To redeem the voucher, you must purchase a fare on a WestJet-operated flight; the companion fare then applies to the second passenger on the same booking. Learn how to obtain the voucher and review any terms so you understand eligibility, route limitations and booking rules before you travel.

How to get a WestJet companion voucher

There’s really no secret to getting a WestJet companion voucher. You get one annually as a WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard holder. However, the rules recently changed.

The first World Elite companion voucher usually appears in your account a few weeks after you make your first purchase. To get your annual voucher after, you need to charge at least $5,000 annually to your WestJet Card. Your progress towards the next voucher is shown on your WestJet account.

Here’s a quick look at the current welcome bonus and earn rate that comes with the card.

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

Apply Now

• $119 annual fee
• 25,000 WestJet points after your first purchase
• 5,000 WestJet points up to twelve (12) weeks after your first purchase
• 30,000 WestJet points after spending $5,000
• 10,000 WestJet points up to sixteen (16) weeks after your first anniversary
• Earn 2 WestJet points per dollar spent on WestJet, WestJet Vacations, Sunwing Vacations, groceries, and gas
• Earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Receive a round-trip companion voucher
• Get free first checked bags for the primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same reservation

Besides the companion voucher, you also get your first checked bag free for up to eight people on the same itinerary. Remember, it costs $30 – $50 each way to check a bag with WestJet, so a family of four could save $240 – $400 on every flight. The included free Boingo Wi-Fi may not seem like a big deal, but remember, most airplanes offer paid Wi-Fi via Boingo. In other words, you can browse the internet for free whenever you fly with this card. Read my WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard review now for the full details.

The only other way to get a WestJet companion voucher is with the WestJet RBC Mastercard. Since this is a lower tier card, the voucher works a bit differently You only get access to an annual round-trip companion voucher within Canada, and it costs $199 plus taxes, fees, and charges. Although it’s not as generous as the companion voucher that comes with the World Elite Card, it’s still pretty good considering the credit card has an annual fee of just $39. Let’s take a quick look at the current welcome bonus and earn rate.

WestJet RBC Mastercard

Apply Now

• $39 annual fee
• Earn 5,000 WestJet points after your first purchase
• Earn an additional 10,000 WestJet dollars when you spend $1,000 in the first 3 months
• Earn 1.5% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights or WestJet Vacations packages
• Earn 1% back in WestJet dollars on all other purchases
• Annual companion voucher

You’ll notice that this card doesn’t come with free checked bags. That should be expected since this is a lower-tier card compared to the World Elite version. That said, the WestJet RBC Mastercard doesn’t have a high personal or household income requirement to qualify for the card, so it’s still a good option for people who want a companion voucher but don’t have a high salary.

WestJet Companion Voucher Cost

The WestJet companion voucher is given to you free every year if you hold the WestJet RBC Mastercard or the WestJet RBC World Elite MasterCard but there are a few fees you need to pay on top of the fare for the first ticket purchased.

• $119 for round-trip travel in Canada and the continental U.S.
• $199 for round-trip travel within Canada (WestJet RBC Mastercard version)
• $399 for round-trip travel to/from the rest of the WestJet network
• Taxes, fees and charges

Companion Voucher Rules for WestJet Cardholders

Now that you understand the fees, there are a few other conditions and restrictions that come with the WestJet companion voucher that you should be aware of:

• Applies to one round-trip or one-way fare: You can use the voucher for a round-trip flight for yourself (the primary cardholder) plus a companion on the same itinerary. One-way bookings are permitted, but the full base fare applies to both passengers.
• New reservations only: The voucher works only on new bookings made before the expiry date shown on the voucher. Travel can occur after that date, but you cannot apply the voucher to existing reservations.
• Eligible fares: You may use the voucher on published Basic, Econo, EconoFlex, Premium and PremiumFlex fares that are fully marketed and operated by WestJet, including seat sale fares. You and the companion must be booked in the same fare category.
• Not eligible: The voucher cannot be used for WestJet Vacations packages, Business Class fares, or Member Exclusive fares. It also cannot be applied when booking through travel agents or third-party websites.
• Account rules and transferability: The voucher is non-transferable and only valid while your WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard account remains open. If your account closes, any unused vouchers are cancelled. An authorized user on the account cannot use the voucher independently of the primary cardholder.
• How to apply during booking: You can choose to apply the voucher at the start of your booking search; once you select flights, the voucher will be applied automatically during checkout.
• No cash value; occasional alternatives: The voucher has no cash redemption value. WestJet may occasionally offer a one-time exchange for lounge access instead of using the voucher for travel.
• Blackout dates and fees: There are no blackout dates for eligible flights, but standard taxes, fees and charges still apply and must be paid by you at booking.

To be clear, the companion voucher can only be used when the primary cardholder is travelling. Even if there’s an authorized user on the account, that person can’t use the voucher with another passenger.

One-way trips are allowed with the companion voucher, but the full base fare applies.

At the time of booking, you can select to use your voucher before you start searching for real-time pricing for flight availability. Once you find the flights you like, the voucher will automatically be applied, so there’s nothing else to do during the booking flow.

WestJet also allow you to exchange your voucher for two lounge passes. There is no cash exchange value with the voucher.

How Much You’ll Save With a WestJet Companion Voucher

The actual savings depend on the ticket’s base fare or Air Transportation Charges (ATC). You still pay taxes, fees and surcharges, so the companion benefit only reduces the ATC portion of the fare.

Consider a typical summer round trip to Florida, where the ATC is high. The primary cardholder pays the full ticket cost. The companion pays a reduced fee for the ATC, plus all taxes and mandatory charges, often resulting in several hundred dollars in savings compared with two full-price tickets. Larger ATC amounts increase the companion discount; low ATC fares reduce the voucher’s value.

Keep these points in mind when deciding whether to use the voucher:

• Use the voucher when the ATC is substantially above the companion-ticket fee to maximize savings.
• Compare the out-of-pocket cost for a companion-ticket booking with the cost of two standard tickets before redeeming.
• For long-haul or international flights where the companion fee can start higher, the voucher can be less useful unless you redeem it for premium cabins.

If you track points and vacation-credit opportunities, prioritize using the voucher on routes and dates with high ATC or premium-class inventory. The online booking tool often flags when a regular purchase is cheaper, so check the total out-of-pocket cost (companion fee plus taxes) before confirming.

When you fly in premium cabins, the voucher frequently delivers its greatest dollar impact because premium ATCs are much larger. For lower-fare economy seats or routes with modest ATC, holding the voucher for a future trip may save you more.

When Does Your Voucher Expire?

Your voucher formally expires one year after you receive it.
You can still book travel for up to an additional year beyond that formal expiry, including one-way flights.

Keep track of both the official expiry and the extended booking window to avoid losing your travel credit.

WestJet companion voucher pros and cons

Let’s be real for a second, the WestJet companion voucher is obviously good since it’s a free benefit. That said, if you don’t have a WestJet credit card yet, you probably want to know if there are any drawbacks. Here are the pros and cons of the WestJet companion voucher.

Pros

• Annual perk: You receive a companion voucher every year while you keep a qualifying WestJet credit card, including the year you enrol.
• Simple to get: Any WestJet Mastercard that qualifies awards the voucher, so you don’t need to meet extra spending thresholds after sign-up.
• No blackout restrictions: You can apply the voucher to any available seat on WestJet flights, regardless of travel date.
• Works across WestJet network: Redeem the voucher for travel to any destination WestJet serves, including Mexico.
• Predictable savings on a second fare: When you book, the voucher covers a companion’s base fare or a fixed discount depending on the card’s terms, making planning straightforward.

Cons

• High fee for some routes: Using the voucher for travel outside Canada and the continental United States can incur a substantial fee, which may reduce the net value of the perk.
• Limited to WestJet flights: The voucher doesn’t apply to codeshares or partner airlines, so you can’t use it when seeking broader routing or alliance benefits.
• Fewer routing choices: If you need connections or fly from locations with limited WestJet service, the voucher’s usefulness drops because WestJet’s network is smaller than some competitors’.
• Potential extra costs: Taxes, carrier charges and other fees still apply to the companion ticket, so the total outlay can be higher than the promotional language suggests.

How the WestJet companion voucher compares to others

When comparing companion offers, focus on carrier coverage, frequency, and usable routes. WestJet’s companion benefit applies only to WestJet flights, while competing passes are restricted to their issuing airlines, so your choice should match the carrier you fly most.

WestJet provides a voucher after your first purchase and sets a reasonable spending requirement to receive your vouchers each year. That annual perk means you don’t need to reapply for new credit cards to keep receiving the benefit. Competing offers usually require you to spend $ 10,000 or more.

Costs differ in structure. Some rival passes charge only taxes and fees for the companion’s seat, while WestJet’s starts at a modest base fee. That makes the rival pass potentially cheaper on paper, but total value depends on routings and base fare levels for your chosen flights.

Route eligibility affects real value. Certain competitors’ passes restrict travel to North America, Hawaii and the Caribbean, whereas WestJet’s companion option can sometimes be used on long-haul services, including Europe. If you travel transatlantic or to regions covered by WestJet, that broader route map increases the voucher’s utility.

Save even more with the WestJet credit card

hen you hold the RBC WestJet World Elite Mastercard, you cut several travel costs that add up quickly. You get free checked bags on WestJet flights within North America, which typically saves about $30 per bag each way, and that benefit repeats for every cardholder in your party.

The card also often includes a companion or similar voucher that reduces the fare for an additional traveller. If both parents carry the card, you multiply that voucher value and increase your household savings. Those fare reductions alone can amount to several hundred dollars on family trips.

Combine baggage savings, companion-voucher discounts and the card’s welcome bonus and the numbers look compelling. For example, multiple checked bags, two vouchers, and a sign up bonus can easily offset the card’s annual fee several times over. You keep more money in your pocket while still enjoying the same itinerary.

It’s easy to see why the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard is on my list of the best travel credit cards in Canada. The benefits you get are simply incredible which makes it a must-have card for anyone who flies WestJet on a regular basis.

Final Thoughts

You can use the companion voucher soon after your first statement, provided you’ve made at least one purchase. Check fares early so you know exactly how much the voucher reduces the ticket price.

Factor in the welcome bonus and free checked bags when deciding whether to apply. If you fly WestJet regularly or even once a year, the card’s perks often outweigh the cost.

You might well apply since you also get a welcome bonus and free checked bags. WestJet Rewards is one of the best travel loyalty programs, and if you fly WestJet on a regular basis or even once a year, applying for their credit card is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to receive a WestJet companion voucher?

You usually need to hold a qualifying WestJet co‑branded credit card and meet either an annual spend requirement or anaccount renewal requirement. Check the cardholder agreement or promotional terms for the exact criteria.

