Rewards: N/A
• Sign-up Bonuses: N/A
• More Info:  Read our review or visit the website .

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The best travel insurance credit cards in Canada for 2024

Searching for the perfect card? Compare your options with our interactive tool, and filter results based on rewards value, annual fees, income requirements, and more.

Travel medical emergency insurance for trips up to 60 days with insurance options also available for seniors (rare among travel cards).

Travel insurance for trips up to 25 days. Plus receive airport lounge and noforex perks. Receive $25 gift card upon approval with Ratehub.ca.

Among the few no fee credit cards to offer comprehensive travel insurance (for trips of up to 10 days).

MoneySense is an award-winning magazine, helping Canadians navigate money matters since 1999. Our editorial team of trained journalists works closely with leading personal finance experts in Canada. To help you find the best financial products, we compare the offerings from over 12 major institutions, including banks, credit unions and card issuers.  Learn more about our advertising and trusted partners .

Canada’s best credit cards for travel insurance

By Keph Senett on April 12, 2024 Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

If you’re planning to travel this summer, you’ll need travel insurance if you plan to go out of province. These days, many of the credit cards available include some kind of travel insurance. While that’s a great selling feature for these cards, savvy Canadians know that not all insurance is created equal. There are a few kinds of coverage you actually  need  when travelling, like emergency medical and trip cancellation or interruption. Theft or baggage loss protection is a useful bonus, too.

As to which  travel credit card  offers the right combination of features for you, that will depend largely on the type of traveller you are and the perks you’re most likely to use. But first…

Travel insurance on credit cards: How does it work?

Every insurance package is tailored to a specific card and program but in general, the process is simple. You’ll usually have to book your travel on that credit card but different cards have different rules. For example, some say you need to book 100% of your trip on the card while others don’t have that stipulation. Read your documents to determine your responsibilities. Once you book, you’ll automatically have access to the included coverage. You don’t have to notify the credit card company that you’re traveling or call to activate the coverage. That said, we always recommend that you read the documentation from your credit card company. 

Best no fee card for travel insurance 

At a glance: If you want a travel insurance credit card without committing to an annual fee, check out the Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard. Not only does this no-fee card include valuable travel and rental car insurance with perks like free Boingo Wi-Fi and access to airport lounges, it’s also a cash back card. This means that for every $1 you spend on the card you’ll get back 1.5% (or 2% if you’re a Rogers, Fido or Shaw customer).

Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard

• Annual fee:  $0
• Earn rate:  1.5% cash back on all purchases, or 2% back for Rogers, Fido and Shaw customers; 3% cash back on all purchases in U SD
• Welcome bonus: You can This card does not have a welcome bonus at this time.
• Annual income requirement:  Personal income of $80,000 or household income of $150,000
• Recommended credit score for approval: 725 or higher
• Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances, 22.99% on balance transfers

Best travel insurance card for lounge access

It would be hard to overstate the perks of lounge access. When you use this card for your travel expenses, you get just that: a worry-free haven. The Scotiabank Passport Travel Visa is a top-notch travel card in its own right, offering a solid suite of travel and car rental insurance coverage. Those under 65 get up to 25 days of travel medical insurance, which is impressive compared to other cards on this list. If you’re aged 65 or older though, you are only covered for three days. The card also boasts coverage for trip cancellation, flight delays, lost baggage, rental car collision/ damage, accident insurance and more.

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite

• Annual fee: $150
• Earn rate : 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent at Sobeys stores; 2 points per $1 on groceries, dining, entertainment and transit; 1 point per $1 on everything else. Plus, pay no FX fees
• Welcome offer: earn up to $1,300 in value in the first 12 months, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points and first year annual fee waived. Offer ends July 1, 2024.
• Annual income requirement: Personal income of $60,000 or household income of $100,000
• Point value: 1 Scene+ point = $0.01 when redeemed for travel, store purchases and food and drink at Cineplex and Scene partners
• Recommended credit score   for approval : 700 or higher

Best travel credit card for medical insurance

At a glance: Canadians are privileged when it comes to healthcare, so it’s no surprise we want to travel with robust medical insurance. While many credit cards offer medical coverage of up to $1 million, the Ascend World Elite Mastercard doubles that , offering $5 million in coverage for up to 21 days of travel—on unlimited trips per year. You’ll also get travel accident insurance, which covers you and your spouse and dependants for up to $500,000 on passenger plans, busses, taxis, trains and cruise ships.

BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard

• Earn rates: 5 points per $1 spent on eligible travel purchases; 3 points per $1 on dining, entertainment, and recurring bill payments; 1 point per $1 on everything else
• Welcome bonus: You can earn up to 100,000 points and the annual fee waived in the first year for both the primary cardholder and authorized users.
• Annual income requirement: Personal income of $80,000 or household income of $150,000
• Points values: 1 BMO Rewards point = $0.0067 when redeemed for travel
• Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases, 23.99% on cash advances, 23.99% on balance transfers

Another perk offered by the BMO Ascend: You get delayed and loss baggage insurance. So you’ll be reimbursed up to $500 per insured person if your bags are lost or damaged. And if your checked bags are delayed more than 6 hours, you’ll get $500 to purchase essentials, too. Coverage for you and your family to the tune of $5 million provides a lot of peace of mind, while a free lounge membership in Mastercard Travel Pass, provided by DragonPass, plus four free passes a year, gives you literal peace when travelling. Cardholders earn BMO Rewards points when using the card, which can be applied to travel, merchandise, cash redemption and even a contribution to a BMO investment account.

Best travel card for snowbirds and other seniors

At a glance: Canadians work hard all their lives, often with the idea that they’ll travel once in retirement or semi-retirement. The thing is, many insurance companies radically increase premiums or even refuse coverage to older applicants. Travellers with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard in their wallet have 15 days of emergency travel insurance included, even if they’re over 65 years old. The card’s inventive travel fee reimbursements system can cover you for travel-related costs like airport parking, seat selection, and checked baggage fees. 

National Bank World Elite Mastercard

• Annual fee:  $150
• Earn rate: 5 points per $1 on grocery and restaurant purchases; 2 points per $1 on gas, EV charges, recurring bill payments and travel booked through À La Carte Rewards; and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
• Welcome offer:  You can This card does not have a welcome bonus at this time.
• Recommended credit score: 760 or higher
• Interest rates:  20.99% on purchases, 22.49% on cash advances, 22.49% on balance transfers

Best for travel insurance for road trips 

At a glance: Many travel credit cards focus on air travel but for the road trippers among us, we’ve selected the BMO CashBack World Elite Mastercard. Cardmembers are covered by the BMO World Elite Total Travel and Medical Protection package, which includes collision damage waiver benefits on rental cars and eight days of out-of-province and out-of-country emergency medical benefits up to $5 million. Plus, it includes a free, basic membership in the Dominion Automobile Association and the benefits of its BMO Roadside Assistance Program.

