If it fails, pay inside with the cashier or tap your card at the pump. Neither asks for a ZIP code.

How to turn your postal code into a ZIP code

Use the numbers in your postal code, in order, followed by 00.

Always use the postal code on your card’s billing address, not your cottage or a friend’s address. A different postal code will fail even if it’s a real one.

Why the ZIP code trick works

US gas pumps and many US websites use the Address Verification System (AVS). It checks the ZIP code you type against the billing address your bank has on file. Payment systems commonly compare only the numbers in the address, so the numbers from your postal code can match what your Canadian bank holds.

The trick isn’t an official Visa, Mastercard or Amex policy. It’s a workaround that Canadian travellers have used for years, and results vary by card issuer, gas station and payment terminal.

Does Canada have ZIP codes?

No, Canada doesn’t have ZIP codes. Canada Post uses six-character postal codes that alternate letters and numbers, like A1A 1A1. The US uses five-digit ZIP codes, which is why American systems can’t read a Canadian postal code.

• First three characters (Forward Sortation Area): your general region, such as part of a city or a rural area. The first letter shows your province or territory.
• Last three characters (Local Delivery Unit): a specific street, block or building.

How to pay at a US gas pump with a Canadian credit card

Insert or tap your card, and when the pump asks for a ZIP code, enter your postal code’s three numbers plus 00.

1. Insert your card, or tap it if the pump has a contactless reader. Tapping often skips the ZIP prompt.
2. When asked for a ZIP code, enter the three numbers from your postal code followed by 00 (K2P 5G3 = 25300).
3. If the pump says “see cashier” or declines the card, go inside. Tell the cashier your pump number and how much you want, such as “$40 on pump 6.”
4. Fill up. If you prepaid too much inside, go back in for the difference to be refunded to your card.

Pay-at-the-pump can put a temporary hold of about $75–$150 USD on your card, which clears in a few days and is replaced with the actual amount you’ve spent at the gas station.

How to use a Canadian credit card on US websites

On US websites, choose Canada as your country if you can. If the form only takes a five-digit ZIP code, use the same trick.

1. Choose Canada from the country list, if it’s offered, and enter your real postal code.
2. If the form only accepts US addresses, enter your street address as it appears on your statement.
3. In the ZIP code field, enter your postal code’s three numbers plus 00.
4. If the payment is declined, try PayPal, Apple Pay or Google Pay, which don’t ask for a ZIP code, or contact the merchant.

Some US retailers won’t ship to Canada or accept foreign cards at all. In that case, a US bank account and card through a cross-border banking service, or a US shipping address service, is the more reliable option.

What to do if the ZIP code trick doesn’t work

If 00 doesn’t work, don’t keep guessing: repeated declines can trigger a fraud hold on your card.

If your card is declined everywhere, call the number on the back. The issuer may have flagged the US purchase as fraud.

Tips for using Canadian cards in the US

• Use a card with no foreign transaction fees. Most Canadian credit cards charge 2.5% on US-dollar purchases, which adds up fast on gas, hotels and shopping. Using a no foreign transaction fee credit card will save you on those charges.
• Always pay in US dollars. If a terminal offers to charge you in Canadian dollars, say no. That “dynamic currency conversion” rate is almost always worse than your card’s.
• Check your debit card. Interac-only debit cards don’t work at most US stores. A card with Visa Debit or Debit Mastercard does.
• Bring a backup card on a different network. Amex isn’t accepted everywhere, so pack a Visa or Mastercard too.
• Keep your billing address current. If you’ve moved, update your address with your card issuer before you travel, or the ZIP trick won’t match.

Final Thoughts

The postal code, plus 00 trick gets most Canadians through a US gas pump or checkout in seconds. When it doesn’t, walk inside or tap. For regular US trips, a no foreign transaction fee card saves you more than any workaround.

Frequently asked questions

What ZIP code do I use for a Canadian credit card?

Use the three numbers in your postal code followed by two zeros. For postal code K2P 5G3, enter 25300. Use the postal code on your card’s billing address. It works at most US gas pumps and websites, but not all of them.

Why does a US gas pump ask for a ZIP code?

US pumps use the Address Verification System (AVS) to prevent fraud. It checks the ZIP code you enter against the billing address your bank has on file. Because stolen cards are often used at unattended pumps, most US stations require it.

Can I enter my full Canadian postal code instead?

Usually not at a gas pump, because the keypad only accepts five numbers. Online, choose Canada as your country and enter your full postal code, with or without the space. Use the numbers-plus-00 method only when the form won’t accept letters.

Can I use any Canadian postal code with my credit card?

No. You need the postal code tied to your card’s billing address. Any other postal code, even a real one, won’t match your bank’s records and the payment will be declined.

Where do I find the billing postal code for my credit card?

It’s the address on your credit card statement, in your online banking or in your card’s mobile app. If you’ve moved, check that you updated your address with the card issuer, since the old postal code may still be on file.

How do I change the billing postal code on my credit card?

Update your address in online banking or your issuer’s app, call the number on the back of your card, or visit a branch. Changes can take up to five business days, so use your old postal code until the issuer confirms the update.

What should I do if my postal code keeps getting rejected?

Check your statement to confirm the postal code on file. Online, try entering it with and without the space. At a pump, pay inside instead of guessing, since several declines in a row can trigger a fraud block. If it keeps failing, call your card issuer.

Do Canadian debit cards work at US gas stations?

Only if your debit card has a Visa Debit or Debit Mastercard logo. Interac-only debit cards don’t work at most US merchants. Even with a Visa or Mastercard debit logo, you may need to pay inside if the pump asks for a ZIP code.

There’s a catch, though. Annual fees are going up. The American Express Aeroplan Reserve cards jump $200 to $799, the TD and CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege goes up $100 to $699, and even TD’s core cards rise by $20. So the real question is whether the new perks cover the higher cost. Here’s what’s changing, what it’s worth, and whether a premium Aeroplan card still makes sense.

What’s new for all Aeroplan cardholders

These perks apply across the portfolio, from entry-level cards up to the premium ones.

• 15% off Air Canada flight rewards: Primary cardholders will pay 15% fewer points on eligible Air Canada flight rewards. This is technically live as a promo right now, but becomes permanent on Jan. 12.
• Air Canada travel credits in your AC Wallet: Core cards like the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite and TD Aeroplan Visa Business get up to $50 a year ($25 twice a year). Premium cards get up to $100 a year ($50 twice a year). The first credit lands January 15, 2027. Entry level cards don’t get any credits.
• 4th Day Free on car rentals: Redeem points for three rental days and get the fourth free, at 11,000+ car rental locations worldwide.
• 4th Night Free on hotels, permanently: HotelSavers – where redeeming Aeroplan plans for four nights at hotels – is becoming a permanent feature

Everything else stays the same, including free first checked bags and priority boarding on eligible cards.

