free. forever.
Best credit cards in Canada
December 2023
Getting new credit cards is one of the best ways for Canadians to travel more for less.
It’s how we easily get over a thousand dollars in travel rewards every year ourselves, all the while improving our credit score and getting plenty of other awesome travel benefits.
The key is to choose cards among the best credit cards in Canada (offers change constantly) and to always pay balances on-time and in full.
Here’s our monthly ranking, which focuses mainly on our Flytrippers Valuation of the credit cards’ welcome bonuses alone, since that’s what will be the same for any type of traveler—and because that is what is most important to maximize travel rewards.
(More details about how the ranking works or our Flytrippers Valuation.)
Flytrippers ranking of the best credit card offers in Canada (December 2023)
These are the best of the best, the credit cards with the highest welcome bonus offers in Canada right now. You can’t go wrong with any of these credit cards that all offer at least $510 in travel rewards with their welcome bonuses alone, but we help you choose below too.
You can watch our detailed video about the best credit card offers in Canada this month (and come see the next one in December).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-monthly-cc.php"]
| Best credit card offers (December 2023) |
WELCOME BONUS (  VALUATION) |
Best for |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
ENDING 
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $780
Card fee: $0 $139
|
Valuable Aeroplan pts
and travel benefits
$5k spend option also available
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Best 
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $900
Card fee: $156
|
Best overall
card
in Canada
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $5k in 6 mos.
|
Rewards: $725
Card fee: $0 $139
|
Highest offer
for SIMPLE points
and 1st year free
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1600
Card fee: $799
|
Unlimited access to
airport lounges
and flexible rewards
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1180
Card fee: $250
|
Valuable rewards
and 4
airport lounge passes
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $6k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $840
Card fee: $165
|
Great airline
rewards
for big spenders
|
limited time | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
6% rate 
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 1y (or $1k)
|
Rewards: $775
Card fee: $120
|
Very good
travel insurance
and earn rate
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
NEW 
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $675
Card fee: $119
|
Companion
ticket or
4 lounge passes
|
ends March 14th | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 10 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $630
Card fee: $120
|
Valuable Aeroplan pts
without min. income
and lower min. spend
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: on approval (no min. spend)
|
Rewards: ≈ $525
Card fee: $120
|
Versatile rewards
valuable or simple
great if you're flexible
|
ends January 21st | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1.5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $477
Card fee: $120
|
Very lucrative
hotel points
for specific hotels
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3.5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $350
Card fee: $0 $139
|
Highest ever
cash back bonus
ever seen in Canada
|
ends March 4th | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k/mo for 6 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $900
Card fee: $599
|
For Air Canada
lounge access
& other AC benefits
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada by category
Since there is no such thing as one “best card”, this beta version of our ranking of the best credit cards is now also split into various different sections based on your own preferences, profile, and strategy.
You can read a teaser about how to choose the best credit cards for you below the ranking, with more to come.
We’ll soon have even more categories, detailed credit card pages, comparison features, and more: sign up for free to be the first to get the full version.
Beginners: our upcoming free course (written & video) will explain how travel rewards & credit cards work in greater detail, but if you are new to this world, it’s important to read some basic knowledge (like not canceling old cards) also below the ranking.
Best cards by category
hide
Best credit cards in Canada for groceries
A lot of travel rewards beginners have a hard time understanding that earn rates aren’t as important as welcome bonuses, so we figured adding this section would be a great opportunity to remind you. But with groceries being such a big expense, these cards are great for those getting started out.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for groceries (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-groceries-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for groceries |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Earn rate on groceries |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $900
Card fee: $156
|
≈ 7.5%
as Aeroplan/Avios pts
$2.5k monthly cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Best
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: $600
Card fee: $156
|
5%
as cash back
$2.5k monthly cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 1y (or $1k)
|
Rewards: $775
Card fee: $120
|
6% (Sobeys brands)
in simple credit
$50k annual cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 1y (or $1k)
|
Rewards: $775
Card fee: $120
|
5%
in simple credit
$50k annual cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 3 mos. (see QC offer)
|
Rewards: $400
Card fee: $120
|
5%
as simple points
$50k annual cap*
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $200
Card fee: $0 $120
|
5%
as cash back
$500 monthly cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $280
Card fee: $120
|
4%
as cash back
$30k annual cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $200
Card fee: $0 $120
|
4%
as cash back
$25k annual cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee:
|
4%
as cash back
$20k annual cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $360
Card fee: $0 $120
|
3.33%
in simple credit
$50k annual cap
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $5k in 6 mos.