What rules apply when you use a WestJet companion voucher?

The voucher usually covers the companion’s base fare, and taxes or fees may still apply; return and inbound taxes can be excluded depending on the offer. You must book both passengers on the same reservation and travel on the same flights. Other rules often include a limited booking window, class restrictions (economy only unless stated otherwise), and that the voucher cannot be combined with certain other discounts.

Can you use a WestJet companion voucher for travel outside Canada?

You can often use the voucher on international itineraries operated by WestJet, but availability and covered charges vary by route. Some cross‑border or transatlantic flights may qualify, while others may not. Verify eligible destinations in the voucher terms before planning.

How do you redeem a WestJet companion voucher?

Redeem by logging into your WestJet Rewards or credit card account and following the voucher redemption workflow, or call WestJet reservations and quote the voucher code when booking. Have passenger details and dates ready; redemption may require immediate ticketing and must meet any advance‑purchase rules.

Can you give your WestJet companion voucher to someone else?

Vouchers are non‑transferable and must be used by the named cardholder or a companion booked on the same itinerary.

Choosing a credit card that eliminates foreign transaction fees can lead to substantial savings. If you spend several thousand dollars abroad or on foreign currency purchases, you could save over a hundred dollars in fees alone. These cards often come with additional travel perks, making them a practical choice for Canadians who travel internationally or shop across borders.

The best no foreign transaction fee credit cards in canada

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite* Card

Apply Now

• $150 annual fee
• 40,000 Scene+ points when spending $2,000 in the first 3 months
• 10,000 points when spending $10,000 in the first six months
• Earn 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent at Empire owned supermarkets
• Earn 2 Scene+ points per $1 spent on eligible grocery stores, dining, entertainment, and daily transit purchases
• Earn 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
• Visa Airport Companion Program membership + 6 passes per year
• No foreign transaction fees

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card stands out as a comprehensive option for travellers who prefer carrying a single card. This card charges an annual fee of $150 but delivers substantial value through its rewards program and travel perks.

You earn 3 Scene+ points per dollar at Empire-owned supermarkets, 2 points at eligible grocery stores, restaurants, entertainment venues, and on daily transit, plus 1 point on everything else. The bonus earning categories apply even when making purchases abroad in foreign currencies.

Travel benefits form the core appeal of this card. You receive a complimentary membership to the Visa Airport Companion Program through DragonPass, which includes six free lounge visits annually. Standard airport lounge access typically costs around US$99 yearly plus US$32 per visit, making this benefit valuable for frequent travellers.

The travel insurance package covers trips up to 31 days and includes medical emergencies, trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost baggage, and flight delay coverage. Additional perks include concierge services available 24/7, access to the Visa Infinite Hotel Collection with room upgrades and complimentary breakfast, and membership in the Dining and Wine Country program.

You also get a free Avis Preferred Plus membership, which provides faster rental car service and the ability to choose your vehicle. Priority Pass membership is not included, but the DragonPass access serves a similar purpose.

Eligibility: A minimum personal income of $60,000 or a household income of $100,000 or at least $250,000 in assets under management. A credit score of 700 is also recommended.
Welcome bonus: You’ll typically get 35,000 to 50,000 Scene+ points as the welcome offer. In most cases, you’ll need to spend a minimum amount in the first three months and another in the first 12 months for the full bonus.

Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card

Apply Now

• $120 annual fee
• 30,000 Scene+ points when you spend $2,000 in the first 3 months
• 20,000 Scene+ points when you spend $7,500 in the first year
• Earn 6 Scene+ points per $1 spent at Empire owned supermarkets
• Earn 5 Scene+ points per $1 spent on grocery, dining, and entertainment
• Earn 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent on gas, and daily transit purchases
• Earn 1 Scene+ point on all other purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card delivers exceptional earn rates that rival top-tier rewards cards in Canada. The annual fee sits at $120, making it slightly more affordable than the Passport card while still offering premium benefits.

Earning potential is where this card excels. You collect 6 Scene+ points per dollar at Empire-owned grocery stores, 5 points at other grocery stores, plus dining and entertainment purchases, 3 points on gas, public transit, rideshares, and streaming services, and 1 point on all other spending.

One important distinction exists with foreign transactions. While you won’t pay foreign transaction fees, purchases made in currencies other than Canadian dollars only earn the base rate of 1 point per dollar. The bonus categories don’t apply to international spending.

The card provides a comprehensive travel insurance package covering trips up to 25 days, including emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation and interruption, baggage loss and delay, and rental car coverage. Mobile device insurance protects your phone or tablet against damage and theft when you purchase the device with your card.

You also receive airport lounge access, though unlike the Passport card, you don’t get complimentary passes. You’ll need to pay per visit or purchase a membership separately if you want to use this benefit.

Eligibility: There’s no minimum income requirement. A credit score of at least 700 is recommended.
Welcome bonus: Typically worth between 40,000 and 60,000 Scene+ points when. To get the full bonus, you usually need to meet multiple minimum spending requirements.

EQ Bank Card

Apply now

• $20 referral bonus (must fund account with $100 within 30 days)
• No monthly fees
• 0.5% cash back on all purchases
• Free withdrawals from any ATM in Canada
• No foreign transaction fees
• Earn 2.50% interest until you spend

The EQ Bank Card functions as a prepaid card with unique advantages for travellers. There’s no annual fee, and you earn 0.5% cash back on all purchases regardless of currency.

What makes this card particularly useful is that any balance loaded onto the card earns interest at a competitive rate. Your money grows even when you’re not spending it, which is uncommon for prepaid cards.

The standout feature is the ATM policy. You won’t pay foreign transaction fees when withdrawing cash from ATMs abroad. EQ Bank even reimburses ATM fees charged by other financial institutions in Canada. However, one-time fees charged by foreign ATM operators are not covered.

This approach gives you flexibility when travelling. Instead of exchanging currency before departure or upon arrival, you can withdraw local currency as needed. You can load additional funds to your card while abroad by sending yourself an e-transfer.

Since this is a prepaid card, you can only spend what you’ve loaded. This helps with budgeting and eliminates the risk of overspending. Prepaid cards don’t require a credit check or minimum income, making them accessible to nearly everyone.

Eligibility: Must have an EQ Bank account. No income or credit history is required.
Welcome bonus: You get a $20 cash bonus when signing up with a referral link and funding your account with $100 within 30 days of account opening.

Home Trust Preferred Visa Card

Apply now

• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• 1% cash back on Canadian purchases
• Purchase protection

The Home Trust Preferred Visa offers a straightforward approach with no annual fee and no foreign exchange fees. You earn 1% cash back on purchases made in Canadian dollars, but it doesn’t apply to foreign-currency transactions.

This card functions as a traditional credit card rather than a prepaid option. You don’t need to load funds in advance, and you receive a credit line based on your creditworthiness. This makes it more convenient than prepaid alternatives for those who qualify.

Benefits are minimal beyond the no forex fee feature. You get purchase security coverage for 90 days against theft, loss, or damage. No travel insurance, airport lounge access, or concierge services are included.

One quirk to note: customer service has historically blocked transactions made outside Canada for security reasons. Call before you travel to notify them of your plans and avoid having your card declined.

Eligibility: No minimum income is required. A credit score of at least 660 is recommended.
Welcome bonus: None.

Wealthsimple Cash Card

Apply now

• No annual fee
• Up to $3,000 welcome bouns
• 1% back in cash, stocks, or crypto on all purchases
• 4% interest on deposited funds
• No foreign transaction fees on purchases or ATM withdrawals
• CDIC insurance protection

Another prepaid credit card with no foreign transaction fees is the Wealthsimple Cash Card. All purchases earn you 1% back in cash, stock, or crypto. In addition, any funds you have loaded to your card earn interest. That means your money always grows even when you’re not spending it.

As a no fee, prepaid card, there aren’t any other benefits. The main draw here is the cash back earned and the no foreign transaction fees. You also won’t pay foreign transaction fees on ATM withdrawals. That said, most foreign ATM operators will charge you a one-time fee, and Wealthsimple limits your withdrawals to $500 CAD a transaction. There’s also a daily withdrawal limit of $1,000 CAD per day.

This card is very similar to the EQ Bank Card. Many people prefer the EQ Bank Card because you get $20 when signing up with a referral link. However, Wealthsimple does give you a higher cash back and savings interest rate.

Eligibility: Must have a Wealthsimple Cash account, but no income or credit history is required.
Welcome bonus: Up to $3,000 (it’s random)

Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard

Full Review

• No annual fee
• $50 Amazon gift card at sign up
• 5% back at Amazon.ca, grocery stores and restaurants for six months after your account is opened
• 2.5% back at Amazon.ca, Whole Foods Market in Canada and foreign currency transactions
• 1% back per dollar spent on all other purchases

The Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard is one of the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards in Canada, but it flies under the radar. You’ll earn 2.5% back at Amazon.ca, Whole Foods and foreign transactions. All other purchases earn you 1% back. However, you must be an Amazon Prime member to get this rate. Non-Prime members earn 1.5% back at Amazon.ca and Whole Foods, and 1% on foreign transaction fees. 

The cash back works like this. Once you’ve earned 2,000 points, a $20 Amazon.ca gift card is deposited into your account. Other benefits with the card include discounts at Avis and Budget Rent a Car, purchase assurance, extended warranty, and zero liability insurance. 

This card is only worth considering if you’re an Amazon Prime member and you do a lot of shopping on Amazon. The good news is that there’s no annual fee.

Eligibility: Must be an Amazon Prime member for the increased earning rate. No minimum income or credit score is listed.
Welcome bonus: A $35 Amazon.ca gift card is given instantly upon approval.

What are foreign transaction fees?

When you make a purchase in any currency other than Canadian dollars, an additional charge gets applied to the exchange rate. This applies to all international transactions, including online shopping in US dollars.

Even if you’re buying from a Canadian business, paying in a foreign currency typically triggers these charges. The fee is embedded directly in the exchange rate, making it difficult to spot on your credit card statement.

Charges from your card provider

Your credit card provider typically adds a 2.5% foreign transaction fee to international purchases. Some providers charge up to 3.5%, depending on the card you hold.

Here’s what these forex fees mean for your spending:

• $1,000 in foreign purchases = $25 to $35 in fees
• $2,000 in foreign purchases = $50 to $70 in fees
• $5,000 in foreign purchases = $125 to $175 in fees

These currency conversion fees accumulate quickly, especially if you travel frequently or shop internationally online.

Charges from payment networks

Visa, Mastercard, and American Express apply their own small fees for currency conversion. These charges are much smaller than provider fees.