What’s new for premium cardholders

Every premium card gets two new airport perks on top of the $100 travel credit:

• Maple Leaf Lounges worldwide, plus one guest: Premium cardholders used to get Maple Leaf Lounge access only in North America. Now it covers Air Canada’s lounges worldwide, which adds London and Frankfurt’s MLL to the card benefits.
• Priority Security lanes: You get dedicated security lanes at select airports worldwide, for yourself and up to eight companions on the same booking.

American Express Aeroplan Reserve gets more

The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card goes further than the others. Starting January 12, 2027, it also gets:

• Six Priority Pass lounge passes a year: This was arguably the biggest things working against the Reserve before, but you’re covered when there are no MLL lounges available.
• Eight passes a year to select Aspire Amex lounges in Canada: Amex has added multiple Aspire lounges in the country so this perk could be highly appealing.
• A $200 annual dining credit at eligible restaurants on Air Canada’s list of Canada’s Best New Restaurants.
• 10% bonus points for big spenders. Spend $125,000 in a year and you earn 10% bonus Aeroplan points. You get another 10% for every additional $25,000, up to $400,000 a year.

The American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card gets the same lounge passes, but not the dining credit or the spend bonus. Both Reserve cards keep their current perks, including 3 points per dollar on Air Canada purchases, a free first checked bag for you and up to eight companions, and the Annual Worldwide Companion Pass once you hit the spending threshold.

Higher annual fees being introduced

The Amex Reserve cards take the biggest hit, a $200 increase. TD’s premium card goes up by half that, and TD’s core cards go up too.

Is a premium Aeroplan card worth it?

No one lines an annual fee increase, so the easiest way to determine the value is if the added benefits are worth it.

On paper, everyone comes out even or ahead, as long as you use the credits. The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege is the cleanest deal. The $100 AC Wallet credit fully covers the fee increase, so worldwide lounges and Priority Security cost you nothing extra. However, not everyone will fly Air Canada twice a year at specific times.

The Amex Reserve depends on the dining credit. It only works at restaurants on Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants list, so it’s easy to use if you live in or visit a big city and much harder if you don’t. You also get the extra lounge passes which could have value.

The 15% flight discount is valuable, but it doesn’t help the premium case. Say you book a 60,000-point business class flight. You’d save 9,000 points, worth roughly $180 if you value Aeroplan points at 2 cents each. But a core cardholder saves exactly the same.

So the fair comparison is premium against core, not premium against nothing. At TD, the Visa Infinite Privilege will cost $540 a year more than the Visa Infinite ($699 vs. $159). For that, you get $50 more in travel credits, plus these perks:

• Maple Leaf Lounge access worldwide, with one guest
• Priority Security
• The priority airport perks (check-in, baggage, standby)
• Up to 25,000 Status Qualifying Credits

That’s a big gap. You need fly and use those perks a lot to make it up.

The Bottom Line

For most people, a premium Aeroplan card likely still isn’t worth it. Get a core Aeroplan card instead. You still get the best new perk, the 15% flight discount, plus the free checked bag, and a $50 travel credit that more than covers its $20 fee increase.

A premium card still makes sense for the following types of travellers:

• Frequent Air Canada flyers: You fly Air Canada several times a year, often from big hubs like Toronto, Montréal or Vancouver, where the lounges and Priority Security save real time.
• Status chasers: The up to 25,000 Status Qualifying Credits can be what gets you to the next Aeroplan Elite Status tier.
• People who travel as a family or group: Priority Security and Zone 2 boarding matters a lot more if you’re travelling as a family.
• Regular transatlantic flyers: Worldwide Maple Leaf Lounge access is most useful if you’re often connecting through Air Canada’s international hubs.

The new benefits kick in January 12, 2027, and the higher fees don’t hit until your first renewal after that. You’ve got time to decide.

CIBC Rewards, also known as CIBC Aventura, is CIBC’s travel points program. Points are worth 1 cent each on any travel booking and up to about 2.3 cents on economy flights from the fixed-rate flight chart.

The quick facts:

• Points value: 1¢ for flexible travel, up to 2.3¢ on the flight chart, and up to 2.5¢ for Privilege cardholders flying business class.
• Best cards: the CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite ($139, first year rebated) for most people, the Infinite Privilege ($499) for big spenders, and the no-fee Aventura Visa to start.
• Welcome bonus: up to 60,000 points on the Infinite.
• Expiry: points don’t expire while your account is open and in good standing. After you close it, you get 60 days to redeem.
• Skip it if: you want airline or hotel transfer partners. CIBC has none.

Here’s what Aventura points are worth, how to earn them faster, and where they go furthest.

How much are CIBC Rewards points worth?

CIBC Rewards points are worth 1 cent each for flexible travel bookings and up to 2.3 cents on the economy flight chart. Independent valuations average around 1.2 cents, and everything that isn’t travel pays less than 1 cent.

The rule: fly on the chart when the fare is high, use the 1 cent options for everything else, and never take a statement credit unless you’re in a bind. Statement credits pay 37% less than travel, but it’s acceptable if you’re behind on your bills.

How do you earn CIBC Rewards points?

You earn Aventura points on everyday spending with a CIBC Aventura credit card, and you earn the most when you book travel through the CIBC Rewards Centre. Points per $1 spent:

At 1 cent per point, the Infinite returns 2% on travel and 1.5% on gas, groceries and drug stores. The Privilege returns 3% on travel, and 2% on dining, entertainment, transportation, gas and groceries.

Welcome bonuses add the most. The Infinite offers up to 60,000 points right now, which is worth about $600 in travel. The offers are compared below.

How to redeem CIBC Rewards points for the best value

The best CIBC Rewards redemption is the fixed-rate flight chart when the fare is high. Flexible travel bookings at 1 cent are the reliable backup.

1. The flight rewards chart

You pay a set number of points for a round-trip flight as long as the base fare fits under the cap. Privilege cardholders can also redeem for business class.

The rules: chart flights are round trip only and cover the base fare. You need at least 80% of the required points, and CIBC charges the shortfall to your card. Taxes, fees and any price overage go on your card too, or you can cover them with points at 1 cent each. The best value is the 35,000-point long-haul tier, at about 2.3 cents per point.

2. Flexible travel on CIBC by Expedia

Book flights, hotels and car rentals through the CIBC Rewards Centre at 100 points per $1. There are no blackout dates, and you earn 2 or 3 points per $1 on the booking with an Infinite or Privilege card. Cruises and vacation packages are booked by phone.

CIBC moved its travel booking from Merit Travel to Expedia on October 1, 2024. The Aventura Travel Assistant has been replaced by the CIBC Rewards Centre.

3. Shopping with Points

Booked travel on another site? Apply points to eligible charges after the fact at 100 points per $1. Primary cardholders can also put points toward their card balance or CIBC financial products.

What to avoid

Gift cards, merchandise and statement credits pay 0.71 cents or less. Financial products at 0.83 cents are fine if you’re paying down a CIBC mortgage or topping up an investment.