|
Rewards: $725
Card fee: $0 $139
|
3%
as simple points
$25k annual cap
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3.5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $350
Card fee: $0 $139
|
3%
as cash back
$15k annual cap
|
ends March 4th | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 2 mos.
|
Rewards: $120
Card fee: $0
|
2%
as cash back
no cap
|
ends January 31st | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for airport lounge access
The only thing better than airport lounge access is free airport lounge access. We love airport lounges. And it’s easy for any Canadian to get free airport lounge access with these cards, no matter how often you travel.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for airport lounge access.
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-airport-lounge-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for airport lounge access |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Lounge passes |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Best
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1600
Card fee: $799
|
Unlimited + 1 guest
worldwide
Priority Pass + more
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k/mo for 6 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $900
Card fee: $599
|
Unlimited + 1 guest
in North America
Air Canada Lounges (on *A)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $12k in 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1149
Card fee: $599
|
Unlimited + 1 guest
in North America
AC Lounges* + 6 DragonPass
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $560
Card fee: $399
|
10 passes
worldwide
Priority Pass & Plaza Premium
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $485
Card fee:
|
4 passes
worldwide
DragonPass
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $485
Card fee:
|
4 passes
worldwide
DragonPass
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1180
Card fee: $250
|
4 passes
in Canada
Plaza Premium only
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $240
Card fee: $0 $150
|
4 passes
worldwide
DragonPass
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $270
Card fee: $150
|
6 passes
worldwide
DragonPass
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $6k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $853
Card fee: $499
|
6 passes
worldwide
DragonPass
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $15k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1801
Card fee: $799
|
Unlimited + 1 guest
worldwide
Priority Pass + more
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $3k/mo for 6 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1013
Card fee: $599
|
Unlimited + 1 guest
in North America
Air Canada Lounges (on *A)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for easy fixed-value travel credits
While variable-value rewards are the best to maximize the value you get, some prefer easy fixed-value travel credits that can be applied to any travel expense for a lot more flexibility (and are okay with sacrificing value for that). These are the best current offers for easy “eraser”-type points.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for easy fixed-value travel credits (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-travel-credit-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for easy travel credits |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Best for |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 1y (or $1k)
|
Rewards: $775
Card fee: $120
|
Very good
travel insurance
and earn rate
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: on approval (no min. spend)
|
Rewards: $350
Card fee: $120
|
Non-Amex
with
flexible rewards
|
ends January 21st | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: $600
Card fee: $156
|
Big
spenders
or beginners
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $485
Card fee:
|
Flexible rewards
and 4
airport lounge passes
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $485
Card fee:
|
Flexible rewards
and 4
airport lounge passes
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $273
Card fee: $0 $89
|
One of the best
offers with no
min. income required
|
ends September 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $25
|
Non-Amex
option
no travel insurance
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
Easy & simple
travel credit
for any trip
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: $820
Card fee: $250
|
Those who
already have
the Cobalt Card
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $1200
Card fee: $799
|
Unlimited airport
lounge access
higher spend req.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for Aeroplan points
Aeroplan points are the best airline rewards in Canada.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for Aeroplan points (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-aeroplan-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for Aeroplan points |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Aeroplan points |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $780
Card fee: $0 $139
|
61,250 pts
+ free bag on AC
$5k spend option also available
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 10 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $630
Card fee: $120
|
50,000 pts
+ a free bag
on Air Canada
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k/mo for 6 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $900
Card fee: $599
|
60,000 pts
+ unlimited AC lounges
& other AC benefits
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $12k in 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1149
Card fee: $599
|
116,501 pts
+ unlimited AC lounges
6 DP lounges & AC benefits
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $900
Card fee: $156
|
60,000 pts
+ 5X the points
best card in Canada
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1180
Card fee: $250
|
72,000 pts
+ 4 lounges
and $100 travel credit
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1600
Card fee: $799
|
80,000 pts
+ unlimited PP lounges
and $200 travel credit
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $315
Card fee: $0 $89
|
21,000 pts
+ low min. spend
& lower fee
|
ends March 4th | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for Avios points
Avios points are valuable airline rewards for Canadians.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for Avios points (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-avios-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for Avios points | WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Avios points |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Card:
Bonus: on approval (no min. spend)
|
Rewards: ≈ $525
Card fee: $120
|
35,000 pts
+ wider acceptance
than Amex
|
ends January 21st | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $6k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $840
Card fee: $165
|
56,000 pts
+ wider acceptance
than Amex
|
limited time | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $900
Card fee: $156
|
60,000 pts
+ 5X the points
best card in Canada
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1180
Card fee: $250
|
72,000 pts
+ 4 lounge passes
and $100 travel credit
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1600
Card fee: $799
|
80,000 pts
+ unlimited lounges
and $200 travel credit
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for Marriott Bonvoy points
Marriott has by far the best hotel rewards program for Canadians, and it is so easy to get many many free hotel nights. This is especially great for those who are like us and are able to find cheap flights anyways (and want to maximize the value they get from rewards).