The payment networks use slightly different exchange rates than the official rate available to financial institutions. Here’s a comparison when converting 1 CAD to USD:

• Official exchange rate – 0.77118
• Visa exchange rate – 0.77333
• Mastercard exchange rate – 0.77255

Mastercard offers marginally better rates than Visa, though the difference is minimal in practice. American Express uses comparable rates but doesn’t publish them publicly.

You can check current conversion rates through xe.com, along with Visa and Mastercard’s websites. Understanding both types of fees helps you calculate the true cost of foreign currency transactions.

How Are Foreign Transaction Fees Calculated?

Your credit card company sets the foreign transaction fee, which typically appears in your cardholder agreement. The fee structure combines two main components: the currency conversion fee and the network’s exchange rate.

Visa and Mastercard each apply their own exchange rates when processing international purchases. These rates differ from the mid-market rate, which represents the true wholesale price between currencies. The gap between what you pay and the mid-market rate contributes to the total cost of your foreign purchase.

Exchange rates fluctuate based on currency market conditions. Economic events, political stability, and supply and demand for specific currencies all influence these rates daily. Your card issuer applies the rate that’s active when your transaction processes, not necessarily when you make the purchase.

Most Canadian credit cards add a 2.5% fee on top of the exchange rate used for currency conversion, though some cards charge between 1% and 3%.

Should I Pay in the Local Currency or CAD?

When making purchases abroad, merchants may offer you the choice between paying in the local currency or Canadian dollars through dynamic currency conversion. You should always select the local currency option. Your credit card issuer will convert the transaction using their exchange rate, which is typically more favourable than the payment processor’s.

Choosing to pay in CAD means accepting the merchant’s conversion rate, which includes a markup. This additional cost varies by processor but consistently exceeds the conversion rate your card provider uses. Even if your card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, paying in local currency remains the better option because you avoid the inflated merchant conversion rates.

Credit cards without foreign exchange fees make this choice even more advantageous. You receive competitive exchange rates without any percentage-based surcharges, maximizing your purchasing power overseas.

Do Foreign Transaction Fees Apply to ATMs?

Using a credit card at an ATM abroad triggers a cash advance, which means you’ll face immediate interest charges exceeding 22%. A foreign transaction fee also applies on top of this, and the ATM operator may charge their own service fee. This combination makes traditional credit cards a poor choice for withdrawing cash overseas.

Prepaid cards offer a better alternative. Cards like the Wealthsimple Cash Card and EQ Bank Card function like debit cards and don’t charge foreign transaction fees or interest on ATM withdrawals abroad. These cards provide access to cash without the costly charges associated with credit card advances.

Standard debit cards aren’t ideal either. Banks typically charge foreign transaction fees between 2.5% and 3.5% when you use your debit card at an international ATM. Both your bank and the ATM provider will likely apply one-time usage fees.

Is a No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Card Worth It?

You should strongly consider getting a no foreign transaction fee credit card to avoid paying unnecessary charges on international purchases. Most cards charge 2.5% on foreign currency transactions, which accumulates quickly when you travel or shop online from international retailers.

Consider this scenario: if you spend $4,000 during a vacation abroad using a card that charges foreign exchange fees, you’ll pay an extra $100 in fees alone. That amount could cover a quality restaurant experience or another activity during your trip.

Numerous credit cards waive these fees entirely, so you can select one that aligns with your spending habits and preferences. Even if you only use the card occasionally throughout the year for international transactions, you’ll save money every time you avoid foreign transaction fees. There’s no compelling reason to pay extra when alternatives exist that eliminate these charges completely.

The savings become more significant if you travel frequently or regularly purchase from foreign websites. Choosing a card without foreign transaction fees makes financial sense for anyone who makes purchases in currencies other than Canadian dollars.

How to Select a Credit Card Without Foreign Transaction Fees

When comparing cards from your shortlist, several factors will help you identify the right option for your needs.

Consider whether you prefer a no-fee credit card or are comfortable paying an annual fee in exchange for premium perks. Cards with annual fees often offer added benefits such as airport lounge access, car rental discounts, and travel insurance coverage.

Key factors to evaluate:

• Card benefits – Review what extra features matter to you, such as travel insurance or rental vehicle protection
• ATM withdrawal costs – Some cards waive fees when you take out cash abroad
• Rewards structure – Certain cards offer cash back that can offset other costs, while others simply don’t charge foreign transaction fees
• Welcome bonuses – New cardholders may receive promotional offers worth considering
• Purchase APR – Check the interest rate if you plan to carry a balance

Your spending habits and travel frequency should guide your decision. A card with an annual fee might deliver better value if you travel regularly and use the included benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are foreign transaction fees refunded?

Foreign transaction fees are generally not refundable once charged to your account. These fees become part of your transaction total and are processed immediately with your purchase.

If you notice an incorrect fee on your statement, you can contact your card issuer to dispute it. Document the transaction details and explain why you believe the charge is wrong. Your issuer will investigate and may credit your account if they find an error.

The most effective approach is to avoid these fees altogether by using a card that doesn’t charge them. Prevention saves you the time and effort of seeking refunds that may not be granted.

What Makes US Dollar Cards Different from No-FX-Fee Cards?

US dollar credit cards and no foreign transaction fee cards serve different purposes. A US dollar card bills your purchases in American currency, which you then pay in USD from a US dollar account.

No foreign transaction fee cards bill in Canadian dollars but don’t charge the standard 2.5% conversion fee. You still pay in CAD, but the exchange rate is applied without an additional markup.

US Dollar Cards:

• Require a US dollar bank account for payments
• Best for frequent US travellers
• Avoid conversion fees on USD purchases only
• Still charge fees for other currencies

No Foreign Transaction Fee Cards:

• Bill in Canadian dollars
• Work for all foreign currencies
• No extra account needed
• Apply exchange rates without added fees

If you primarily travel to the United States and maintain USD accounts, a US dollar card may suit you. For worldwide travel or varied currency use, a no-fee card offers more flexibility.

What Other Options Exist Besides No-FX-Fee Cards?

Prepaid travel cards provide an alternative for managing foreign currency expenses. You load these cards with funds before travelling and use them like debit cards abroad. Many charge lower fees than traditional cards, though they may have loading and ATM withdrawal costs.

Digital payment services and mobile wallets sometimes offer competitive exchange rates. However, their acceptance varies by location and merchant, limiting their reliability as your sole payment method.

Alternative options include:

• Multi-currency prepaid cards
• Online payment platforms with international features
• Traveller’s cheques (largely outdated)
• Cash withdrawn from low-fee bank accounts

Each alternative has trade-offs in cost, security, and acceptance. No foreign transaction fee credit cards typically offer the best combination of convenience, protection, and value for most travellers. They work everywhere credit cards are accepted and require no advance planning or currency loading.

Admittedly, some people find Aeroplan too confusing and difficult to find value. However, with Aeroplan, any available Air Canada seat can be booked on points. That means there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to find a reward seat to help you reach your dream destination. I’ve written a more detailed Aeroplan Rewards guide, but to help you navigate the best airline loyalty program in Canada, here are five tips you need to know about Aeroplan.

Earning points is easy

Of all the travel loyalty programs in Canada, Aeroplan is the easiest one to earn points. That’s because they have multiple ways to earn points, and you can double-dip in almost every situation. Since you can earn points quickly, that means you can easily redeem for free flights, hotel stays, and more. Simply put, it’s not difficult to earn 100,000+ Aeroplan points every year.

Credit cards

The easiest way for people to earn Aeroplan points is with a co-branded credit card. Aeroplan has more than 10 credit cards in three different tiers: entry, core and premium. Those who want a minimal annual fee should look at entry tier cards such as the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card. Core cards give you free checked bags and a higher earn rate but come with an annual fee of around $139. Premium cards have a healthy welcome bonus and tons of perks, such as free checked bags, priority check-in, priority boarding, and more, but the annual fee is $599.

I have a detailed list of the best Aeroplan credit cards in Canada available, but here are two cards you should consider:

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card

Apply now

• $139 annual fee – first year free
• 10,000 Aeroplan points after your first purchase
• 15,000 additional Aeroplan points when you spend $7,500 in the first 180 days
• 20,000 Aeroplan points on your anniversary when you spend $12,000 in the first 12 months
• Earn 1.5 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases
• Earn 1 Aeroplan point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• First bag checked free on Air Canada flights

The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card typically has a welcome bonus of 40,000 – 70,000 Aeroplan points. Although the annual fee is $139, it can be waived if you have a TD All-Inclusive bank account. Even if you don’t bank with TD, the card often offers to rebate the annual fee for the first year. Note that since this card is so similar to the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card, you should apply for whichever one has the better welcome offer.

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

• $599 annual fee
• Earn 60,000 points when spending $7,500 in the first 3 months
• Earn 25,000 points per month when spending $2,500 in month 13
• Earn 3 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on Air Canada, 2 points on dining and food delivery, and 1.25 points on all other purchases
• Unlimited free access to Maple Leaf Lounges in North America for you and a guest
• Free first checked bag, priority check-in and boarding on Air Canada
• MESSAGE ME FOR A REFERRAL LINK

Anyone looking for a bunch of Air Canada benefits should consider a premium card such as the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card. The welcome bonus is typically worth 90,000 to 120,000 points, but it’s the perks that attract a lot of people. With this card, you’ll get Maple Leaf Lounge access for you and a guest in North America, priority airport check-in, priority boarding, and access to priority lines at select Canadian airports. In addition, you can roll over some unused status qualifying miles and eUpgrade credits to the following year.

Flying

As you can imagine, you can also earn Aeroplan points by flying on Air Canada or one of its partners. Oddly enough, this is not a great way to earn points since many restrictions are in place. The number of points you’ll get is based on how far you’re flying, the type of seat you’ve chosen, and the fare class. You can see how many points you’ll earn for a specific flight by looking at the fare options. Note that you’ll only earn points on cash fares. You don’t get any points on flights that are booked with your Aeroplan points.

Retail partners / eStore

Aeroplan has a partnership with Uber. All you need to do is link your account, and you’ll earn points on every ride. When shopping at the LCBO, you’ll earn Aeroplan points if you scan your Aeroplan card. In addition, Aeroplan has an eStore with 200+ retail partners, including Amazon, Best Buy, Lego, Apple, Sephora, and more.

Once you’ve logged into your Aeroplan account, head to the eStore section. Click the merchant you want to shop with, and you’ll be taken to the website. Any eligible purchases you make at that retailer will earn you Aeroplan points. Plus, if you pay with your Aeroplan credit card, you’ll get points from your regular earn rate. This effectively allows you to double-dip your points.

Transfer from American Express

One final easy way to earn Aeroplan points is to transfer your points from American Express Membership Rewards (MR). The transfer ratio is 1:1 (1,000 points minimum). This is a highly lucrative proposition since that gives you a points currency that can be converted to Aeroplan points. American Express has four consumer credit cards that earn you MR points. If you applied for one of these cards and one Aeroplan card a year, you could easily earn 100,000 points a year from the welcome bonus alone.

