What is the best card to use to pay for travel purchases?

If you want to travel for less, you need to get into the wonderful world of travel rewards. And if you want to maximize your travel rewards, you always need to choose the right credit card. That means choosing the right cards to get and the right cards to use.

The best card to use is especially important for travel purchases, to get the vital insurance for free.

Here’s a teaser on which card is the best to use to pay for travel expenses.

Basics of choosing the best card to use

Of course, the idea is to earn the most rewards. But it’s not the only thing to look at.

So first, to earn the most rewards for travel purchases (or any other purchase), the best card to use is always:

• If you’re a pro: the card on which you’re unlocking a huge welcome bonus (11% or more)
• If you’re not unlocking one: the card with the best earn rate for that category (3.33% for travel)

But there are a few exceptions.

They’re always the same:

• If you want insurance coverage for the purchase
• If you want to redeem rewards for the purchase
• If you want to avoid FX fees on the purchase

Let’s see concretely what is the best card to use for those scenarios.

List of best cards to use for travel expenses (if there are no exception scenarios)

Here are the 2 options if there are no exceptions — but there are for most travel expenses since the insurance aspect is vital for flights and many other travel purchases.

Use the card on which you’re unlocking a huge welcome bonus (11% or more)

As with any expense, no matter what it is, you’ll always get the best return by unlocking a new huge welcome bonus, so you should use that card. Welcome bonuses are literally THE most important thing in the whole world of travel rewards.

Get one of these cards right away to stop getting just a terrible rate of 1% or 2%!