BMO CashBack World Elite Mastercard

• Annual fee:   $120
• Earn rate:  5% cash back on groceries, 4% back on transit, 3% back on gas and electric vehicle charging, 2% on recurring bill payments, and 1% back on everything else
• Welcome bonus:  You can earn up to 10% cash back in your first three months and have the $120 annual fee waived in the first year.
• Additional benefits : Complimentary Roadside Assistance Program; BMO World Elite Total Travel and Medical Protection; 25% off at National and Alamo for car rentals; and Mastercard Travel Rewards program.

Best travel credit card with trip cancellation insurance

At a glance: Trip cancellation insurance is more important than ever since the pandemic started. Our pick for the best travel insurance credit card with trip cancellation insurance is the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite, which offers up to $1,500 per person. This, along with the included medical insurance, common carrier travel accident protection, delayed or lost baggage coverage, and travel assistance, should help you rest easy as you plan your travel.

TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card

• Annual fee: $139 (annual fee rebate—conditions apply to qualify)
• Earn rates: Up to 8 TD Rewards points per $1 on travel; 6 points per $1 on groceries and restaurants; 4 points per $1 on recurring bills; and 2 points per $1 on all other purchases
• Welcome offer: You can earn up to $800 in value, including up to 100,000 TD Rewards Points and no Annual Fee for the first year. Conditions apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024. Plus, you get an annual birthday bonus of 10% of your previous year’s points (up to 10,000 points).
• Point value: 1 TD Rewards point = $0.005 when redeemed for travel via Expedia For TD or $0.004 when redeemed through other providers and websites

More of Canada’s best  credit cards :

• Canada’s best credit cards
• Canada’s best credit cards for gas
• Canada’s best credit cards for grocery purchases
• Canada’s best cash back credit cards

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• Credit Cards
• Best No Annual Fee Travel Credit Cards

Best No-Annual-Fee Cards For Travel Of April 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: Apr 24, 2024, 3:32pm

Using a travel rewards credit card has long been celebrated as an easy strategy to travel the world for less. Consumers can apply for rewards credit cards and earn points and miles on everyday spending, then redeem rewards for airfare, hotel stays, rental cars and more.

The annual fees travel cards often charge can be worth it if you use the benefits you receive, but not everyone wants to pay a fee to hold a card. Fortunately, many travel credit cards offer benefits for no annual fee.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

• 113 countries visited
• 5500 hotel nights spent
• 93,000,000 miles and points redeemed
• 29 loyalty programs covered

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

• Chase Freedom Flex℠ * : Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Card With Rotating Categories
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best Flat-Rate No-Annual Fee Travel Card
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Flat-Rate Cash-Rewards Card for Travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for Everyday Spending
• Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Union Card for Travel
• Discover it® Cash Back : Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Cash Back on Travel
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Best No Annual Fee Amex Card for Travel
• Bilt World Elite Mastercard® : Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Rewards on Rent
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Dining
• Hilton Honors American Express Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Hilton
• Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * : Best for Earning Membership Rewards Points
• United Gateway℠ Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Airline Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Hotel Card
• Best Credit Cards Of 2024
• Credit Cards With Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best Hotel Credit Cards
• Best Credit Card For Lounge Access
• Best Airline Credit Cards

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming Read More

Welcome Bonus

20,000 bonus points

Regular APR

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Credit Score

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards of 2024

Best no-annual-fee travel card with rotating categories, chase freedom flex℠ *.

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, 5% on travel purchased through Read More

$200 bonus + 5% on Gas and Grocery (excluding Target and Walmart)

20.49% - 29.24% Variable

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

This card has the brawn to handle just about all of your credit card spending needs without an over-inflated price tag. The card has an annual fee of $0, yet comes with a pumped-up earnings structure that covers a wide swath of expenses including travel, drugstores and dining plus rotating quarterly bonus categories in areas many households are likely to find appealing.

• No annual fee
• Rotating quarterly categories earn 5% rewards when activated, up to a combined quarterly $1,500 maximum
• Travel rewards rate rivals some of the best premium travel cards
• Generous rewards rate in several other categories
• Travel bookings must be made through Chase Travel℠ to earn 5% cash back
• Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year
• 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores and 1% on all other purchases

Best Flat-Rate No-Annual Fee Travel Card

Chase freedom unlimited®.

Up to 6.5X Reward Rate

Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year, after that 5% cash back Read More

Up to $300 cash back

A good overall spending card that allows you to hold a balance on new purchases with a low introductory APR, pay no annual fee, and still earn at least 1.5% cashback on all purchases

• Generous welcome offer for a no annual fee card
• Unlimited 1.5% minimum earn rate for cash-back rewards
• No minimum redemption amount
• Foreign transaction fee
• Ongoing balance transfer fee is high
• Requires a companion card to transfer points to travel partners
• INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) – worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Best No-Annual-Fee Flat-Rate Cash-Rewards Card for Travel

Wells fargo active cash® card.

Unlimited 2% Rewards Rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

$200 Cash Rewards

The Wells Fargo Active Cash offers an unlimited 2% cash rewards rate on purchases and charges no annual fee. This puts it in competition with the best flat-rate cash back cards on the market.

• Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
• $0 annual fee
• Cellphone protection benefit
• There’s a balance transfer fee
• There’s a foreign transaction fee
• No travel transfer partners
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.

Best for Everyday Spending

Earning 3 points per dollar spent on a wide range of spending—including restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit and popular streaming services—for no annual fee, the Wells Fargo Autograph is a powerhouse.

• No foreign transaction fee
• Introductory APR period
• Plentiful reward points categories
• Protections include cell phone insurance
• Balance transfer fee
• No introductory balance transfer APR

Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Union Card for Travel

Alliant cashback visa® signature credit card *.

Up to 2.5% Reward Rate

Those eligible for Tier 1 Rewards earn 2.5% cashback on the first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycle Read More

17.24% - 27.24% variable

Excellent (750 - 850)

If you regularly rack up your monthly balance, the 2.5% return on the Alliant card is hard to beat. The downsides are that excellent credit is recommended before you apply for the card and the lack of a welcome bonus.

• 2.5% cash back rate on up to $10,000 in monthly purchases for eligible accounts (then 1.5%)
• No foreign transaction fees
• Generous credit line
• No intro APR offer
• No welcome bonus
• Requires a companion checking account with balance, direct deposit and e-statement requirements
• Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%
• You can choose to receive cash back from your Alliant credit card via a credit card statement credit (appearing within one billing cycle) or as a deposit into your Alliant checking or savings
• Up to $5,000 of Personal Identity Theft Protection for covered expenses to restore your identity

Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Cash Back on Travel

Discover it® cash back.