Aeroplan uses dynamic pricing

Aeroplan uses dynamic pricing for its reward seats on Air Canada flights. That means the number of points it’ll cost you per flight will vary depending on the supply and demand. In addition, Aeroplan uses a flight rewards chart. That means the number of points required for a flight redemption will vary depending on where you’re flying to and the distance flown. The four major zones are as follows:

Within North America

North America to Atlantic

North America to Pacific

North America to South America

Generally speaking, the ranges listed in the chart are accurate. There’s one exception. Business class seats will often far exceed the maximum threshold listed. This can be exceptionally annoying for Aeroplan users as there could be a 100,000+ points difference.

If you’re looking to fly in economy and want to minimize the number of points you’re using, play around with your dates and departure times. Flights departing Tuesday through Thursday often cost fewer points than those leaving from Friday to Monday. In addition, the first and last flights out for the day typically cost fewer points than the mid-day options since they’re less popular.

Even though you can pay a fixed number of points if you choose to fly with a partner airline, finding space on one of those partners can be very difficult.

The value of your points can differ

Since Aeroplan pricing fluctuates, your points’ value will also differ. Generally, 1 Aeroplan has a cost per point (CPP) value of 1.5 – 2 cents. When making redemptions, if you can get a CPP in that range, you should consider it a good deal. If the value falls below 1.5 cents, you may want to pay cash instead.

To calculate your cost per point (CPP), you would use the following formula:

(cash price – any taxes and fees) X 100 / Number of points required = CPP

Now let’s look at a practical example of a flight from Toronto to Cancun. Below is the cash price and the number of Aeroplan points required for a redemption.

If you were interested in the 8:50am flight, you’d use the following formula:

($575 – $118) X 100 / 35,200 = 1.30 CPP

That’s obviously a terrible CPP, so it’s not a good value for your points. However, you likely noticed that on the same flight, you can get a premium economy seat for 25,700 points. Using the formula again, you’d get the following:

($626 – $118) X 100 / 25,700 = 1.98 CPP

That’s a great value for premium economy, and it costs less than the economy seat, so that’s the obvious choice to go with.

But another thing to consider is that when you’re ready to confirm your ticket with Aeroplan, they give you four options. You can pay with fewer points and more cash, or all points and no cash. That said, each redemption has a different value. Take a look at the following example, which is taken from the 6:15am flight to Cancun.

From left to right, the actual value is as follows:

• 1.59 CPP
• 1.67 CPP (POPULAR)
• 1.71 CPP
• 1.42 CPP (POINTS ONLY)

Aeroplan will typically default you to the “popular” choice, but the best value is almost always the second one from the right (which is the amount you see during your initial search). Occasionally, the popular choice has a better CPP value, but that doesn’t happen often. Either way, when comparing the 6:15am and 8:50am flights, flying premium on points at 8:50am presents the best value. That said, remember that Aeroplan is dynamic. The search results above could change the next day.

You can cancel your ticket for free within 24 hours

With dynamic pricing, sometimes it makes sense to book some reward seats right away and figure out the logistics later. For many people, that’s impossible as they may need to coordinate with others or ask for time off. However, with cash and Aeroplan flights, you can cancel your ticket for a full refund as long as you do it within 24 hours of your original booking. This is essential if you ever come across a fare that offers exceptional value or is priced well below the norm.

Using the example above again, the premium economy flight to Cancun should obviously be priced more than the economy flight. You might as well book It immediately and try to sort out any details within your 24-hour window. If all things go well, you keep the ticket. If you’re unsure about your plans, cancel and rebook when ready.

In a worst-case scenario, you can change your ticket later (but a fee of about $100 applies, and you would pay the difference in points). You could also cancel for a fee of $150. The alternative is to book a higher fare class that costs more points but is fully refundable.

For example, let’s say you fund a business class flight on a partner airline to Europe would typically cost 70,000 points for a standard fare. However, a flexible fare is 85K points. Since these tickets are hard to find, you could book the flex fare first. Since the flex fare allows you to change at any time, you can take time to sort your plans. Alternatively, you can cancel the flight if you find something better or need to change your date without worrying about any fees.

To be clear, occasionally, you’ll come across a fare that costs way fewer points than it should. When you see those, book them immediately and think about the details afterward. If you wait even a day, or even a few hours, that ticket cost could increase.

You can pool your points with family

Another top Aeroplan tip is to take advantage of the Family Sharing Plan. With Family Sharing, up to eight Aeroplan members can join together. When this is done, points are earned and redeemed as a team. This is relevant because each person earns points individually.

For example, if you’re a family of four, each person would earn Aeroplan points when flying Air Canada as long as each member has an Aeroplan number. Individually, it would take quite some time for each person to earn enough points to get a good redemption. However, as a family, your points are pooled. This allows you to earn and redeem your points as a team, which means quicker redemptions.

As mentioned above, it’s not hard for someone to earn 100,000 Aeroplan points a year if they signed up for two credit cards each year that earned them Aeroplan points. That’s easily 200,000 points for a couple. 200,000 points is roughly enough points for four people to travel anywhere within North America in economy. In other words, a family of four can travel almost every year just on points.

Check out my Aeroplan Family Sharing guide for more details.

Final thoughts

Since Air Canada is Canada’s number one airline, many Canadians will naturally fly with them. As a result, it’s in your best interest to know the basics of the program. The good news is that earning points is easy and you can redeem your points for any seat available on Air Canada. If you read my Aeroplan Rewards guide, you can learn more details about the program. That said, the five tips provided above should put you on the path of travelling for less.

The best cheap airlines in Canada 

For many Canadians, flights are the most expensive part of travel. Canada alone is a big country, and Canadians have to travel pretty far if they want to leave it. However, depending on your destination, cheap airlines in Canada might offer a more affordable option.  

However, buyers need to be cautious. While the ticket itself might be cheaper, you’ll often be charged for everything else, including baggage, seat selection, refreshments, and more. Another thing to be wary of is the airports that discount airlines in Canada use. They may not always be central, which can incur more costs in transportation.  

That being said, sometimes budget airlines can be a great option for a getaway. That’s because many ultra-affordable airlines fly to cities and provinces that aren’t served as much such as Victoria, British Columbia, and Hamilton, Ontario. Unfortunately, you won’t find cheap airlines in Canada flying to the Northwest Territories or Yukon. 

Here is a list of the best low-cost airlines in Canada to look out for when planning your next vacation.  

Flair Airlines

Destinations: Canada, USA, Mexico, Jamaica, and Dominican Republic
Fleet size: 20
Airplanes used: Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Boeing 737-800

Flair is one of the cheapest airlines in Canada for Canadians who want to travel in North America. While they only have a few routes to the USA and Mexico, they do fly to a number of major Canadian destinations, making them ideal for a local getaway.  

The cost of your ticket only includes a small personal item that needs to fit under the seat in front of you. For more, you will need to pay. A carry-on size bag starts at $29+ tax while a checked suitcase starts at $44+ tax. For those with multiple pieces of luggage, there is a bundle option. Flair is very strict when it comes to luggage restrictions. There is no leeway at all.

You will also need to pay for seat selection which starts at $10+tax for a standard seat. There are higher-priced options if you want more legroom, an emergency exit, priority boarding, etc. Additionally, like most airlines, there are fees for booking via the call centre, changing or cancelling your flight. You can find a breakdown of all Flair fees here. 

Lynx Air is currently positioned to really make a difference in the world of ultra-low-cost airlines in Canada. They’re not tied to a major airline, and they have a good-sized fleet. They also cover some popular U.S. destinations, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Swoop Airlines

Destinations: Canada, USA, Mexico, Caribbean
Fleet size: 16
Airplanes used: Boeing 737-800 and Boeing 737 MAX 8

Swoop was a low-cost airline in Canada for warm weather destinations. They flew to destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, parts of the U.S., and many Canadian destinations. However, when WestJet renegotiated the contracts with their pilots, it was decided that Swoop would be rolled into WestJet (their parent company)

Swoop no longer exists, but you can still see a few Swoop planes as they’re operated under WestJet. It’s unfortunate that this change happened, as Swoop offered fares at a reasonable price.

Sunwing

Destinations: Caribbean, Mexico, USA, and Central America
Fleet size: 32
Airplanes used: Boeing 737-800, Boeing 737 MAX 8 

Sunwing is a name many Canadians likely recognize as a sun-destination airline. On top of flights, Sunwing also offers vacation packages to some of the most popular destinations. Destinations include the USA, Central America, Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean destinations.  

Sunwing is a bit more generous with extras for customers who book vacation packages. In these situations, your first checked bag is included in the price. However, those who are booking flights only will need to pay for a checked bag. It’s $50 each way when you pay in advance. All passengers are allowed a personal item free of charge, but an extra cabin bag will cost you $25. 

Sunwing also has extra fees that you can add on for more perks and comfort, as well as additional baggage fees for unique items like scuba diving equipment, surfboards, and fishing gear. Be sure to check their pricing for breakdowns on these types of items. 

*Note that WestJet plans to merge Sunwing into the WestJet brand. There’s no announced date for this change yet, but Sunwing will eventually just be part of WestJet.

Porter

Destinations: Canada and USA
Fleet size: 58
Airplanes used: De Havilland Canada Dash 8 Q400, Embraer E195-E2

Porter is considered to be one of Canada’s first low cost airlines. However, when it comes to service, they are definitely a step up from typical cheap airlines in Canada. Porter Airlines has multiple levels of fares, and what you choose will determine what you can bring in terms of luggage. 

The cheapest ticket, Basic Fare, will get you a personal item to stow under the seat. Standard, Flexible, or Freedom fares will allow you a personal item and a standard carry-on bag. Freedom tickets will also allow you to check in a bag for free. Otherwise, pricing for checked luggage starts at $27.50 if purchased at the time of booking your ticket.

What makes Porter Airlines a stand-out in terms of budget airlines in Canada is their onboard service. While most cheap flights will charge you for everything possible, Porter does offer a refreshment service free of charge, which includes snacks and drinks. Both wine and beer are included as free drink choices. This little bit extra makes them a top choice when it comes to low cost flights in Canada.  

Porter flies mostly out of Toronto’s island airport (Billy Bishop) to some major destinations, such as New York, Chicago, Washington D.C., Quebec City, and Montreal. They also started flying out of Toronto’s Pearson International Airport with direct service to Vancouver, Orlando, San Francisco, and Los Angeles

Air Canada Rouge

Destinations: Canada, USA, Europe, Caribbean, South America, Central America, Mexico
Fleet size: 40
Airplanes used: Airbus A321-200, Airbus A320-200, Airbus A319-100

Air Canada Rouge is Air Canada’s budget airline. As part of the Air Canada conglomerate, it’s no surprise that Air Canada Rouge is the best-connected discount airline in Canada, with options not just within North America and the Caribbean but also to South America and Europe. While flights to these far destinations aren’t necessarily cheap, they are certainly less expensive than what you would pay with the parent company or other major international airlines. Most of their flight depart from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport and Montreal’s International Airport.