Best CIBC Aventura credit cards right now

The CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite is the best pick for most people because of its low fee and big welcome bonus. The Infinite Privilege only pays off for high earners who will use the travel credit, lounge visits and business class chart.

The Aventura Gold Visa is a middle option at $139 with up to 45,000 points. Offers have no published end date and change often, so check CIBC’s site before you apply.

5 tips to get more from CIBC Rewards

1. Target the 35,000-point tier. Canada and U.S. long-haul flights with a base fare near $800 return about 2.3 cents per point, the best economy value on the chart. Use it for pricey fares, not cheap ones.
2. Book travel through the CIBC Rewards Centre. You earn 2 points per $1 with the Infinite and 3 with the Privilege, so even a cash booking earns extra.
3. Use the 80% rule. You don’t need the full points balance for a chart flight. Hold 80% and CIBC charges the rest to your card.
4. Cover other travel with Shopping with Points. Booked on another site? Apply points afterward at 1 cent each.
5. Don’t close your last Aventura card with points in it. Points survive while an account is open, but you only get 60 days to use them after it closes. A no-fee Aventura Visa is an easy place to park a balance.

How does CIBC Rewards compare to other Canadian programs?

CIBC Rewards has a competitive flight chart, with up to 2.3 cents per point in economy, but it has no airline or hotel transfer partners. That puts it in the middle of the pack among bank programs. Amex Membership Rewards and Aeroplan offer more flexibility, and RBC Avion adds four airline transfer partners to a similar fixed-rate chart.

CIBC’s strengths are quick point accumulation, no blackout dates and the option to redeem after the fact with Shopping with Points. If you want more redemption flexibility, compare it against RBC Avion Rewards, TD Rewards and Scene+ based on how you spend.

CIBC Rewards FAQ

Are CIBC Rewards and CIBC Aventura the same thing?

Yes. Aventura points are the CIBC Rewards currency, and you spend them through the CIBC Rewards Centre on CIBC by Expedia.

How much are CIBC Rewards points worth?

One cent each for flexible travel, and up to 2.3 cents on the economy flight chart. Statement credits, gift cards and merchandise pay less than 1 cent.

Do CIBC Rewards points expire?

Not while your account is open and in good standing. After you close it, you have 60 days to redeem.

Does CIBC Rewards have transfer partners?

No. You can’t move points to Aeroplan, airlines or hotel programs.

How does the 80% rule work?

For a chart flight, you need at least 80% of the required points. CIBC charges the shortfall to your card.

Can I fly business class with CIBC Rewards points?

Yes, but only with the Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege. Business class chart flights start at 40,000 points.

Can I use points for a cruise or vacation package?

Yes, at 100 points per $1 by calling the CIBC Rewards Centre. Cruises and packages aren’t available on the flight chart.

What is the best CIBC Rewards credit card?

The Aventura Visa Infinite ($139, first year rebated) for most people. The Infinite Privilege ($499) suits high earners.

TD Rewards is the points program on TD’s travel credit cards, and it’s built for simplicity rather than maximum value: no blackout dates, no expiry while your card is open, and a best-case value of 0.5 cents per point. The best way to use it is to book travel on Expedia for TD.

The quick facts:

• Points value: 0.5¢ on Expedia for TD (200 points = $1), which is the best redemption. Everything else pays 0.44¢ or less.
• Best cards: the TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite ($139, first year rebated) for most people, the Platinum Travel Visa ($89) for a lower fee, and the no-fee TD Rewards Visa to start.
• Top earn rate: 8 points per $1 on Expedia for TD with the First Class card, a 4% return at 0.5 cents each.
• Expiry: points don’t expire while your account is open, active and in good standing.
• Skip it if: you want a fixed-rate flight chart or airline transfer partners. TD Rewards has neither.

Here’s what TD points are worth, how to earn them faster, and where they go furthest.

How much are TD Rewards points worth?

TD Rewards points are worth 0.5 cents each at best, and only on Expedia for TD. Nothing else pays more than 0.44 cents, so book there whenever you can.

The rule: book on Expedia for TD first, and treat every other option as a backup. If a redemption pays less than 0.4 cents, keep your points.

How do you earn TD Rewards points?

You earn TD Rewards points on everyday spending with a TD travel credit card, and you earn far more when you book through Expedia for TD. Points per $1 spent:

At 0.5 cents per point, the First Class card returns 4% on Expedia for TD, 3% on groceries, dining and transit, 2% on bills and streaming, and 1% on everything else. Once you hit a cap, that category drops to the base rate.

Welcome bonuses add the most. The First Class card offers up to 160,000 points right now, which is worth about $800 on Expedia for TD. Compare all three offers below.

How to redeem TD Rewards points for the best value

The best TD Rewards redemption is Expedia for TD at 0.5 cents per point. Treat everything else as a backup.

1. Expedia for TD

Book flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages, cruises, vacation rentals, rail trips and attractions. There are no blackout dates or seat restrictions, and points cover taxes and fees. Redemptions start at 200 points, and the site suggests how many points to use at checkout. Later in 2026, Expedia for TD will only be reachable through EasyWeb and the TD app. Watch your TD Rewards emails for promo offers, too.

2. Travel booked somewhere else

Book on any site, then use Pay Off Purchases in the TD app or EasyWeb to cover travel-coded charges from your last three statements. Credits post within two business days. That’s Airbnb, RV rentals and anything else Expedia for TD doesn’t sell.

The older Book Any Way Travel option is being phased out. Online redemptions are ending later in 2026, so phone-only redemptions at 1-800-983-8472 are all that will remain. Pay Off Purchases is the better rate anyway.

3. Shopping and coffee

Amazon.ca Shop with Points applies points instantly at checkout. Starbucks converts points to Stars, with a 700-point minimum. Amazon.ca beats a gift card, but neither is a great value.

What to avoid

Statement credits, gift cards, merchandise and cash all pay 0.25 cents or less, half of what Expedia for TD pays.

Best TD Rewards credit cards right now

The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite is the best pick for most people because of its earn rates and huge welcome bonus. The Platinum Travel Visa is the cheaper alternative, and the Rewards Visa is the no-fee starter.

The First Class card requires $60,000 in personal income or $100,000 in household income. The Platinum lists no minimum income. The First Class annual fee can be waived through some TD banking plans, such as the All-Inclusive Banking Plan.

The TD Business Travel Visa also earns TD Rewards points. TD’s Aeroplan cards earn Aeroplan points instead, so they’re a separate program.

Offers change often. Check TD’s site before you apply.

