Canada's Top Travel Rewards Credit Cards for 2020
Welcome
to Rewards Canada's 12th annual Canada's Top Travel Rewards Credit
Cards feature.
Canada's original travel rewards credit card rankings!
2020 will be a big year for travel rewards credit and charge cards. With the anticipated update to Aeroplan from Air Canada this summer we are seeing card issuers up their game with better limited time sign up offers to acquire customers and trying to hold their own against whatever Air Canada may reveal. Ever since the whole Aeroplan saga began in 2017 we've been saying it will be good for the consumer as the competition will heat up and that is really appears to be the case in the world of credit card rewards. There aren't any huge changes to the list for 2020 as it is the calm before the storm. We highly anticipate the 2021 rankings looking quite different!
This year we've updated the format of the rankings page - we're pretty much getting straight into them without our whole classification and reasoning process listed here. It's a short story in it's own right and we still have it, just on another page. You can read the factors behind the ranking details right here. If your not interested in that, great!
Want to learn more? Listen to the Rewards Canada Podcast Episode 64 where we go into details for the 2020 rankings!
Without further ado here are the rankings:
Top 5 Cards Overall |
 |
NEW LIMITED TIME INCREASED WELCOME BONUS OF 45,000 POINTS!
Apply by May 5, 2021
Taking the top spot for the third year in a row the American Express Cobalt card has competitors clawing at it but its unmatched value and flexibility keeps this card on top. The card provides up to a 5% return towards any travel bookings, up to a 10% return if you utilize Amex's Fixed Points for Travel program and you can convert the points to hotel programs like Marriott Bonvoy which can then in turn be transferred to over 40 airline loyalty programs. Like we said - it is unmatched in providing value and flexibility to such a wide range of Canadian travellers! |
2nd |
Now running in the shadows of the Cobalt Card, this long time front running card still provides the utmost in travel rewards flexibility with a nice sign up bonus of 25,000 points, strong insurance and more. You may ask why get the Gold Rewards Card over the Cobalt Card? The direct conversion to Aeroplan or British Airways and if you spend lots on travel or at drug stores are the main reasons why. |
3rd |
WestJet's continued expansion sees more and more destinations that you can use your WestJet dollars to fly to. Plus you can redeem your dollars for flights on Air France, Delta, KLM, and Qantas to almost all corners of the globe. Add in benefits like the annual companion flight, first checked bag free and lots more and you can see why this card is one of the best in Canada. |
4th |
This is the card the Rewards Canada family pulls out of our wallets for purchases where we don't earn bonuses with other cards. The two Bonvoy points per dollar are worth at least 2 cents but in many cases can be worth much more than that. Add in the free night stay on the card anniversary and the ability to convert to 40+ airline frequent flyer programs at favourable rates makes this card a travellers dream. |
5th |
Still one of the most popular cards in Canada, the Avion card provides a high level of flexibility but you do have to know how to work this card to pull the maximum value out of it. Lots of its competitors are easier to use but by having the option to book any travel or convert points to airlines like British Airways, Cathay Pacific, American and WestJet make this a top 5 card overall. |
Expanded details for the top 5 cards in each category
Click on 'Show All' to the right to see the five cards in each category
What is a Travel Points Credit Card?
A Travel Points Credit Card earns points that can be used to book
travel via that credit cards travel agency, associated reward program
or select cards give you the ability to book travel how you want and use those
points towards the charge on your account
|

Scotia Gold American Express Card |
Scotia Gold American Express Card
Annual Fee $120 Additional Cards: $29
• Earn 25,000 bonus Scotia Rewards points with your first $1,000 in everyday purchases in first 3 months†
• Earn 5 Scotia Rewards points forevery $1 you spend at eligible grocery stores, dining and entertainment
• Earn 3 Scotia Rewards points for every $1 you spend at eligible gas stations, daily transit, and select streaming services
• Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend on all other eligible everyday purchases
• Complimentary Concierge Services 24/7
• Amex exclusive benefits (Front Of The Line)
• Rates, fees, offers and other information are effective as of Nov 1, 2020. Subject to change.
• Use your points to purchase travel online or over the phone through our full-service travel agency. Or book your own travel using your card and go online to redeem points for the purchase.
•
Receive discounts and other special offers on hotels, airfare, car rentals, cruises and vacation packages.
•
Low price airfare alerts
•
Receive up to 25% off qualifying car rentals
•
Travel emergency medical coverage is automatically provided for eligible persons for up to 25 consecutive days
• Redeem points for merchandise and other rewards 
|
|
2019: 2
2018: 1
2017: 2
2016: 3
2015: 3
2014: 3
2013: 2
2012: N/A
2011: N/A
2010: N/A |