Best credit card offers (June 2025)
NEW Platinum Card® from American Express Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1102Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 100,000 pts (≈ $1500) Earn on min. spend: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Annual travel credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 1): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$799) Renewal bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Annual travel credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 2): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$799) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 50,000 pts (≈ $750) with extra $40,000 spend (≈ 11.0% back on $10k) Rewards: ≈ $1901 Card fee: $799 Spend required:$10k in 3 mos. spend $10k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 Best for: ≈ 11.0% back on $10,000 & unlimited lounges LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts ($100) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 65,000 pts ($325) Earn on min. spend: 30,000 pts ($150) Annual travel credit (2025): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Annual travel credit (2026): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) (15.5% back on $5k) Rewards: $775 Annual fee: $0 $139 Spend required:$5k in 6 mos. Best for: 15.0% back on $5,000 & simple points SIMPLE 60k/100k SEE CARD DETAILS
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) (8.7% back on $7.5k) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) Best for: ≈ 8.7% back on $7,500 & simple points SIMPLE 12k ends July 1st SEE CARD DETAILS Show other cards
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $641Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Welcome bonus (after $7.5k min. spend): 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on $7.5k min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Anniversary bonus (after another $4.5k in spend): 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on another $4.5k in spend: 4,500 pts (≈ $67) Card fee (year 1): rebated the 1st year (-$0) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$139) (≈ 5.3% back on $12k) Rewards: ≈ $641 Annual fee: $0 $139 Spend required:$12k in 12 mos. (incl. $7.5k in 180 days)† Best for: ≈ 5.3% back on $12,000 & lucrative pts LUCRATIVE 60k/100k SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW American Express® Gold Rewards Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1080Flytrippers Valuation Monthly welcome bonuses (12x 5,000 pts): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$250) Renewal bonus: 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Annual credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 30,000 pts (≈ $450) with extra $8,000 spend (≈ 9% back on $12k) Rewards: ≈ $1330 Card fee: $250 Spend required:$12k in 12 mos. spend $1k/mo. for 12 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 Best for: ≈ 9.0% back on $12,000 & 8 lounge passes LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card Valuation (BONUS)  $601Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $3k in 3 mos.): 60,000 pts ($600) Welcome bonus (after another $7k in 14 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (3k$): 6,000 pts ($60) Earn on min. spend ($7k): 14,000 pts ($140) Card fee: deducted (-$399) (6.0% back on $10k) Rewards: $1000 Card fee: $399 Spend required:$10k in 14 mos. (or $3k) Best for: 6.0% back on $10.000 & 10 lounge passes SIMPLE 12k ends October 31st SEE CARD DETAILS
American Express® Aeroplan®* Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $420Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on $3k min. spend: 3,000 pts (≈ $45) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$120) Renewal bonus: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Earn on $1k min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $15) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$120) (≈ 14.0% back on $3k) Rewards: ≈ $540 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$3k in 3 mos. + $1k Best for: ≈ 10.5% back on $4,000 & lucrative pts LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $780Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Card fee: deducted (-$120) (≈ 15.6% back on $5k) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$5k in 6 mos. Best for: ≈ 15.6% back on $5,000 & lucrative pts LUCRATIVE 60k/100k ends June 11th SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW American Express® Business Gold Rewards Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $615Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 40,000 pts (≈ $600) Earn on min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$199) Renewal bonus: 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$199) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 40,000 pts (≈ $600) with extra $22,500 spend (≈ 8.2% back on $7.5k) Rewards: ≈ $814 Card fee: $199 Spend required:$7.5k in 3 mos. spend $7.5k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 Best for: ≈ 8.2% back on $7,500 & lucrative pts LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Best credit card offers (June 2025)