5 tips to get more from TD Rewards

1. Book on Expedia for TD, but compare prices. You earn up to 8 points per $1 and redeem at the best rate. Check the price against other travel sites first, and opt in to TD Rewards emails for promo offers.
2. Claim the $100 travel credit. First Class cardholders get $100 back on a qualifying Expedia for TD booking of $500 or more. It renews each January 1 and doesn’t roll over.
3. Put groceries, dining and transit on the card. Six points per $1 at 0.5 cents each is a 3% return, which is strong for a bank card.
4. Use Pay Off Purchases for travel you book elsewhere. At 225 points per $1, it beats a statement credit by almost double.
5. Redeem before you close or switch cards. Points don’t expire while your account is open and in good standing, but closing it forfeits them.

How does TD Rewards compare to other Canadian programs?

TD Rewards tops out at 0.5 cents per point, so it can’t match programs with fixed-rate flight charts, like RBC Avion, or airline transfers, like American Express Membership Rewards, on redemption value. Its strengths are simplicity, no blackout dates and no expiry while your account is open. Its weaknesses are few redemption options and a steep drop in value away from Expedia for TD.

If value matters more than simplicity, look at Amex Membership Rewards or Aeroplan. TD issues Aeroplan cards too, which earn Aeroplan points rather than TD Rewards points. You can also compare TD Rewards against Scene+ and RBC Avion Rewards based on how you spend.

TD Rewards FAQ

How much are TD Rewards points worth?

Half a cent each on Expedia for TD (200 points = $1). Other redemptions pay 0.44 cents or less.

What’s the best way to use TD Rewards points?

Book travel on Expedia for TD. For travel you book elsewhere, use Pay Off Purchases at 225 points per $1.

Do TD Rewards points expire?

Not while your TD credit card account is open, active and in good standing. Close it and unredeemed points are forfeited.

Does TD Rewards have airline transfer partners?

No. Points redeem at fixed rates for travel, purchases, Amazon.ca and Starbucks.

Is Book Any Way Travel going away?

Online redemptions are ending later in 2026. Phone redemptions at 1-800-983-8472 remain at 250 points per $1, but Pay Off Purchases pays more.

How do I access Expedia for TD?

Through EasyWeb or the TD app. Later in 2026, direct logins on the Expedia for TD site are being retired.

What is the best TD Rewards credit card?

The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite ($139, first year rebated) for most people. The Platinum Travel Visa ($89) and no-fee Rewards Visa are cheaper options.

Can I redeem TD Rewards points on Amazon.ca or at Starbucks?

Yes. Amazon.ca Shop with Points applies points at checkout, and Starbucks converts points to Stars with a 700-point minimum.

Scene+ (formerly Scotia Rewards) is Scotiabank’s points program, and it now runs alongside partners like Sobeys, Cineplex, Shell and Home Hardware. Points are worth 1 cent each on nearly every good redemption, so the smart play is to earn fast on groceries and dining, then spend points on travel, food or movies.

The quick facts:

• Points value: 1¢ for travel, groceries, dining, Cineplex, Home Hardware and Shell. Gift cards, merchandise and statement credits pay less.
• Best cards: the Scotiabank Gold American Express ($120 a year) for groceries, the Passport Visa Infinite+ ($150) for travel, and the no-fee Scene+ Visa to start.
• Top earn rate: up to 6 points per $1 at Sobeys-owned grocery stores with the Gold Amex.
• Expiry: points don’t expire while you hold an eligible Scotiabank product. After you close it, they expire after 24 months of inactivity.
• Skip it if: you want airline transfer partners or a fixed-rate flight chart. Scene+ has neither.

Here’s what Scene+ points are worth, how to earn them faster, and where they go furthest.

How much are Scene+ points worth?

Scene+ points are worth 1 cent each on almost every redemption worth making, and nothing pays more than that. Groceries, dining and movies match travel at 1 cent, so you don’t have to travel to get full value.

The rule: never redeem for less than 1 cent unless you have to. Statement credits and merchandise are the worst uses of your points.

How do you earn Scene+ points?

You earn Scene+ points four ways: with a Scotiabank or Tangerine credit card that earns you Scene+ points, by scanning your Scene+ membership at partners, through Rakuten, and by booking on Scene+ Travel. Stack them and your points pile up fast.

1. Credit card spending. Premium cards earn up to 6 points per $1 at partner grocers and 2 to 5 points on dining, entertainment and other everyday categories. Debit cards earn 1 point per $5. The card comparison is below.
2. Your membership at partners. Scan your Scene+ card or app at Sobeys-owned grocers, Cineplex, Home Hardware and Shell. Shell pays 1 point per litre of fuel and 1 point per $1 in store and at the car wash.
3. Rakuten.ca. Link your Scene+ and Rakuten accounts and earn Scene+ points instead of cash back at hundreds of retailers. Exclusive offers can pay up to 20% more.
4. Scene+ Travel. Book hotels, car rentals and activities through the portal and earn 3 points per $1.

One recent change: Cineplex cut its earn rate on May 13, 2026. Regular tickets, food and merchandise now earn 3 points per $1 instead of 5, while premium formats like IMAX and VIP earn 6. Redemption is unchanged at 100 points = $1.

How to redeem Scene+ points for the best value

The best Scene+ redemptions all pay 1 cent per point, so use your points where they replace real spending: travel, groceries, dining and movies.

1. Travel

You have two options, and both pay 1 cent.

• Scene+ Travel (powered by Expedia). Book flights, hotels, car rentals and activities with no blackout dates. Prices match other travel sites, and you earn 3 points per $1 on hotels, car rentals and activities. The trade-offs: no hotel map view, a limited list of car rental companies, and cruises need a phone call.
• Apply Points to Travel. Book anywhere you like, then use points to cover the charge within 12 months of the purchase. Airlines, hotels, cruise lines, trains, buses, vehicle rentals, travel agencies, taxes, fees and travel insurance all qualify. Points have historically had to cover the entire purchase. Scotiabank says partial redemptions are coming, so check before you book.

2. Groceries and dining

Grocery redemptions work at Sobeys, Safeway, Foodland, FreshCo, IGA, Co-op, Thrifty Foods and Voilà. Dining redemptions work at 700+ restaurants, including Swiss Chalet, Harvey’s, Montana’s, Kelsey’s, East Side Mario’s and Bier Markt. Both are a great fit if you don’t travel much.

3. Movies, fuel and home

Cineplex, the Rec Room and Playdium all redeem at 1 cent. So do Shell and Home Hardware. Redeem points on full-price tickets only. If a showtime is discounted, pay cash.

What to avoid

Statement credits, merchandise and gift cards all pay less than 1 cent. If you’re stuck, gift cards are the least bad of the three.

Best Scotiabank Scene+ credit cards right now

The Scotiabank Gold American Express is the best pick for most households because of its grocery earn rates. Travellers should look at the Passport Visa Infinite+, and the no-fee Scene+ Visa is the easy way to start.

Best Scotiabank Scene+ credit cards right now

The Scotiabank Gold American Express is the best pick for most households because of its grocery earn rates. Travellers should look at the Passport Visa Infinite+, and the no-fee Scene+ Visa is the easy way to start.