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card |
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card
Annual Fee: $139 Additional Cards: $0 for first card $50 for each additional
Minimum Income $60,000
• Earn up to 30,000 bonus Scotia Rewards points in your first year (that’s up to $350 towards travel )‡
• Earn 2x Scotia Rewards® points on every $1 you spend on eligible grocery stores, dining, entertainment purchases and daily transit purchases (including buses, subways, taxis and more)
• Enjoy no FX Mark-up
• Enjoy Complimentary Airport Lounge Access, plus 6 free lounge visits per year
• Rates, fees and other information are effective as of Nov 1, 2020. Subject to change.

|
|
2019: 1 |

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card |
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
Annual Fee $120 Additional Cards (Up to 3): $50
Annual interest rate 19.99%† on purchases and 22.99%† on cash advances
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household annual income †
Welcome Offer: Welcome Offer: Join and get up to 20,000 points† (up to $400 in travel value† ) Plus, get a first year annual fee rebate†
Here’s How:
• Get 15,000 Aventura Points when you make your first purchase†
• Get 5,000 bonus Aventura Points when you spend $3,000 or more during the first 4 monthly statement periods †
• 2 points for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
• 1.5 points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drug stores†
• 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases†
Plus, enjoy extra valuable travel benefits†

†Conditions Apply |
|
2019: 4
2018: 5
2017: 5
2016: 5
2015: 5
2014: 5
2013: N/A
2012: N/A
2011: N/A
2010: 2 in Hybrid |
|
2019: 3
2018: 3
2017: 3
2016: 2
2015: 1
2014: 2
2013: 5
2012: 4
2011: 3
2010: 3 |

TD® First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card |
TD® First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card
Annual Fee: $120 Additional Cards: $502
Annual interest rate 19.99% on purchases and 22.99% on funds advances
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household annual income
Apply by May 30, 2021 to get a full Annual Fee Rebate1 for the Primary and Additional Cardholders for the first year and up to 60,000 TD Points1 (a travel value of $300 when you book travel purchases through ExpediaForTD.com+) as follows:
Welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Points when you make your first Purchase with your Card1.
+
40,000 TD Points when you spend $1,500 within 90 days of Account opening1.
To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening.
• Redeem TD Points for travel and travel-related purchases3
• Also redeem4 TD Points for retail merchandise and gift cards, or for a cash credit to your Account
• No travel blackouts5, no seat restrictions5 and no expiry6 for your TD Points
• An extensive suite of travel insurance
• Earn 9 TD Points9 when you book travel online through Expedia® For TD8
• Earn 3 TD Points for every $1 you spend on Purchases made using your Card10
• Your TD Points don’t expire as long as you are a TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite* Cardholder

