Free access to airport lounges

Honestly, airport lounges are absolutely awesome. I’ve had access to them for over 6 years now and I’ll never go back to life without them, at least as a frequent flier who travels a lot (and doesn’t really travel in luxury except for airport lounges that is). And it’s so easy to access them for free!

There are a few cards among the best credit cards in Canada that come with some form of airport lounge access in addition to having huge welcome bonuses, so we want to give you an intro on that (we’ll have an ultimate guide with much more info soon).

There are plenty of other cards with free airport lounge access too, but most have lower welcome bonuses so keep that in mind! If you’re sacrificing $500 in rewards (compared to getting a card with a higher welcome bonus) just to get 6 free lounge passes, they aren’t really free anymore. You know that doing the math is important if you’ve read the basics of travel rewards.

Contents hide

Basics of airport VIP lounges

Airport lounge access by card (teaser for the 13 best cards)

American Express Platinum Card

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card

Scotiabank Platinum Card

American Express Gold Card

National Bank® World Elite Mastercard®

Scotia Passport Visa Infinite

CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card

BMO AscendTM* World Elite®* MasterCard®*

BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

Summary

 

Basics of airport VIP lounges

Airport lounges are absolutely awesome.

I’m not going to share all the details today, but at least for travelers unfamiliar with the concept of airport lounges, I’ll share the basics.

At the very least, lounges offer:

• free food
• free drinks (alcoholic or not)
• comfortable seating
• a good Wi-Fi connection
• cleaner and quieter restrooms
• a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere

 

 

Airport lounges almost always also offer:

• complete hot meals (as opposed to just snacks or cold stuff)
• a full-service bar (as opposed to just beer/wine)
• sections to work more comfortably

Airport lounges very often offer:

• showers
• separate sections for kids
• magazines you can read
• printers

And finally, airport lounges sometimes (but rarely) even offer:

• à-la-carte meal menu 
• a station with a chef cooking in front of you
• spa services like free massages
• private nap rooms to sleep
• private closed offices

Lounges you can access for free are mostly independent lounges. That’s how cards are able to offer the most options in the most airports. You get access to 1300+ lounges all over the world with 8 of the 12 cards with this benefit that I’ve included in this post for now. 

So it’s not standardized, each one is different. The quality varies greatly of course — from decent to exceptional — but it’s always infinitely more enjoyable than a typical airport experience at the crowded gate and in overpriced food venues.

Yes, you’ll save a lot of money on airport food: airport lounges aren’t just for the fun VIP feeling. You can usually sneak a few snacks into your bag for later too. You can also often access lounges on arrival in addition to accessing them before your departure and during your connections, to save on another meal if you’re not in a rush.

(And not being in a rush happens to be the best way to stop being one of the people who wrongly believe in the myth that travel is expensive!)

In short, lounges make travel (and airports) much more enjoyable and comfortable. You can join our next free webinar about travel rewards if you want to talk about airport lounges.

 

Airport lounge access by card (teaser for the 13 best cards)

The full airport lounge guide coming soon will help you with other ways to get access to airport lounges for free and a lot more info.

But let’s at least show you the best cards with free airport lounge access.

