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Here are ten of the best travel credit cards available in Canada:

  1. American Express Cobalt Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as dining and entertainment, and includes a welcome bonus and monthly bonus points. It also comes with travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees.
  2. TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card: This card offers Aeroplan rewards points that can be redeemed for flights and travel-related purchases, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  3. Scotiabank Gold American Express Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as dining and entertainment, and includes a welcome bonus and annual bonus points. It also comes with travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees.
  4. BMO World Elite Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  5. RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  6. CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  7. TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  8. American Express Gold Rewards Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  9. BMO Air Miles World Elite Mastercard: This card offers Air Miles rewards points that can be redeemed for flights and travel-related purchases, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  10. National Bank World Elite Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  11. HSBC World Elite Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  12. Desjardins Odyssey World Elite Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  13. Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card: This card offers rewards points that can be redeemed for hotel stays and travel-related purchases, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  14. WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard: This card offers WestJet rewards points that can be redeemed for flights and travel-related purchases, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  15. MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  16. Rogers World Elite Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as cash back rewards on purchases made in foreign currencies, and no annual fee. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  17. Home Trust Preferred Visa: This card offers cash back rewards on purchases made in foreign currencies, as well as travel insurance and no annual fee. It also comes with no foreign transaction fees.
  18. Brim World Elite Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  19. Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.
  20. Canadian Western Bank Rewards Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks. It also comes with a welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees.

Here is a table summarizing the 20 best travel credit cards in Canada:

Credit Card NameRewards ProgramWelcome BonusAnnual FeeForeign Transaction Fee
American Express Cobalt CardFlexible rewards pointsYes$120None
TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite CardAeroplan rewards pointsYes$139None
Scotiabank Gold American Express CardFlexible rewards pointsYes$120None
BMO World Elite MastercardFlexible rewards pointsYes$150None
RBC Avion Visa Infinite CardFlexible rewards pointsYes$120None
CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite CardFlexible rewards pointsYes$139None
TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite CardFlexible rewards pointsYes$120None
American Express Gold Rewards CardFlexible rewards pointsYes$150None
BMO Air Miles World Elite MastercardAir Miles rewards pointsYes$120None
National Bank World Elite MastercardFlexible rewards pointsYes$150None
HSBC World Elite MastercardFlexible rewards pointsYes$149None
Desjardins Odyssey World Elite MastercardFlexible rewards pointsYes$130None
Marriott Bonvoy American Express CardMarriott Bonvoy rewards pointsYes$120None
WestJet RBC World Elite MastercardWestJet rewards pointsYes$119None
MBNA Rewards World Elite MastercardFlexible rewards pointsYes$89None
Rogers World Elite MastercardFlexible rewards points, cash back rewards on foreign currency purchasesYesNoneNone
Home Trust Preferred VisaCash back rewards on foreign currency purchasesNoneNoneNone
Brim World Elite MastercardFlexible rewards pointsYes$199None
Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards CardFlexible rewards pointsYes$99None
Canadian Western Bank Rewards MastercardFlexible rewards pointsYes$0None

Note that terms and conditions may vary, so it’s important to review the details of each card carefully before applying.

10 travel credit cards with lounge access in Canada

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Here are ten travel credit cards that offer lounge access in Canada:

  1. American Express Platinum Card: This card offers access to the Global Lounge Collection, which includes over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, as well as a $200 annual travel credit and other travel perks.
  2. CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card: This card offers Priority Pass membership, which includes access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, as well as travel insurance and other perks.
  3. TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card: This card offers Priority Pass membership, which includes access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, as well as Aeroplan rewards points and travel insurance.
  4. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card: This card offers Priority Pass membership, which includes access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, as well as no foreign transaction fees and other travel perks.
  5. BMO World Elite Mastercard: This card offers four complimentary lounge access passes per year through the Mastercard Airport Experiences by LoungeKey program, as well as flexible rewards points and travel insurance.
  6. RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege Card: This card offers Priority Pass membership, which includes access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, as well as Avion rewards points and travel insurance.
  7. HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard: This card offers access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide through the LoungeKey program, as well as flexible rewards points and travel insurance.
  8. American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card: This card offers access to the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge and other airport lounges worldwide, as well as Aeroplan rewards points and other travel perks.
  9. National Bank World Elite Mastercard: This card offers access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport, as well as flexible rewards points and travel insurance.
  10. Desjardins Odyssey Infinite Privilege Visa: This card offers access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport and other airport lounges worldwide through the Priority Pass program, as well as travel insurance and other perks.