Platinum Card® from American Express NEW LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1102Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 100,000 pts (≈ $1500) Earn on min. spend: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Annual travel credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 1): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$799) Renewal bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Annual travel credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 2): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$799) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 50,000 pts (≈ $750) with extra $40,000 spend Rewards: ≈ $1901 Card fee: $799 (≈ 11.0% back on $10k) Spend required: $10k in 3 mos. spend $10k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 11.0% back on $10,000 & unlimited lounges
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card SIMPLE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS)  $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts ($100) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 65,000 pts ($325) Earn on min. spend: 30,000 pts ($150) Annual travel credit (2025): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Annual travel credit (2026): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) Rewards: $775 Annual fee: $0 $139 (15.5% back on $5k) Spend required: $5k in 6 mos. SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 15.0% back on $5,000 & simple points
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card SIMPLE 12k Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 (8.7% back on $7.5k) Spend required: $7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) ends July 1st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 8.7% back on $7,500 & simple points
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card LUCRATIVE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $641Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Welcome bonus (after $7.5k min. spend): 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on $7.5k min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Anniversary bonus (after another $4.5k in spend): 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on another $4.5k in spend: 4,500 pts (≈ $67) Card fee (year 1): rebated the 1st year (-$0) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$139) Rewards: ≈ $641 Annual fee: $0 $139 (≈ 5.3% back on $12k) Spend required: $12k in 12 mos. (incl. $7.5k in 180 days)† SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 5.3% back on $12,000 & lucrative pts
American Express® Gold Rewards Card NEW LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1080Flytrippers Valuation Monthly welcome bonuses (12x 5,000 pts): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$250) Renewal bonus: 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Annual credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 30,000 pts (≈ $450) with extra $8,000 spend Rewards: ≈ $1330 Card fee: $250 (≈ 9% back on $12k) Spend required: $12k in 12 mos. spend $1k/mo. for 12 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 9.0% back on $12,000 & 8 lounge passes
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card NEW SIMPLE 12k Valuation (BONUS)  $601Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $3k in 3 mos.): 60,000 pts ($600) Welcome bonus (after another $7k in 14 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (3k$): 6,000 pts ($60) Earn on min. spend ($7k): 14,000 pts ($140) Card fee: deducted (-$399) Rewards: $1000 Card fee: $399 (6.0% back on $10k) Spend required: $10k in 14 mos. (or $3k) ends October 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 6.0% back on $10.000 & 10 lounge passes
American Express® Aeroplan®* Card LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $420Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on $3k min. spend: 3,000 pts (≈ $45) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$120) Renewal bonus: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Earn on $1k min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $15) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$120) Rewards: ≈ $540 Card fee: $120 (≈ 14.0% back on $3k) Spend required: $3k in 3 mos. + $1k SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 10.5% back on $4,000 & lucrative pts
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card NEW LUCRATIVE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $780Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Card fee: deducted (-$120) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $120 (≈ 15.6% back on $5k) Spend required: $5k in 6 mos. ends June 11th SEE ALL CARD DETAILS  apply now Best for: ≈ 15.6% back on $5,000 & lucrative pts
American Express® Business Gold Rewards Card NEW LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $615Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 40,000 pts (≈ $600) Earn on min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$199) Renewal bonus: 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$199) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 40,000 pts (≈ $600) with extra $22,500 spend Rewards: ≈ $814 Card fee: $199 (≈ 8.2% back on $7.5k) Spend required: $7.5k in 3 mos. spend $7.5k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 8.2% back on $7,500 & lucrative pts
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Use the card with the best earn rate for that purchase category (3.33% for travel)