This offer is not available for residents of Quebec. For Quebec residents, please click here.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button.
+ Every 200 TD Points redeemed are worth $1 in travel savings off the cost of Travel Purchases made through Expedia For TD. Redemptions can only be made in 200 TD Points increments.
1 Must apply by May 30, 2021. Welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD points will be awarded to the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* ("Account") only after the first Purchase is made on the Account. For Residents outside of Quebec: To receive the additional 40,000 TD points, you must make $1,500 in Purchases on your Account, including your first Purchase, within 90 days of Account opening. For Quebec Residents only: To receive the additional 40,000 TD points, you must keep your Account open, active and in good standing for 90 days after Account opening. For all Accounts: Rebate of the Annual Fee is only for the first year for the Primary Cardholder and the 1st Additional Cardholder added to the Account. To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening. To receive the 1st Additional Cardholder Annual Fee Rebate you must add your first Additional Cardholder by January 18, 2021. Annual Fee Rebate will be applied within 2 monthly statements from the date of the statement with the first Annual Fee charge. The Primary Cardholder is responsible for all charges to the Account, including those made by any Additional Cardholder. Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated. This offer is not available customers who have activated and/or closed a TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Account in the last 6 months. We reserve the right to limit the number of Accounts opened by and the number of TD points awarded to any one person.
2 Primary Cardholder remains liable for all charges to the Account, including those made by any Additional Cardholder.
3 Every 200 TD Points redeemed are worth $1 in travel savings off the cost of Travel Purchases made through Expedia For TD. Redemptions can only be made in 200 TD Points increments
4 The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its affiliates are not liable or responsible for the products, goods or services offered or made available by third party retailers through tdrewards.com
5 Subject to carrier/space availability.
6 TD Points do not expire as long as you are a Cardholder.
7 TD Points must be redeemed in minimum 200-point increments for travel Purchases charged to your Card that are booked online or by phone through Expedia For TD. For travel Purchases charged to your Card that are not booked through Expedia For TD, TD Points must be redeemed in minimum increments of 200 or 250 TD Points as fully explained in the TD Travel Rewards Program Terms and Conditions ("Travel Terms") contained in the TD Travel Credit Cardholder Agreement for your Card. The Travel Terms are available on tdcanadatrust.com/agreements. We can decrease the required minimum TD Point redemption increment at any time. To redeem TD Points for travel Purchases charged to your Card that are not booked through Expedia For TD, Cardholder must contact the TD Travel Rewards Program or visit www.tdrewards.com after the travel Purchase has been posted to the Account and within 90 days from the transaction date of the travel Purchase. The required TD Points will be redeemed from the TD Points balance available at the time the TD Points are redeemed for the travel Purchase, not the transaction date of the travel Purchase. The amount that will be credited toward the travel Purchase will be equal to the value of the TD Points redeemed. If there are insufficient TD Points available to cover the entire amount of the travel Purchase, the Account will only be credited by the value of the TD Points redeemed. Any amount of the travel Purchase not covered by the TD Points redeemed will remain on the Account for payment.
8 Expedia For TD is operated by Expedia, Inc. at www.tdrewards.com and 1-877-222-6492. The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its affiliates are not responsible for any of the services and products offered/provided by Expedia, Inc.
9 Earn 9 TD Points for every $1 in Purchases of travel made online through Expedia For TD ("Online Travel Purchases") and charged to the Account. Any returned items, refunds, rebates or other similar credits will reduce or cancel the TD Points earned on the original Online Travel Purchase. Fees, Cash Advances (including Balance Transfers, Cash-Like Transactions and TD Visa Cheques), interest charges, optional service, refunds, rebates or other similar credits do not earn TD Points. Other Conditions: Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer. Earn 6 TD Points for every $1 in Purchases of travel made by phone through Expedia For TD ("Phone Travel Purchases") and charged to the Account. Any returned items, refunds, rebates or other similar credits will reduce or cancel the TD Points earned on the original Phone Travel Purchase. Fees, Cash Advances (including Balance Transfers, Cash-Like Transactions and TD Visa Cheques), interest charges, optional service, refunds, rebates or other similar credits do not earn TD Points. Other Conditions: Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer.
10 Earn 3 TD Points ("Standard Rebate") on every $1 on all other Purchases ("Other Purchases") charged to the Account. Any returned items, refunds, rebates or other similar credits will reduce or cancel the TD Points earned on the original Purchase. Fees, Cash Advances (including Balance Transfers, Cash-Like Transactions and TD Visa Cheques), interest charges, optional service, refunds, rebates or other similar credits do not earn TD Points. Other Conditions : Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer.
All trade-marks are the property of their respective owners.
* Trademark of Visa International Service Association and used under license.
®The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. |
|
2019: 5
2018: 4
2017: 4
2016: 4
2015: 4
2014: 4
2013: 3
2012: 2
2011: 3 in Hybrid
2010: 3 in Hybrid |
See here for the rest of the travel rewards credit cards with an annual fee that were considered for this years rankings |
What is a No Fee Travel Rewards Credit Card?
A no fee travel rewards credit card can have any type of travel rewards attached to it (travel points, airline miles, coalition program etc.) and has no annual fees attached to it as a standard feature. This category does not include cards that may waive annual fees in the first year of ownership or if you hold specific bank accounts that provide fee waivers. |

MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus® Mastercard® |
MBNA Rewards Platinum Plus® Mastercard®
• 4 points†† for every $1 spent on eligible gas, groceries and restaurant purchases during the first 90 days, and 2 points‡ for every $1 spent on eligible gas, groceries and restaurant purchases thereafter ($5,000 annual cap on each category). 1 point‡ for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
• 5,000 bonus points†† after you make $500 or more in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening
• 5,000 bonus points†† once enrolled for paperless e-statements within the first 90 days of account opening
• Redeem points‡ for travel, cash back, brand-name merchandise, gift cards from participating retailers, and charitable donations
• Standard Annual Interest Rates of 19.99% on purchases, 22.99% on balance transfers✪ and access cheques, and 24.99% on cash advances
• No annual fee
• This offer is not available for residents of Quebec. For residents of Quebec, please click here.