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, Read More

Cashback Match™

17.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Excellent/Good

For moderate spenders who are willing to activate the 5% rotating categories and track the quarterly spending cap, this no-annual-fee card can deliver tidy rewards outside of its ongoing 1% earning rate.

• 5% cash back on quarterly rotating spending categories throughout the year (activation required)
• Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
• No minimum cashback redemption
• 5% bonus cashback rate is limited to $1,500 per quarter in spending
• Bonus categories must be activated quarterly
• Low 1% base reward rate on everything else
• INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
• Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
• Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
• No annual fee.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Best No Annual Fee Amex Card for Travel

Blue cash everyday® card from american express.

Up to 3% Reward Rate

Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. on up to Read More

19.24%-29.99% Variable

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

For no annual fee, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers excellent value in the right hands. Spending a lot at U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations brings plump rewards, while the introductory APR rate on purchases helps keep your interest expenses down. Look elsewhere for foreign transactions.

• Introductory APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
• Above-average earnings at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and online retail purchases in the U.S.
• Elevated earnings at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. are capped at $6,000 in annual spending per category
• Rewards earning outside of the bonus categories is just 1% cash back
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
• Terms Apply.

Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Rewards on Rent

Bilt world elite mastercard®.

Up to 3x Reward Rate

1x on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year). 2x points on travel Read More

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

Pay rent, earn rewards and use your earnings for travel. Sounds like a great way to maximize your rent money to us.

• Earn rewards on rent
• Primary car rental and cell phone insurance
• Points can be transferred to partners
• Requires five card transactions per statement period to earn rewards
• High regular APR range
• Rewards outside of rent spend are relatively low compared to other cards
• Earn points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period
• 1x points on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year)
• 2x points on travel (when booked directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company)
• 3x points on dining
• Plus 1x points on other purchases
• Cell Phone Insurance
• Purchase security (theft and damage protection)
• Mastercard® World Elite Concierge
• Lyft Credits
• No foreign currency conversion fee
• Rewards & benefits terms

Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Dining

U.s. bank altitude® go visa signature® card *.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery and 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery Read More

18.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Excellent Credit (750 - 850)

With no foreign transaction fee and industry-leading earnings on dining, the Altitude Go could get you up into the air quickly.

• No penalty APR
• Generous rewards for a no annual fee card
• Annual credit toward eligible streaming services
• No bonus reward tier for entertainment spending
• Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. That’s a $200 value redeemable towards merchandise, gift cards, cash back, travel and more
• 4 points per dollar spent on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
• 2 points per dollar spent on streaming services and a $15 credit for annual streaming purchases
• 2 points per dollar spent at grocery stores, gas stations, and EV charging stations (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024)
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases
• Points never expire

Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Hilton

Hilton honors american express card.

Up to 7X Reward Rate

Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Read More

Earn 80,000 points

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Good,Excellent (700 - 749)

A good intro into the Hilton world without paying an annual fee, the Hilton Honors Card from American Express brings you a few nice perks. But if you’re a serious Hilton traveler, you’ll want to look at one of the higher end cobranded Hilton cards offered by American Express.

• High point earning rates
• Generous welcome bonus
• Automatic Silver status includes fifth night free on award stays
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fee
• No blackout dates
• Low point redemption value
• Silver status comes with limited benefits
• Poor transfer rate to airline partners
• Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.

Best for Earning Membership Rewards Points

Amex everyday® credit card *.

Up to 2x Reward Rate

Earn 2X points at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year (then 1X); Earn 2X points at American Express Read More

Earn 10,000 points

18.24% - 29.24% variable

If you are looking for a solid intro APR offer and frequently spend at US supermarkets, this is the card for you.

• Possible to earn 20% bonus on all points earned
• 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar on up to $6,000 spent annually at U.S. supermarkets (then 1 point per dollar)
• 2.7% foreign transaction fee
• Spending cap on bonus points at grocery stores
• Requires 20 purchases per month to earn 20% bonus
• Earn 10,000 membership rewards points after spending $2,000 in qualifying purchases in the first 6 months of card membership
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent on qualifying purchases at US supermarkets up to $6,000 per year (then 1 point)
• Earn 2 points for every dollar when you use your card to book your trip through American Express Travel
• Earn 1 point for every eligible dollar you spend on everything else
• You can use membership rewards points towards eligible charges you make on your card, such as retail, dining, entertainment and more
• Use your card 20 or more times on purchases in a billing period and earn 20% extra points on those purchases

Best No-Annual-Fee Airline Card

United gateway℠ card.

Up to 2x Rewards Rate

2X miles per $1 spent on United purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting. 1 mile per Read More

• Earn 20,000 bonus miles

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

With its simple and respectable rewards rates, plus Visa Signature benefits, casual fliers who are loyal to United will find value in United’s only card with no annual fee.

• Earn 2 miles on purchases with United, at gas stations and on local transportation
• Enjoy expanded United award travel availability
• Earns only 1 mile per dollar spent on non-bonused purchases
• No free checked bag or enhanced boarding benefits
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card

Best No-Annual-Fee Hotel Card

Marriott bonvoy bold® credit card *.

3 points per dollar spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program, 2 points per dollar on other Read More

Earn 30,000 bonus points

21.49% - 28.49% variable

One of several Marriott credit cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold card is the only one without an annual fee. It’s a smart entry-level card for travelers who want to earn points in the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program and enjoy Silver Elite status.

• The first Bonvoy Rewards card with no annual fee
• 15 Elite Night credits per year + Silver Elite status
• Rewards bonus categories are somewhat limited
• 5% fee for balance transfers
• Earn 30,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 on your first 3 months of account opening.
• Earn 3X points per dollar spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
• Plus, earn up to 10X points from Marriott for being a Marriott Bonvoy member
• 15 elite night credits annually, enough for Silver Elite status, terms apply

Here’s a Summary of the Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

More about the best no-annual-fee travel credit cards.

Navigating the world of credit cards means finding the combination of pros and cons that offer the best value for your needs. A card rewarding your unique spending habits and goals will outperform one that is seemingly best for the average consumer, so make sure to evaluate each card for your specific uses.

Be aware that cards with no annual fee often charge other types of fees. In addition to interest charges incurred when a balance is carried, cardholders may also face penalty charges, including over-limit fees and late payment fees, as well as fees for foreign transactions, cash advances and balance transfers.

If you’re looking for a cash-back credit card and want the option to redeem points for travel, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be exactly what you need. This card lets you earn a strong base rate of rewards for each dollar you spend, and you can redeem points for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, merchandise or travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal.

Welcome bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be marketed as a cash-back credit card, but you can redeem rewards for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Since you can also redeem your rewards for statement credits at a rate of 1 cent per point, you can cover travel purchases charged to your card as well.