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for Marriott Bonvoy points (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-marriott-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for Marriott points |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Marriott points |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1.5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $477
Card fee: $120
|
53,000 pts
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $1.5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $477
Card fee: $150
|
53,000 pts
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $878
Card fee: $250
|
86,400 pts
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $648
Card fee: $156
|
72,000 pts
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1264
Card fee: $799
|
96,000 pts
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $540
Card fee: $99
|
60,000 pts
(50,000 Amex pts)
after welcome bonus
|
limited time | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $810
Card fee: $199
|
90,000 pts
after welcome bonus
|
limited time | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $15k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1801
Card fee: $799
|
118,500 pts
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $119
Card fee: $0
|
13,200 pts
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for AIR MILES Rewards
The AIR MILES program is widely-known but quite misused: like any rewards program, you can get the highest potential value by using it for travel. And AIR MILES Miles are easy to earn with many credit cards available.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for AIR MILES Rewards (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-air-miles-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for AIR MILES Rewards |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
AIR MILES Miles |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $249
Card fee: $0 $120
|
2,375 Miles
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $110
Card fee: $0
|
920 Miles
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: business required
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $420
Card fee: $0 $120
|
3,500 Miles
after welcome bonus
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: business required
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $138
Card fee: $0
|
AIR MILES
collectors
who spend less
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for cashback
Travel rewards are a lot better than cashback if you want to get more value. And some types of travel rewards are just as simple and flexible as cashback. But some still prefer cashback, so here are the few cashback cards that at least have good welcome bonuses.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for cashback (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-cashback-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for cash back |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Earn rate |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $750/mo for 12 mos.
|
Rewards: $600
Card fee: $156
|
5%
on groceries (1-3% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $200
Card fee: $0 $120
|
5% (with monthly cap)
on groceries (1-4% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee:
|
4%
on groceries (1-2% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $200
Card fee: $0 $120
|
4%
on groceries (1-2% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $280
Card fee: $120
|
4%
on groceries/gas (2% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee:
|
3%
on groceries (1-2% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
BEST
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3.5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $350
Card fee: $0 $139
|
3%
on groceries, gas, bills (1% elsewhere)
|
ends March 4th | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 2 mos.
|
Rewards: $120
Card fee: $0
|
2%
choice of 3 categories
|
ends January 31st | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $2k in 4 mos.
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee:
|
2%
on groceries (0.5-1% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $97
Card fee: $0
|
1.26%
at AM partners (0.42% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $249
Card fee: $0 $120
|
1.05%
(2.63% at AM partners)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 10 mos.
|
Rewards: $160
Card fee: $0
|
2%
on groceries/gas (1.25% elsewhere)
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada with no foreign transaction fees
Almost every Canadian credit card charges a 2.5% fee on all transactions in foreign currencies, which might still be worth paying overall, depending on your card strategy. But these are the best credit cards to avoid that fee altogether.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada with no foreign transaction fees (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-no-fx-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Other benefit |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $270
Card fee: $150
|
Airport
lounge access
6 passes
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 1y (or $1k)
|
Rewards: $775
Card fee: $120
|
Very good
travel insurance
and earn rate
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $560
Card fee: $399
|
Airport
lounge access
10 passes
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
No fee 
|
Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
No-fee
card
add-on w/ other card
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0 $199
|
No minimum
spend
add-on w/ other card
|
limited time | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: not available in Québec
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
No minimum
spend
add-on w/ other card
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card: not available in Québec
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
No minimum
spend
add-on w/ other card
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada for balance transfers
You should never carry a balance on a credit card. If you do, fixing that should be your #1 financial priority (the yearly thousand dollars in travel rewards you can get with credit cards should be good motivation). But if you are carrying a balance, in the meantime these cards will at least help you save on interest by doing a transfer.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for balance transfers (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-balance-transfer-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards for balance transfers |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Interest rate |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee:
|
0%
for 10 mos
1% transfer fee
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 2 mos.