Can I get airport lounge access for free?

It is possible to get airport lounge access for free, but it depends on the specific lounge and the program or membership you have access to. Here are a few ways you might be able to get free airport lounge access:

  1. Elite Status: Some airlines or credit card loyalty programs offer elite status to their frequent customers, which may include complimentary access to airport lounges. For example, Air Canada’s Elite Status members are eligible for complimentary access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges, and some credit cards offer elite status to their cardholders, such as the American Express Platinum Card.
  2. Complimentary Access: Some lounges offer complimentary access to specific groups of travelers, such as first or business class passengers, or members of certain loyalty programs. For example, some airlines offer complimentary lounge access to their premium cabin passengers, or to members of their frequent flyer programs.
  3. Credit Card Benefits: Some credit cards offer airport lounge access as a benefit, but these typically come with an annual fee. However, some cards may waive the annual fee for the first year or offer other promotions that make the access free or more affordable.
  4. Lounge Memberships: Some lounge memberships may offer free access to their own lounges or partner lounges around the world. For example, Priority Pass is a membership program that offers access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, and some premium credit cards offer complimentary Priority Pass membership as a benefit.

10 no-fee travel credit cards Canada

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Here are ten no fee travel credit cards available in Canada:

  1. Brim Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as no foreign transaction fees and other perks.
  2. Home Trust Preferred Visa: This card offers cash back rewards on purchases made in foreign currencies, as well as travel insurance and no annual fee.
  3. MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as travel insurance and other perks.
  4. Scotiabank American Express Card: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as no foreign transaction fees and other perks.
  5. BMO Air Miles Mastercard: This card offers Air Miles rewards points that can be redeemed for flights and travel-related purchases, as well as no annual fee.
  6. Rogers Platinum Mastercard: This card offers flexible rewards points that can be redeemed for travel, as well as cash back rewards on purchases made in foreign currencies and no annual fee.
  7. SimplyCash Card from American Express: This card offers cash back rewards on all purchases, as well as no annual fee.
  8. Triangle World Elite Mastercard: This card offers rewards points that can be redeemed for travel and other purchases, as well as no annual fee and other perks.
  9. Tangerine World Mastercard: This card offers cash back rewards on all purchases, as well as no annual fee and other perks.
  10. PC Financial World Elite Mastercard: This card offers rewards points that can be redeemed for travel and other purchases, as well as no annual fee and other perks.

Canadian travel credit cards no foreign transaction fee

travelling in Canada

Here are some Canadian travel credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees:

  1. Home Trust Preferred Visa Card: This card has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, and offers cash back rewards on all purchases.
  2. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card: This card has an annual fee of $139, but it offers no foreign transaction fees, as well as travel insurance and access to Priority Pass airport lounges.
  3. Rogers World Elite Mastercard: This card has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, and offers cash back rewards on all purchases, as well as access to the Mastercard Airport Experiences by LoungeKey program.
  4. HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard: This card has an annual fee of $149, but it offers no foreign transaction fees, as well as flexible rewards points and travel insurance.
  5. Brim World Elite Mastercard: This card has an annual fee of $199, but it offers no foreign transaction fees, as well as flexible rewards points and travel insurance.