This card paired with a premium Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card can provide extra leverage as points are worth 1.25 to 1.5 cents each when redeemed through the Chase travel portal depending on which premium card you have. Carrying both the Flex card and a premium Chase card also gives you the opportunity for 1:1 transfers to Chase’s airline and hotel partners like United and Hyatt.

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24% applies. Balance transfer fee of up to 5% (min. $5) of the amount of each transfer applies. This makes the card a solid option if you want to charge a big purchase and pay down your balance over time without worrying about interest for the duration of the 0% introductory APR period.

The card’s benefits also include purchase protection against damage and theft and extended warranties for eligible items.

Those looking to get into the Chase ecosystem with a no-annual-fee card might want to consider the flat-rate Chase Freedom Unlimited® .

Welcome bonus: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year, worth up to $300 cash back.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on eligible dining and drugstores and 1.5% on all other purchases, plus an additional 1.5% cash back on the first $20,000 in purchases the first year.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® may not be the best choice for those who like to travel abroad because it charges a foreign transaction fee. On the plus side, it offers an introductory APR: 0% introductory APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24% applies. An intro transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, applies in the first 60 days of account opening. After that, a fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer applies.

If you’re looking for a card to boost your travel funds but prefer a cash rewards card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card may be the way to go.

Welcome bonus: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.

Rewards: Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers up to $600 per claim in cellphone protection (subject to a $25 deductible) when you pay a monthly cellphone bill with the card, terms apply.

It also offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, then a 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR applies. Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a fee of up to 5%, with a minimum of $5 applies.

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is excellent for everyday spending with bonus categories that most people will have no problem using.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar at restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus, earn 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card also offers an introductory 0% APR: 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months from account opening. A variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% applies for purchases after the intro period ends and for balance transfers. The card has a balance transfer fee of up to 5%, minimum $5. Cardholders can also benefit from cellphone protection, roadside dispatch and an auto rental collision damage waiver.

The Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card * offers the potential for a high rate of cashback, although this rate is limited to the first $10,000 in purchases each month. However, this will likely be sufficient for most people’s monthly spending.

Welcome bonus: This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

Rewards: Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%.

Other benefits and drawbacks: You’ll have to join Alliant Credit Union to be eligible to apply for this card and to achieve the highest rate of cashback, you’ll have to have an average daily balance of at least $1,000 in your Alliant High-Rate Checking account for each preceding calendar month. The Alliant Cashback card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

The Discover it® Cash Back isn’t specifically marketed as a travel card, but cashback can be used for anything—including travel, so we’ve included it here. This card offers solid rewards as long as you can remember to activate the quarterly categories. It also offers a non-traditional but impressive welcome bonus for those who spend plentifully on the card.

Welcome bonus: Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year as a cardmember. There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to a quarterly maximum of $1,500 in spending when activated. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Discover it® Cash Back offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and eligible balance transfers. Then, a standard rate of 17.24% - 28.24% variable applies. A balance transfer fee of up to 5% of the amount transferred applies. It also offers online privacy protection tools and free social security number alerts.

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees ) is a solid option for those looking to earn cash back from American Express.

Welcome bonus: Earn $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 6 months.

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. (on up to $6,000 in each category per year in purchases, then 1%), and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be easily redeemed for statement credits or at Amazon.com checkout.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers an introductory APR: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and on balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening, followed by a variable APR of 19.24%-29.99%. A balance transfer fee of $5 or 3%, whichever is greater, applies. Cardholders can also benefit from access to Amex Offers, up to $84 in credit ($7 monthly) for a Disney Bundle subscription and a $180 Home Chef credit. Additional benefits include purchase protection ¹ and car rental loss and damage insurance ² .

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard®  ( rates & fees ) lays the claim as the first card that offers the ability to pay rent and earn points on those purchases. For those who pay rent, it’s a great way to earn a bunch of additional points each year.

Rewards: Earn 1 point per dollar on rent payments without the transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year), 3 points per dollar on dining, 2 points per dollar on travel (when booked through the Bilt Travel Portal or directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company), and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Bilt points can be transferred at a 1:1 rate to various transfer partners, including American Airlines and Hyatt. The card also offers cellphone protection, various travel benefits and the ability to earn bonus points (and sometimes other benefits) once per month on Rent Day, though you must use the card five times each statement period to earn points ( rewards & benefits ).

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card * earns points that you can redeem for merchandise, gift cards, cash back or travel, all at a value of 1 cent per point. It offers reasonable earn rates for a no-annual-fee card.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery, 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery delivery, gas stations, streaming services and on EV charging stations (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024) and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Cardholders can also benefit from a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles, followed by a regular variable APR of 18.24% - 29.24%. A balance transfer fee of 3% applies ($5 minimum). The card also offers a $15 annual streaming bonus for services like Netflix, Apple TV+, Spotify and others.

The Hilton Honors American Express Card (Terms apply, see rates & fees ) offers the ability to earn Hilton Honors points for each dollar you spend and automatically qualify for elite perks.

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $2,000 in purchases on the card in the first six months of card membership.

Rewards: Earn 7 Hilton Honors points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio, 5 points for each dollar of eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations and 3 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Hilton Honors American Express Card offers robust earning categories that let you earn bonus points in many common areas of spending.

Cardholder benefits include automatic Silver status, but you can move up to Hilton Honors™ Gold status if you spend at least $20,000 on your credit card within a calendar year. If you expect to spend this much on your card each year, it may make sense to get a card that automatically provides a higher level of Hilton status and place the spending on a card that will net you more rewards overall.

Those looking for an Amex Card but with a preference to earn Membership Rewards instead of cash back should consider the Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * .

Welcome bonus: Earn 10,000 points after spending $2,000 in qualifying purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1X), 2 points per dollar when using the card to book trips through American Express Travel and 1 point for every eligible dollar on everything else. Plus, use the card 20 or more times on purchases in a billing period and earn 20% extra points on those purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: When you use your Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * 20 or more times per billing cycle, you’ll earn a 20% bonus on all points earned during that billing cycle. This card also offers access to Amex Offers, car rental loss and damage insurance and purchase protection.

United isn’t the only airline with a no-annual-fee card, but it’s the best no-annual-fee airline offering. The United Gateway℠ Card provides a few valuable benefits when a cardholder flies United.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 2 miles per dollar on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Holders of the United Gateway℠ Card receive 25% off United in-flight purchases made on the card. It also offers an auto rental collision damage waiver, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty coverage and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Those looking for more United benefits, including a free checked bag when flying with the airline, should consider the United℠ Explorer Card that has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Read more: United Airlines MileagePlus: The Ultimate Guide

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card * is a decent option for those wanting to earn Marriott points without paying an annual fee. If you’re really looking for a Marriott-specific card, you should also ask yourself: Which Marriott Card is right for me ?