If you’re unfortunately not unlocking a welcome bonus right now, then you should obviously use the card with the best earn rate in that purchase category.

Use one of these cards with the best earn rates for the travel category if you have them or compare the earn rates on your current cards.

Best credit cards for earn rates on travel category
BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®* Valuation (BONUS)  $330Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 45,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,500 pts ($30) Card fee: none the 1st year (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: monthly bonus of 3,750 pts ($25) if you spend $2500 in the month (months 4 to 15) (7.3% back on $4.5k) Rewards: $330 Card fee: $0 $150 Spend required:$4.5k in 3 mos. Best for: 3.33% and 4 annual airport lounge passes SIMPLE 80k/150k ends January 31st SEE CARD DETAILS
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $254Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($333) Earn on min. spend: 18,000 pts ($120) Lifestyle credits: two in 1st year ($400) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 30,000 pts ($200) if you spend $30,000 in the first 6 months Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 40,000 pts ($267) if you spend $75,000 in the first 12 months (4.2% back on $6k) Rewards: $853 Card fee: $599 Spend required:$6k in 3 mos. Best for: 3.33% and 6 annual airport lounge passes SIMPLE 150k/200k ends January 31st SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW American Express® Gold Rewards Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1080Flytrippers Valuation Monthly welcome bonuses (12x 5,000 pts): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$250) Renewal bonus: 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Annual credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 30,000 pts (≈ $450) with extra $8,000 spend (≈ 9% back on $12k) Rewards: ≈ $1330 Card fee: $250 Spend required:$12k in 12 mos. spend $1k/mo. for 12 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 Best for: ≈ 3% and 4 annual airport lounge passes LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS Show other cards
NEW Platinum Card® from American Express Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1102Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 100,000 pts (≈ $1500) Earn on min. spend: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Annual travel credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 1): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$799) Renewal bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Annual travel credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 2): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$799) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 50,000 pts (≈ $750) with extra $40,000 spend (≈ 11.0% back on $10k) Rewards: ≈ $1901 Card fee: $799 Spend required:$10k in 3 mos. spend $10k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 Best for: ≈ 3% and unlimited airport lounge access LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $780Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Card fee: deducted (-$120) (≈ 15.6% back on $5k) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$5k in 6 mos. Best for: ≈ 1.875% and very valuable points LUCRATIVE 60k/100k ends June 11th SEE CARD DETAILS
American Express Cobalt® Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $744Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on min. spend: 45,000 pts (≈ $675) Card fee: deducted (-$156) (≈ 8.3% back on $9k) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $156 Spend required:$9k in 12 mos. Best for: ≈ 1.5% and best card overall in Canada LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Best credit cards for earn rates on travel category
BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®* SIMPLE 80k/150k Valuation (BONUS)  $330Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 45,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,500 pts ($30) Card fee: none the 1st year (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: monthly bonus of 3,750 pts ($25) if you spend $2500 in the month (months 4 to 15) Rewards: $330 Card fee: $0 $150 (7.3% back on $4.5k) Spend required: $4.5k in 3 mos. ends January 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 3.33% and 4 annual airport lounge passes
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card SIMPLE 150k/200k Valuation (BONUS)  $254Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($333) Earn on min. spend: 18,000 pts ($120) Lifestyle credits: two in 1st year ($400) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 30,000 pts ($200) if you spend $30,000 in the first 6 months Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 40,000 pts ($267) if you spend $75,000 in the first 12 months Rewards: $853 Card fee: $599 (4.2% back on $6k) Spend required: $6k in 3 mos. ends January 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 3.33% and 6 annual airport lounge passes
American Express® Gold Rewards Card NEW LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1080Flytrippers Valuation Monthly welcome bonuses (12x 5,000 pts): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$250) Renewal bonus: 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Annual credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 30,000 pts (≈ $450) with extra $8,000 spend Rewards: ≈ $1330 Card fee: $250 (≈ 9% back on $12k) Spend required: $12k in 12 mos. spend $1k/mo. for 12 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 3% and 4 annual airport lounge passes
Platinum Card® from American Express NEW LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1102Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 100,000 pts (≈ $1500) Earn on min. spend: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Annual travel credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 1): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$799) Renewal bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Annual travel credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 2): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$799) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 50,000 pts (≈ $750) with extra $40,000 spend Rewards: ≈ $1901 Card fee: $799 (≈ 11.0% back on $10k) Spend required: $10k in 3 mos. spend $10k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 3% and unlimited airport lounge access
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card NEW LUCRATIVE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $780Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Card fee: deducted (-$120) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $120 (≈ 15.6% back on $5k) Spend required: $5k in 6 mos. ends June 11th SEE ALL CARD DETAILS  apply now Best for: ≈ 1.875% and very valuable points
American Express Cobalt® Card LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $744Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on min. spend: 45,000 pts (≈ $675) Card fee: deducted (-$156) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $156 (≈ 8.3% back on $9k) Spend required: $9k in 12 mos. SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: ≈ 1.5% and best card overall in Canada
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