European routes do include a free meal service, but other destinations will require you to purchase drinks and snacks. It’s also important to note that the airline does not offer in-flight entertainment. You can bring your own or rent an ipad for the duration of the flight. 

Passengers are allowed one personal item and one standard carry-on. Any checked luggage will depend on the type of ticket you purchased. If checked luggage is not included, you can purchase your first checked bag starting at $30 each way. Those flying in Premium Economy get free high speed WiFi access.

Air Transat

Destinations: Canada, USA, Europe, Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Fleet size: 36
Airplanes used: Airbus A321-200, Airbus A321LR, Airbus A330-200, Airbus A330-300

Another one of the best cheap airlines in Canada with a wide range of destinations is Air Transat. Technically speaking, they’re a charter airline, but they are still less expensive than the big players while also priding themselves on quality experience and customer service both at the airport and during the flight. 

Flights to Europe include complimentary meals. Otherwise, food and drinks can be purchased. Online entertainment is offered, though you will want to check ahead of time as soon planes require you to download an app in advance. As with Air Canada Rouge, checked baggage allowance depends on the fare you purchase, but all guests can bring one personal item and one standard carry-on. 

Play

Destinations: Canada, USA, Iceland, Europe
Fleet size: 10
Airplanes used: Airbus A320neo, Airbus A321neo

Play is a low-cost carrier based out of Iceland. They only fly to Hamilton, which is about 45 minutes from Toronto. From Hamilton, you can fly to Reykjavík and then onto many destinations in Europe, such as Dublin, Brussels, London, Salzburg, Venice, Athens and more. In the summer, they’re adding a direct Hamilton to Amsterdam route. Note that the Play website lists the departure airport as Toronto, but it does indeed fly from Hamilton.

As a discount carrier, you still get a few options. The basic fare, which is the cheapest, only allows you to bring on a personal item. If you opt for the value fare, it includes priority boarding, a personal item, a checked bag, a carry-on bag, and seat selection from the middle to back rows (no XL seat). Generally speaking, it’s best to go with the value fare if you need to bring luggage, as a checked bag would cost you $140 CAD or $90 for a carry-on bag. Those costs are more than upgrading to a value fare.

Lynx Air – No longer operational

Destinations: Canada, USA, and Mexico
Fleet size: 9
Airplanes used: Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Boeing 737-800

Lynx Air was an ultra-low-cost carrier in Canada that went bankrupt and ceased operations on February 25, 2024. This is unfortunate as their service was good, and they served some decent routes. In case you’re curious, you can read my Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando review.

Canada Jetlines – No Longer operational

Destinations: Canada, USA, Mexico, Guyana, and Jamaica
Fleet size: 3
Airplanes used: Airbus A320 

Here’s another low cost carrier in Canada that saw its end in 2024. Canda Jetlines was always fighting an uphill battle due to its limited fleet. While it had its fans, the airline simply couldn’t make a profit.

Loyalty programs for low-cost airlines in Canada

Loyalty programs are a huge perk for regular travellers, but they are not very common among ultra-low-cost carriers. In fact, only three of these airlines have loyalty programs at this time: 

• Air Canada Rouge: Falls under Aeroplan
• Swoop: Since they’ve been rolled into the WestJet mainline, you can now earn and redeem your WestJet Rewards when flying with them.
• Porter: VIPorter

Are low-cost airlines in Canada worth it?

It depends. If you are going for a getaway, such as the Canadian Rocky Mountains, where you don’t need much luggage and can fly to exactly where you want, then absolutely yes- grab a seat on one of the best low-cost airlines in Canada! 

However, if you travel with a lot of luggage or can’t get directly to where you want and need to figure out ground transportation, well, maybe not. Cheap airlines are cheap because they provide you with just the basics. But once you start adding on those extras, the prices can creep up pretty quickly to the point where you may be better off going with a major airline that has more perks and benefits. So, before you hit ‘buy’ on the cheap tickets, do the math and consider any extra costs you may need to account for. 

What’s also appealing about cheap airlines in Canada is that they don’t fly out of every major Canadian city. They fly out of many smaller regional airports, which is more appealing to people who live nearby.

Budget airlines in Canada vs. Europe and the U.S.

While there are definitely some options, cheap airlines in Canada still have a long way to go compared to options in Europe and even the United States. In Europe, you can fly just about anywhere in an ultra-low-cost carrier for cheap. Canada’s low-cost carriers are well positioned for the future.

If you’re looking to save on airfare and live near the Canada/USA border, it’s possibly also worth your time to look at flying from an American airport. They tend to have lower airfares than we see in Canada. Buffalo, Bellingham, and Seattle are the most popular options.

Regardless of which airline you choose to fly, be sure to check out my articles on the best travel credit cards in Canada, and the best airline credit cards in Canada.

Air Canada and Aeroplan have traditionally had great Black Friday deals, and this year is no different. From a worldwide seat sale to up to 50,000 back in Aeroplan points on hotel stay redemptions, you won’t want to miss out on these deals.

All the deals can be found on aircanada.com/blackfriday. You also need to register in advance for many of these offers, so please don’t forget to do so.

Air Canada Worldwide Seat Sale

As part of the Black Friday extravaganza, Air Canada has a worldwide seat sale. This applies to both cash and Aeroplan points bookings and is available to over 180 destinations worldwide.

• Booking window: This offer is valid from November 21 at 9:00 p.m. ET until December 1, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. in the city of departure in Canada
• Travel dates: Travel must occur between December 6, 2024 – June 15, 2025

75 Million Aeroplan points offer

Anyone booking an eligible flight during the worldwide seat sale also becomes eligible for a share of the 75 million Aeroplan points giveaway. The bonus points will be divided equally among all eligible Aeroplan Members with a minimum of 1,000 Aeroplan points being awarded per eligible Aeroplan member. Note that Air Canada Vacations packages booked are also eligible for this offer.

To qualify for this offer, you must register by clicking on the “Register Now” tab in the Offer e-mail you received or following the steps on the Offer page on aircanada.com/blackfriday.

Get up to 50,000 Aeroplan points on hotel stay redemptions

When booking a hotel via Aeroplan’s member-exclusive platform, you can get up to 50,000 points back. This is an incredible offer, considering that Aeroplan also recently announced that the Fourth Night Free offer for Aeroplan credit cardholders is extended until December 31, 2025. Get one extra night free when you redeem 3 nights with Aeroplan points or two extra nights free when you redeem six nights.

The breakdown of the deal is as follows:

• Get 10,000 Aeroplan points back on hotel redemptions made with a minimum redemption of 60,000 Aeroplan points
• Or get 40,000 Aeroplan points back on hotel redemptions made with a minimum redemption of 150,000 Aeroplan points
• An additional 10,000 bonus points back is available for hotel redemptions at Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts and/or Pullman Hotels and Resorts.

To qualify for this offer, you must register by clicking on the “Register Now” tab in the Offer e-mail you received or following the steps on the Offer page on aircanada.com/blackfriday.

• Booking window: This offer is valid from November 13 at 12:021 a.m. ET until December 6, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. PT
• Travel Dates: Stays must occur between November 13, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. ET and May 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PT

Get up to 20,000 Aeroplan points on car rental redemptions

If you plan on renting a car, redeeming for one via Aeroplan’s member-exclusive platform could be beneficial since you can get up to 20,000 Aeroplan points back.

The breakdown of the deal is as follows:

• Get 10,000 Aeroplan points back when you make a car rental redemption of at least 40,000 points
• Or get 20,000 Aeroplan points back when you make a car rental redemption of at least 80,000 points

To qualify for this offer, you must register by clicking on the “Register Now” tab in the Offer e-mail you received or following the steps on the Offer page on aircanada.com/blackfriday.

• Booking window: This offer is valid from November 18 at 12:021 a.m. NST until December 2, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. PST
• Travel Dates: Stays must occur between November 18, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. ET and May 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PST

Uber/Uber Eats Black Friday Aeroplan offers

From November 21, 2024, 12:00 a.m. PST until December 1, 2024, 11:59 p.m. PST, the following Uber deals are available:

• 25 bonus Aeroplan points on your next Premium Rides
• 50 bonus Aeroplan points on your next Uber Eats meal order of $40+
• 250 bonus Aeroplan points on your first grocery order 

Journie Rewards Black Friday redemption offer

From November 28, 2024, 12:00 a.m. NST until December 2, 2024, 11:59 p.m. PDT, linked Journie Rewards and Aeroplan Members can save up to 50% off Journie redemptions, including:

• 7₵/L Gas Discount up to 50 litres
• $5 Convenience Store Voucher
• Absolutely Everything Carwash Voucher
• $5 off at M&M Food Market participating locations across Canada

Aeroplan eStore offers

From November 28, 2024, 12:00 a.m. NST until December 2, 2024, 11:59 p.m. PDT, you can take advantage of the following Aeroplan eStore offers:

• Earn up to 10 points per dollar spent at online retailers such as Amazon, Dyson, Dell, lululemon, Sephora, and more.
• Earn 50% more Aeroplan points as an Aeroplan Credit Cardholder when shopping via the Aeroplan eStore.

Air Canada Gift Card offer

When you purchase an Air Canada gift card of $750 or more, you’ll earn three bonus Aeroplan points for every $1 spent. For example, if you spend $750, you will earn 2,250 bonus Aeroplan points.  When your total spend is $2,000, you will earn 6,000 bonus Aeroplan points.  When your total spend is $10,000, you will earn 30,000 bonus Aeroplan points. 

Purchases must be made between November 25, 2024 at 12:01 a.m. EST and December 2, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. EST

* Conditions apply

Although I typically fly business class, I was excited to learn that Lynx Air started flying to Orlando from Toronto. Orlando is a destination that I visit annually, and I had yet to fly a Canadian discount carrier, so this seemed like a perfect opportunity for me to try a new product. Full disclosure, I partnered with Lynx Air on this trip. They covered ticket costs, seat selection, and carry-on baggage for my entire party. They had no say in this Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando review.

For reference, I flew out on a Thursday morning. It was scheduled to depart at 7:40 AM with an arrival time of 10:51 AM (on some other days, the flight departs later). What I like about this flight is that you’re only in the air for just over two hours. The rest of the time, it’s just headed to/from the gate. Read my Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando review now for the full details.