Welcome bonus: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program, 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases (from airfare to taxis and trains) and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Marriott Bonovy Bold offers complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver status and 15 Elite Night credits each year that may help you qualify for higher levels of elite status. The card also offers various travel and purchase coverage like baggage delay insurance and purchase protection, and it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Methodology

Forbes Advisor compared dozens of travel credit cards from all major issuers to find the best options with no annual fee. Factors we looked at include:

• Earning rates
• Welcome offers
• Introductory APR
• Consumer protections
• Automatic elite status
• Multiple redemption options

Read more: How Forbes Advisor Rates Credit Cards

What Does No Annual Fee Mean?

No annual fee means the credit card company does not charge you to maintain the credit card. No annual fee does not mean you should expect no fees at all—you might still pay interest, over-limit fees, late payment fees or a foreign transaction fee. Carefully consult your cardholder agreement and the Schumer box therein.

Why Do Credit Cards Have Annual Fees?

When a credit card charges an annual fee, it means the issuer is charging the cardholder directly to maintain the account. Once a credit card is activated, this type of flat fee isn’t impacted by how the card is used or by any other factors within the cardholder’s control—it simply recurs for as long as the account stays open. Most commonly, an annual fee is billed on the anniversary month of the credit card account’s opening. The cost of these fees can vary dramatically.

Annual fees are, unsurprisingly, not popular, so why do credit card issuers commonly charge them? Traditionally, cards with higher annual fees offer significantly better perks. It’s still common for no-annual-fee cards to fall on the less-generous end of the benefits spectrum. Credit cards designed for individuals with low credit scores and poor application prospects may also charge a high annual fee and a higher APR to offset the theoretically heightened risk assumed by the issuer.

Credit card issuers expect to profit from each offering, and each card represents a calculated compromise between advantages popular among consumers and guarantees or benefits for the issuer. Your choice should focus on the combination of pros and cons providing you the best value.

How Do Travel Credit Cards With No Annual Fee Work?

No annual fee means the issuer does not charge consumers to carry the credit card. At least in theory, annual fees are levied by issuers to compensate for other aspects of a card considered especially favorable to the cardholder, such as rewards. Though it’s common for these fees to be waived for a year or altogether to attract customers, the most benefit-heavy cards often charge annual fees. Apart from this tradeoff, no-annual-fee credit cards function much like cards with annual fees.

Benefits of No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

Each card offers its own suite of benefits. These vary depending on the issuer, but most credit cards offer at least some of the following:

• Fraud protection (all consumer cards are required to offer a certain degree of protection)
• Introductory APRs
• Rewards earning (in the form of cashback from purchases or points and miles redeemable for airline tickets, hotel stays or other travel)
• Discounts on in-flight food and beverage purchases

No-annual-fee cards may offer fewer of these benefits compared to their counterparts that charge an annual fee.

Who Should Get a No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Card?

Many people can benefit from a no-annual-fee travel credit card. Whether you travel occasionally or all the time, these cards offer benefits targeted toward travelers without charging you anything to hold the card.

• If you’re an occasional traveler: Look for a travel credit card that offers the most benefits for the lowest fee—You can probably find a no-annual-fee card that will fit your needs.
• If you’re a frequent traveler: While you may be able to find a no-annual-fee travel card that works for you, there’s a good chance you would benefit more from one of the best travel cards , many of which do charge an annual fee.

How To Choose the Right Travel Credit Card With No Annual Fee

All the travel credit cards in our ranking allow consumers to earn travel rewards points or cash back without having to pay a fee each year. But there’s more to picking a travel credit card than just finding an option without a fee. The following tips can help shoppers find a card that suits their needs:

• Compare rewards programs: Make sure you’re earning rewards you can actually use. If you plan to pick up a hotel credit card or airline credit card specifically, you’ll want to explore the loyalty program to ensure you understand how it works and whether it makes sense for you. If you never fly, for example, there’s no sense in earning airline miles.
• Consider flexible travel options: Decide whether a  flexible travel credit card might work better. While some cards only let you redeem points within a specific loyalty program, others allow you to cash in points for any travel purchase you want or for additional redemption options like gift cards or merchandise.
• Look at 0% APR offers: Many cards on our list also offer an introductory 0% APR for a limited time. Some of these offers apply only to purchases, but a few apply to balance transfers, as well.
• Look for other cardholder perks: Finally, consider which cards offer the benefits you want most, whether those include no foreign transaction fees, elite status with a loyalty program or travel insurance benefits. Ideally, you’ll find a card with rewards you can use and cardholder perks that make sense for the way you travel.

Find the Best Travel Credit Cards for 2024

Find the best travel credit card for your travel needs.

How To Apply for a No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Card

It is often easiest to compare and apply for credit cards through the card issuer’s website. Though you can often apply over the phone or by mail, these methods may take longer and be less convenient.

Applicants should know their credit scores and credit histories before shopping for cards. No-annual-fee travel credit cards may require good to excellent credit for an application to be successful. The better your score and credit history, the better your chances for approval.

Any applicant can take steps to increase creditworthiness and chances of approval for new cards. These steps include clearing up any outstanding debts carried elsewhere and decreasing your credit utilization ratio , representing how much of your overall available credit is used. Applicants should also become familiar with the card’s terms and conditions and check for any important details in the fine print before applying.

Is a Credit Card With No Annual Fee Worth It?

A credit card with no annual fee, as long as it offers you benefits and rewards that you can use, is worth it. The real question is this: Is there another card that’s better? There may be another no-annual-fee card that offers rewards more in line with your spending habits or benefits that are more valuable to you. There could be a credit card with an annual fee that offers even better rewards and benefits—enough to offset the annual fee—that makes even more sense. It’s worthwhile to take some time to compare the available options so you can find the card that’s best for you.

Bottom Line

Many excellent travel cards offer lucrative rewards and benefits without charging an annual fee. Though no annual fee does not mean the absence of fees altogether, paying an annual fee is only worthwhile if a cardholder can extract at least as much value from that card beyond what the best no-annual-fee card can offer. Carefully do your research before applying for any card, and recognize that just because a card doesn’t charge an annual fee doesn’t mean it won’t stick you with interest and other fees if you don’t manage the account responsibly.

To view rates and fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Bilt World Elite Mastercard® please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Hilton Honors American Express Card please visit this page . ¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. ¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best credit card with no annual fee and cashback.

There is not one no-annual-fee cash-back card that tops all others, as everyone has a unique credit profile and set of needs. Our list is designed to give you a starting point for your search. If you are looking for a card with no annual fee and category bonuses, consider the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * . If you are looking for no annual fee and simple cash rewards, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card.