Sponsored advertising. MBNA is a division of The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) and TD is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete information on this MBNA credit card, please click on the
Apply Now button.
‡ These are highlights of the credit card rewards program (the " Program ") associated with this credit card account. Points will be awarded on eligible transactions charged to your account as set out in the Program terms and conditions. You will earn two (2) points per dollar spent on eligible gas, grocery and restaurant purchases to a maximum annual amount of $5,000 in each category. Eligible purchases that are not eligible gas, grocery and restaurant purchases will earn a Base Earn Rate of one (1) point per dollar. The redemption rate for Points earned may differ depending on the redemption option chosen. Complete terms and conditions describing Program eligibility, accrual, earn limits, and redemption of Points, and other important conditions will be sent after your account is opened. Please read the terms and conditions carefully upon receipt.
†† To qualify for this offer, an applicant must be approved for the specific credit card account described in the offer. Welcome bonus of 5,000 points will be awarded if $500 in eligible Purchases are made on your Account within the first 90 days of account opening that are not subsequently rescinded, the subject of a charge back request(s) or otherwise disputed. In order to obtain a "Paperless Bonus" of 5,000 bonus points, you must enroll in online banking at www.mbna.ca and consent to Paperless Statements for the account within the first 90 days of account opening, and not subsequently rescind such enrollment throughout this period. For the double the points on gas, grocery and restaurant Purchases offer, for the first 90 days after account opening you will earn an additional 2 points/$1 spent on eligible gas, grocery and restaurant purchases (on top of the regular earn rate of 2 points/$1 spent on such purchases as indicated in the Program terms and conditions), subject to a maximum annual cap of $5,000 in each category. Please allow 8-10 weeks for the applicable bonus points to be posted to your points account. Limit one-time bonus point offer (no cash value) per new account for each bonus point offer. This offer is not available to residents of Quebec. This promotion is offered by MBNA and may be amended or cancelled at any time without notice.
✪ Balance transfers will be fulfilled in the order listed and are treated as balance transfers in accordance with your Account Agreement. The total value of balance transfers cannot exceed your authorized credit limit. If the value is greater, MBNA may send a partial payment to the named creditor/designated account. THERE WILL BE A TRANSACTION FEE EQUAL TO 1.00 % OF THE DOLLAR AMOUNT OF EACH BALANCE TRANSFER INITIATED WITH THIS APPLICATION. A MINIMUM FEE OF $7.50 WILL APPLY TO EACH BALANCE TRANSFER TRANSACTION. A balance transfer may not be used to pay off or down your account balance or any other balances with us (including our affiliates, which would include any member of the TD Bank Group).
The Toronto-Dominion Bank is the issuer of this credit card. MBNA is a division of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. |
|
2019: 1st
2018: 4th
2017: Out of the top 5 |
|
2019: 2
2018: 5
The following rankings were in the hotel category
2017: 3
2016: 3
2015: 4
2014: 5
2013: 5
2012: 4
2011: 4
2010: 3 |

CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card |
CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card
Annual Fee $0 Additional Cards (Up to 3): $0
Annual interest rate 19.99%† on purchases and 22.99%† on cash advances
$15,000 household annual income †
Join and get up to $100 in value for no annual fee†
· 1 point for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
· 1 point for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drug stores†
· 1 point for every $2 spent on all other purchases†

†Conditions Apply
|
|
2019: 3
2018: Not in the top 5 |
|
2019: Not in the top 5 |
|
2019: Not in the top 5
2018: Not in the top 5
2017: Not in the top 5
2016: 5
2015: 5
2014: 5
2013: 5 |
See here for the rest of the travel rewards credit cards with no annual fee that were considered for this years rankings |
What is a Hybrid Credit Card?
A Hybrid card is a combination of an airline and/or hotel card and a travel points card. You can convert your points to airline and/or hotel frequent travel programs or use the points to book travel via the credit card's travel agency or with some cards to book travel how you want and then redeem the points against the charge on your account |