The Gold Amex’s higher rates apply to your first $50,000 in purchases each year, then drop to 1 point per $1. Both annual fees can be waived with an eligible Scotiabank account.

A few other options. The Passport Visa Infinite Privilege ($599) and Platinum American Express ($399) are premium cards for heavy travellers. The Tangerine Rewards World Elite Mastercard launched in 2026 and also earns Scene+ points. Scotiabank offers business cards too.

Offers change often. Check Scotiabank’s site before you apply.

5 tips to get more from Scene+

1. Do the math on groceries. Six points per $1 at 1 cent each is a 6% return on Sobeys-owned grocery spending. That beats most cash back cards.
2. Double-dip at partners. Pay with a Scene+ credit card and scan your membership at the same time. You earn card points and partner points on one purchase.
3. Shop online through Rakuten. Linking your accounts turns cash back into Scene+ points, and boosted offers can pay up to 20% more.
4. Rethink Cineplex. Regular tickets now earn 3 points per $1. Redeeming still pays a full cent per point, so treat Cineplex as a place to spend points, not earn them.
5. Watch the 24-month clock. Points don’t expire while you hold an eligible Scotiabank product. If you close your last one, earn or redeem something within 24 months.

How does Scene+ compare to other Canadian programs?

Scene+ tops out at 1 cent per point, so it can’t match programs with fixed-rate flight charts, like RBC Avion, or airline transfers, like American Express Membership Rewards, on travel redemptions. Its edge is earning: up to 6 points per $1 on groceries, and full value on food, movies and fuel as well as travel.

Book-your-own travel with Apply Points to Travel is the flexibility play. It’s simple and works after the fact, which many fixed-chart programs don’t offer. Pair Scene+ with a high-earning Scotiabank card, and compare it against CIBC Rewards and RBC Avion Rewards based on how you spend.

Scene+ FAQ

Are Scotia Rewards and Scene+ the same thing?

Yes. Scotia Rewards and the original SCENE program merged into Scene+. Your Scotiabank cards now earn Scene+ points.

How much are Scene+ points worth?

One cent each for travel, groceries, dining, Cineplex, Home Hardware and Shell. Statement credits, merchandise and gift cards pay 0.75 cents or less.

Do Scene+ points expire?

Not while you hold an eligible Scotiabank product. If you close it, points expire after 24 months of inactivity.

Can I use Scene+ points for travel I booked myself?

Yes. Apply Points to Travel covers eligible travel purchases made within the last 12 months at 100 points per $1.

Does Scene+ have airline transfer partners?

No. Points redeem at a flat rate, which is why travel, groceries and dining all pay 1 cent.

What is the best Scotiabank Scene+ credit card?

The Gold American Express ($120 a year) for groceries, the Passport Visa Infinite+ ($150) for travel, and the Scene+ Visa (no fee) if you want a starter card.

Where can I earn Scene+ points?

At Sobeys-owned grocers, Cineplex, Shell, Home Hardware, participating restaurants, Scene+ Travel and Rakuten.ca, plus with any Scotiabank Scene+ credit card.

Did Cineplex change how Scene+ points work?

Yes. Since May 13, 2026, regular tickets and concessions earn 3 points per $1 instead of 5, and premium formats earn 6. Redemption is still 100 points = $1.

The quick facts:

• Points value: 1¢ for flexible travel bookings, up to 2.33¢ on the Air Travel Redemption Schedule. A realistic average is 1.5 to 1.6¢.
• Best cards: the RBC Avion Visa Infinite ($120 a year) for most people, the Avion Visa Infinite Privilege ($399) for big spenders.
• Transfer partners: WestJet, British Airways Avios and Cathay Pacific Asia Miles at 1:1, plus American AAdvantage at 10,000 to 7,000.
• Expiry: points don’t expire while you hold an active RBC Avion card.
• Skip it if: you want Aeroplan or Marriott Bonvoy points. Neither is a partner.

Here’s how to earn Avion points, what they’re really worth, and how to squeeze more out of every one.

How much are Avion points worth?

Avion points are worth 1 cent each at baseline and up to 2.33 cents on the Air Travel Redemption Schedule. Independent valuations land between 1.5 and 1.6 cents per point on average, so the rule is simple: never redeem for less than 1 cent.

Your card matters. Avion Elite cards (Platinum, Infinite, Infinite Privilege and the business card) unlock the full menu. RBC ION and ION+ cards redeem at 0.58¢ (172 points = $1) and can only transfer to WestJet.

One trick is to hold a regular Avion card and the ION+ since the ION+ card has a higher earning rate and you can transfer your points to your Avion card at any time.

How do you earn Avion points?

You earn Avion points on everyday purchases with an RBC Avion credit card, and the welcome bonus is the fastest route to a free trip.

1. Everyday spending. The Avion Visa Infinite earns 1.25 points per $1 on travel and 1 point per $1 on everything else. The Infinite Privilege earns 1.25 points per $1 on all purchases. The entry-level Avion Visa Platinum earns 1 point per $1.
2. Welcome bonuses. Right now the Infinite offers up to 70,000 points and the Infinite Privilege up to 100,000. Most of that arrives in three chunks: on approval, after you spend $5,000 in six months, and on your first anniversary.
3. Retail partners and promos. The Avion Rewards app and portal regularly run bonus-point offers with partner retailers. Check before you shop online.

There are personal and business Avion cards, so pick one that matches how you spend. The cards are compared below.

How to redeem Avion points for the best value

The best Avion redemptions, in order: the Air Travel Redemption Schedule, airline transfers during a bonus, then flexible travel bookings at 1 cent per point.

1. Air Travel Redemption Schedule

This fixed chart is the program’s best deal. Any airline, no blackout dates, no seat restrictions, and you pay a set number of points as long as the base fare fits under the cap. You need the full points amount, and Elite cards only. You pay the full points price even when the fare is cheaper, so the best value comes from fares close to the cap.

Taxes, fees and surcharges sit outside the cap. You can pay them with points too.

2. Transfer to airline partners

Transfers cost nothing and are available on Elite cards. ION and ION+ cards can only send points to WestJet.

RBC runs transfer bonuses from time to time, including up to 30% extra Avios in spring 2026 and up to 15% extra AAdvantage miles. Wait for one when you can. Transfers are one-way, so confirm award space before you move points.

3. Flexible travel bookings

Book flights, hotels, cruises, vacation packages and car rentals through the Avion Rewards Travel portal at 100 points per $1. Taxes and fees are covered, there are no blackout dates, and you can use points for the whole bill. It’s a solid floor at 1 cent per point.

What to avoid

Merchandise and statement credits pay 0.75¢ or less. Gift cards and financial rewards are better, but still lose to almost any travel redemption.

Best RBC Avion credit cards right now

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite is the best pick for most people. The Infinite Privilege only pays off if you’ll use the lounge passes and clear the $200,000 income bar.

