Travel credit cards in Canada do more than just earn points or miles on everyday purchases. With the right card, you can unlock a suite of travel perks with a credit card to make your journeys more comfortable and more affordable. From generous sign-up bonuses to airport lounge access and travel credits, credit card perks can help you save money and time when you travel.
Here are some of the top travel perks to look for when choosing a travel credit card. Learn how each can enhance your travel experience.
Many credit cards offer a sign-up bonus, also called a welcome bonus, as an incentive for new cardholders. The bonus is usually offered as cash back, points or miles and can be a great way to put money in your pocket or help you fund an upcoming trip.
To qualify for the bonus, you usually need to meet a minimum spending requirement within a set period of time. For example, you might be able to earn travel points worth $900 if you spend $3,000 or more in the first four months.
If you’re a frequent flyer, you might want a travel credit card that offers access to airport lounges. Airport lounges give you a quiet place to relax, catch up on emails or grab a snack before your next flight. Having access to the airport lounge can make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
Some travel credit cards in Canada offer airport lounge access as a perk. How you use this benefit will vary between cards. Some premium cards offer access to a global network of lounges, while co-branded cards may only provide access to partner lounges. Note that some cards may offer only a limited number of complimentary passes, but some may also include guest passes for your travel companion.
A travel credit is a perk that can help you offset some of your travel-related expenses. Depending on the travel credit card you choose, there are several credits to consider, including:
Some travel credit cards offer a NEXUS fee rebate. NEXUS is designed to expedite border crossings between Canada and the United States for travellers who undergo a pre-screening process. A NEXUS membership costs $120 (USD) and is valid for five years.1
Some premium credit cards may offer to waive the fee on your first checked bag, giving you one less carry-on to worry about. This benefit may also extend to travel companions.
Some card issuers may offer other credits, like an annual travel credit that you can use to book flights or hotels. To take advantage of this perk, you typically have to book through the issuer’s travel portal. Other cards offer perks like priority check-in, priority boarding or no foreign transaction fees.
With travel insurance, you can protect yourself and your belongings when you travel. Credit card travel insurance can also help you save money, as travel insurance policies can be an expensive purchase.
Before you book a flight, hotel or vacation package, check to see if your card offers insurance. You may receive coverage for things like lost luggage, delayed flights or other interruptions. Some premium credit cards even offer insurance for rental car damage, emergency medical coverage or costs associated with accidental death.
Many travel credit cards offer a complimentary concierge service. You can ask for personalized recommendations on where to stay, what to see and what to do while on vacation. Or ask the concierge to help you score a reservation at one of the top restaurants in the area. It’s an easy way to outsource tasks so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Travel credit cards may also provide bonus rewards when you use them to make purchases in certain categories, like hotel stays or dining. Finding a card that aligns with your spending habits can help you boost your earnings.
To make the most of your travel credit card perks, start by finding a credit card that matches your travel needs and everyday spending habits. Next, make sure you understand all the perks you’re eligible for. You can review your cardholder agreement for a list of benefits. From sign-up bonuses to airport lounge access, travel credits, and insurance, there are many ways the right credit card can make travel more pleasant and affordable.
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