List of best cards to use (exception scenarios)

If any exceptions apply, then you should change the card you use accordingly.

Use the card with insurance coverage

If you want insurance coverage for the travel purchase, for all insurance except for medical travel insurance, you need to pay with your card that has free insurance coverage. The most important insurance is flight delay insurance, which I’ll cover in a detailed post soon.

Most good cards with welcome bonuses have flight delay insurance too, so you’re good to maximize and be covered. But, if you don’t plan on renewing the card after the great value you get the first year with the welcome bonus, make sure to use a card you’ll still have when the trip takes place. Obviously, you won’t be covered if you don’t have the card anymore.

Use one of these cards with flight delay insurance if you have them or check the insurance certificate on your current cards.

Best credit cards with flight delay insurance
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) (8.7% back on $7.5k) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) Best for: Very good travel insurance and earn rate SIMPLE 12k ends July 1st SEE CARD DETAILS
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts ($100) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 65,000 pts ($325) Earn on min. spend: 30,000 pts ($150) Annual travel credit (2025): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Annual travel credit (2026): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) (15.5% back on $5k) Rewards: $775 Annual fee: $0 $139 Spend required:$5k in 6 mos. Best for: Among highest offers ever seen for simple points SIMPLE 60k/100k SEE CARD DETAILS
ENDING RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $938Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Welcome bonus (extra value with 30% transfer bonus): 10,500 pts (≈ $183) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Card fee: deducted (-$120) (≈ 18.8% back on $5k) Rewards: ≈ $1058 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$5k in 6 mos. Best for: Lucrative rewards w/ unlim. value great if you're flexible LUCRATIVE 60k/100k ends June 11th SEE CARD DETAILS Show other cards
best overall American Express Cobalt® Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $744Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on min. spend: 45,000 pts (≈ $675) Card fee: deducted (-$156) (≈ 8.3% back on $9k) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $156 Spend required:$9k in 12 mos. Best for: Best overall  card in Canada LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
American Express® Aeroplan®* Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $420Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on $3k min. spend: 3,000 pts (≈ $45) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$120) Renewal bonus: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Earn on $1k min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $15) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$120) (≈ 14.0% back on $3k) Rewards: ≈ $540 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$3k in 3 mos. + $1k Best for: Valuable Aeroplan pts without min. income and lower min. spend LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW Amex® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $442Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 9,375 pts (≈ $141) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: renewal bonus of 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 40,000 pts (≈ $450) with extra $37,500 spend (≈ 5.9% back on $7.5k) Rewards: ≈ $1041 Card fee: $599 Spend required:$7.5k in 3 mos. Best for: For Air Canada lounge access & other AC benefits LUCRATIVE No min. inc. ends August 18th SEE CARD DETAILS
TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $527Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Welcome bonus (after $12k min. spend): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Earn on 12k min. spend: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Anniversary bonus (after another $12k in spend): 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on another 12k in spend: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$599) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$599) (≈ 2.2% back on $24k) Rewards: ≈ $1126 Annual fee: $599 Spend required:$24k in 12 mos. (or $12k) spend $24k in 12 mos.† Best for: For Air Canada lounge access and 6 passes (other lounges) LUCRATIVE 150k/200k SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW Platinum Card® from American Express Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1102Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 100,000 pts (≈ $1500) Earn on min. spend: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Annual travel credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 1): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$799) Renewal bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Annual travel credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 2): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$799) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 50,000 pts (≈ $750) with extra $40,000 spend (≈ 11.0% back on $10k) Rewards: ≈ $1901 Card fee: $799 Spend required:$10k in 3 mos. spend $10k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 Best for: Unlimited access to VIP airport lounges and lucrative rewards LUCRATIVE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Best credit cards with flight delay insurance
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card SIMPLE 12k Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 (8.7% back on $7.5k) Spend required: $7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) ends July 1st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Very good travel insurance and earn rate
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card SIMPLE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS)  $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts ($100) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 65,000 pts ($325) Earn on min. spend: 30,000 pts ($150) Annual travel credit (2025): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Annual travel credit (2026): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) Rewards: $775 Annual fee: $0 $139 (15.5% back on $5k) Spend required: $5k in 6 mos. SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Among highest offers ever seen for simple points
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card ENDING LUCRATIVE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $938Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Welcome bonus (extra value with 30% transfer bonus): 10,500 pts (≈ $183) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Card fee: deducted (-$120) Rewards: ≈ $1058 Card fee: $120 (≈ 18.8% back on $5k) Spend required: $5k in 6 mos. ends June 11th SEE ALL CARD DETAILS  apply now Best for: Lucrative rewards w/ unlim. value great if you're flexible
American Express Cobalt® Card best overall LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $744Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Earn on min. spend: 45,000 pts (≈ $675) Card fee: deducted (-$156) Rewards: ≈ $900 Card fee: $156 (≈ 8.3% back on $9k) Spend required: $9k in 12 mos. SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Best overall  card in Canada
American Express® Aeroplan®* Card LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $420Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on $3k min. spend: 3,000 pts (≈ $45) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$120) Renewal bonus: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Earn on $1k min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $15) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$120) Rewards: ≈ $540 Card fee: $120 (≈ 14.0% back on $3k) Spend required: $3k in 3 mos. + $1k SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Valuable Aeroplan pts without min. income and lower min. spend
Amex® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card NEW LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $442Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 9,375 pts (≈ $141) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: renewal bonus of 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 40,000 pts (≈ $450) with extra $37,500 spend Rewards: ≈ $1041 Card fee: $599 (≈ 5.9% back on $7.5k) Spend required: $7.5k in 3 mos. ends August 18th SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: For Air Canada lounge access & other AC benefits
TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card LUCRATIVE 150k/200k Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $527Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Welcome bonus (after $12k min. spend): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Earn on 12k min. spend: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Anniversary bonus (after another $12k in spend): 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on another 12k in spend: 15,000 pts (≈ $225) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$599) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$599) Rewards: ≈ $1126 Annual fee: $599 (≈ 2.2% back on $24k) Spend required: $24k in 12 mos. (or $12k) spend $24k in 12 mos.† SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: For Air Canada lounge access and 6 passes (other lounges)
Platinum Card® from American Express NEW LUCRATIVE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS) ≈ $1102Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 100,000 pts (≈ $1500) Earn on min. spend: 10,000 pts (≈ $150) Annual travel credit (year 1): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 1): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$799) Renewal bonus: 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Annual travel credit (year 2): can be cashed out ($200) Dining credit (year 2): $200 credit at conservative valuation (≈ $100) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$799) Also offered but not included in Valuation: bonus of 50,000 pts (≈ $750) with extra $40,000 spend Rewards: ≈ $1901 Card fee: $799 (≈ 11.0% back on $10k) Spend required: $10k in 3 mos. spend $10k in 3 mos. & make 1 purchase in months 15-17 SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Unlimited access to VIP airport lounges and lucrative rewards
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Use the card with rewards accumulated