What benefits are common for no-annual-fee cards?

Each card offers its own suite of benefits. These vary depending on the vendor, but most credit cards offer fraud protection (all consumer cards are required to offer a certain degree of protection), and many offer some sort of rewards or intro APR.

What is the best credit card for airline miles with no annual fee?

We consider the United Gateway℠ Card and the JetBlue Card * to be among the best no-annual-fee airline cards, but the card best for you depends on your spending habits, airline preference and more. Other airlines also offer no-annual-fee options, but all airline cards without an annual fee are light on the benefits compared to annual-fee card peers. If you regularly fly with a specific airline or if you occasionally fly but usually check a bag, consider an airline card with an annual fee. While you may pay an annual fee, the savings from a free checked bag and other benefits could save you money in the long run.

Which no-annual-fee travel cards offer the best welcome bonus?

Welcome bonuses vary not only by the card but by the day. Banks frequently publish new promotions, so welcome bonuses may change without much notice. A couple of cards consistently offering solid welcome bonuses are the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * and the United Gateway℠ Card .

What credit score do I need to get a no-annual-fee travel card?

Generally, rewards cards—including travel credit cards—typically require good to excellent credit even when the card doesn’t have an annual fee. A score in the good range of 670 to 739 may be sufficient for a basic rewards card, but for the strongest rewards, you can expect to need a score of 740 or higher to qualify.

What is the best travel rewards credit card with no annual fee?

The best travel rewards card for you may not be the best travel rewards card for the next consumer. While we believe the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be an excellent overall choice for many, we urge you to carefully research whether the card’s reward structure matches your spending habits and if this card’s set of travel benefits and protections will serve you better than another card.

When should I look for a no-annual-fee credit card?

Though many cards in the list of no-annual-fee credit cards above require a more robust credit history than most when initially looking for a credit card , no-annual-fee credit cards make great first credit cards. Many no-annual-fee cards also offer low or 0% introductory APRs on purchases or balance transfers when you need to make a large purchase or complete a balance transfer, but applying for any credit card should only be done when you’re ready for the responsibility associated with a credit card account.

Can you get a no-annual-fee travel card with bad credit?

It may be difficult to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel card with bad credit. You should first consider the best cards for bad credit and focus on improving your credit score to gain access to better credit card products in the future.

Is it hard to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel credit card?

It’s not necessarily hard to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel credit card, but your credit profile will be evaluated when you apply.

Next Up In Credit Cards

• Best Credit Cards 2024
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• How Many Credit Cards Should I Have?

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: Chase Freedom Flex℠, Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card, U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card, Amex EveryDay® Credit Card, Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card, JetBlue Card . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Jerod Morales is a deputy editor at Forbes Advisor and a travel rewards expert. He took a deep dive into points and miles in 2016, searching for a way to make travel both possible and affordable for his growing family. Now, as a dad to four sons, he and his wife enjoy introducing their kids to cultures and cities across the globe as often as they can.

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Find the best credit card for you

Here are the 3 best chase balance transfer credit cards of 2024, save money with these chase credit cards that offer 0% introductory aprs on balance transfers..

Credit card interest rates are often higher than other financial products like personal loans or mortgages so it's best to pay off your credit card balance in full every month . However, that isn't always possible so many people may wind up with high-interest credit card debt. In these situations, taking advantage of a 0% balance transfer offer can reduce the interest you pay and help you pay off your credit card debt more quickly.

Chase is known for issuing some top travel credit cards , but it also has several cards that offer an intro 0% APR for balance transfers. Consider these Chase balance transfer credit cards if you're hunting for a balance transfer offer. (See our methodology for information on how we chose the best Chase balance transfer credit cards).

Best Chase balance transfer credit cards

• Best for long intro APR: Chase Slate Edge℠
• Best for cash back: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
• Best for rotating bonus categories: Chase Freedom Flex℠

Best for long intro APR

Chase slate edge℠, welcome offer.

Get an automatic review for a credit limit increase when you pay on time and spend $500 in your first six months.

0% for 18 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers

Regular APR

20.49% - 29.24% variable

Balance transfer fee

Intro fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, on transfers made within 60 days of account opening. After that, either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

Member FDIC. Terms apply. Information about the Chase Slate Edge℠ has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

• No annual fee
• Lower your interest rate by 2% each year: Automatically be considered for an APR reduction when you pay on time, and spend at least $1,000 on your card by your next account anniversary
• 3% foreign transaction fee
• No rewards program

Who's this for? The Chase Slate Edge℠ does one thing, and it does it well — reduce the interest you pay. Its longer-than-usual introductory APR offer makes it ideal for those seeking more time to pay off their balance.

Balance transfer offer : New cardholders are eligible for an intro 0% APR on eligible balance transfers and purchases for 18 months from account opening, then a 20.49% to 29.24% variable APR applies. This is one of the longest intro APR offers available and is especially useful since it applies to purchases, too.

An intro balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer (whichever is higher) applies to transfers completed in the first 60 days of account opening. After that, the balance transfer fee is $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer (whichever is higher).

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for cash back

Chase freedom unlimited®.

Enjoy 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; and 3% cash back on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome bonus

INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

0% for the first 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers

3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Member FDIC. Terms apply.

Read our Chase Freedom Unlimited® review.

• Rewards can be transferred to a Chase Ultimate Rewards card
• Generous welcome bonus
• 3% fee charged on foreign transactions

Who's this for? The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is geared toward those who want to earn cash back on their everyday spending and still want access to a helpful intro APR offer.

Balance transfer offer : New card members receive an intro 0% APR for purchases and balance transfer for the first 15 months, after that a variable 20.49% to 29.24% APR applies. For the first 60 days of account opening, there's an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of the amount of each transfer ($5 minimum). After that, a standard balance transfer fee of $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer applies, whichever is greater.

Best for rotating bonus categories

Chase freedom flex℠.

5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate (then 1%), 5% cash back on travel booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on drugstore purchases and on dining (including takeout and eligible delivery services), 1% cash back on all other purchases

Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Member FDIC. Terms apply. Information about the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

Read our Chase Freedom Flex℠ review.

• Opportunity to earn up to 5% cash back in select categories upon activation
• Bonus categories must be activated each quarter

Who's this for? The Chase Freedom Flex℠ is a great card for anyone who enjoys squeezing the most value out of their credit card thanks to its generous rotating quarterly bonus categories.

Balance transfer offer : New cardholders can take advantage of a 0% intro APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balances transfer, then a 20.49% to 29.24% variable APR applies. An intro balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer applies to transfers completed in the first 60 days. After that, the standard balance transfer fee is 5% of the amount of each transfer or $5, whichever is greater.

