Is your goal to compare travel credit cards so you can travel peacefully anywhere, knowing you are saving on all your purchases? Here is the article that helps you compare the options in 05 minutes.
When deciding to compare travel credit cards, you will quickly realize that the right option is one that offers more than just miles. The right option should offer cashback, discounts, and much more.
In this article, you will be able to compare travel credit cards, all based on objective data. We will compare the fees and advantages of the options. Keep reading and you will know what each of the best travel cards has to offer. This way, you can choose your card.
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Objective Analysis of Travel Credit Cards
1. American Express Cobalt® Card (Compare travel credit cards)
The American Express Cobalt® Card redefined rewards programs in Canada and deserves initial highlight. This is also a credit card with travel insurance benefits.
Designed to capture the millennial segment, its earning structure has made it the indispensable financial tool for any serious traveler.
Analysis indicates that this card offers the highest return on spending for everyday expenses in the market.
The Cobalt’s cost structure is charged monthly to lower the barrier to entry, totaling about $155.88 annually.
As a rule, the interest rate for purchases is 21.99%, applying if the full balance is not paid off by the due date. The potential value in the first year can reach $1,221 CAD, considering organic accumulation.
Its appeal lies in the 5x points multiplier on food and drinks. This is equivalent to a return of almost 15% when transferred to airline partners.
Unlike average cards, points are transferable on a 1-to-1 basis to programs like Aeroplan and British Airways Avios, allowing for high-value redemptions.
2. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite is one of the few cards that eliminates the 2.5% foreign transaction fee.
This feature, combined with robust lounge access, makes it essential for the frequent international traveler.
The $150 annual fee is waived in the first year for premium package account holders. Furthermore, the card offers a minimum interest-free payment period of 21 days for new purchases.
The foreign exchange fee exemption represents significant direct savings.
For a family spending $5,000 on a trip to the US, the savings are $125, almost covering the annual fee.
Additionally, the card includes six complimentary VIP lounge visits per year through Visa Airport Companion, a volume above the category average.
Moreover, the comprehensive travel medical insurance covers up to $2 million for 25 days for those under 65.
You will also earn accelerated Scene+ points at Empire group networks, such as Sobeys and Safeway. In addition to offering advantages such as the Visa Infinite Concierge service and Avis Preferred Plus status.
3. TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite (Compare travel credit cards)
For the traveler loyal to Air Canada, the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite is the logical choice. Acting as an extension of the company’s elite status.
As a rule, the annual fee is $139 and interest rates are 21.99%, the potential value in the first year can reach $1,450 CAD.
Its main benefit is the first checked bag free for the cardholder and up to eight companions on the same reservation.
You will also have cancellation and trip interruption insurance of up to $1,500 per person and medical insurance of $2 million for the first 21 days.
An important differentiator is the NEXUS fee rebate of up to $100 every 48 months.
The card allows you to accumulate 1.5 Aeroplan points per dollar spent directly with the airline and at gas stations.
4. RBC Avion Visa Infinite
The RBC Avion focuses on the simplicity of any flight, any airline, and fixed redemption tables.
As a rule, the annual fee is $120 and the interest rate is 20.99%. Furthermore, the system allows points to be redeemed for flights based on fixed zones and maximum ticket value. Being extremely valuable during peak season when cash prices skyrocket.
Avion points can be transferred to British Airways Avios, Cathay Pacific, and WestJet Rewards, often with transfer promotions that increase the value.
By linking the card to the Petro-Points program, you instantly save 3 cents per liter of fuel.
Furthermore, the card also offers mobile device insurance of up to $1,500 and essential travel protections.
5. BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard (Compare travel credit cards)
While Visa dominates with the Infinite category, BMO bets on Mastercard’s World Elite category to offer slightly superior benefits in lounge access.
The annual fee is $150, with a personal income requirement of $80,000 or a family income of $150,000.
You should know that the BMO Ascend World includes four complimentary VIP lounge passes annually, with a real value of approximately $200.
Moreover, travel medical insurance covers up to $2 million and stands out for stable coverage for pre-existing conditions.
An exclusive benefit is unlimited access to over 1 million Boingo Wi-Fi hotspots around the world, keeping the traveler connected without roaming costs.
The card doubles the manufacturer’s original warranty period for up to one additional year for purchased items and offers purchase protection for 90 days.
Additionally, BMO Rewards points offer flexibility to pay for travel costs or invest in financial products.
6. American Express Platinum
The Platinum Card is more than a credit card; in fact, it is a charge card designed for the luxury lifestyle.
With the highest annual fee on the market, $799, it offers unlimited access to the Global Lounge Collection, including the luxurious Centurion Lounges.
Furthermore, the potential value of the welcome bonus can exceed $2,000 CAD if transferred strategically.
The card offers an annual travel credit of $200 and an annual dining credit of $200, effectively reducing the cost of the annual fee.
Finally, access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program allows for special rates with complimentary breakfast and guaranteed late checkout.
Comparative Table of Travel Credit Cards
The following table presents the essential data so you can compare travel credit cards with mathematical precision.
| Card | Annual Fee | Interest (Purchases) | Interest (Cash Advance) | Minimum Income (Personal/Family) |
| Amex Cobalt | $155.88 ($12.99/mo) | 21.99% | 21.99% | ~ $12k |
| Scotiabank Passport VI | $150 | 20.99% | 22.99% | $60k / $100k |
| TD Aeroplan VI | $139 | 21.99% | 22.99% | $60k / $100k |
| RBC Avion VI | $120 | 20.99% | 22.99% | $60k / $100k |
| BMO Ascend WE | $150 | 20.99% | 23.99% | $80k / $150k |
| Amex Platinum | $799 | N/A (Charge) | 21.99% | N/A |
| Scotia Gold Amex | $120 | 20.99% | 22.99% | $12k |
| Rogers Red WE | $0 | 20.99-25.99% | 22.99-27.99% | $80k / $150k |
| CIBC Aeroplan VI | $139 | 20.99% | 22.99% | $60k / $100k |
| Marriott Bonvoy Amex | $120 | 21.99% | 21.99% | N/A |
Conclusion
Travel cards offer options for those who know how to choose.
The American Express Cobalt reigns supreme in point accumulation. While the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite is the essential defense against exchange fees.
For families flying Air Canada, the TD Aeroplan offers unbeatable operational savings.
If you are ready to elevate your travel standard. Analyze your lifestyle, see where you want to travel, and choose the most suitable card for where you intend to go.
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