Best Travel Credit Cards in Canada for 2025
An unbiased comparison of every top travel card in Canada
Travel cards are a popular choice in Canada, and the American Express Cobalt® Card is the best travel credit card available. It offers a high rate of return on your travel purchases, excellent insurance, and a few premium perks – like a $100 USD credit at properties within Amex's Hotel Collection.
If you prefer to avoid Amex, the MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard, RBC Avion Visa Infinite, and BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard are also excellent choices.
Our data-driven analysis of all Canadian travel credit cards ranks every card for rewards, insurance, and more, so you can choose the card that will give you the most value.
Key Takeaways
- The best travel credit card in Canada is the American Express Cobalt Card, followed by the MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard.
- Travel credit cards provide high returns, excellent insurance, and premium perks, but they may demand high annual fees and income requirements.
- The best travel credit card for you depends on your spending habits, your vacation habits, and your insurance needs.
The best travel credit cards in Canada
The top travel credit cards in Canada earn generous rewards on every dollar spent so you can vacation sooner and more often. Dividing the value of your credit card’s rewards versus how much you spent to get them yields that card’s return rate.
Value of credit card rewards / amount spent = return rate
Our list prioritizes travel credit cards with high returns – but let’s not forget their other virtues. The best cards add even more value with travel insurance, premium perks like airport lounge access, and low foreign exchange fees for souvenir shopping.
| Category | Credit card | Annual fee | Average return | Types of insurance | Lounge access | FX fee | Current offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for rewards | American Express Cobalt Card | $191.88 | 4.5% | 10 | No | 2.5% |  $100 GeniusCash + Up to 15,000 bonus points (terms) |
| Runner up for cash back | SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express | $119.88 | 2.55% | 10 | No | 2.5% | 10% cash back for the first 3 months + $50 (terms) |
| Best Mastercard | MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard | $120 | 2.86% | 12 | Yes | 2.5% | $100 GeniusCash + 30,000 bonus points (terms) |
| Best for foreign transactions | Scotiabank Gold American Express Card | $120 | 2.45% | 12 | Yes | 0.0% | $100 GeniusCash + Up to 50,000 bonus points, first year free (terms) |
| Best Visa | RBC Avion Visa Infinite | $120 | 2.36% | 12 | No | 2.5% | 55,000 bonus points (terms) |
| Best for Air Canada travel | TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card | $139 | 2.33% | 12 | No | 2.5% | Up to 45,000 bonus points (terms) |
| Best for Air Miles collectors | BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard | $120 | 1.35% | 14 | Yes | 2.5% | $150 GeniusCash + Up to 9,000 bonus miles, first year free (terms) |
| Best for travel insurance | RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege | $399 | 2.91% | 12 | Yes | 2.5% | Up to 70,000 bonus points (terms) |
| Best for lounge access | American Express Platinum Card | $799 | 2.45% | 11 | Yes | 2.5% | Up to 100,000 bonus points (terms) |
| Best for no annual fee | American Express Green Card | $0 | 2.1% | 2 | No | 2.5% | 10,000 bonus points (terms) |
1. Best travel credit card for rewards
×8 Award winner 
GC: $100
8x Award winner What you’ll earn:
- 5 points per $1 spent on eligible groceries and restaurants (up tp $2,500 spent per month)
- 3 points per $1 spent on eligible streaming services
- 2 points per $1 spent on eligible gas, transit, and ride share purchases
- 1 point per $1 spent on foreign currency purchases
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Why we think it’s best: As a credit card that earns multiple awards per year and yields up to 5 points per $1 spent, the American Express Cobalt Card gives an average 4.5% return rate. Plus, you can convert Amex Membership Rewards Points to six airline and two hotel rewards programs – sometimes at a 1:1 ratio – for a maximum value of 2 cents per point, or spend them on a statement credit.
In addition to the great reward rate, the Cobalt can help you reduce your vacation costs since it comes with travel perks like complimentary room upgrades, late check-outs, and a $100 USD credit at properties in The Hotel Collection. You can also score tickets to your favourite shows with Front of the Line access and enjoy specially curated events and offers through Amex Experiences.
What cardholders say: Redditors seem to agree that Amex is still one of the most valuable cards to carry, but users have some words of caution. Before applying for the Cobalt, check to see if Amex is accepted by the retailers you typically shop with. If you’re mainly using the card for travel, Redditors recommend pairing the Cobalt with a card that gives you more travel insurance.