Best credit cards for airport lounge access		WELCOME BONUS ( VALUATION)	Lounge passes
Best	Platinum Card® from American Express Card: $0 minimum income requiredNo minimum income required. Bonus: spend $7.5k in 3 mos.	≈ $814Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 80,000 pts (≈ $1200) Earn on min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($200) Card fee: deducted (-$699) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100) Rewards: ≈ $1513 Card fee: $699	Unlimited + 1 guest worldwide Priority Pass + more	SEE MORE
	American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card Card: $0 minimum income requiredNo minimum income required. Bonus: spend $6k in 6 mos.	≈ $789Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 55,000 pts (≈ $825) Monthly bonus for 6 mos. (min. spend split): 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on min. spend : 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100) Rewards: ≈ $1388 Card fee: $599	Unlimited + 1 guest in North America Air Canada Lounges (on *A)	SEE MORE
	TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card Card: $150k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $150,000 or minimum household income of $200,000 Bonus: spend $12k in 12 mos.	≈ $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Welcome bonus (after $7.5k min. spend): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on 7.5k min. spend: 10,313 pts (≈ $155) Anniversary bonus (after another $4.5k in spend): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Earn on another 4.5k in spend: 6,188 pts (≈ $93) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$599) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation Credit: for NEXUS ($100) Rewards: ≈ $1374 Card fee: $599	Unlimited + 1 guest in North America AC Lounges* + 6 DragonPass	SEE MORE ends May 28th
	Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card Card: $12k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $12,000 or minimum household income of $None Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.	$161Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($500) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($60) Card fee: deducted (-$399) Additional bonus also offered (not included in Flytrippers Valuation) 10,000 pts ($100) if you spend another $7,000 in 14 months Rewards: $560 Card fee: $399	10 passes worldwide Priority Pass & Plaza Premium	SEE MORE ends April 30th
	CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card Card: $15k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $15,000 or minimum household income of $15,000 Bonus: spend $1k in 4 mos.	≈ $492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50) Rewards: ≈ $492 Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents)	4 passes worldwide DragonPass	SEE MORE limited time
	CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card Card: $60k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $60,000 or minimum household income of $100,000 Bonus: spend $1k in 4 mos.	≈ $492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50) Rewards: ≈ $492 Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents)	4 passes worldwide DragonPass	SEE MORE limited time
	American Express® Gold Rewards Card Card: $0 minimum income requiredNo minimum income required. Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.	≈ $930Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($100) Card fee: deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($50) Rewards: ≈ $1180 Card fee: $250	4 passes in Canada Plaza Premium only	SEE MORE
	BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®* Card: $80k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $80,000 or minimum household income of $150,000 Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.	$240Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($40) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Additional monthly spend bonus also offered Rewards: $240 Card fee: $0 $150	4 passes worldwide DragonPass	SEE MORE
	Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card Card: $60k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $60,000 or minimum household income of $100,000 Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.	$320Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 2,000 pts ($20) Card fee: 1st year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus Rewards: $320 Card fee: $0 $150	6 passes worldwide DragonPass	SEE MORE ends April 30th
Extended	National Bank® World Elite Mastercard® Card: $80k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $80,000 or minimum household income of $150,000 Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.	≈ $750Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Insurance bonus: 10,000 pts ($100) Travel extras credit (2023): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Travel extras credit (2024): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts ($50) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional renewal bonus of 30,000 pts ($300) if you spend another $7,000 in the first 12 months Rewards: ≈ $750 Card fee: $0 $150	Unlimited + 1 guest at YUL only NBC Lounge (intl)	SEE MORE ends June 30th
	BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card Card: $150k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $150,000 or minimum household income of $200,000 Bonus: spend $6k in 3 mos.	$354Flytrippers 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 (-$499) Additional annual spend bonus also offered Rewards: $853 Card fee: $499	6 passes worldwide DragonPass	SEE MORE
	Business Platinum Card® from American Express Card: no business required Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.	≈ $1039Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 90,000 pts (≈ $1,350) Earn on min. spend: 12,500 pts (≈ $188) Card fee: deducted (-$499) Rewards: ≈ $1538 Card fee: $499	Unlimited + 1 guest worldwide Priority Pass + more	SEE MORE
	American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card Card: no business required Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.	≈ –$93Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 25,000 pts (≈ $375) Monthly bonus (reach $2k/mo once): 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Earn on min. spend: 3,750 pts (≈ $56) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not in Valuation: monthly bonus of 5,000 pts (≈ $75) for another 11 months Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100) Rewards: ≈ $506 Card fee: $599	Unlimited + 1 guest in North America Air Canada Lounges (on *A)	SEE MORE
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 airport lounge access
Best Platinum Card® from American Express
Card: $0 minimum income requiredNo minimum income required.