American Express Cobalt™ Card

|
American Express Cobalt™ Card
• Apply now and you could earn up to 45,000 bonus points with the American Express Cobalt™ Card
• In your first year as a new Cobalt Cardmember, you can earn 2,500 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $500 in net purchases on your Card. This could add up to 30,000 points in a year
• 30,000 points is enough for:
• $300 in statement credits redeemed towards travel purchases charged to your Card or
• $225 in American Express® Prepaid Cards
• Plus, when you apply by May 5, 2021, you can earn a Welcome Bonus of 15,000 Membership Rewards® points when you spend a total of $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership • Earn 5x the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery • Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible transit & gas purchases in Canada and eligible travel purchases. That's 2X the points on purchases that get you from point A to B • Earn 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else. We won't tell you where to spend, we'll just reward you on your Card purchases
• Cobalt Cardmembers receive regular Perks such as bonus reward offers and access to great events • Access Front Of The Line® Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with American Express® Experiences • American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details, current product information and Terms and Conditions, click the Apply now link. Conditions Apply

|
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2019: 1
2018: 1 |

American Express® Gold Rewards Card |
American Express® Gold Rewards Card
Card Type: Charge
Annual Fee: $150
• New American Express® Gold Rewards Cardmembers can earn a Welcome Bonus of 25,000 Membership Rewards® points when you charge $1,500 in purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership • That's enough to redeem for a round-trip Fixed Mileage Flight Reward™ to almost anywhere in North America • Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drugstores in Canada • Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases for eligible travel purchases, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more • Earn 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else • Charge any eligible purchase to your Card then log in to redeem your points for a statement credit • Book flights within Canada or to destinations around the world for a fixed amount of points, with the Fixed Points Travel Program. You can book any airline, fly any day, and even book right up to a day before departure • 1 Free Additional Gold Rewards Card (a $50 value) to help you earn points faster • As a Charge Card, the balance must always be paid in full each month. 30% annual interest rate applies to balances not paid in full. Payments must be received and processed by the date of the next monthly statement to avoid interest charges • American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply
 |
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2019: 2
2018: 2
2017: 1
2016: 1
2015: 1
2014: 1
2013: 1
2012: 1
2011: 1
2010: N/A |

RBC
Visa Infinite Avion
 |
RBC Visa Infinite Avion
Annual Fee: $120 (First year free)
Additional Card Fee: $50
- Get 15,000 Welcome Points upon Approval + 5,000 more points when you spend $1,000 in the first three months
- Earn 25% more RBC Rewards points on travel related purchases
- Book flights, hotel stays, cruises, vacation packages, car rentals with RBC Rewards site, powered by Orbitz
- Transfer your RBC Rewards points towards other eligible loyalty programs (WestJet Rewards, British Airways Executive Club, American AAdvantage, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles. Look for the transfer bonuses to the airlines several times per year!)
- Premium suite of insurances including trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel medical, car rental insurance
- Redeem your points toward your credit card balance using Payback with Points
- Instantly save 3₵ per litre on fuel & earn 20% more Petro-Points§ and RBC Rewards points when you link your Petro-Points card to any RBC Card online.
- Up to a 2.3% return on your spending depending on which reward ticket you book
- Unwritten ability to redeem for Business Class tickets although at a lower rate of return when compared to the Avion Reward chart
 |
|
2019: 3
2018: 3
2017: 2
2016: 2
2015: 2
2014: 2
2013: 2
2012: 2
2011: 2
2010: 1 |