More on our top Chase balance transfer credit cards

The Chase Slate Edge℠ is a no annual fee card with several features that can help you pay less interest, but doesn't earn rewards.

Get an automatic review for a higher credit limit when you pay on time and spend $500 in the first six months.

Notable perks

With the Chase Slate Edge , you are automatically considered for a 2% APR reduction if you pay your monthly bill on time and spend at least $1,000 on the card before your next account anniversary (terms apply). While you'll want a plan to pay off your balance transfer before the interest kicks in, this feature can help you lower your APR compared to what you might pay with other credit cards.

This card's insurance benefits include purchase protection, extended warranty protection, roadside dispatch and rental car collision and theft coverage (secondary in the U.S.).

[ Return to card summary ]

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is one of CNBC Select's top no-annual-fee cash-back credit cards with a unique intro bonus and a handful of useful benefits to complement its cash-back earnings.

• 6.5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel
• 5% back on Lyft rides (through Mar. 31, 2025)
• 4.5% cash back on dining
• 4.5% cash back at drug stores
• 3% cash back on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year)

Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).

Cardholders can earn 5% cash back on Lyft rides through March 2025 and enroll for three complimentary months of DashPass (activate by Dec. 31, 2024). Purchases are also covered by a range of built-in protections like rental car collision damage insurance (secondary in the U.S.), extended warranty coverage, purchase protection and trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

While this is a cash-back credit card , you can boost the value of the rewards you earn by pairing this card with a Chase card that allows points transfers (such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card ). By transferring the rewards you earn to travel partners like World Hyatt, United MileagePlus and Air Canada Aeroplan, you can potentially book luxury hotels and flights for fewer points.

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ packs a punch with generous rewards in bonus categories that change every quarter and an easy-to-earn welcome bonus.

• 5% cash back on the first $1,500 spent in categories that change each quarter, then 1% cash back (activation required)
• 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
• 3% cash back on dining
• 3% cash back at drug stores
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. 

Cardholders receive discounts and special perks with partners like Lyft and DoorDash. There are also many valuable built-in protections for a no-annual-fee card, including:

• Cell phone insurance
• Rental car insurance (secondary in the U.S.)
• Extended warranty coverage
• Purchase protection
• Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

When you have a Chase card that unlocks the ability to transfer Chase points to hotel and airline partners (like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card) , it increases the value of the Freedom Flex. So this isn't only a strong standalone rewards credit card , but it has synergies with other cards.

How to complete a Chase balance transfer

Chase typically charges a balance transfer fee from 3% to 5% with a $5 minimum. Before you complete a balance transfer , be sure the interest you save will outweigh the fee.

There are several ways to do a balance transfer with Chase. One of the best and easiest options is to complete a balance transfer when you apply for a card. When you do this, you'll be able to make the most out of your intro APR because any 0% interest timeframe you qualify for begins when you open the card.

If you want to perform a balance transfer with a Chase card you already have, you'll need to log in to your account and follow these steps:

• Click "Pay & Transfer"
• Then click on the "Transfer" dropdown menu
• Select "Card balance transfers"

You can then select any of your Chase cards from a dropdown menu and see what balance transfer offers are available.

Are Chase balance transfers worth it?

When you make a balance transfer, you'll generally pay a fee of 3% to 5% of the balance. To determine whether a balance transfer is worth it, calculate how much you would save in interest compared to how much you'd pay in transfer fees.

What is one disadvantage of a 0% interest balance transfer card?

Aside from the balance transfer fees, the biggest downside to a balance transfer is you'll have the same amount of credit card debt as before. If you don't have a plan, or the resources, to pay off your debt before the intro APR expires, you'll be stuck paying interest once again.

Do balance transfers hurt your credit?

A balance transfer doesn't directly hurt your credit score and could help improve your credit if you're able to pay down your debt. However, you'll want to keep in mind that your credit score will temporarily dip when you apply for new credit (including a balance transfer card).

Bottom line

The top balance transfer cards Chase issues offer intro APR periods of 15 to 18 months, and these intro APR offers also apply to purchases, making them even more useful. If you're interested in paying less interest , these are some of the best offers available. When you're in credit card debt, your primary focus should be repayment, not earning rewards, but the fact that some of the cards on this list earn rewards is a nice bonus.

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every credit card   article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of credit card   products .  While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See  our methodology  for more information on how we choose the best Chase balance transfer credit cards.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Our methodology

To determine which Chase cards are best for balance transfers, CNBC Select analyzed the Chase credit cards with intro APR balance transfer offers. We compared each card on a range of features, including the annual fee, rewards, welcome bonus and balance transfer fee. We also considered additional perks, consumer protections, the application process when available and how easy it is to redeem rewards. However, when you're in credit card debt, your priority should be repayment, so we focused more on the cards that provide consumers with the cheapest ways to pay off their debt rather than the number of rewards they could potentially earn.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

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Are you looking to take your credit game to the next level? High-limit credit cards can be a powerful tool for earning rewards and building credit. But, it’s essential to understand how to qualify for and use them responsibly. 

Here are our picks for the best high-limit credit cards, including the inside scoop on how to make the most of them.

Top credit cards with high credit limits

Chase sapphire reserve® : best for travel rewards , american express® gold card : best for no set limit, chase freedom unlimited® : best for gas and groceries .

• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card: Best for everyday purchases

Discover it® Cash Back: Best for rotating cash back

Capital one quicksilver cash rewards credit card : best for everyday cash back .

• Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards Card: Best for low interest and fees

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a top choice if you’re a frequent traveler. You’ll earn elevated rewards on travel booked via the Chase travel portal and travel and dining purchases. 

Rewards:  

• 10X points on hotel stays, car rentals, and Chase Dining purchases booked through Chase
• 10X points Lyft purchases (through Mar. 31, 2025)
• 5X points on air travel booked through Chase (after earning your $300 travel credit)
• 3X points on restaurant and general travel purchases (after earning your $300 travel credit)
• 1X points on all other purchases

Annual fee: $550 

Credit limit : Starts at $10,000

One of the key features of the Sapphire Reserve is its $300 annual travel credit, which is automatically applied to any travel-related purchases. This effectively reduces the card’s $550 annual fee to $250, making it more affordable for frequent travelers. 

Other perks include complimentary Priority Pass Select membership for airport lounge access, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, and extensive travel insurance.

The Sapphire Reserve’s credit limit is determined on a case-by-case basis, but most approved applicants report receiving limits of $10,000 or higher. 

The American Express Gold Card has no pre-set spending limit, which means the spending limit is flexible. Unlike a traditional card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history. Your purchasing power adjusts over time based on payment history and creditworthiness.