Lynx Air departs from Terminal 1 in Toronto. This is interesting since all the other discount carriers depart from T3. The Lynx Air check-in counter is located at post 13, which is just beside the priority and Nexus security entrances to the U.S. I arrived at about 5:40 AM and there were two agents working with just a handful of people in line to check their bags. I opted for carry-on, so I didn’t have to get in line.

At the gate, you’ll quickly notice this giant red sign. To keep costs down, Lynx Air does not provide power outlets or meal service. The only thing you’ll get onboard is water. There’s no snack, and you can’t even buy a meal or alcohol. Since my trip was so short, I wasn’t too worried about the lack of meals.

In case you’re wondering, my ticket, including seat selection and a carry-on bag, came out to just over $700. For a discount carrier, that may seem high, but note that I only booked eight days out, and the flight was nearly full. Of course, I checked Air Canada for the same dates and they were charging $1,350 for the return trip, so Lynx Air was still significantly cheaper. I did check some other random dates and Lynx Air was anywhere from 10% to 30% cheaper than the major carriers.

The above shot was taken in Orlando since the lighting was better. Lynx Air uses brand-new Boeing 737s. One thing that’s worth noting is that you must have your passport verified in person before boarding. This can be done pre or post-security. At the same time, a staff member will print you out a paper boarding pass which must be used. You can’t use the downloaded boarding pass you received if you checked in online.

Lynx Air has 189 seats on each of its planes. There’s no business or premium economy class. The cushions on the seats may appear thin, but the comfort was fine. It was no different from any other airline economy class.

Although there are no premium cabins, the exit row and LYNX plus seats offer a bit more legroom. You can purchase this in advance for $40 – $57.50. The amount you’ll pay depends on the distance flown.

My part was sitting in seats 6D, E, and F. This was a Lynx Plus seat, so there was noticeably more legroom.

One thing you may have noticed in my Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando review photos is that the seats lack a covering for the headrest cover. Quite often, airlines will just swap out this thin piece of fabric between flights, by Lynx Air doesn’t have one at all. In other words, you may want to wipe it down before sitting.

One advantage of Lynx Air is that they have a lot of overhead space for luggage. When I fly other airlines, you’re fighting for overhead space, which is limited. With Lynx Air, there’s noticeably more space. That said, since carry-on luggage can cost up to $103.49 for each segment, I suspect more people were travelling with just a personal item. Families likely combined their clothes into a single checked bag to minimize their costs.

Here’s a look at the back of the seat. There’s nothing except the safety card. You’ll obviously want to make sure you’ve got things to keep yourself entertained before you get onto the flight.

Here’s a look at the seat with the tray down. The good news is that this tray comfortably fit my 15-inch laptop, so I was able to do work and watch movies without much effort.

While flimsy, the pocket behind the seats holds quite a bit of stuff. On other airlines, this pocket can be tight, so there are only so many things you can fit into it.

Here’s another perspective with our drinks and snacks. In case you’re wondering, that fruit cup came from the airport lounge. For a three-hour flight, we didn’t need much, so these snacks got us through the entire flight. I do think the extra legroom was worth the price (it was about $45 for my flight), as it made the flight significantly more comfortable.

There are three washrooms on the plane. Two at the back and one at the front. As you can imagine, the washroom is as basic as it comes. There are just some paper towels and generic soap. Don’t expect any lotion. I don’t even think I saw any tissue. The size of the washroom is no different from any other economy-class flight I’ve been on.

Overall, my Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando Review is positive. Although the flight was pretty basic, the comfort and service were fine. Lynx Air is one of the cheapest airlines in Canada, so if your budget is the top priority, then there’s nothing wrong with flying Lynx.

Another advantage of flying Lynx Air is that it flies to Orlando’s new Terminal C, whereas all the other Canadian airlines fly to Terminal B. Since it’s a new terminal, it has better amenities, which makes the journey home so much better. If you have access to Plaza Premium lounges, be sure to check it out, as it’s fantastic.

Another thing I want to point out is that Lynx Air does not allow you to put in your NEXUS information. As a result, you can’t use the TSA PreCheck line. That said, since terminal C is new, it has a lot of staff. It took me less than five minutes to get through security in the regular line.

Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando Pros and cons

The above Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando review was based on my personal experience. Since every flight is different, it’s worth considering both the pros and cons before deciding if you should book with them.

Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando Pros

• Can be cheaper – Even when adding the extra, Lynx Air can be 10% to 30% cheaper than other airlines.
• New planes – Lynx Air operates brand-new Boeing planes.
• Quick boarding times – Since you need to pay for carry-on luggage, many people avoid it. That makes the boarding process quicker.
• Consistent service – Everyone is in the same cabin class, so everyone is treated the same.
• Flies to Terminal C – Orlando’s terminal C is a great modern airport. It’s much better than terminal B.
• Great cancellation policy – As long as you cancel more than 72 hours before your flight, it’ll only cost you $34.50 + taxes per segment to get a refund.

Lynx Air Toronto to Orlando Cons

• No meals for purchase – While understandable, the lack of available meals – even for purchase – is disappointing.
• No premium cabins – You can get extra legroom, but there are no premium or business seats available.
• Extras can add up – While the extras are optional, they can add up fast. You could easily spend another $100+ for seat selection and a carry-on bag.
• Limited fleet – Lynx Air has a small fleet, so they only offer one flight to Orlando from Toronto and it’s not daily.
• No loyalty program – I don’t expect a discount carrier to have a loyalty program, but it’s worth pointing out. Many frequent flyers want perks that come with their earned status so they may choose another airline just to get them.

I personally think the American Express Platinum Card is still worth it since you can reduce the annual fee to $399, but it comes down to how you utilize this card. Here’s how to maximize the card’s value regardless of how long you hold it. 

American Express Platinum Card Credits

Even though the American Express Platinum Card has an annual fee of $799, you get two $200 credits – for a total of $400 – as an annual benefit. That means you’re only paying $399 a year for the card. That’s much more reasonable than the full fee. Plus, there are additional credits that you might be able to take advantage of.

Annual $200 Dining Credit

The annual $200 dining credit was added when the card was updated. What’s great about this dining credit is that it’s available once per calendar year, so you don’t need to wait for your card anniversary to get it. 

The downside of this credit is that it’s only available at select restaurants and must be used in a single charge. If you live in a major city, then using your credit likely won’t be a problem. However, those living in more rural areas or a city with limited restaurants on the list may not find any value in the credit. Being able to utilize this credit is essential if you’re considering the card.

Annual $200 Travel Credit

The other annual $200 credit you get is for travel. This credit is incredibly easy to use as it can be applied to any travel purchase made through the American Express travel portal. As in, you can book flights, hotels, car rentals, etc. and still use the credit. 

To use thr credit, you just make any travel reservation through the American Express travel portal. When you get to the payment screen, there will be an option to use your $200 credit. If it’s not available, it means you’ve already used it for the year.

American Express Offers

Another benefit of the American Express Platinum Card is the American Express Offers you get. These offers are statement credits when making purchases at specific retailers. Some recent offers available include:

• Tap on the TTC and get a $1 statement credit (up to 10 times)
• Spend $500 at Marriott and get a $100 statement credit
• Spend at least $200 at Lululemon and get a $50 statement credit
• Spend at least $100 at Holt Renfrew and get a $100 statement credit

Even though you won’t be able to take advantage of every offer, there are usually quite a few good ones each year. It’s reasonable to expect you’ll get at least $100 back in statement credits each year via those offers. When you factor in the dining and travel credit, that’s about $500 in credits you can get each year, which essentially reduces your annual fee to $199.

Daily American Express Platinum Card Benefits

Now that we’ve established that the American Express Platinum Card could have a real annual fee as low as $199, you need to decide if the additional benefits you get are worth that amount. The answer is completely subjective, but to me, it’s clear that you’d easily come out ahead.

Travel Insurance

The American Express Platinum Card comes with the following insurance:

• Travel medical – $5,000,000
• Trip cancellation – $2,500 per person / $5,000 total
• Trip interruption – $2,500 per person / $6,000 total
• Flight delay – $1,000 / 4 hours
• Baggage delay – $1,000 / 6 hours
• Lost or Stolen Baggage – $1,000
• Car Rental Theft Damage – $85,000 / 48 days
• Hotel/Motel Burglary Insurance – $1,000
• Travel accident  – Up to $500,000

This is a very comprehensive travel insurance package. The only downside is that it only covers those under the age of 65 for 15 days. To give you some perspective, the annual value of this insurance package is likely $300+, so you’re already getting more value than the remaining $199 annual fee after factoring in the annual credits.

Unlimited Airport Lounge Access

Cardholders get access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection. This allows the primary cardholder and one guest to enter more than 1,3000+ lounges worldwide, including American Express Centurion lounges. Normally, a Priority Pass membership with unlimited access costs about CA $589 so it’s pretty obvious that you’re getting a lot of value here.

NEXUS Rebate

As an American Express Platinum cardholder, you get a NEXUS application rebate of up to $100 every four years. NEXUS memberships last five years, so you’ll never need to pay for your application or renewal as long as you charge it to your American Express Platinum Card. NEXUS is great as it allows you to skip most airport lines in North America.

Welcome Bonus

The welcome bonus plays a significant part in determining if the American Express Platinum Card is worth it. Previously, you could get 70,000 – 100,000 American Express Membership Rewards points when signing up with a referral link and spending $5,000 – $7,500 in the first three months. However, recent offers have required you to spend up to $10,000, and part of the welcome bonus came in the second year after you paid the annual fee again.

Regardless of the offer, if you can meet the minimum spending requirement, then getting the extra points is obviously worth it. That said, as I’ve noted above, if you look strictly at the value of the benefits, they may be worth more than the annual fee you’re paying. That means the welcome bonus is less of a concern if your goal is to get lots of travel benefits.

However, let’s say your goal is indeed to get a lot of points because you want to transfer them to Aeroplan for a dream flight. In this case, you should look for a card that has a good welcome bonus, a minimum spending requirement you can reach, and a reasonable annual fee. One card that comes to mind is the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card.  

Amex Business Gold Rewards Card

Welcome bonus: 75,000 points when spending $5,000 in the first 3 months

Annual fee: $199

MESSAGE ME FOR A REFERRAL LINK

American Express Platinum Card Strategies 

Determining whether the American Express Platinum Card is worth it comes down to your goals. That said, there are a few strategies that you can implement to maximize your value.

One year and run

Ignoring the welcome bonus, it’s actually possible to bring the annual fee down to $199. As mentioned, the $200 travel credit is given once per year, but the dining credit of $ 200 is given once every calendar year. If you signed up for the card in June of 2024, you could immediately use the dining credit. You will get the credit again on January 1, 2025. That’s two dining credits for a total of $400. When you factor in the $200 travel credit, that’s $600 in credits you’re getting in the first year.