Bonus: spend $7.5k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE
≈ $814Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 80,000 pts (≈ $1200) Earn on min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($200) Card fee: deducted (-$699) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100)
Rewards: ≈ $1513
Card fee: $699
Lounge passes: Unlimited + 1 guest worldwide Priority Pass + more
American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card
Card: $0 minimum income requiredNo minimum income required.
Bonus: spend $6k in 6 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE
≈ $789Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 55,000 pts (≈ $825) Monthly bonus for 6 mos. (min. spend split): 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on min. spend : 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100)
Rewards: ≈ $1388
Card fee: $599
Lounge passes: Unlimited + 1 guest in North America Air Canada Lounges (on *A)
TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card
Card: $150k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $150,000 or minimum household income of $200,000
Bonus: spend $12k in 12 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE ends May 28th
≈ $775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Welcome bonus (after $7.5k min. spend): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on 7.5k min. spend: 10,313 pts (≈ $155) Anniversary bonus (after another $4.5k in spend): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Earn on another 4.5k in spend: 6,188 pts (≈ $93) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$599) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation Credit: for NEXUS ($100)
Rewards: ≈ $1374
Card fee: $599
Lounge passes: Unlimited + 1 guest in North America AC Lounges* + 6 DragonPass
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
Card: $12k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $12,000 or minimum household income of $None
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE ends April 30th
$161Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($500) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($60) Card fee: deducted (-$399) Additional bonus also offered (not included in Flytrippers Valuation) 10,000 pts ($100) if you spend another $7,000 in 14 months
Rewards: $560
Card fee: $399
Lounge passes: 10 passes worldwide Priority Pass & Plaza Premium
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
Card: $15k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $15,000 or minimum household income of $15,000
Bonus: spend $1k in 4 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE limited time
≈ $492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50)
Rewards: ≈ $492
Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents)
Lounge passes: 4 passes worldwide DragonPass
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
Card: $60k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $60,000 or minimum household income of $100,000
Bonus: spend $1k in 4 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE limited time
≈ $492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50)
Rewards: ≈ $492
Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents)
Lounge passes: 4 passes worldwide DragonPass
American Express® Gold Rewards Card
Card: $0 minimum income requiredNo minimum income required.
Bonus: spend $1k/mo for 12 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE
≈ $930Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($100) Card fee: deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($50)
Rewards: ≈ $1180
Card fee: $250
Lounge passes: 4 passes in Canada Plaza Premium only
BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®*
Card: $80k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $80,000 or minimum household income of $150,000
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE
$240Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($40) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Additional monthly spend bonus also offered
Rewards: $240
Card fee: $0 $150
Lounge passes: 4 passes worldwide DragonPass
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
Card: $60k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $60,000 or minimum household income of $100,000
Bonus: spend $1k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE ends April 30th
$320Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 2,000 pts ($20) Card fee: 1st year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus
Rewards: $320
Card fee: $0 $150
Lounge passes: 6 passes worldwide DragonPass
Extended National Bank® World Elite Mastercard®
Card: $80k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $80,000 or minimum household income of $150,000
Bonus: spend $5k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE ends June 30th
≈ $750Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Insurance bonus: 10,000 pts ($100) Travel extras credit (2023): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Travel extras credit (2024): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts ($50) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional renewal bonus of 30,000 pts ($300) if you spend another $7,000 in the first 12 months
Rewards: ≈ $750
Card fee: $0 $150
Lounge passes: Unlimited + 1 guest at YUL only NBC Lounge (intl)
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
Card: $150k minimum income requiredMinimum personal income of $150,000 or minimum household income of $200,000
Bonus: spend $6k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE
$354Flytrippers 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 (-$499) Additional annual spend bonus also offered
Rewards: $853
Card fee: $499
Lounge passes: 6 passes worldwide DragonPass
Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $10k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE
≈ $1039Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 90,000 pts (≈ $1,350) Earn on min. spend: 12,500 pts (≈ $188) Card fee: deducted (-$499)
Rewards: ≈ $1538
Card fee: $499
Lounge passes: Unlimited + 1 guest worldwide Priority Pass + more
American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card
Card: no business required
Bonus: spend $3k in 3 mos.
WELCOME BONUS	SEE MORE
≈ –$93Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 25,000 pts (≈ $375) Monthly bonus (reach $2k/mo once): 5,000 pts (≈ $75) Earn on min. spend: 3,750 pts (≈ $56) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not in Valuation: monthly bonus of 5,000 pts (≈ $75) for another 11 months Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100)
Rewards: ≈ $506
Card fee: $599
Lounge passes: 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.