|
Rewards: $120
Card fee: $0
|
1.95%
for 6 mos
1% transfer fee
|
ends January 31st | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $110
Card fee: $0
|
0.99%
for 9 mos
2% transfer fee
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $74
Card fee: $0
|
0.99%
for 9 mos
2% transfer fee
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: spend $500 in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $25
Card fee: $0
|
0.99%
for 9 mos
2% transfer fee
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: make 1 purchase (no min.)
|
Rewards: $20
Card fee: $0
|
0.97%
for 6 mos
0% transfer fee
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0 $29
|
0%
for 6 mos
1% transfer fee
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 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 in Canada with low minimum spends
Pros know that adding a 2nd card the same day as a card application is a great way to double your welcome bonuses, and that’s easier when the 2nd has a low minimum spend (also for those who spend less, despite our tips to reach minimum spend requirements).
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada with low minimum spends (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-low-min-spend-cc.php"]
| Best credit cards with low minimum spends |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Best for |
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Card:
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 1y (or $1k)
|
Rewards: $775
Card fee: $120
|
Lower spend
5x on food, no FX
insurance for lower income
|
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Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $273
Card fee: $0 $89
|
Easy to use
simple points
with 1st year free
|
ends September 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $165
Card fee: $0
|
Valuable
Amex points
for free
|
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Card:
Bonus: make 1 purchase (no min.)
|
Rewards: $127
Card fee:
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Flexible
points
no-fee card
|
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|
Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $270
Card fee: $150
|
6 airport lounge
passes
and no FX fees
|
ends January 3rd | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Card:
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $110
Card fee: $0
|
More
AIR MILES
Rewards
|
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| 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 in Canada for businesses
If you have an incorporated business, you have even more options in terms of small business cards, so here are the best ones.
You can read our detailed page about the best credit cards in Canada for businesses (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-business-cc.php"]
| Best business credit cards |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Best for |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $15k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1801
Card fee: $799
|
Big spenders
& luxury
travelers
|
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|
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Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1125
Card fee: $199
|
More valuable
Amex points
for Aeroplan or Avios
|
limited time | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $3k/mo for 6 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $1013
Card fee: $599
|
Frequent Air Canada
travel
& maximizing Aeroplan
|
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|
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $750
Card fee: $99
|
More Amex
points
and good earn rate
|
limited time | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $1.5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $477
Card fee: $150
|
Valuable Marriott
certificate
another must-have
|
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|
|
Card: business required
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $420
Card fee: $0 $120
|
AIR MILES
Rewards
collectors
|
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|
Card: business required
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: $398
Card fee: $0 $120
|
Easy-to-use
fixed-value
rewards
|
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|
Card: business required
Bonus: spend $1.5k in 3 mos.*
|
Rewards: $150
Card fee: $0
|
Simple
cashback
rewards
|
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|
|
Card: business required
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
|
Rewards: ≈ $138
Card fee: $0
|
AIR MILES
collectors
who spend less
|
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| 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 prepaid credit cards in Canada
While you won’t get a high amount of travel rewards by getting a prepaid credit card, if you are building your credit and still want some of the benefits of credit cards in a free chequing account, these prepaid cards do not require a credit check and have no fees, so there’s no reason to not get them all.
You can read our detailed page about the best prepaid credit cards in Canada (coming soon).
includeme file="/www/flytripperscom_390/public/php/tables/best-prepaid-cc.php"]
| Best prepaid credit cards |
WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION) |
Best for |
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Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
0.5%
cashback
on everything
|
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|
Card: not available in Québec
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
Earn 3%
interest
& no FX fees/ATM fees
|
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|
Card: not available in Québec
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
Earn 2.25%
interest
& 0.5%+ cashback
|
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|
Card:
Bonus: no welcome bonus
|
Rewards: $0
Card fee: $0
|
10 different
currencies
& 1%+ cashback
|
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| 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. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other upcoming credit card categories
Subscribe to our free travel rewards newsletter to get all our content to earn a lot more travel rewards.