For a Visa alternative, consider the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Card.
GC: $150
2. Runner up for cash back
What you’ll earn:
- 4% cash back on gas and groceries
- 2% cash back on all other purchases
Why we think it’s best: As one of the best cash back cards, the SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express gives you the opportunity to earn up to 10% cash back for the first 3 months, up to $2,000 in spend. Plus, earn $50 when you make a purchase on month 13. Beyond that, you’ll have advanced earn rates for gas and grocery and a solid 2% back on all other purchases. Keep in mind that you can only redeem your cash back once per year.
What cardholders say: SimplyCash Preferred is a popular card in forums, with cardholders loving the high flat earn rate and great customer service from Amex. One Redditor offered a useful tip (which we haven’t verified): you can purchase gift cards from grocery stores to get the advanced earn rate and then use the cards to make online purchases.
3. Best Mastercard travel credit card
×4 Award winner GC: $100
4x Award winner What you’ll earn:
- 5 points for every $1 spent on restaurants, groceries, and select recurring bills (up to $50,000 spent annually per category)
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Why we think it’s best: If you’re loyal to Mastercard, we have the travel card for you. The MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard delivers up to five MBNA Rewards Points per $1 spent, and you can transfer them to other loyalty programs. As a World Elite Mastercard, the MBNA Rewards card offers access to complimentary concierge services, exclusive event tickets, and a Dragonpass membership you can use to enter 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide for $32 USD per visit. Did we mention you’ll also get 10% bonus points awarded on your birthday?
What cardholders say: One cardholder on Reddit noted that it’s the best non-Amex card and is often overlooked because it’s offered by MBNA. Another pointed out that MBNA is one of the most underrated credit cards because it offers such high rates of return and the option to transfer points to travel programs.
If you want a no fee card, consider the MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus Mastercard.
4. Best travel credit card for foreign transactions
×1 Award winner GC: $100
1x Award winner What you’ll earn:
- 6 Scene+ points per $1 spent at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo and more
- 5 Scene+ points per $1 spent on groceries, dining, and entertainment
- 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent on gas, select streaming services, and transit
- 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent on foreign currency purchases
- 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Why we think it’s best: Using a credit card abroad is convenient but you’re typically charged a 2.5% foreign exchange fee for each transaction. Fortunately, the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is one of a handful of travel credit cards in Canada that doesn’t charge foreign currency exchange rate fees. You’ll also get discounted Priority Pass membership to airport lounges. Just present your membership at one of 1,500+ locations worldwide (including every Plaza Premium Lounge in Canada) and you’ll pay only $35 USD per visit.
What cardholders say: Some cardholders on Reddit stressed that it’s a fine overall card but that other cards (like the Amex Cobalt or Gold) are better options for travel. One reviewer noted that Scotiabank’s customer service was so poor, they were willing to pay higher annual fees to get an American Express.
If you prefer to hold a Visa or want Visa Infinite benefits, consider the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card.
GC: $100
5. Best Visa travel credit card
What you’ll earn:
- 1.25 points per $1 spent on travel
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Why we think it’s best: The RBC Avion Visa Infinite is for all you Visa fans. You’ll get flexible RBC Rewards and when using the Air Travel Redemption Schedule, you get up to 2.33 cents out of every point. Simply choose the flight you want and – as long as it costs less than the maximum ticket price for your route – you’ll pay a fixed number of points to fly.
As a Visa Infinite cardholder, you’ll also get exclusive benefits from the Visa Infinite program, like complimentary concierge services and hotel room upgrades wherever you go. You can also enjoy bonus offers with popular companies like DoorDash, Rexall, Hertz, and Petro-Canada.
What cardholders say: On a travel card Reddit thread, one cardholder expressed that this card is RBC’s best travel card but it isn’t competitive with other travel cards. Other cardholders note that, despite the card's great insurance package, it takes a long time to accumulate Avion points.
6. Best travel credit card for Air Canada
What you’ll earn:
- 1.5 points per $1 spent on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, grocery and direct through Air Canada purchases
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Why we think it’s best: The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card makes a strong case for Air Canada’s Aeroplan program with exclusive perks such as preferred pricing on reward flights, bonus qualifying flights and miles towards Elite Status membership, and the first checked bag free for the cardholder and up to eight travelling companions. While the Aeroplan earn rate isn’t amazing, your Aeroplan points never expire, and you’ll also get a $100 NEXUS rebate.