Both cards include travel medical, trip cancellation, travel accident and mobile device insurance. The Privilege adds six lounge passes a year, priority security lanes and premium parking at select Canadian airports.

A few other options. The Avion Visa Platinum is the entry-level Elite card. The Avion Visa Infinite Business card carries a $175 fee and earns 1.25 points per $1 on the first $75,000 you spend each year. The ION and ION+ cards are fine for everyday spending, but they redeem at a weaker rate and only transfer to WestJet, so travel fans should look elsewhere.

Offers change often. Check RBC’s site before you apply.

5 tips to get more from Avion Rewards

1. Price flights on the schedule first. A $340 base fare costs 15,000 points, which is 2.3 cents each. A $1,250 fare to Europe costs 65,000, which is close to 2 cents each. If the fare is well under the cap, book it flexibly instead.
2. Transfer only on a bonus. A 30% Avios bonus turns 10,000 points into 13,000 Avios. Watch for them and move points only when you have a booking in mind.
3. Never take statement credits or merchandise. They pay 0.58 to 0.75 cents per point. Almost anything else is better.
4. Use financial rewards for investing. At 12,000 points for $100 toward an RRSP, TFSA or FHSA, you get 0.83 cents per point, which beats a statement credit by a wide margin.
5. Redeem before you close a card. Points don’t expire while a card is open. Close it and the clock starts. RBC’s terms are reported at 12 months, though older guides say 90 days, so use or transfer your points first.

How does Avion Rewards compare to other Canadian programs?

Avion’s edge is its fixed-rate flight chart and its four airline transfer partners. Its gaps are no Aeroplan or Marriott Bonvoy transfers, and flexible bookings that run through RBC’s travel portal.

If you want Aeroplan or Marriott Bonvoy points, look at American Express Membership Rewards, which transfers to both. If airline partners don’t matter to you, compare Avion against CIBC Rewards, BMO Rewards, TD Rewards and Scene+ based on where you actually spend. Compare the value you get here to your other options before you commit.

Avion Rewards FAQ

Are RBC Rewards and Avion Rewards the same thing?

Yes. RBC renamed its rewards program Avion Rewards in August 2022. Same points, same program.

How much are Avion points worth?

One cent each for flexible travel bookings, and up to 2.33 cents on the Air Travel Redemption Schedule. A realistic average is 1.5 to 1.6 cents.

Do Avion points expire?

Not while you hold an active RBC Avion card. If you close your card, you get a limited window to redeem or transfer what’s left, so use your points first.

Which airlines does RBC Avion transfer to?

WestJet Rewards, British Airways Avios and Cathay Pacific Asia Miles at 1:1, and American AAdvantage at 10,000 points to 7,000 miles. There is no fee to transfer.

Can I transfer Avion points to Aeroplan or Marriott Bonvoy?

No. Neither is an Avion transfer partner.

Can I use Avion points to pay for taxes and fees?

Yes. You can redeem points for taxes, fees and surcharges, including baggage charges and fuel surcharges.

What is the best RBC Avion card?

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite ($120 a year) suits most people. The Avion Visa Infinite Privilege ($399) suits high earners who use lounges.

How do I log in or contact Avion Rewards?

Sign in at avionrewards.com or through RBC Online Banking.

Welcome bonus and earn rate

The RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard has a welcome bonus of 12% cash back for the first 3 months up to $2,000 in spending as long as you apply by Sept. 30, 2026

With this card, you’ll earn a straight 1.5% return in cash back on all eligible purchases, but it’s capped at $25,000 in spending. Once you reach that limit, you’ll earn 1% cash back on all purchases. 

Benefits and perks

In another weird move, the RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard has no premium benefits. The perks you get are standard RBC ones and what’s available to all World Elite Mastercard holders.

Save at Petro-Canada

You can save 3¢ per litre on fuel and earn 20% more Petro points when using your linked RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard. While this may not seem like a big deal, you’re saving on gas, earning Petro points and cash back just by paying with your linked card. Sign in to RBC Online Banking to link your card and add your Petro-Points number.

Earn Be Well points at Rexall

When shopping at Rexall, you’ll earn 50 Be Well points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases. To get your bonus points, you need to scan your Be Well card and then pay with your RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard.

Save on delivery fees with DoorDash

As an RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard holder, you get a 6-month DashDash Pass subscription for free. This perk gives you unlimited free deliveries on orders of $15 or more with DoorDash. Your RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard must be set as the payment method for your $0 delivery fees to apply.

Purchase insurance

• Purchase security – Up to 90 days
• Extended warranty – Up to one additional year

With purchase security, any purchases that are fully paid with your RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard are protected from loss, theft, and damage for 90 days. The extended warranty doubles your manufacturer’s warranty, up to one additional year.

Free Boingo Wi-Fi

RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard holders get a free Boingo Wi-Fi account. This gives you access to more than 1 million Wi-Fi hotspots worldwide, including on planes. All you need to do is register your card at mastercard.boingo.com.

Auto Rental Collision/Loss Damage Waiver Insurance

When you rent a car and pay for it in full with your RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard, you get rental collision/loss damage waiver insurance for up to 48 days. Only vehicles with an MSRP of no more than $65,000 qualify, and you must decline the car rental agency’s insurance. Note that liability insurance is not included.

Airport lounge access

Another card benefit is free access to the Mastercard Travel Pass Program provided by DragonPass. This gives you access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide. Note that you still need to pay for each entry (normally $32U.S.), but you can’t get in at all without a membership.

When your RBC cash back is paid out

Cash back earned with RBC is automatically paid out in January. However, you can call customer service (1-800-769-2512) to get your cash back earlier as long as you’ve earned at least $25 in cash back. Some people will find this annoying as other cards allow you to redeem your cash back monthly.

RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard eligibility

• You’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• You’re at least the age of majority in your province or territory
• You have a minimum personal income of $80,000 or a household income of $150,000

Although no formal credit score is listed under the requirements, having a credit score of at least 700 is what I recommend before applying. This puts you in a better position to be approved for this premium credit card.

How the RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard compares

It’s time to go over comparables in this RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard review. There are a lot of cash back cards out there, but the following are other cards I recommend you look at.

RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard vs. Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite Card

The Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite Card is incredibly popular since you’ll earn 4% cash back on groceries, recurring bills, and subscription purchases, 2% on gas and daily transit purchases, and 1% on all other purchases. While the base earn rate is lower than the RBC card, the Scotiabank card has many generous bonus categories. In addition, the Scotiabank card comes with some great additional benefits, such as comprehensive travel and mobile device insurance. The annual fee for the Scotiabank card is a bit higher at $120, but there’s typically a welcome bonus of 10% cash back up to $2,000 in purchases.

RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard vs. American Express Cobalt Card

The American Express Cobalt Card is another card that has a very high earning rate. You’ll earn 5 American Express Membership Rewards points per $1 spent on eats and drinks, 3 points on streaming services, 2 points on travel, and 1 point on all other purchases. Although you earn points instead of cash, you can redeem 1,000 points for a $10 statement credit, so you treat it like a cash back card if you so desire. The annual fee for the Cobalt card is a bit high at $12.99 a month, but it has one of the highest earning rates in Canada.

RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard vs. SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express

For those more focused on a solid base earning rate, the SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express is worth a look. The earning rate is 4% cash back on groceries and gas purchases, and 2% cash back on all other purchases. You will pay a slightly higher annual fee of $9.99 monthly, and not all merchants accept American Express. That said, the earning rate is higher, and you get mobile device insurance.

Final thoughts

The RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard is RBC’s top cash back credit card and is ideal for people in the following situations:

• You want a cash back card – With cash back, you don’t need to worry about rewards charts or blackout dates like some travel rewards programs.
• You want a good flat rate return – The 1.5% cash back on all purchases is decent.
• You bank with RBC – Some people prefer to use credit cards from their financial institution.

While there are some benefits to the RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard, the earning rate is low compared to some of the best cash back credit cards in Canada. In addition, the lack of benefits is disappointing. If you bank with RBC and want to stick with them, this card is perfectly acceptable, but better options are available elsewhere.

The one thing that holds this card back is the reward structure. Although you earn Avion points, Avion has three tiers, and points earned with ION cards are the least valuable. That said, your points still have flexibility, and there’s a way to upgrade your points to the higher tiers. Read my RBC Ion+ Visa review now.

Welcome bonus and earn rate

The RBC ION+ Visa credit card typically offers a bonus of up to 7,000 – 14,000 Avion points (a $50 – $100 gift card value).

The earning rate for the RBC ION+ Visa Vard is generous. You’ll get 3 Avion points per $1 spent on groceries, dining, food delivery, rideshares, daily transit, gas, EV charging, streaming, digital gaming and subscriptions. All other purchases earn you 1 Avion point per dollar spent.

The card does charge a monthly fee of $4 ($48 annually). While most student credit cards have a no or low annual fee, $4 a month is pretty reasonable. That said, if you have an RBC Signature No Limit Banking or RBC Advantage Banking for students account, the fee is waived.

Benefits and perks

As you read this RBC ION+ Visa review, you’ll quickly realize that most of the benefits included with the card are standard RBC benefits. That said, one perk stands out and will likely appeal to many people.

Mobile device insurance

When you purchase a mobile device (cellphone and tablet) and pay for it in full with your RBC ION+ Visa Card, you get mobile device insurance that covers up to $1,000 for two years. This insurance covers things such as damage, theft, and even loss. If you’re on a subsidized plan, you must pay your bill in full with your RBC ION+ Visa Card. Note that depreciation is factored into your payout if you ever need to make a claim.

Save at Petro-Canada

Anyone that fills up at Petro-Canada may be interested to learn that you’ll save 3¢ per litre on fuel and earn 20% more Petro points when paying with your linked RBC ION+ Visa Card. This may not seem like a big deal, but not only are you saving on gas, but you also get an increased earning rate on gas purchases, and you’re earning Petro points.

Earn Be Well points at Rexall

Although Be Well points isn’t the best loyalty program. If you regularly shop at Rexall, you can earn 50 Be Well points per dollar spent when you scan your Be Well card and pay with your linked RBC ION+ Card.

Save on delivery fees with DoorDash

RBC ION Visa Plus cardholders get a 3-month complimentary DashDash Pass subscription. With DashPass, you won’t pay any delivery fees if you spend at least $15 or more with DoorDash and pay with your RBC ION+ Visa Card. There is no limit to this $0 delivery fee benefit.

Purchase insurance

• Purchase security – 90 days
• Extended warranty – Up to one additional year

Purchase security is a benefit you hope never to use, but you’ll be glad you have it if you ever need it. Charging purchases to your RBC ION+ Visa card protects them from loss, theft, and damage for 90 days. As for the extended warranty, purchases charged to your card get the manufacturer’s warranty doubled, up to one additional year, to a maximum of five years.

How to redeem your points

As mentioned, Avion Rewards has three tiers. ION cardholders get the most basic version of Avion Rewards and get the following redemption options:

• Gift cards: 140 points = $1
• Travel: 172 points = $1
• Pay with Points: 172 points = $1

When you do the math, that works out to a value of .71 cents per point (CPP) for gift cards and .58 CPP for travel and statement credits. This is important since your earn rate of 3X on select categories is actually a real value of 2.13 cents per dollar spent when redeeming gift cards. If you’re redeeming for travel or a statement credit, it’s 1.74 cents.

Interestingly, you can transfer your Avion points to WestJet Rewards at the standard ratio of 100 Avion points for 1 WestJet dollar. This instantly increases the value of your points to 1CPP.

Alternatively, if you ever upgrade to a premium Avion card, such as the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card, your points are upgraded too. That gives you access to more airline transfer partners and the RBC Air Travel Redemption Schedule. The Redemption Schedule can be very valuable since you can redeem a set number of points for significant flight discounts.

RBC ION+ Visa requirements

• You’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• You’re at least the age of majority in your province or territory

What’s great about the RBC ION+ Visa Card is that it has no formal minimum income requirement. This makes it a great choice for students or new immigrants who want a credit card with a reasonable earning rate without worrying about a high personal income requirement. There’s also no formal minimum credit score to be approved, but I recommend having yours be at least 660 before applying. This puts you in good standing and can help increase your approval odds.

How the RBC ION+ Visa compares

To wrap up my RBC ION+ Visa review, I want to compare it to other cards to give you some perspective. Due to the unique reward structure and low annual fee, it’s hard to find exact comparisons. Instead, I’ll mention a few different cards that have similarities.

RBC ION+ Card vs. American Express Cobalt Card

While not entirely a fair comparison, many people will compare the RBC ION+ Visa card to the American Express Cobalt Card. Both cards have a monthly fee and a high earning rate. With the Amex Cobalt card, you’ll pay $12.99 monthly ($155.88 annually). As for the earn rate, you get 5 points per $1 spent on eats and drinks (includes groceries, restaurants, and food delivery), 3 points on streaming services, and 2 points on travel (includes rideshares and transit). All other purchases earn 1 American Express Membership Rewards point per $1 spent. Even with the higher annual fee, this card is worth considering since American Express Membership Rewards points are highly valuable.

RBC ION+ Card vs. RBC ION Card

Sticking to the RBC family, you could take a look at the e RBC ION Visa Card, which is the no fee version of the ION Card. With the basic version of the ION Card, you’ll earn 1.5 Avion points per dollar spent on groceries, rideshares, daily public transit, gas, EV charging, streaming, digital gaming and subscriptions. That’s basically half of what you get with the ION+ Card. All other purchases earn you 1 Avion point per dollar spent, and you get no mobile device insurance.