If you want to redeem rewards for the travel purchase, if they’re bank rewards that can be used for travel booked on any website, you need to pay with your card on which you have the bank rewards. Other reward currencies need to be used on travel booked through a specific website.

Use one of these cards to use simple points that can be used for any travel booked on any website.

Best credit cards for the most simple points
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) (8.7% back on $7.5k) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) Best for: Very good travel insurance and earn rate SIMPLE 12k ends July 1st SEE CARD DETAILS
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts ($100) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 65,000 pts ($325) Earn on min. spend: 30,000 pts ($150) Annual travel credit (2025): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Annual travel credit (2026): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) (15.5% back on $5k) Rewards: $775 Annual fee: $0 $139 Spend required:$5k in 6 mos. Best for: Among highest offers ever seen for simple points SIMPLE 60k/100k SEE CARD DETAILS
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $360Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend: 9,000 pts ($60) Lifestyle credits: two in 1st year ($100) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Additional monthly spend bonus also offered (12% back on $3k) Rewards: $360 Card fee: $0 $120 Spend required:$3k in 3 mos. Best for: Simple points redeemable for any trip SIMPLE 60k/100k ends January 31st SEE CARD DETAILS Show other cards
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $254Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($333) Earn on min. spend: 18,000 pts ($120) Lifestyle credits: two in 1st year ($400) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 30,000 pts ($200) if you spend $30,000 in the first 6 months Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 40,000 pts ($267) if you spend $75,000 in the first 12 months (4.2% back on $6k) Rewards: $853 Card fee: $599 Spend required:$6k in 6 mos. Best for: 6 passes for airport lounge SIMPLE 150k/200k ends January 31st SEE CARD DETAILS
TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $350Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (10% earn rate on 3 categories): cash back ($350) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) (10% back on $3.5k) Rewards: $350 Annual fee: $0 $139 Spend required:$3.5k in 3 mos. Best for: One of the highest cash back bonuses ever seen in Canada 💲SIMPLE 60k/100k SEE CARD DETAILS
BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®* Valuation (BONUS)  $330Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 45,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,500 pts ($30) Card fee: none the 1st year (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: monthly bonus of 3,750 pts ($25) if you spend $2500 in the month (months 4 to 15) (7.3% back on $4.5k) Rewards: $330 Card fee: $0 $150 Spend required:$4.5k in 3 mos. Best for: 4 passes for lounges & simple points SIMPLE 80k/150k ends January 31st SEE CARD DETAILS
TD Platinum Travel Visa* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $273Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 15,000 pts ($75) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 35,000 pts ($175) Earn on min. spend: 4,500 pts ($23) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) (27.3% back on $1k) Rewards: $273 Annual fee: $0 $89 Spend required:$1k in 3 mos. Best for: TBD TBD SIMPLE No min. inc. SEE CARD DETAILS
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card Valuation (BONUS)  $601Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $3k in 3 mos.): 60,000 pts ($600) Welcome bonus (after another $7k in 14 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (3k$): 6,000 pts ($60) Earn on min. spend ($7k): 14,000 pts ($140) Card fee: deducted (-$399) (6.0% back on $10k) Rewards: $1000 Card fee: $399 Spend required:$10k in 14 mos. (or $3k) Best for: 10 airport lounge passes and no FX fees SIMPLE 12k ends October 31st SEE CARD DETAILS
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $190Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,000 pts ($40) Card fee: deducted (-$150) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus of 10,000 pts ($100) (9.5% back on $2k) Rewards: $340 Card fee: $150 Spend required:$2k in 3 mos. Best for: 6 passes for VIP airport lounges and no FX fees SIMPLE 60k/100k ends July 1st SEE CARD DETAILS
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Best credit cards for the most simple points
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card SIMPLE 12k Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 (8.7% back on $7.5k) Spend required: $7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) ends July 1st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Very good travel insurance and earn rate