 

Before looking at each card, I’ll try to summarize the different types of lounge access.

First, there are premium cards with unlimited airport lounge access:

• The Amex Aeroplan Reserve Card, Amex Aeroplan Business Reserve Card, and TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card are the most unique
  • They only have access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges
  • With a special condition that no other cards have too
•  The Amex Platinum Card and Amex Business Platinum Card are the best in Canada
  • They have access to the highest number of lounges
  • By far

Among the cards with more limited airport lounge access, there are just 2 cards that are very different from the rest:

• The Amex Gold Card
  • Has access to just 1 small airport lounge network in Canada only
  • Instead of access worldwide
• The National Bank World Elite Mastercard
  • Has access to just 1 airport VIP lounge
  • Instead of access to an entire airport lounge network

But for all 6 other options here, how the free airport lounge access benefit works is very similar.

The main differences are really in the cards themselves:

• The number of passes included (4, 6, or 10 passes)
• The minimum income requirement to qualify for the card*
• The current offer (the welcome bonus and minimum spend)
• The other card features (fees, other benefits, etc.)

*It’s a restriction that doesn’t exist with American Express cards because Amex never has a minimum income requirement and doesn’t exist with the 2 American Express “business” cards because having a business or minimum income isn’t required either

As for the list of airport lounges available and the quantity, it’s almost identical even though some cards participate in different airport lounge networks.

There are 4 different types:

• The Priority Pass network (only applies to the 2 Amex Platinum cards and the Scotiabank Platinum Amex Card)
• The Plaza Premium network (only applies to the Scotiabank Platinum Amex Card and Amex cards)
• The Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges network (only applies to the premium Aeroplan cards)
• The DragonPass network (all the other cards)

The Priority Pass and DragonPass networks give access to almost all the same 1300+ VIP lounges, with only a few exceptions.

The only difference in Canada, for example, is that the beautiful WestJet Elevation Lounge in the domestic section in Calgary (YYC) is just part of Priority Pass, not DragonPass. So if you live in Calgary or go there often, the Amex cards and the Scotiabank Platinum Card are really more attractive than all the others.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the cards.

 

American Express Platinum Card

Platinum Card® from American Express
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	≈ $ 814Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 80,000 pts (≈ $1200) Earn on min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($200) Card fee: deducted (-$699) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100) Rewards: ≈ $1513* Card fee: $699	minimum income required: $0
	spend $7,500 in 3 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Amex is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

Platinum Card® from American Express
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	≈ $ 814Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 80,000 pts (≈ $1200) Earn on min. spend: 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($200) Card fee: deducted (-$699) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100)
minimum income required: $0	Rewards: ≈ $1513* Card fee: $699 spend $7,500 in 3 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Amex is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

 

It’s the card I’ve had myself for 5 years and I wouldn’t go without it as you can see.

It’s by far the best for airport lounge access for frequent travelers, there’s absolutely no doubt about it! So many lounges in almost every major airport on the planet!

How airport lounge access works with the American Express Platinum Card:

• The largest number of airport lounges all over the world
• Unlimited access, no limit to the number of visits
• Access for you AND 1 guest at any time (sometimes more)
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport lounges accessible with the American Express Platinum Card:

• 1300+ Priority Pass lounges worldwide
• 100+ Plaza Premium lounges with a strong presence in Canada
• 4 Aspire Lounge/Swissport lounges in Canada
• 14 Escape Lounges in the US only
• 1 Airspace Lounge in the US
• 24 Centurion Lounges primarily in the US
• 50+ Delta SkyClub lounges in the US*
• 14 Lufthansa Business lounges in Germany*

*Exceptions: Delta SkyClub lounges are only available if you fly Delta Air Lines and no guests are included; Lufthansa Business lounges are only available if you fly Lufthansa, SWISS, or Austrian Airlines and no guests are included

We can’t list them all since there are so many (check out the full list), but here are the ones in Canada at least:

• Air France Lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montréal (YUL)
• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montréal (YUL)
• VIP Lounge by Club Med (all flights) – Québec City (YQB)
• Aspire Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Air France / KLM Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• SkyTeam Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• WestJet Elevation Lounge (domestic) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (international non-US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)

It’s absolutely phenomenal! Even in super niche locations like Banjul (BJL) in Gambia, I had a lounge before my flight! In almost all cases, you can even use lounges upon arrival, after your flight! It saves you the cost of one more meal.

The only shortcoming is on the US transborder side in many Canadian airports, because of our US preclearance facilities. And on the domestic and US transborder side in my home airport of Montréal, since the 2 lounges the American Express Platinum Card gives access to are only accessible with an international flight (US excluded) because of the terminal configuration. 

We’ll have a more detailed guide to airport lounges in every Canadian airport soon.