RBC ION+ Card vs. WestJet RBC Mastercard

Since you know that you can convert your Avion points earned with your RBC ION+ Card to WestJet dollars at a favourable rate, you may want to compare things to the WestJet RBC Mastercard. The WestJet card has an annual fee of $39 and earns you 1.5% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights or WestJet vacation packages. All other purchases earn you 1% back in WestJet dollars. You could easily make the argument that the RBC ION+ Card is better, but the WestJet RBC Mastercard comes with an annual companion voucher, which can be pretty valuable.

Final thoughts

My RBC ION+ Visa review is positive. The card is good for people in the following situations:

• You don’t have a high income – No minimum personal income requirement is needed for this card.
• You don’t want to spend a lot on annual fees – The monthly fee of $4 is reasonable for the earning rate and benefits you get.
• You may want to upgrade your card later – Although your points are flexible, they can be worth even more if you upgrade to a true Avion card later.

For a relatively low fee, you get a decent earning rate and mobile device insurance. While this card can’t compete with premium credit cards, it’s one of the best student credit cards in Canada and is ideal for someone looking for a low fee credit card.

*Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions

Since this card has a low minimum personal income requirement of $12,000, it’s an excellent choice for those who don’t meet the higher income requirement that comes with the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard. Read my WestJet RBC Mastercard review now for the full details.

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

Welcome bonus and earn rate

When signing up for the WestJet RBC Mastercard, the bonus has consistently been worth up to 10,000 WestJet points. You’ll typically get 5,000 WestJet points after your first purchase and another 5,000 WestJet points when you spend $1,000 in the first three months of cardmembership.

As for the earning rate, you’ll earn 1.5% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights and WestJet vacation packages. All other purchases earn you 1% back in WestJet dollars. Although the earning rate may seem low, the rewards are reasonable for a card with an annual fee of just $39.

Benefits and perks

Since this is considered an entry level card, you won’t get many benefits. That said, it does come with one significant WestJet benefit that makes this card a keeper.

Annual round-trip companion voucher

The best benefit of the RBC WestJet Mastercard is the annual round-trip companion voucher. With this voucher, the primary cardholder can add a travelling companion to the same round-trip itinerary for a base fare of just $199 plus taxes, fees, and charges. This applies to anywhere in Canada and the continental U.S. (no Hawaii). Depending on your destination, this could save you a few hundred dollars.

Save on fuel at Petro-Canada

When you link your WestJet RBC Mastercard, you’ll instantly save three cents per litre on fuel at Petro-Canada gas stations. In addition, you’ll earn 20% more Petro-Points.

Earn Be Well points at Rexall

Anyone who shops at Rexall regularly will be interested to hear that your linked WestJet RBC Mastercard earns you 50 Be Well points per dollar spent on all eligible purchases. These bonus points are added to any in-store and personal Be Well offers.

No delivery fees with DoorDash for 3 months

The RBC WestJet Mastercard entitles you to $0 delivery fees for three months when making orders on DoorDash. This benefit usually costs $10 per month. To get your free delivery, you must order at least $15 and pay with your WestJet RBC Mastercard.

Travel insurance

• Travel accident – up to $500,000
• Hotel/motel burglary – up to $2,500
• Delayed baggage insurance – up to $500 / 4 hours
• Auto rental collision/loss damage waiver insurance – $65,000 – 48 days

Many people will be surprised about the travel insurance included while reading this WestJet RBC Mastercard review. Although you don’t get travel medical or trip cancellation insurance, you get a decent amount of extended travel insurance.

Purchase insurance

• Purchase security – 90 days
• Extended warranty – Up to one additional year

Purchase insurance is rarely used, but you’ll be glad you have it if you ever need to make a claim. When you charge the total cost of your purchase to your WestJet RBC Mastercard, you’re covered from loss, theft and damage for 90 days thanks to the included purchase security. As for the extended warranty, it’s doubled up to one additional year.

How WestJet Rewards works

WestJet Rewards is a very basic loyalty points. For flights, you can redeem 100 WestJet Points for $1 off the base fare. You can also use your points on seat selection and taxes, but the redemption rate is a little lower.

Many people like WestJet Rewards because of the benefits you get and how easy it is to earn higher status. WestJet Rewards has four tiers: teal, silver, gold and platinum. You get higher tier status based on how much you spend on qualifying WestJet flights and vacations. As your tier goes up, you get additional benefits.

If WestJet is the main airline you fly with, earning WestJet points and having a co-branded credit card will save you money on future flights and vacation packages.

WestJet RBC Mastercard eligibility

• You must be a Canadian citizen
• You must be the age of majority in the province or territory where you live
• You must have a personal income of $12,000

RBC doesn’t state a specific credit score that’s required to be approved. That said, I recommend only applying if your credit score is at least 660. That puts you in good standing, and it may increase the odds of you being approved.

How the WestJet RBC Mastercard compares to others

It isn’t easy to compare the WestJet RBC Mastercard to others since it’s pretty specific. That said, this is technically an airline credit card and another WestJet credit card is available, so we’ll use those as comparables.

WestJet RBC Mastercard vs. WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

The WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard is a higher tier WestJet card. This card earns you 2% in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights and vacation packages. All other purchases earn you 1.5% back in WestJet dollars. In addition, you get a better companion voucher, more travel insurance, and the first checked bag free for the primary cardholder and up to eight guests travelling on the same reservation. While this card has better benefits, it has a higher annual fee of $119 and a minimum personal income requirement of $80,000.

WestJet RBC Mastercard vs. CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card

With the CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card, you’ll earn 1 Aeroplan point per dollar spent on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases. All other purchases earn you 1 Aeroplan point per $1.50 spent. Although this earning rate may seem low, 1 Aeroplan point can be worth 1.5 – 2 cents each, so there’s some good value here. However, Aeroplan is the loyalty program of Air Canada, so if you mainly fly WestJet, you’d be better off with a WestJet credit card. The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Card has no annual fee.

WestJet RBC Mastercard vs. American Express Green Card

One other card that’s worth comparing is the American Express Green Card. It has no annual fee, and you’ll earn 1 American Express Membership Rewards point per dollar spent on all purchases. With Membership Rewards, you can redeem 1,000 points for a $10 statement credit. That means if you booked a flight on WestJet, you could use your points on the entire purchase, including taxes and additional charges.

Final thoughts

My WestJet RBC Mastercard review is positive. This card is ideal for people in the following situations:

• You fly WestJet regularly – With this card, you’ll earn WestJet points on all eligible purchases and get a free annual companion voucher.
• You don’t want to pay a high annual fee – The yearly fee of $39 is reasonable for what you get.
• You don’t have a high income – This card has a low minimum income requirement of $12,000.

If you fly WestJet regularly and you’re looking for a travel credit card, this card could be a good fit for you. The annual round-trip companion voucher within Canada for $199 plus taxes, fees, and charges is an incredible benefit that should be reason enough to sign up for the card.