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card SIMPLE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS)  $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts ($100) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 65,000 pts ($325) Earn on min. spend: 30,000 pts ($150) Annual travel credit (2025): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Annual travel credit (2026): On 1st $500 hotel booking ($100) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) Rewards: $775 Annual fee: $0 $139 (15.5% back on $5k) Spend required: $5k in 6 mos. SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Among highest offers ever seen for simple points
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite* Card SIMPLE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS)  $360Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend: 9,000 pts ($60) Lifestyle credits: two in 1st year ($100) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Additional monthly spend bonus also offered Rewards: $360 Card fee: $0 $120 (12% back on $3k) Spend required: $3k in 3 mos. ends January 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Simple points redeemable for any trip
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card SIMPLE 150k/200k Valuation (BONUS)  $254Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($333) Earn on min. spend: 18,000 pts ($120) Lifestyle credits: two in 1st year ($400) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 30,000 pts ($200) if you spend $30,000 in the first 6 months Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional bonus of 40,000 pts ($267) if you spend $75,000 in the first 12 months Rewards: $853 Card fee: $599 (4.2% back on $6k) Spend required: $6k in 6 mos. ends January 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 6 passes for airport lounge
TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card 💲SIMPLE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS)  $350Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (10% earn rate on 3 categories): cash back ($350) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) Rewards: $350 Annual fee: $0 $139 (10% back on $3.5k) Spend required: $3.5k in 3 mos. SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: One of the highest cash back bonuses ever seen in Canada
BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®* SIMPLE 80k/150k Valuation (BONUS)  $330Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 45,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,500 pts ($30) Card fee: none the 1st year (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: monthly bonus of 3,750 pts ($25) if you spend $2500 in the month (months 4 to 15) Rewards: $330 Card fee: $0 $150 (7.3% back on $4.5k) Spend required: $4.5k in 3 mos. ends January 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 4 passes for lounges & simple points
TD Platinum Travel Visa* Card SIMPLE No min. inc. Valuation (BONUS)  $273Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 15,000 pts ($75) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 35,000 pts ($175) Earn on min. spend: 4,500 pts ($23) Card fee: rebated the 1st year (-$0) Rewards: $273 Annual fee: $0 $89 (27.3% back on $1k) Spend required: $1k in 3 mos. SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: TBD TBD
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card SIMPLE 12k Valuation (BONUS)  $601Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $3k in 3 mos.): 60,000 pts ($600) Welcome bonus (after another $7k in 14 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (3k$): 6,000 pts ($60) Earn on min. spend ($7k): 14,000 pts ($140) Card fee: deducted (-$399) Rewards: $1000 Card fee: $399 (6.0% back on $10k) Spend required: $10k in 14 mos. (or $3k) ends October 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 10 airport lounge passes and no FX fees
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card SIMPLE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS)  $190Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,000 pts ($40) Card fee: deducted (-$150) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus of 10,000 pts ($100) Rewards: $340 Card fee: $150 (9.5% back on $2k) Spend required: $2k in 3 mos. ends July 1st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: 6 passes for VIP airport lounges and no FX fees
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Use the card with no FX fees

If you want to avoid foreign transaction fees on the travel purchase, if it’s billed in a currency other than Canadian dollars, you need to pay with your card that has no foreign transaction fees EXCEPT if you are unlocking a welcome bonus — almost all cards in Canada charge that 2.5% junk fee and so many people don’t know about it.