Most lounges are very good, especially outside of North America of course. Anything hospitality-related is always better outside North America. The best lounges in North America are definitely the Centurion Lounges owned by Amex, with premium food from local, renowned chefs. And having the American Express Platinum Card is literally the only way to get in.

(Note that you don’t need a business to have the “business” version, the Business Platinum Card from American Express, which has the same lounge access!)

 

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	≈ $ 789Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 55,000 pts (≈ $825) Monthly bonus for 6 mos. (min. spend split): 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on min. spend : 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100) Rewards: ≈ $1388* Card fee: $599	minimum income required: $0
	spend $6000 in 6 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Amex is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	≈ $ 789Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 55,000 pts (≈ $825) Monthly bonus for 6 mos. (min. spend split): 30,000 pts (≈ $450) Earn on min. spend : 7,500 pts (≈ $113) Card fee: deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($100)
minimum income required: $0	Rewards: ≈ $1388* Card fee: $599 spend $6000 in 6 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Amex is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

 

I’ve been taking advantage of this one too since the record-breaking offers last summer.

It’s really interesting for those who travel mostly with Air Canada. 

How airport lounge access works with the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card:

• Only 19 Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges 
• Only in North America
• Unlimited access, no limit on the number of visits
• Access for you AND 1 guest
• Access only if you fly Air Canada or Star Alliance
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport lounges accessible with the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card:

• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic) – Montréal (YUL)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (US) – Montréal (YUL)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (international non-US) – Montréal (YUL)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (US) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (international non-US) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic/international) – Calgary (YYC)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (all flights) – Regina (YQR)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (all flights) – Saskatoon (YXE)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Halifax (YHZ)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (all flights) – St. Johns (YYT)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (Terminal 6) – Los Angeles (LAX)
• Maple Leaf Lounge (Terminal B) – New York LaGuardia (LGA)

It’s a very limited network, but there’s one for every type of flight (domestic, US transborder, international) at Air Canada’s major hubs like Montréal and Toronto, as well as most Canadian airports.

Having to travel with Air Canada or a Star Alliance member is also quite a bit more restrictive. But if you often travel with them, the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card may be more appropriate, but otherwise, the previous one really is the best though.

Most Maple Leaf lounges are very good, with a menu of hot meals that you can order à la carte from your cell phone, at least in bigger airports (like Montréal and Toronto). You can also visit lounges after landing for an extra meal, snacks, and drinks!

 

(Note that you don’t need a business to have the “business” version, the American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card, which has the same lounge access and a slightly more straightforward welcome bonus structure if you prefer!)

 

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card

TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	≈ $ 775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Welcome bonus (after $7.5k min. spend): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on 7.5k min. spend: 10,313 pts (≈ $155) Anniversary bonus (after another $4.5k in spend): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Earn on another 4.5k in spend: 6,188 pts (≈ $93) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$599) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation Credit: for NEXUS ($100) Rewards: ≈ $1374* Card fee: $599	ends May 28th min. income: $150k (or $200k household)
	spend $12000 in 12 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. TD is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

TD® Aeroplan® Visa* Infinite Privilege* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	≈ $ 775Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1st purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $300) Welcome bonus (after $7.5k min. spend): 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on 7.5k min. spend: 10,313 pts (≈ $155) Anniversary bonus (after another $4.5k in spend): 35,000 pts (≈ $525) Earn on another 4.5k in spend: 6,188 pts (≈ $93) Card fee (year 1): deducted (-$599) Card fee (year 2): deducted (-$599) Also offered but not included in Valuation Credit: for NEXUS ($100)
minimum income required: $150k (or $200k household) ends May 28th	Rewards: ≈ $1374* Card fee: $599 spend $12000 in 12 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. TD is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

 

Same lounge access as the previous card, but with 6 annual passes for DragonPass lounges as well.

Scotiabank Platinum Card

Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	$ 161Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($500) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($60) Card fee: deducted (-$399) Additional bonus also offered (not included in Flytrippers Valuation) 10,000 pts ($100) if you spend another $7,000 in 14 months Rewards: $560* Card fee: $399	ends April 30th minimum income required: $12k
	spend $3000 in 3 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Scotia is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	$ 161Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 50,000 pts ($500) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($60) Card fee: deducted (-$399) Additional bonus also offered (not included in Flytrippers Valuation) 10,000 pts ($100) if you spend another $7,000 in 14 months
minimum income required: $12k ends April 30th	Rewards: $560* Card fee: $399 spend $3000 in 3 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Scotia is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

It’s the one with the most passes, 10.