This strategy is ideal for people that will be doing a lot of travelling in the next year. They could take advantage of the travel insurance, lounge access, and additional benefits that are provided. Once your annual fee is about to post again, you could cancel the card. .

Two Year Points Trial

As of late, the welcome bonus for the American Express Platinum Card has been broken into two parts. You get the first bonus when you meet the minimum spending requirement. The second part of the bonus is awarded after you make any purchase in months 14 – 17 of card membership. That means you need to pay the annual fee twice to get the full bonus.

At first glance, paying the annual fee of $799 twice, for a total of $1,598, seems steep, but remember, you need to factor in all the credits you’re getting each year. Since you’re getting $400 in credits each year, you only pay $399 per year or $798 for the two years. Keeping the card this long is worth it if the total welcome bonus is worth at least 100,000 American Express Membership Rewards points. That’s because those points have a minimum value of $1,000. Alternatively, if you transferred your points to Aeroplan, you could likely get a value of $1,500 – $2,000 for your points. In addition, you still get to take advantage of all the regular benefits.

Keep the Card Forever

We’ve already established that when you use all yearly dining and travel credits, the true annual fee is $399. While that number may seem high, you must remember that you’ll likely also be able to get $100 in American Express Offers, so you’ll really only pay an annual fee of $299. Are you getting more value from the yearly benefits than what you’re paying? The answer is likely yes.

The comprehensive travel insurance package alone costs more than $300 a year. While many employers offer travel medical insurance, it’s unlikely any offer extended travel insurance such as trip cancellation or lost luggage. Then you’ve got the airport lounge access for you and a guest. Even if you do just one trip a year, you’ll potentially use four visits for the return flight. That’s a great value.

Admittedly, the earning rate for the American Express Platinum Card is a bit low, so you may not want it to be your everyday card. Instead, you might want to consider a card like the American Express Cobalt Card, which has a high earning rate.

American Express Cobalt Card

• $15.99 Monthly fee ($191.88 yearly)
• 1,250 monthly points when charging $750 each month for a year (15,000 points total)
• Earn 5 points per $1 spent on eats and drinks
• Earn 3 points per $1 spent on streaming services
• Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• MESSAGE ME FOR A REFERRAL LINK

The Bottom Line

When considering the American Express Platinum Card, most people will rightfully focus on the welcome bonus. However, when you look strictly at the value of the benefits, you’ll quickly realize that they’re worth more than the annual fee you’re paying. This makes it an ideal card for anyone with a lot of travel coming up or a digital nomad who plans to bounce around various countries. 

American Express Platinum Card

• $799 annual fee
• Earn 90,000 Membership Rewards points when using a referral link and spending $10,000 in the first 3 months
• 50,000 additional points when making any purchase in months 15 – 17
• Earn 2 points per $1 spent on dining and travel, and 1 point on all other purchases
• $200 annual travel credit
• $200 annual dining credit (per calendar year)
• Unlimited airport lounge access
• MESSAGE ME FOR A REFERRAL LINK

While it’s a bit of a pain that you need to go through a few steps to get a Wealthsimple Cash Card, it can be worth it. Not only does the card not have an annual fee, but it also doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees and has a high interest rate. Read my Wealthsimple Cash Card review now for the full details.

Wealthsimple Cash Card

Apply now

• No annual fee
• Up to $3,000 welcome bouns
• 1% back in cash, stocks, or crypto on all purchases
• 4% interest on deposited funds
• No foreign transaction fees on purchases or ATM withdrawals
• CDIC insurance protection

Welcome bonus and earn rate

The Wealthsimple Cash Card welcome bonus is a bit ridiculous. Instead of getting a traditional welcome of $10 or $25, you’ll get up to $3,000 when you use a referral link (or referral code 9LIWIW). That said, the website says 99% of people will get less than $50, with the average being $10. On a positive note, both the person making the referral and the one accepting are eligible for this bonus. You need to fund an eligible Wealthsimple account to get the bonus. Note that Quebec residents get a straight $10 bonus only.

As for the earning rate, you’ll get 1% back in cash, stock, or cryptocurrency on all your purchases. If you decide to invest in stock or crypto, you can choose to have your rewards automatically reinvested for you. In addition, any funds you have deposited to the card earn you 4% interest.

Benefits and perks

Since the Wealthsimple Cash Card is a no fee, prepaid card, it comes with limited benefits. That said, the main perk you do get is the reason why many people get this card.

No foreign transaction fees

My Wealthsimple Cash Card review is positive because the card comes with no foreign transaction fees. Most credit cards in Canada charge a fee of 2.5% when you make a purchase in any currency that’s not Canadian dollars. However, with this card, that fee is waived. In addition, foreign ATM withdrawals also won’t cost you anything. That said, the ATM operator may charge you a one time fee. Simply put, this is one of the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards in Canada.

High interest rate on savings

The Wealthsimple Cash Card is only available to those with a Wealthsimple Cash account. This account was designed for savings and rewards you with high interest on all deposits. The base interest rate is 4% on all deposits. However, if you have $100,000 in assets with Wealthsimple, your rate goes up to 4.5%. If you have $500,000 in assets under management, you can enjoy an interest rate of 5% in your cash account.

Send and receive e‑transfers

Although sending and receiving e-transfers with a bank account is pretty standard, Wealthsimple Cash does have very high limits. You can send up to $5,000 per day or $10,000 per week to anyone. This can be a valuable perk for people who need to send a lot of money.

When your Wealthsimple cash back is paid out

Cash back is earned instantly, so it’ll be available in your account immediately. Note that you can choose to invest your rewards in cash, stock, or cryptocurrency.

Wealthsimple Cash Card eligibility

To get a Wealthsimple Cash Card, you need to meet the eligibility requirements of a Wealthsimple account, which are as follows:

• Must reside in Canada
• Must be a Canadian citizen or have a Canadian Visa
• Must be at least the age of majority in your province or territory
• Must have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Since this is a prepaid card, not a traditional credit card, there’s no credit score or income requirement to be approved. Since the Wealthsimple Cash Card is linked to your Wealthsimple account, you may need to verify your identity to have your account approved.

How the Wealthsimple Cash Card compares

Wealthsimple Cash Card Vs. EQ Bank Card

The EQ Bank Card is an optional prepaid card available to anyone with an EQ Bank account. Admittedly, the earning and interest rate are lower with EQ Bank, but EQ Bank gives you free ATM withdrawals in Canada (any fees are reimbursed). Foreign ATM access is the same for both cards since neither charges fees, but the ATM operator may charge a fee.

Some people prefer EQ Bank over Wealthsimple because they keep things simple. EQ Bank is an online bank that focuses on savings. The EQ Bank Card is just a tool you have access to. With Wealthsimple, they’re primary focus is on investing. If you were to get a cash account, you’d likely still get prompted to sign up for their investing services.

Wealthsimple Cash Card Vs. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card is a true credit card that allows you to build your credit history and earn points. The earning rate is 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent at Empire-owned supermarkets (Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, Voilà, etc), 2 points on other grocery stores, dining, transit (including taxis) and entertainment purchases, and 1 point on all other purchases.

This card also includes a generous welcome bonus, no foreign transaction fees, airport lounge access with six free annual passes, and travel insurance. That said, the card does have an annual fee of $150. If you value rewards and no foreign transaction fees, then this card is likely a better choice than the Wealthsimple Cash Card.

Final thoughts

Overall, I have to say my Wealthsimple Cash Card review is positive. I don’t think people are going to start using it regularly to send their friends and family money, but it’s ideal for people in the following situations.

• You want to avoid foreign transaction fees – This card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees on purchases or ATM withdrawals.
• You prefer a prepaid card – This is one of the best best prepaid credit cards in Canada and can help you manage your expenses.
• You already use Wealthsimple – Anyone who invests with Wealthsimple already could simply move some funds over to their cash account to start using this card.

Unless you only want to use prepaid cards, you’ll unlikely end up using this card for day-to-day purchases. However, using the Wealthsimple Cash Card strictly as a travel card can make a lot of sense since it’ll help you save money. When using referral code 9LIWIW, you could get up to $3,000 when you sign up.

FAQ

Is Wealthsimple Cash safe?

All money deposited to Wealthsimple Cash accounts is held in a trust with up to three Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation (CDIC) member institutions. That means deposits up to $300,000 are insured if the bank becomes insolvent. Since the Wealthsimple Cash Card only allows you to deposit up to $10,000, all your funds would be guaranteed.

Remember, the Wealthsimple Cash Card is a prepaid Mastercard card. That means there’s no hit to your credit score when you apply. There’s also no personal information stored on the card, so it’s unlikely that your accounts will ever be compromised.

Don’t worry if you ever need to do a refund. Merchants can issue refunds directly back to your Wealthsimple Cash Card within 5-7 business days.

Your Wealthsimple Cash Card also comes with chip and PIN technology, allowing you to set your own custom PIN. Doing this will give you one extra layer of fraud protection.

Marriott International has over 8,000 properties in more than 140 countries. That means you can book a room on points just about anywhere in the world. Marriott also has two credit cards available in Canada, which rank amongst the best travel credit cards. 

Here are five Marriott Bonvoy tips you need to know.

Earning Marriott Bonvoy points is easy

With any loyalty program, earning points is essential since if you can’t earn points, you can’t redeem them.  The quicker you can earn points, the easier you can redeem them. There are three easy ways to earn Marriott Bonvoy points.

Stay at Marriott properties

All Marriott Bonvoy members earn points on paid stays. The minimum earning rate is 10 points per US$1 on the base fare, food and drinks. You can earn more points by having higher status. For example, members with gold elite status earn 25% more points. You can earn higher status by staying frequently at Marriott properties or holding specific credit cards such as the American Express Platinum card, which gives you gold status with Marriott Bonvoy as a standard benefit.

Marriott Bonvoy also has targeted offers that are available to all members. For example, stay two nights at any hotel in North America and earn an additional 5,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. These promos require you to opt in, so visit the Marriott Promotion Central page to see what offers are available.

Credit cards

Holding the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card is arguably the easiest way to earn Marriott points. The welcome bonus is typically worth 50,000 – 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. The earn rate is 5 points per $1 spent at Marriott properties, and 2 points per dollar spent everywhere else. Cardholders receive each year a certificate for a free night (up to 35,000pts) which easily offsets the $120 annual fee.

There’s also the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card which also typically has a welcome bonus of 50,000 – 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Although the annual fee is slightly higher at $150, the earn rate is 5 points per $1 spent at Marriott properties, 3 points per $1 spent on gas, dining, and travel, and 2 points per dollar spent everywhere else. A free night certificate worth up to 35,000 points is also granted on your card anniversary each year.