Pros of travel credit cards

There are several pros to using travel credit cards, including:

  1. Rewards: Many travel credit cards offer rewards programs that allow you to earn points or miles for every dollar you spend, which can be redeemed for travel-related purchases such as flights, hotel stays, and car rentals.
  2. Sign-up Bonuses: Travel credit cards often offer generous sign-up bonuses when you first open the account and meet certain spending requirements. These bonuses can be worth hundreds of dollars in travel-related rewards.
  3. Travel Perks: Many travel credit cards come with a variety of travel-related perks, such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, and discounts on travel purchases.
  4. Foreign Transaction Fees: Some travel credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which can save you money when traveling abroad.
  5. Fraud Protection: Credit cards offer fraud protection, which means you’re not liable for unauthorized transactions made on your account.
  6. Improved Credit Score: Using a credit card responsibly and paying off your balance in full each month can help improve your credit score over time.

Cons of travel credit cards

While there are many benefits to using travel credit cards, there are also some potential downsides to consider. Here are some cons of travel credit cards:

  1. Annual Fees: Many travel credit cards come with annual fees that can range from $100 to $500 or more. This may be worth it if you’re getting enough rewards and perks to offset the fee, but it’s important to consider whether the benefits are worth the cost.
  2. High Interest Rates: If you carry a balance on your credit card, the high interest rates charged by travel credit cards can quickly negate any rewards or perks you’ve earned.
  3. Limited Acceptance: Some travel credit cards may not be accepted everywhere, especially when traveling abroad. It’s important to have a backup payment method in case your card isn’t accepted.
  4. Blackout Dates and Restrictions: Some rewards programs may have blackout dates or other restrictions that limit your ability to redeem your rewards when and where you want to.
  5. Overspending: Having a credit card with rewards and perks can be tempting, and may lead to overspending and accumulating debt. It’s important to only spend what you can afford to pay off each month.
  6. Credit Score: Applying for multiple credit cards or carrying high balances can negatively impact your credit score, which can make it harder to get approved for loans and credit in the future.

Travel credit cards Canada FAQs

World Map Travel Couple

Here are some frequently asked questions about travel credit cards in Canada:

  1. What is a travel credit card?

A travel credit card is a type of credit card that is designed to offer benefits and rewards for travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotels, and rental cars. These cards typically offer rewards points or miles for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for travel-related purchases.

  1. What are the benefits of using a travel credit card?

Using a travel credit card can offer benefits such as rewards points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related purchases, sign-up bonuses, travel insurance, access to airport lounges, and other travel perks.

  1. What should I consider when choosing a travel credit card?

When choosing a travel credit card, you should consider factors such as the rewards program, annual fees, foreign transaction fees, sign-up bonuses, travel perks, and the interest rate. It’s important to choose a card that fits your travel needs and spending habits.

  1. Are travel credit cards worth it?

Whether a travel credit card is worth it depends on your individual travel habits and spending patterns. If you travel frequently and can take advantage of the rewards and perks offered by the card, then it may be worth it. However, if you don’t travel often or don’t spend enough on the card to offset the annual fee, then it may not be worth it.

  1. Can I use a travel credit card for non-travel expenses?

Yes, you can use a travel credit card for non-travel expenses, but the rewards and perks may be geared towards travel-related purchases. It’s important to choose a card that offers rewards and perks that fit your spending habits, whether or not they are related to travel.

  1. What should I be aware of when using a travel credit card abroad?

When using a travel credit card abroad, you should be aware of foreign transaction fees, currency exchange rates, and potential ATM fees. It’s a good idea to notify your credit card company before traveling abroad to prevent your card from being blocked due to suspected fraudulent activity.

  1. How can I use travel rewards points or miles?

You can use travel rewards points or miles to book travel-related purchases, such as flights, hotels, and rental cars. Some rewards programs may also offer the option to redeem points or miles for cash back or other rewards. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of your rewards program to understand how to redeem your points or miles.