What cardholders say: One cardholder noted they weren’t sure if the card justified the annual fee (after the first free year was waived), though other Redditors point out that you can get the annual fee waived every year so long as you have a TD All-Inclusive Banking Plan. Some cardholders consider the card a solid option if you frequently fly with Star Alliance Airlines, as having a Visa is helpful due to its acceptance by more merchants than an Amex.
If you want a super-premium option, consider the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card.
7. Best for Air Miles collectors
×1 Award winner GC: $150
1x Award winner What you’ll earn:
- 1 Mile for every $12 spent
- 3x the Miles for every $12 at participating Air Miles partners
- 2x the Miles for every $12 spent at any eligible grocery, liquor, and wholesale stores
Why we think it’s best: The BMO AIR MILES World Elite Mastercard has a high Air Miles earn rate and tons of perks to sweeten the deal. The welcome bonus will get you up to 7,000 Air Miles, and you can save up to 32¢/litre on gas at Shell. You’ll earn 1 mile for every $12 spent with this card, 2x at wholesale clubs (hello, Costco!), and three times that at participating Air Miles partners. Did we mention perks like an annual 25% discount on an Air Miles reward flight, a Mastercard Travel Pass membership, BMO travel insurance, and automatic Onyx status?
What cardholders say: One cardholder noted that this card was useful for travelling with both WestJet and Air Canada. They also pointed out the great fuel discount at Shell.
8. Best card for travel insurance
What you’ll earn:
- 1.25 points per $1 spent on all purchases
Why we think it’s best: Yes, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege charges a high annual fee, but the extensive insurance package it comes with can offset the cost. It includes a dozen types of insurance and its coverage limits are higher than those of many other credit cards. If you’re over the age of 65, you’ll want to consider this card since it offers rare travel insurance for your age group.
What cardholders say: There’s a lot of discussion on personal finance threads about whether or not this card’s high annual fee is worth it. Most people agree that you have to examine your spending habits to determine if the savings are enough to cover the fee. Some cardholders said they call up RBC and negotiate the annual fee every year to avoid paying the full price.
9. Best card for lounge access
What you’ll earn:
- 2 points per $1 spent on restaurants and travel
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Why we think it’s best: Lounge access is a perk you might be willing to shop around for, but we can save you the trouble. The American Express Platinum Card won the annual creditcardGenius award for best perks travel card and best airport lounge credit card. You’ll unlock access to over 1,400 lounges at more than 500 airports in over 140 countries, plus get $400 in annual travel and dining credits. And then there are the super-flexible Amex points that offer high-value redemption options aplenty.
What cardholders say: Despite the astronomical annual fee, most cardholders are happy with the Amex Platinum. One Redditor notes that while the card isn’t for everyone, they get enough value out of the card’s travel benefits to justify the cost. Another points out that if you primarily travel within Canada, you might benefit more from an Aeroplan Visa card.
10. Best travel credit card with no annual fee
What you’ll earn:
- 1 point per $1 spent on all purchases
Why we think it’s best: No annual fee credit cards tend to offer fewer perks and benefits, but the American Express Green Card has a decent earn rate and all the flexibility of the Amex Rewards program (along with its maximum value of 2 cents per point). We like how easy it is to qualify for this card – and the fact that it comes with Amex Offers, Experiences, and Front of the Line Benefits.
What cardholders say: The Amex Green isn’t the most popular card, according to commenters. The fact that there’s no annual fee and it’s easier to qualify for makes it popular with students or people with poor credit. However, as one reviewer noted, the earnings aren’t great, but it’s a decent card for people building their credit.
For a Visa alternative, consider the BMO eclipse rise Visa Card.
Compare top travel credit cards by Genius Rating
Our Genius Rating system uses a refined, math-based algorithm to rank credit cards out of a total of 5 stars. We consider over 126 data points for each card.
Here’s how the top travel credit cards compare when arranged by Genius Rating.
×8 Award winner GC: $100 8x Award winner ×4 Award winner GC: $100 4x Award winner GC: $100
To find the best travel credit cards in Canada, we rated 125+ credit card features in seven main categories:
We prioritized rewards to get you to your destination faster, and the creditcardGenius algorithm scored every entry out of five. Return rate calculations are based on an average spend of $2,000 per month.