Here’s another tip that’s not really known. Even if you don’t own a business, you can apply for business credit cards with American Express. That means if you applied and were approved for both cards, you’d get two free nights at a real cost of $270. That’s a good deal.

Transfer points from American Express

American Express Membership Rewards points can be transferred to Marriott Bonvoy points at a 1,000 to 1,200 ratio. This makes the American Express Cobalt Card highly appealing since you normally earn 5 points per dollar spent on eats and drinks (this includes grocery stores and restaurants). When you factor in the transfer ratio, you’re essentially earning 6 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 spent on select categories.

Marriott has 30+ brands and partners

Everyone knows about Marriott and that Marriott Bonvoy points can be used to book nights in Marriott hotels. Some people don’t realize that Marriott is the largest hotel company in the world and owns 30 different brands. They also have various hotel partners. This means Marriott Bonvoy points can be used to book free nights at over 8,000 properties worldwide.

When you look at the various Marriott brands, you’ll see they offer a wide range of experiences and prices. Those looking for aspirational and luxurious stays will want to check out the Ritz-Carlton, St-Regis, Edition, and W brands.

Loyal business travellers with high status may prefer booking full-service brands with executive lounges, such as Marriott, JW Marriott, Sheraton or Delta. These can have a significant impact on your travels since lounge access provides you with free food and drinks for breakfast and dinner.

Value seekers may opt for Fairfield Inn, which is usually the cheaper option and offers free breakfast to all clients. No status is required to get access to the complimentary breakfast.

Anyone travelling with family may prefer the Residence Inn or Towne Place Suites since they offer free breakfast, and larger rooms with living room and kitchen area. Some even have one and two bedroom suites available.

The value of your points can differ

Knowing how to calculate the value of your Marriott Bonvoy points is essential, as you can quickly figure out what value you’re getting from each potential redemption. The cost of a free night varies from 5,000 points to 150,000 points. The range can change based on the type of hotel, location, and demand. Since Marriott Bonvoy uses Dynamic pricing (where it’s based on supply and demand), the cost of a night on points can vary quite a bit. To further complicate things, the cash price of the night rarely has any relevance to the night’s cost on points.

To calculate your cost per point (CPP), you would use the following formula:

(cash price) X 100 / Number of points required = CPP

Note that some hotels require you to pay resort and/or destination fees in cash. You would not subtract this from the cash price as you’d have to pay that when going with cash rates.

To give you some context about value, here’s what downtown Toronto hotels are going for in August.

To calculate your CPP for the Residence Inn Downtown Toronto, you would just use the formula outlined above, which would look like this:

($439 – $0) X 100 / 42,000 = 1.04 CPP

Now let’s look at the same hotel in September when the Toronto International Film Festival is happening.

The cash rate for rooms is absolutely insane at nearly 3X the price, but it’s only 3,000 more points. Using the formula again, you’d get the following:

($1,143 – $0) X 100 / 45,000 = 2.54 CPP

As you can see, you will get more value per point when cash fares are high, and points can be a lifesaver in these situations. The general consensus in the points & miles community is that Marriott Bonvoy points have a CPP between 0.8 and 1. This is an average; points can be worth less or way more if you optimize their use.

There is no magical formula to optimize the value of points, but I noticed that the best deal is often found at the lowest point cost hotels or the very high-end ones.

While optimizing value might be a fun exercise, I personally don’t stress about CPP and will always book the best hotel for my needs over a greater theoretical redemption just because it’s a better deal.

The 5th night is free on points

A great way to increase the value of your points is to book a hotel for five nights or more. When booking entirely on points, you get the night with the lowest cost for free. This instantly increases the value of points by close to 20%. It can also increase the value of your CPP to the suggested value range of .8 – 1.

As you can see, instead of paying an average of 20,800 points per night, you’ll pay an average price of 16,7000 points. That’s a significant value.

Note that the five nights must be consecutive and at the same hotel. You also can’t combine the fifth-night free promo with any free night certificates that you may have.

You can cancel for free when booking on points

Another great benefit of booking with points is that cancellations are almost always free. This means you can book as soon as you know where you want to go and then cancel without penalty if your plans change.

Since Marriott point redemptions are dynamic, that also means you can cancel and rebook a stay if the price in points drops whenever you want. I usually monitor all my future stays at least once a week to see if the price has fallen. If it has, I will rebook right away.

Checking for a lower rate is easy. Just go to the Marriott Bonvoy website and log in. Under stays, click your reservation, and then click view/modify stay. If you select a new room, it’ll show you current prices, including prices for your existing room. If a lower rate is available, select it. The points difference will be refunded to your account.

While the vast majority of properties offer free cancellation from one to three days before the stay, some do have a longer cancellation period, such as a week, so make sure to validate the cancellation limit date for each of your bookings.

Final thoughts

Getting free hotel nights is awesome, and one of the best ways to achieve this is with the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. Marriott Bonvoy offers several ways to earn points which can be redeemed at over 8,000 properties. Apply for one of the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Cards now, and you’ll be travelling for less in no time.

Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card

• $120 annual fee
• 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points when you charge $3,000 in the first 3 (must use a referral link)
• Earn 5 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 spent at participating Marriott properties
• Earn 2 Marriott Bonvoy points for per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Annual free night certificate worth up to 35,000 points
• MESSAGE ME FOR A REFERRAL LINK

Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card

• $150 annual fee
• 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points when spending $6,000 in the first 3 months when using a referral link
• Earn 5 points per $1 spent at participating Marriott properties
• Earn 5 Mpoints per $1 spent on gas, dining, and travel for the first 6 months, up to 15,000 points
• Earn 2 points for per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Annual free night certificate worth up to 35,000 points
• MESSAGE ME FOR A REFERRAL LINK

For a full cost breakdown on Greece, check out this how much does it cost to go to Greece guide.

Is Santorini expensive?

The easy answer? Yes. Compared to several islands, Santorini is expensive. However, I would argue that it’s not the most expensive island (in my experience, that’s Mykonos). I would also argue that while Santorini can be expensive, it is possible to visit the island without spending a fortune. I spent a week here in 2019 and am going back for another few days in 2023 and am happy to share a few tips on the best ways to keep your Santorini costs down. 

How to get from Athens to Santorini

Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands, but it’s quite far south. It’s actually much closer to Crete than it is to mainland Greece and Athens. 

There are two ways to get to Santorini from Athens. The first is to fly, which is usually your best option. It’s the quickest way, and if you book your flights early, you can get a pretty good deal. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Athens to Santorini. These ferries are quite long, and some are overnight, in which case you will probably want to upgrade and get a room. Since Greek ferries aren’t cheap to start with, I think it’s definitely worth your while to fly. 

Santorini public transportation

The best way to experience any of the Greek islands is by renting a car, and this holds true for Santorini as well. However, renting a car can be expensive, and the roads in Santorini are very narrow and heavy with traffic in some spots, which can be daunting to drivers. In this case, you can use Santorini’s public transportation.

Santorini uses a bus system around the island. The main station is in Fira, and from here, buses connect the different towns and areas of interest. The schedule is posted outside the main station, but the busiest routes run hourly during the daytime hours. You can find the schedule here, which also includes the bus to the ferry port and airport. Tickets can be purchased on board, and costs depend on the route you take. When this article was written, tickets range from 1.80-3.00 euros each. 

Note that taxis are also available in Santorini, but there are only a few, and they are quite expensive. 

How long to stay in Santorini?

How long to stay in Santorini depends on your interests and what type of traveller you are. Santorini is beautiful and a large enough island that there is enough to keep you busy for at least three days to see the main sights or five days if you want to explore more. If you prefer to travel slowly, you could easily spend a week in Santorini and still have something new to see and do every day.  

The best area to stay in Santorini

When it comes to where to stay in Santorini, you have several options. 

If you are a first-time visitor to Santorini and looking to explore by public transportation or local tours, I highly recommend staying in Fira. This is the main town and, as said above, where the main bus station is so, it’s easiest to get around the island from Fira. Fira also tends to have more varied accommodation options. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as mid-range hotels and some beautiful high-end properties. The same goes for dining. You can find some cheap gyros or nicer dining options. You can check accommodation options in Fira here. 

If you want a romantic Santorini experience, you can stay in Oia. This is the famous sunset town, and while it is beautiful, it gets wildly crowded during the day, especially if there is a cruise ship in town. It’s also considerably more expensive. You can check accommodation options in Oia here.  

You can also consider some of the other spots on the island, like Imerovigli or Akrotiri. They are a little cheaper but also not as well connected, so that’s worth keeping in mind. 

Santorini things to see

So, what is there to see in Santorini? Quite a bit. While it’s not known for the best beaches in Greece, there are still a couple you can visit. There are also some wineries, hiking trails, and of course, the towns themselves. Here are some of my top suggestions for Santorini things to see and do:

• Sunset in Oia
• The Red Beach 
• The black sand beaches of Kamari or Perissa
• The Old Port (please don’t ride the donkeys!)
• Skaros Rock 
• Sunset Cruise
• Explore the Volcano
• Ancient Ruins in Akrotiri 
• Go to a movie at the outdoor theatre 

You can also kayak, scuba dive, or take a local cooking class. 

Best things to do in Oia 

Oia is known as THE sunset spot in Santorini, but there are a few other highlights in this famous town as well. So, when visiting, make sure to add these to your list of things to do in Oia.

• Look for the views with the famous blue domes
• Wander the winding streets & check out the local shops
• Browse through Atlantis Books, one of the most famous bookshops in the world.
• Visit Amoudi Bay (again please do not ride the Donkeys!)

Santorini food and drink

Food and drink in Santorini are the same as you will find on the other islands. You can expect typical Greek fares such as gyros and souvlaki. You will also find plenty of different seafood dishes and wine. Prices are a bit steeper on the island in general because it is Santorini. However, there will be smaller, hole-in-the-wall type spots for gyros etc., where you can eat on a budget. Additionally, once you get out of Fira and Oia and more into the smaller towns, the tavernas are a little less expensive as well. 

Santorini trip cost: how to save 

So, is Santorini expensive? Again, yes. If you are on an extremely tight budget, it might not be the best island to visit. Instead, you should consider nearby Naxos or Paros. That being said, you can still visit Santorini without spending a fortune.  

A lot of the costs here come with the luxury allure of a cave hotel with a pool, fancy bars and restaurants with sunset views. While you can absolutely find these things here and splurge if you like, you don’t have to. You can stick with the cheaper tavernas, go for a smaller hotel, and stick with exploring on your own rather than joining day trips or sailing cruises. 

Another tip for saving money in Santorini is to plan your visit around less busy times. This means visiting during the weekday rather than weekends and, if you can, avoiding visiting during the high season (June-September). Instead, try shoulder seasons like April or October. If you aren’t a hot weather person, you could even come in the winter months for a cheaper experience with fewer tourists.