• 4X points at restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.) and Uber Eats
• 4X points on U.S. supermarket purchases (on up to $25,000 in supermarket purchases per year, then 1X points)
• 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or via American Express Travel 

Annual fee : $250. See rates and fees . 

Credit limit : No preset credit limit

Other perks of the Gold Card include up to $120 in annual dining credits, up to $120 in annual Uber Cash, and no foreign transaction fees. The card has a $250 annual fee, which the credits and rewards can offset if you use them regularly. See rates and fees. 

The main drawback of the Gold Card is that it requires you to pay your balance in full each month, which may not be feasible for everyone. 

If you have the financial discipline to do so and can take advantage of the card’s rewards, the Amex Gold Card can be a valuable addition to your wallet.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card offers elevated cash back on dining and drugstore purchases. But the real standout feature is the boosted cash back in the first year — up to $300 in total cash back.

This makes this an excellent choice for those who spend a lot on gas and groceries. After the first year, you’ll still earn 3% on dining and drugstore purchases and 1.5% on everything else — a solid flat-rate rewards structure.

• 5% cash back on Lyft purchases (through March 2025)
• 5% cash back on travel booked through Chase Travel
• 3% cash back on dining at restaurants and on drugstore purchases
• 1.5% cash back on all other purchases

Annual fee : $0

Credit limit : Starts at $500

The Freedom Unlimited also has no annual fee. The card’s credit limit is determined based on your creditworthiness, but many approved applicants report receiving limits of $1,000 or higher.

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card: Best for everyday purchases

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is a solid choice for those who want to earn rewards on everyday purchases.

• Unlimited 2X points on travel and dining purchases
• Unlimited 1.5X points on all other purchases

Annual fee : $95

Credit limit : Starts at $1,500 

This card also offers a $100 annual airline incidental credit for expenses like baggage fees, seat upgrades, and in-flight purchases. You’ll also receive up to $100 in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits every four years. 

The card’s credit limit is determined based on your creditworthiness, but many applicants report receiving $5,000 or higher limits. Plus, if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, you can earn even more rewards on your purchases, making this card an excellent choice for loyal customers.

The Discover It Cash Back card offers a unique twist on cash back rewards. Each quarter, you’ll earn 5% cash back on rotating categories (up to a limit). In 2024, categories include drug stores, restaurants, gas stations, public transit, and more.

The main drawback is that you’ll need to activate the 5% bonus categories each quarter to earn the higher rate, which can be a hassle.

• 5% cash back after activation on rotating categories each quarter (up to $1,500, then 1%)
• 1% for all other purchases

One of the standout features of the Discover It Cash Back card is its Cashback Match program. At the end of your first year, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned, doubling your rewards. This means if you earned $500 in cash back during your first year, Discover will match that for a total of $1,000 in cash back.

The card’s credit limit is determined based on your creditworthiness, but many approved applicants report receiving limits of $1,000 or higher. 

The Capital One Quicksilver is a great option if you’re looking for a straightforward cash back. You’ll earn an unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no annual or foreign transaction fees. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to earn rewards without keeping track of bonus categories or spending limits.

Rewards: 

• 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 1.5% cash back on all purchases 

Credit limit : Starts at $750

The Quicksilver Cash Rewards card also offers a $200 cash bonus after spending $500 in the first three months — a solid bonus considering the low spending requirement. 

The card’s credit limit is determined based on your creditworthiness, but many approved applicants report receiving limits of $1,000 or higher.

While the Quicksilver card lacks the perks of other high-limit cards, its simplicity makes it a solid way to earn cash back without hassle.

Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature® Flagship Rewards card: Best for low interest and fees

The Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature Flagship Rewards Card has lower rates and fees than most cards. It has no balance transfer fees, foreign transfer fees, or cash advance fees. You’ll also get a $100 annual air travel credit for expenses like baggage fees, seat upgrades, and in-flight purchases.

• 3X points on travel spending
• 2X points on all other purchases

Annual fee : $49

Credit limit : Starts at $5,000

Other perks of this card include no foreign transaction fees, emergency assistance services, and a 24/7 concierge service.

The card’s credit limit is determined based on your creditworthiness, but many approved applicants report receiving limits as high as $15,000. 

This card requires Navy Federal Credit Union membership, which is limited to active duty and retired military members, their families, and certain civilian employees of the Department of Defense. But, if you qualify for membership, the Flagship Rewards card can be an excellent choice for earning travel rewards with low rates and fees.

What is a high-limit credit card? 

Generally, a high-limit card offers a credit limit of $5,000 or more. These cards are often reserved for those with good to excellent credit scores and a solid income.

The most obvious benefit of a credit card with a sky-high limit is that you can borrow more money. A high credit limit can help keep your credit utilization low, which is a key factor in determining your credit score. It can provide more flexibility and purchasing power for larger expenses or emergencies.

As your balance grows, seeking a higher credit limit makes sense. You won’t have to worry about maxing out or paying extra fees for exceeding the limit.

“One of the best strategies is building strong and lasting relationships with the banks,” says Amanda Webster, chief operating officer of Fund&Grow. “The longer you show positive habits, such as paying on time, paying more than the minimum, and keeping your utilization low, the more that bank will trust you as a borrower.”

How to qualify for a high-limit credit card 

How do you get your hands on a high-limit card? Here are a few tips:

• Build your credit score: High-limit cards are typically reserved for those with good to excellent credit. Focus on paying your bills on time, keeping your credit utilization low, and avoiding new credit inquiries to boost your score .
• Increase your income: Lenders want to see that you have the means to pay back what you borrow. Increasing your income through a raise, side hustle, or job change can improve your chances of qualifying for a high-limit card.
• Be selective: Applying for too many credit cards in a short period can be a red flag for lenders. Be selective and only apply for cards you have a good chance of being approved.

How to use a high-limit credit card smartly 

While high-limit credit cards can offer valuable rewards, using them responsibly is crucial to avoid falling into debt.

• Pay your balance in full each month: High-limit cards often come with high interest rates, so paying your balance in full each month is best to avoid accruing interest charges.
• Keep your credit utilization low: Keeping your credit utilization (the amount of credit you use compared to your total credit limit) low is key to maintaining a good credit score. Aim to keep your utilization below 30%.
• Don’t overspend: Just because you have a high credit limit doesn’t mean you should max out your card. Stick to your budget and only spend what you can afford to pay back.
• Take advantage of rewards and perks: To get the most value out of your high-limit card, ensure you take advantage of all the rewards and perks it offers . This could include using your card for travel purchases to earn bonus points or taking advantage of annual credits and discounts.

Bottom line

High-limit credit cards can be a valuable tool for earning rewards and building credit, but using them responsibly is essential. 

Remember to pay your balance in full each month, keep your credit utilization low, and don’t overspend — and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a high-limit card pro.

*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company

Opinions expressed are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.

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