- Best credit cards for WestJet dollars
- Best credit cards for other airline points
- Best credit cards for luxury travel benefits
- Best credit cards for travel insurance
- Best credit cards for insurance coverage for reward flights
- Best credit cards for mobile device insurance
- Best credit cards for building credit scores
- Best credit cards for students
- Best credit cards for low interest rates
- More to be announced later
Other upcoming financial categories
Subscribe to our free travel rewards newsletter to get all our content to save money and travel more.
- Best banking accounts for travelers
- Best international ATM withdrawal options
- Best international money transfer options
- Best travel insurance
- Best bill payment services
- Best credit score monitoring
- Best online investing services
- Best cryptocurrency platforms
- More to be announced later
How our ranking of the best credit cards works
Here’s how we’ve designed the tables for each card ranking category, with more to come about each card in the non-beta version.
1. The card ranking category
So you can easily see which ranking this is.
2. The card image and card name
So you can easily see what card we’re talking about.
3. The minimum income required
So you can easily see if you are eligible for the card.
4. The Flytrippers Valuation
So you can easily see how much value you’ll get from the welcome bonus alone (clickable to see detailed calculations).
5. The minimum spend requirement
So you can easily see how much spend is required to unlock the welcome bonus.
6. The custom data column
So you can easily see why this card is included in that specific category ranking.
7. The link to the card’s page
So you can easily read more details about the card (that page will soon be revamped too).
How we calculate our Flytrippers Valuation
The key element in our ranking of the best credit cards in Canada is our Flytrippers Valuation. It’s there to help you understand how much a credit card’s welcome bonus is worth. We always include only the value you get from the welcome bonus, not from any additional spending whatsoever. Why?
First, not all point currencies are worth the same amount, so “20,000 points” means nothing: that can be worth $100 or that can be worth $300. The Flytrippers Valuation shows you the dollar value at a glance so you can compare credit cards more easily, apples to apples.
Second, we want to show you what you’ll get with just the welcome bonus since that’s the amount that will be the same for everyone regardless of what you decide to do after. The Flytrippers Valuation shows you the best-case maximization scenario to get the most points for the least spend.
For the beta version, the detailed Flytrippers Valuation and welcome bonus components is briefly broken down by clicking on the number. It will be even more detailed on each card page very soon.
For fixed-value rewards, the Flytrippers Valuation is obviously simply the guaranteed value of those points (those without the “≈” symbol).
For variable-value rewards, the Flytrippers Valuation is a very conservative and fair value for an average traveler—but you can easily get a lot more value with the same points if you use them well (or less if you use them badly). That’s the beauty of points with outsized value and unlimited value.
The relaunched card pages will show you concrete examples of how to get even more than the Flytrippers Valuation for each card that earns variable-value points (those with the “≈” symbol).
Reminder of credit card basics
If you are a beginner in the fascinating world of travel rewards and credit cards, there are very important rules to know about. Some are very counterintuitive, like for example how you should never cancel your old cards. That’s a common mistake that is very bad for your credit score.
For more great pro tips that are simply vital, please download our free checklist for when you get a new card.
Of course, you also need to understand why having more credit cards is better for your credit score (if paid on-time and in full—obviously), why welcome bonuses are the key to earning more travel rewards, why banks offer such generous welcome bonuses, and all the other credit card basics.
And stay tuned for our upcoming text and video content for beginners.
How to choose the best credit cards for you
There is simply no “best card” because that would be saying that having just one card is good (it’s not), that welcome bonuses never change (they do), or that every traveler is the same (you are not).
This topic will be a major one in our free travel rewards beginners course, but here is a brief overview of 7 things to consider when choosing.
1. Your level of ambition for travel rewards overall
If you aren’t interested in putting in any effort to earn travel rewards correctly by getting multiple credit card welcome bonuses every year, then your strategy will be a lot different than travelers who want to take travel rewards very seriously.
If your level of ambition is lower, card earn rates will be a bigger deciding factor since you’ll be doing this the (very) slow way with just the few points you earn on your regular purchases.
If your level of ambition is higher and you want to maximize your rewards, you’ll focus on the welcome bonuses.