It’s also 1 of only 2 (along with the CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card below it) that are available to people earning less than $60,000 a year (in addition to the 5 cards issued by American Express of course). You must earn $12,000 for this one.

How airport lounge access works with the Scotiabank Platinum Card:

• 10 passes included
• Many VIP lounges around the world
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport lounges accessible with the Scotiabank Platinum Card:

• 1300+ Priority Pass VIP lounges worldwide
• 100+ Plaza Premium lounges with a strong presence in Canada

We can’t list them all, but here are the ones in Canada at least:

• Air France lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• VIP Lounge by Club Med (all flights) – Québec (YQB)
• Aspire Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Air France / KLM Lounge (international non-USAT3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• SkyTeam Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• WestJet Elevation Lounge (domestic) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (international non-US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)

Having 10 passes is definitely better than 6 or 4 on other cards, the Scotiabank Platinum Card is perfect for those who don’t want unlimited access but still travel a bit.

It’s also 1 of only 2 (along with the lower priced Scotia Passport Visa Infinite) that don’t charge a 2.5% foreign currency transaction fee. It’s a pretty major savings for anything you buy while traveling (though it’s less accepted outside of Canada and the US by being on the American Express network – Scotia is the only bank other than Amex that issues cards on the Amex network).

As mentioned, it’s the best if you leave the Calgary domestic terminal often.

American Express Gold Card

American Express® Gold Rewards Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	≈ $ 930Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($100) Card fee: deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($50) Rewards: ≈ $1180* Card fee: $250	minimum income required: $0
	spend $1000/mo for 12 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Amex is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

American Express® Gold Rewards Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	≈ $ 930Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 60,000 pts (≈ $900) Earn on min. spend: 12,000 pts (≈ $180) Annual credit: can be cashed out ($100) Card fee: deducted (-$250) Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit ($50)
minimum income required: $0	Rewards: ≈ $1180* Card fee: $250 spend $1000/mo for 12 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Amex is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

 

If you don’t want a premium card, this is the only one that has no minimum income at all (a few others have low ones though).

How airport lounge access works with the American Express Gold Card:

• Only 14 Plaza Premium lounges in Canada
• Only 4 passes per year
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport lounges accessible with the American Express Gold Card:

• Air France Lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montréal (YUL) 
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international) – Winnipeg (YWG)

It’s more limited, so it’s obviously not the main benefit of this card. 

I tried out the brand new Air France Lounge in Montréal in May 2022 and it’s phenomenal, so if you’re planning to fly internationally from Montréal, it’s going to give you access to a really nice lounge!

 

(Note that the “business” version, the American Express Business Gold Card, doesn’t have the same lounge access, unlike the business versions of the other Amex cards with lounge access!)

National Bank^® World Elite Mastercard^®

National Bank® World Elite Mastercard®
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	≈ $ 750Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Insurance bonus: 10,000 pts ($100) Travel extras credit (2023): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Travel extras credit (2024): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts ($50) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional renewal bonus of 30,000 pts ($300) if you spend another $7,000 in the first 12 months Rewards: ≈ $750* Card fee: $0 $150	ends June 30th min. income: $80k (or $150k household)
	spend $5000 in 3 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. NBC is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

National Bank® World Elite Mastercard®
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	≈ $ 750Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Insurance bonus: 10,000 pts ($100) Travel extras credit (2023): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Travel extras credit (2024): varies by traveler* (≈ $150) Earn on min. spend: 5,000 pts ($50) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional renewal bonus of 30,000 pts ($300) if you spend another $7,000 in the first 12 months
minimum income required: $80k (or $150k household) ends June 30th	Rewards: ≈ $750* Card fee: $0 $150 spend $5000 in 3 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. NBC is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

It’s the most unique: it’s unlimited access… but only to 1 airport VIP lounge. And it has a minimum income of $80,000 (or $150,000 in household income).

How airport lounge access works with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard:

• Unlimited access, no limit on the number of visits
• Only 1 VIP lounge in Montreal
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport lounges accessible with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard:

• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)

It’s especially interesting if you often fly from Montreal to international destinations (excluding the United States) and you don’t want to have access to anything else for some reason!