To be very clear, it’s still best to use your travel purchases to unlock welcome bonuses, even with the 2.5% fee (as you saw, welcome bonuses give 10%+ back, so who cares about a 2.5% fee). And at least for flights, it’s still best to use a card with travel insurance, even with the 2.5% fee.

Use one of these if you’re not unlocking a welcome bonus — or if you don’t want insurance, use the EQ Bank Card (Prepaid Mastercard) that every traveler without exception should have because it’s not a credit card and it allows you to at least avoid the 2.5% FX fee for free.

Best credit cards with no FX fees and insurance
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) (8.7% back on $7.5k) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 Spend required:$7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) Best for: Very good travel insurance and earn rate SIMPLE 12k ends July 1st SEE CARD DETAILS
NEW Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card Valuation (BONUS)  $601Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $3k in 3 mos.): 60,000 pts ($600) Welcome bonus (after another $7k in 14 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (3k$): 6,000 pts ($60) Earn on min. spend ($7k): 14,000 pts ($140) Card fee: deducted (-$399) (6.0% back on $10k) Rewards: $1000 Card fee: $399 Spend required:$10k in 14 mos. (or $3k) Best for: Airport lounge access 10 passes SIMPLE 12k ends October 31st SEE CARD DETAILS
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card Valuation (BONUS)  $190Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,000 pts ($40) Card fee: deducted (-$150) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus of 10,000 pts ($100) (9.5% back on $2k) Rewards: $340 Card fee: $150 Spend required:$2k in 3 mos. Best for: Airport lounge access 6 passes SIMPLE 60k/100k ends July 1st SEE CARD DETAILS Show other cards
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Best credit cards with no FX fees and insurance
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card SIMPLE 12k Valuation (BONUS)  $655Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $2k in 3 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Welcome bonus (after another $5.5k in 1y): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (2k$): 10,000 pts ($100) Earn on min. spend ($5.5k): 27,500 pts ($275) Card fee: deducted (-$120) Rewards: $775 Card fee: $120 (8.7% back on $7.5k) Spend required: $7.5k in 12 mos. (or $2k) ends July 1st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Very good travel insurance and earn rate
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card NEW SIMPLE 12k Valuation (BONUS)  $601Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after $3k in 3 mos.): 60,000 pts ($600) Welcome bonus (after another $7k in 14 mos.): 20,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend (3k$): 6,000 pts ($60) Earn on min. spend ($7k): 14,000 pts ($140) Card fee: deducted (-$399) Rewards: $1000 Card fee: $399 (6.0% back on $10k) Spend required: $10k in 14 mos. (or $3k) ends October 31st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Airport lounge access 10 passes
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card SIMPLE 60k/100k Valuation (BONUS)  $190Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 4,000 pts ($40) Card fee: deducted (-$150) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus of 10,000 pts ($100) Rewards: $340 Card fee: $150 (9.5% back on $2k) Spend required: $2k in 3 mos. ends July 1st SEE ALL CARD DETAILS Best for: Airport lounge access 6 passes
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Financial institutions are not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "See More" to see most up-to-date information.

Learning how to travel for less

Join over 100,000 savvy Canadian travelers who already receive Flytrippers’ free newsletter so we can help you travel for less — including thanks to the wonderful world of travel rewards!

Summary

This teaser is the simplified version of what is the best card to use to pay for travel purchases. Welcome bonuses are always the key, as that’s by far the best way to earn a lot of rewards. But for most travel expenses, insurance coverage is extremely important, so make sure to take that into account.

What would you like to know about the best card to use to pay for travel? Tell us in the comments below.

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Featured image:  Kauai, Hawaii (photo credit: Karsten Winegeart)

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