Learn more about our Genius Rating methodology
The best travel credit cards compared
Not every Canadian vacations the same way – and the same goes for using their credit card. Your top card will depend on your priorities, including:
- Annual fees: No fee cards like the American Express Green Card are the clear winners of this category. While most other entries hover around $120, the American Express Cobalt Card alone demands $191.88 per year.
- Average return rate: None of our picks offer less than 2% in returns, but if you want the biggest bang for your buck, choose the Amex Cobalt or the MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard.
- Estimated insurance value: The RBC Avion Visa Infinite adds an extra $557 of value in insurance alone, followed closely by the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card at $534. Every other travel credit card offers about $400 worth of insurance, except for the no fee American Express Green Card, which sits at a dismal $100.
- Estimated benefits value: The card promising the best value is the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card, whose perks and Priority Pass discount are worth an estimated $172. The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card comes in second place thanks to its Air Canada extras, while the Amex Green takes last place yet again.
- Welcome bonus: Signing up for either of the Visa Infinite credit cards on our list (RBC Avion or TD Aeroplan) will net you $800, nearly double the bonus of the runner-up, the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card at $450.
Remember: More insurance, perks, and rewards typically mean a higher annual fee. Choose according to your tastes and budget.
Learn how much your credit card benefits are worth
Pros and cons of travel credit cards
Travel credit cards can get you to your destination faster (and in comfort) with features such as:
- Exclusive event and experience ticket offers
- Generous travel insurance packages
- High return rates in limited spending categories
- Partner discounts
- Preferential pricing on airline tickets, car rentals, cruises, vacation packages, and more
- Large welcome bonuses
- Luxury concierge, airline, hotel, and resort perks
But none of these things are truly free. The most rewarding travel credit cards all have a catch, including but not limited to:
- Airline, seat, and travel date restrictions on reward flights
- High annual fees
- High income requirements
- Low returns in most spending categories
- Low value on non-travel rewards
- Ticket pricing based on demand
Ultimately, travel credit cards favour modest spenders who need help saving for their next vacation. If you’re thrifty, pick a cash back credit card instead. If you have no trouble travelling well and often, consider a perks and benefits card for the most luxurious experience.
How travel credit cards work
Travel credit cards are a type of rewards credit card where points yield the most value when redeemed on travel, including airline tickets, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages. Knowing the best ways to earn and redeem points is key to maximizing value.
How to earn rewards
Travel credit cards award points at a low, flat rate (e.g., 1 point per $1 spent on anything) or at a high rate in a small number of spending categories (e.g., 5 points per $1 spent on gas and groceries only).
If your shopping habits are all over the place, you’ll get the most use out of a flat rate card like the RBC Avion Visa Infinite, TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card, or American Express Green Card. If you spend most of your money on groceries and restaurants, the American Express Cobalt Card, MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard, and Scotiabank Gold American Express Card are the best.
Whatever you do, make sure your transactions count toward your rewards by verifying their merchant category codes.
How to redeem rewards
Once you’ve accumulated enough points, it’s time to get your tickets – but not all rewards are created equal!
Generally, the most valuable travel rewards are accessed through your credit card issuer’s official travel portal. For Aeroplan, it’s Air Canada; for TD Rewards, it’s Expedia for TD, and so on.
In other cases, like the Amex Membership Rewards program, the best travel rewards lie in points conversions to other loyalty programs like Aeroplan, Hilton Honors, or Marriott Bonvoy.
Travel credit card perks
Credit card perks are some of the most exciting features of the cards above. Make your next journey unforgettable with extras like:
- Airport lounge access: Some travel credit cards offer complimentary access to airport lounges so you can relax in a quiet space and grab some food before your flight. Even cards that don’t offer free passes may give you access to networks like Priority Pass, which gets you lounge access for a fee regardless of what class you’re flying.
- Concierge service: Some premium travel cards offer 24/7 complimentary concierge access to help you score event tickets, restaurant or hotel reservations, or access to unique travel experiences. Remember, of course, that while the service is free, you still have to pay for the tickets, meals, etc.
- Travel insurance: The best travel credit cards offer coverage for trip cancellations, lost baggage, and medical emergencies (yes, even if you’re over the age of 65).