The National Bank World Elite Mastercard also has the highest welcome bonus apart from premium Aeroplan cards, with ≈ $750 in value.

Scotia Passport Visa Infinite

Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	$ 320Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 2,000 pts ($20) Card fee: 1st year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus Rewards: $320* Card fee: $0 $150	ends April 30th min. income: $60k (or $100k household)
	spend $1000 in 3 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Scotia is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	$ 320Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($300) Earn on min. spend: 2,000 pts ($20) Card fee: 1st year free (-$0) Also offered but not included in Valuation: additional spend bonus
minimum income required: $60k (or $100k household) ends April 30th	Rewards: $320* Card fee: $0 $150 spend $1000 in 3 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. Scotia is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

Let’s move on to a card that offers 6 passes. This one has a minimum income of $60,000 per year (or $100,000 in family income).

How airport lounge access works with the Scotia Passport Visa Infinite Card:

• 6 passes included
• Many VIP lounges around the world
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport lounges accessible with the Scotia Passport Visa Infinite Card:

• 1300+ DragonPass VIP lounges worldwide

We can’t list them all, but here are the ones in Canada at least:

• Air France lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• VIP Lounge by Club Med (all flights) – Québec (YQB)
• Aspire Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Air France / KLM Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• SkyTeam Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Aspire Lounge (US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (international non-US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)

It’s by far the most affordable of the 6-pass cards. But it’s also the most interesting since, as mentioned, it’s one of the only 2 cards that don’t charge a 2.5% foreign currency transaction fee (along with the Scotiabank Platinum Card). 

The current welcome bonus of the Scotia Passport Visa Infinite Card is quite low though.

CIBC Aventura^® Gold Visa^* Card

CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	≈ $ 492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50) Rewards: ≈ $492* Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents)	limited time min. income: $15k (or $15k household)
	spend $1000 in 4 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. CIBC is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	≈ $ 492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50)
minimum income required: $15k (or $15k household) limited time	Rewards: ≈ $492* Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) spend $1000 in 4 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. CIBC is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

Let’s move on to the card that is the most interesting for those who travel less and earn less than $60,000 per year: this one gives 4 passes and you just need to earn $15,000 per year.

It’s impossible to send you directly to the page, so if you want to apply, you have to scroll down and select the CIBC Aventura^® Gold Visa^* Card at the bottom of the CIBC page.

How airport lounge access works with the CIBC Aventura^® Gold Visa^* Card:

• 4 passes included
• Multiple VIP lounges worldwide
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport lounges accessible with the CIBC Aventura^® Gold Visa^* Card:

• 1300+ DragonPass VIP lounges worldwide

We can’t possibly list them all, but here are the ones in Canada at least:

• Air France lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• VIP Lounge by Club Med (all flights) – Québec (YQB)
• Aspire Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Air France / KLM Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• SkyTeam Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Aspire Lounge (US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (International non-US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)

Like the 3 Amex cards with special offers, the CIBC Aventura^® Gold Visa^* Card also offers a credit towards a NEXUS card to skip almost any travel line for free, one of the best pro tricks around. It’s for just 1 person though.

The current welcome bonus is pretty much at an all time low though.

CIBC Aventura^® Visa Infinite^* Card

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	≈ $ 492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50) Rewards: ≈ $492* Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents)	limited time min. income: $60k (or $100k household)
	spend $1000 in 4 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. CIBC is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	≈ $ 492Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus (after 1 purchase): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Welcome bonus (after min. spend): 20,000 pts (≈ $240) Earn on min. spend: 1,000 pts (≈ $12) Card fee: first year annual fee rebate Also offered but not included in Valuation: NEXUS credit (US$50)
minimum income required: $60k (or $100k household) limited time	Rewards: ≈ $492* Card fee: showFee: $139 (first year annual fee rebated)† Annual Interest Rate (purchases): 20.99%† Annual Interest Rate (balance transfer): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) Annual Interest Rate (cash advance): 22.99%†, 21.99%† (for Québec residents) spend $1000 in 4 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. CIBC is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

It’s the same as the previous one, but it’s the version for those who earn more than 60 000$ per year (or 100 000$ in family income). It also gives 4 passes, everything is pretty much the same on the airport VIP lounges, just with some more advantages on the card.