  1. Can I transfer travel rewards points or miles between credit card programs?

Some credit card programs may offer the option to transfer rewards points or miles to other programs, but this may be subject to certain restrictions and fees. Be sure to review the terms and conditions of your credit card program to understand the transfer options and any associated fees.

  1. How can I maximize my travel rewards?

To maximize your travel rewards, it’s important to choose a credit card that offers rewards and perks that fit your travel needs and spending habits. You should also try to use your card for all of your travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotels, and rental cars. Additionally, you may be able to earn extra rewards by taking advantage of sign-up bonuses and by using your card for everyday purchases.

  1. How can I use my travel credit card responsibly?

To use your travel credit card responsibly, it’s important to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid accruing interest charges. You should also avoid overspending or using your card for purchases that you can’t afford to pay off. Finally, you should monitor your account regularly to check for any unauthorized transactions or errors, and to stay within your credit limit.

  1. What should I do if my travel credit card is lost or stolen while traveling?

If your travel credit card is lost or stolen while traveling, you should contact your credit card company immediately to report the loss and request a replacement card. You may also want to contact the local authorities to report the theft, especially if your passport or other important documents were also stolen.

  1. How can I avoid foreign transaction fees?

To avoid foreign transaction fees, you should choose a travel credit card that does not charge these fees. Additionally, you should try to use your credit card for purchases in the local currency whenever possible, as some merchants may offer to convert the transaction to your home currency, which may come with additional fees.

  1. Are travel credit cards available to everyone?

Most travel credit cards require a good to excellent credit score, which may make them difficult to obtain if you have a limited or poor credit history. Additionally, some cards may have specific eligibility criteria, such as a minimum income requirement or residency status, so it’s important to check if you qualify before applying.

  1. Can I use a travel credit card to earn rewards for someone else’s travel expenses?

In most cases, travel credit card rewards are tied to the account holder’s purchases and cannot be transferred to another person. However, some credit card programs may offer the option to book travel for another person using rewards points or miles, so be sure to review the terms and conditions of your program.

  1. Can travel credit cards help me save money on travel?

Yes, travel credit cards can help you save money on travel by offering rewards and perks that can offset the cost of flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses. Additionally, some travel credit cards offer sign-up bonuses that can be worth hundreds of dollars in travel-related rewards.

  1. What kind of travel insurance benefits do travel credit cards offer?

Travel credit cards may offer a range of travel insurance benefits, such as trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption insurance, emergency medical insurance, and rental car insurance. The specific benefits and coverage levels may vary depending on the card, so it’s important to review the terms and conditions of your card carefully to understand the details of your coverage.

  1. Can I use a travel credit card to earn rewards on Airbnb bookings?

Many travel credit cards offer rewards on travel-related purchases, including bookings made through Airbnb. However, it’s important to check the terms and conditions of your card to see if Airbnb bookings are eligible for rewards.

  1. How can I redeem my travel rewards for maximum value?

To redeem your travel rewards for maximum value, it’s important to research your options and choose the redemption method that offers the best value. For example, some rewards programs may offer higher redemption rates for certain types of travel, such as flights or hotel stays. Additionally, you may be able to combine your rewards with other offers or promotions to get even more value out of your rewards.

  1. Are there any downsides to using a travel credit card?

Travel credit cards may come with annual fees, high interest rates, and restrictions on rewards redemption, among other potential downsides. Additionally, using credit cards to pay for travel expenses can make it easy to overspend and accumulate debt. It’s important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using a travel credit card and to use the card responsibly to avoid any negative consequences.

  1. What should I do if I have a problem with my travel credit card while traveling?

If you have a problem with your travel credit card while traveling, such as a declined transaction or fraudulent activity, you should contact your credit card company immediately to report the issue and request assistance. Many credit card companies offer 24/7 customer service, which can be especially helpful when traveling across different time zones.

About the Author: Valerie D. Hahn

Valerie is an insurance editor, journalist, and business professional at RateLab. She has more than 15 years of experience in personal financial products. She strives to educate readers and ensure that they are properly protected.

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