Which travel credit card is the best?

Which Travel Credit Card is the Best for Your Adventures?

Traveling opens doors to unforgettable experiences. A good travel credit card can make your journeys more rewarding by offering perks like travel rewards, fee waivers, and even coverage for travel essentials. But with so many options available, how do you decide which travel credit card is the best for your needs? Here’s a breakdown to help you make the right choice.

Key Features to Look For in a Travel Credit Card

1. Rewards on Travel Purchases
   The best travel credit cards offer high points or cashback on travel-related expenses, like flights, accommodations, or even entry fees for attractions near you. Look for cards with generous sign-up bonuses to maximize your rewards right from the start.
2. No Foreign Transaction Fees
   If you’re planning to explore international destinations, avoiding foreign transaction fees is a must. These fees, which can be around 3% per transaction, can add up quickly, especially if you’re booking travel visas or shopping for travel outfits abroad.
3. Travel Insurance and Protections
   A reliable travel credit card often includes benefits like trip cancellation insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, or even rental car coverage. These perks provide peace of mind, especially when unexpected travel warnings or delays occur.
4. Access to Exclusive Perks
   Premium cards may include access to airport lounges, free checked bags, or discounts on travel essentials. If you frequently travel for work or leisure, these extras can significantly enhance your experience.

Top 5 Travel Credit Cards to Consider for Canadians:

Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card

• Why It’s Great: No foreign transaction fees, which is rare for Canadian cards. Earn 5x points on dining, groceries, and entertainment, and 3x points on travel purchases.
• Best For: Travelers who want versatile rewards and no added costs for purchases abroad.
• Perks: Comprehensive travel insurance and access to travel rewards through the Scene+ program.

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite

• Why It’s Great: Earn Aeroplan points quickly with bonuses for flights, dining, and travel essentials. Includes a free first checked bag and access to Maple Leaf Lounges.
• Best For: Frequent flyers with Air Canada.
• Perks: Aeroplan-specific benefits like priority boarding and point transfers to over 45 airline partners.

BMO® World Elite® Mastercard®

• Why It’s Great: Earn 3x points on travel purchases and get up to $500,000 in travel medical insurance. The annual fee is often waived for the first year.
• Best For: Canadians looking for a robust travel card with lounge access.
• Perks: Four complimentary airport lounge passes annually through Mastercard Airport Experiences by LoungeKey.

RBC Avion® Visa Infinite

• Why It’s Great: Flexible rewards that can be redeemed for travel with no blackout dates. Earn 1.25 points per dollar spent on travel and 1 point on everything else.
• Best For: Those seeking flexibility in how they redeem travel rewards.

Perks: Travel insurance, trip interruption coverage, and access to a robust points system through the Avion Rewards program

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite

• Why It’s Great: Great rewards for travel, groceries, and dining. It includes travel insurance and access to exclusive travel booking services.
• Best For: Canadians who want to use points to cover a wide range of travel expenses.
• Perks: Comprehensive insurance and access to the Aventura rewards catalog for flexible redemptions.

How to Choose the Right Card in Canada?

When selecting a travel credit card as a Canadian, consider these factors:

• Do you travel internationally often? Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees, such as the Scotiabank Gold American Express.
• Are you loyal to a particular airline? Cards like the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite are ideal for Air Canada travelers.
• Do you prioritize lounge access or travel insurance? The BMO World Elite Mastercard offers both

Final Thoughts

Your travel credit card should align with your lifestyle, offering rewards and benefits that enhance your adventures. Whether you’re buying travel outfits, preparing for a cross-border trip, or visiting a must-see attraction, the right card can save you money and add value to your journey.

Remember to consider your spending habits and travel goals before making your decision. With the right card in your wallet, you’ll be ready to explore the world—one rewarding trip at a time!