2. Your desire to maximize the value you get and be flexible
Similarly, many travelers do not want to learn anything about how rewards work. There are 2 types of travel rewards: fixed-value rewards and variable-value rewards. Fixed-value rewards are very simple but will be a lot less valuable than variable-value rewards.
If you don’t want to invest any time, don’t want to be flexible, and don’t want to learn how to maximize the rewards, you should stick to easy fixed-value rewards as these are extremely simple and flexible.
If you want to invest a bit of time, be flexible, and maximize your rewards, you’ll focus on variable-value points that can offer outsized value and unlimited value. We’ll show you how you can easily maximize these.
3. Your income level
Sadly, most card issuers still discriminate based on income level and restrict some of their best cards to those who earn more money. You obviously need to take that into account when choosing cards.
If you earn under $60,000 per year (or $100,000 in combined income with your spouse), there are simply fewer options. It’s even more important to focus on welcome bonuses and variable-value rewards to get a thousand dollars per year in travel rewards in that situation (and to start generating non-employment income of any kind; see below).
If you earn over between $60,000 and $80,000 per year, you have access to almost all offers. Over $80,000 per year (or $150,000 in combined income with your spouse) will give you access to all offers except some very premium cards.
If you have non-employment income (reselling online, side gig of any kind, etc.) you’ll have access to many small business cards that are very worthwhile.
4. Your spending habits
No, we’re not talking about earn rates (welcome bonuses are the key). Most welcome bonuses come with a minimum spend requirement in the first 3 months, so if you don’t spend as much (which is a good thing!) you need to take that into account.
Never spend more to earn rewards, never. We do have tips to reach these minimum spend requirements (including prepaying future expenses) but make sure you look at the credit cards’ specific requirements.
If you can spend $1,500 in 3 months ($115/week), you’ll have access to most welcome bonuses. If you can spend $1,000 in 3 months ($231/week), you’ll have access to almost all welcome bonuses.
5. Your other cards
If you are a beginner, you probably only have a few cards so you need to make sure at least one covers you for travel insurance. If not, that’s a more important benefit than for someone who is sure to be covered by one of their many other cards anyway.
The cards already in your wallet are important in your card strategy, because if you already have a stash of hotel points and want points that can be used for flights, you need to take that into account. As for any financial strategy, diversification is a lot safer. You don’t want to have just one type of rewards in your portfolio.
6. Your desire for travel benefits
As we just saw, our Flytrippers Valuation only takes into account concrete value and we never assign value to subjective benefits like airport lounge access or any other things that you might value at more than $0 yourself.
So if you do value airport lounge access or other travel benefits, it might be worth sacrificing a bit of total value in terms of travel rewards to get them.
7. Your travel preferences
Finally, how you travel will be the major factor in deciding between a few cards that fit your profile.
The exact use you’ll make of your rewards is what will determine the value you’ll get from them, so by understanding what you can get with each card’s rewards (which we’ll make a lot easier in our new credit card pages), you’ll be able to make the best decision.
Get all our travel rewards tips
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This content is not sponsored. Some links on this page may allow Flytrippers to earn a commission at absolutely no cost to you. Thank you for using our links and helping us keep all our content free for everyone and therefore helping us to fulfill our mission of helping Canadians travel more for less.
The views and opinions expressed on this page are purely our own. They have not been provided, approved, endorsed, or ratified by any third party mentioned on the site.
Financial institutions are not responsible for updating or ensuring the accuracy of the information on Flytrippers’ website. All the information was independently collected by Flytrippers and not provided by financial institutions.
All offers described on the Flytrippers website are subject to the financial institutions’ latest terms and conditions that can be found on their website. No efforts are spared to ensure this page is up to date, but offers from financial institutions change quickly. It is your responsibility to ensure the accuracy of these offers on their website. Flytrippers will not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the offers or the result of your actions.
Flytrippers’ website does not contain all available credit card offers or all available credit card products on the market. Flytrippers never shares an offer if it is not considered advantageous for certain travelers, at its sole discretion.
No author on Flytrippers’ website is a financial advisor, a financial planner, a legal professional, or a tax professional. No author on Flytrippers’ website can in any way be considered as such.
All articles and pages on Flytrippers’ website are merely personal opinions of a general nature and are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as advice for specific situations. It is your responsibility to perform your own personal research to make sure that travel rewards are appropriate for your own situation.
You can learn more about our terms of use here.