If you’re a frequent traveller, you can earn points or miles towards flights and upgrades.
Some of the biggest airlines in Canada, such as WestJet, have cobranded credit cards. While not every airline in Canada has a cobranded credit card, there are plenty of general travel cards out there that are suitable for every type of traveller. To help you determine which card is right for you, we’ve compared some airline credit cards below.
Compare airline credit cards
Some airlines offer cobranded credit cards with airline-specific perks. If you fly with different carriers, you might like a general travel card instead that offers Air Miles, Aeroplan Miles or rewards points that can be used toward flights and travel experiences.
How to choose the best airline credit card to meet your needs
- Decide if you want a general or cobranded card.
- A general card can be effective if you fly with different airlines. Depending on the provider, you may be able to transfer your points or miles to partner airlines. This gives you a lot of flexibility that you wouldn’t get with a cobranded card.
- If you’re loyal to a certain airline and they offer a card, you might like a cobranded card. You probably shouldn’t get the card for its rewards, as you’ll often find stronger points or miles from a general card. However, the cobranded credit card might offer airline-specific perks such as priority boarding, free checked baggage and access to the airline’s lounges.
- Think about how much you want to pay.
- Airline credit cards usually have an annual fee. Fees tend to range from $79 to $120 annually.
- If you’re looking for a general travel credit card, it’s possible to find a no annual fee card. That said, the best travel credit cards typically have annual fees as high as $700, although some will be more reasonably priced at $150 annually.
- Apply for the card.
- Before applying, be sure you meet the eligibility requirements.
- You’ll need information like your full name, contact details, Social Insurance Number (SIN), date of birth, annual income and employment information.
- Wait for your card.
- Many credit card providers will give you a decision on your application immediately. If a provider needs to review your application manually, it may take a few days to a few weeks to hear back.
- If you’re approved, look for your card in the mail within seven to ten days.
Read more about airline credit cards
Bottom line
If you want to earn flexible points or miles on flights, consider a general travel credit card. If you’re loyal to a certain airline and they offer a card, you might prefer to choose a cobranded card.
Not sure if an airline credit card is right for you? Check out our guide to travel credit cards for more options.