- No foreign transaction fees: Some travel cards waive the typical 2.5% FX fee when you make purchases outside of CAD. If you travel frequently and tend to use your credit card a lot while abroad, this perk could save you hundreds of dollars a year.
- Free checked bags and priority services: Most airline-branded cards include one free checked bag for the cardholder and others traveling on the same reservation. Some cards also offer priority services for boarding and security (at select airports) to make your travel experience smoother.
- Companion vouchers: Airline-branded cards may offer companion vouchers – usually after you spend a certain amount on the card. Sometimes the vouchers are free, and sometimes you’ll need to pay for them, but used right, they can save you a lot of money!
- Exclusive travel offers: Some cards will get you access to exclusive deals or early access to promotions – like discounted hotel stays – that may not be available to the public.
As always, more perks mean higher annual fees. They’re luxuries, not must-haves!
Travel credit card insurance
Credit card insurance coverage can save you thousands of dollars on cancelled airline tickets, damaged merchandise, and even medical bills.
From most to least valuable, travel credit cards can include:
| Insurance coverage | Average value | Insurance coverage | Average value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel burglary, lost or stolen baggage | $2 | Trip cancellation | $39 |
| Flight delay | $6 | Mobile device | $53 |
| Baggage delay, event ticket cancellation | $8 | Price protection | $72 |
| Travel accident | $9 | Extended warranty | $78 |
| Personal effects | $23 | Emergency medical | $119 |
| Trip interruption | $26 | Rental car insurance | $161 |
| Purchase protection | $38 |
General travel credit cards vs. branded travel credit cards
While both offer rewards for travel expenses, they differ in flexibility and perks. General travel credit cards allow you to earn points or miles, which can be redeemed across multiple airlines, hotels, or travel platforms. On the other hand, branded travel credit cards are tied to a specific airline or hotel chain, offering extra rewards when you spend with their brand.
How to choose the right travel credit card
Choosing the right travel credit card is really the same as choosing any type of card: study the details and get a card with features that actually work for you.
Here are a few things to consider when sizing up travel cards:
- Annual fee: A no fee card may sound like a good idea, but these tend to offer fewer benefits. Choose a card where the insurance and other features are more valuable than the annual fee.
- Average rate of return: Consider your biggest spending categories and choose a card that offers the best returns in that area.
- Insurance package: Most travel cards offer travel-related insurance coverage, but check to make sure you're getting the right coverage for your needs – especially if you're a senior.
- Welcome bonus: Choose a card with a welcome offer that you'll actually benefit from, like cash back or rewards points for your preferred loyalty program.
- Rewards program: Review your biggest spending categories and select a card that offers the highest earn rate for your most frequently used category.
- Interest rates: If you tend to carry a balance, prioritize cards with lower interest rates.
- Various fees: Check whether or not your preferred card charges FX fees, etc., and choose one with reasonable rates.
- Extra perks: Some cards are known for their lounge access or concierge service, while others offer rebates on Nexus fees, etc. Consider which of these perks will serve you best.
If you’re thinking about getting an American Express, you’ll have to consider acceptance. Some retailers (looking at you, Costco and Loblaws) don’t accept Amex, so you’ll need a backup.
FAQ
Which credit card in Canada is best for travel?
The American Express Cobalt Card is currently the best travel credit card. Not only does it offer the highest rate of return, but it also includes a comprehensive insurance package, hotel credits, and Amex benefits.
Which bank credit card is best for travelling?
There’s no single bank that issues all the top cards. Instead, RBC, MBNA, Scotiabank, BMO, and TD all offer competitive travel cards that are worth checking out, especially if you’re a current customer with one of them.
Is getting a travel credit card worth it?
They're certainly beneficial if you travel frequently and/or value benefits like concierge service, various airport upgrades, and discounts on NEXUS passes. It can also help cut costs when you redeem your points for future travel.
Which credit card is best for travel protection?
We named the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege the best travel credit card for travel insurance since it includes 12 types of coverage, including a full week of rare medical coverage for those over age 65.
Editorial Disclaimer: The content here reflects the author's opinion alone. No bank, credit card issuer, rewards program, or other entity has reviewed, approved, or endorsed this content. For complete and updated product information please visit the product issuer's website. Our credit card scores and rankings are based on our Rating Methodology that takes into account 126+ features for each of 227 Canadian credit cards.