How airport lounge access works with the CIBC Aventura^® Visa Infinite^* Card:

• 4 passes included
• Many VIP lounges worldwide
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport VIP lounges accessible with the CIBC Aventura^® Visa Infinite^* Card:

• 1300+ DragonPass VIP lounges worldwide

We can’t possibly list them all, but here are the ones in Canada at least:

• Air France lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• VIP Lounge by Club Med (all flights) – Québec (YQB)
• Aspire Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Air France / KLM Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• SkyTeam Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Aspire Lounge (US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (international non-US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)

The CIBC Aventura^® Visa Infinite^* Card also offers a credit for a NEXUS card to skip almost any travel line for free, one of the best pro tricks in the book. It’s for just 1 person though.

The current welcome bonus is pretty much at an all time low though.

BMO Ascend^TM* World Elite^®* MasterCard^®*

BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®*
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	$ 240Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($40) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Additional monthly spend bonus also offered Rewards: $240* Card fee: $0 $150	min. income: $80k (or $150k household)
	spend $3000 in 3 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

BMO Ascend™ World Elite®* MasterCard®*
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	$ 240Flytrippers Valuation Welcome bonus: 30,000 pts ($200) Earn on min. spend: 6,000 pts ($40) Card fee: first year free (-$0) Additional monthly spend bonus also offered
minimum income required: $80k (or $150k household)	Rewards: $240* Card fee: $0 $150 spend $3000 in 3 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

This card also has 4 passes, but is a little more restrictive: it has a minimum income of $80,000 per year (or $150,000 in family income).

How airport lounge access works with the BMO Ascend^TM* World Elite^®* MasterCard^®*:

• 4 passes included
• Multiple VIP lounges worldwide
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport VIP lounges accessible with the BMO Ascend^TM* World Elite^®* MasterCard^®*:

• 1300+ DragonPass VIP lounges worldwide

Of course, we can’t list them all, but here are the ones in Canada at least:

• Air France Lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• VIP Lounge by Club Med (all flights) – Québec (YQB)
• Aspire Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Air France / KLM Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Salon Plaza Premium (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• SkyTeam Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Aspire Lounge (US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (international non-US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)

The BMO Ascend^TM* World Elite^®* MasterCard^®* welcome bonus offer is slightly higher than other cards that give 4 or 6 passes, with $240 in net value. Nothing fancy. 

This card has just been renamed the BMO World Elite Mastercard.

BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege^* Card

BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)	APPLY NOW >
	$ 354Flytrippers 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 (-$499) Additional annual spend bonus also offered Rewards: $853* Card fee: $499	min. income: $150k (or $200k household)
	spend $6000 in 3 months	LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
	Flytrippers Valuation of Welcome bonus (net value)
	$ 354Flytrippers 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 (-$499) Additional annual spend bonus also offered
minimum income required: $150k (or $200k household)	Rewards: $853* Card fee: $499 spend $6000 in 3 months
APPLY NOW >
LEARN MORE
Terms and conditions apply. Flytrippers editorial opinion only. BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click "Apply Now" to see most up-to-date information.

Here is another card that has 6 passes, but is the most restrictive of all: it has a minimum income of $150,000 per year (or else $200,000 in family income).

How airport lounge access works with the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card:

• 6 passes included
• Many VIP lounges worldwide
• Access regardless of airline or flight type
• Access regardless of whether you pay for the flight with your card

Airport VIP lounges accessible with the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege^* Card:

• 1300+ DragonPass VIP lounges worldwide

We can’t list them all, but here are the ones in Canada at least:

• Air France lounge by Plaza Premium (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• National Bank Lounge (international non-US) – Montreal (YUL)
• VIP Lounge by Club Med (all flights) – Québec (YQB)
• Aspire Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Ottawa (YOW)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T1) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Air France / KLM Lounge (international non-US T3) – Toronto (YYZ)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic B) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic C) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• SkyTeam Lounge (international non-US) – Vancouver (YVR)
• Aspire Lounge (US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Aspire Lounge (international non-US) – Calgary (YYC)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (domestic/international non-US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium Lounge (US) – Edmonton (YEG)
• Plaza Premium (domestic/international non-US) – Winnipeg (YWG)

If you’re one of those who qualifies for this one, the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege^* Card welcome bonus offer is pretty sweet, with $354 in net worth. That’s a pretty good deal for having 6 VIP lounge passes. 

Being a Visa Infinite Privilege card, there are other benefits for those who love luxury travel.

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