The
Platinum Card® |
The
Platinum Card®
Card Type: Charge
Annual Fee: $699 Additional Card Fee: $175 for Platinum, $50 for Gold
• Unlock special experiences with the Platinum Card
• New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 25,000 Welcome Bonus Membership Rewards® points when you charge $2,000 in purchases to your Card in the first three months of Cardmembership
• Earn 3 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
• You will have access to a $200 CAD Annual Travel Credit to use towards any single travel booking of $200 or more charged to your Platinum Card and made on www.americanexpress.ca/travel or through Platinum Card® Travel Service
• Take full advantage of the American Express Global Lounge Collection™ which unlocks access to over 1200 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience
• Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $550 USD at over 1,000 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels & Resorts
• Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities
• Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport including security bypass, complimentary valet car service and discount car care and parking
• You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts®, Radisson Hotel Group Hotels and Resorts, Hertz® and Avis®
• As a Charge Card, the balance must always be paid in full each month. 30% annual interest rate applies to balances not paid in full. Payments must be received and processed by the date of the next monthly statement to avoid interest charges
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply

|
|
2019: 5
2018: 4
2017: 3
2016: 3
2015: 3
2014: 3
2013: 3
2012: 3
2011: N/A
2010: N/A |

HSBC World Elite® Mastercard® |
HSBC World Elite® Mastercard®
Primary Cardholder Annual Fee: $149
Authorized User Annual Fee: $50 Per Card
Annual interest rate: 19.9% on purchases and 22.9% on funds advances
$80,000 personal or $150,000 household annual income
• Welcome Bonus of 20,000 Points ($100 in travel rewards)
• Earn 3% in travel rewards on all eligible travel purchases (6 Points per $1) and earn 1.5% in travel rewards on all other eligible purchases (3 Points per $1)
• No foreign transaction fees. Only the exchange rate will apply
• Enjoy maximum flexibility and redeem your Points on your terms for:
• Travel
• Gift cards and valuable merchandise
• Financial rewards
• Rewards for miles

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2019: 4 |
See here for the rest of the Hybrid travel rewards credit / charge cards with an annual fee that were considered for this years rankings |
What is an Airline Credit Card?
An airline credit card earns miles directly into that airline's frequent flyer program |
|
2019: 1
2018: 1
2017: 2
2016: 2
2015: 2
2014: 2
2013: 3
2012: 3
2011: 2
2010: 2 |
|
2019: 2
2018: 2
2017: 3
2016: 4
2015: 5
2014: Out of top 5
2013: Out of top 5
2012: Out of top 5
2011: Out of top 5
2010: 5 |
|
2019: 3
2018: 3
2017: 5
2016: 5
2015: Out of top 5
2014: Out of top 5
2013: 5
2012: Out of top 5
2011: Out of top 5
2010: 4 (Platinum Version) |
|
2019: 5
2018: 5
2017: Out of the top 5 |
|
2019 :4
2018: 4
2017: Out of the top 5
|
See here for the rest of the airline credit / charge cards that were considered for this years rankings |
What is a Coalition Program Credit Card?
A coalition program credit card earns points or miles directly into a single program that has lots of earning and redemption options. In Canada these are programs like Aeroplan, AIR MILES, More Rewards, and Scene. |

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
|
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card
Annual Fee $139 Additional Cards: $752
Annual interest rate 19.99% on purchases and 22.99% on funds advances
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household annual income
Special Offer
Apply by January 17, 2021 and, if you are approved, earn a welcome bonus of 10,0001 points – plus earn an Air Canada Buddy Pass to bring anyone along to anywhere Air Canada flies in North America, including Hawaii and Mexico.
• Bring along a friend! As a new Cardholder, your Air Canada Buddy Pass can score you a second ticket when you book an economy ticket. On the second ticket, you only pay the taxes and third-party charges. You’ll receive the one-time use pass when you spend $1,000 within 90 days of Account opening, and you have a whole year to use it.1
• Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first purchase with your new card.1
• Plus, get an annual fee rebate for the primary and first additional cardholder for the first year.
To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening.
Your Card also allows you to enjoy:
• Travelling lightly through the airport and saving on baggage fees3. Primary Cardholders, Additional Cardholders, and travel companions (up to eight) travelling on the same reservation will all enjoy their first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb) when your travel originates on an Air Canada flight.
• Enroll for NEXUS and once every 48 months get an application fee rebate (up to $100 CAD)4. Additional Cardholders can also take advantage of this NEXUS fee rebate.
• For a limited time, earn 1.5 bonus Aeroplan points for each $1 spent on eligible purchases at participating Starbucks® locations17. Conditions Apply. Offer ends November 7, 2021.
• Travel Medical Insurance10: Up to $1 million of coverage for the first 21 days. If you or your spouse is aged 65 or older, you are covered for the first 4 days of your trip. Additional top-up coverage is available.
• Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance11: For Trip Cancellation coverage of up to $1,500 per insured person, with a maximum of $5,000 for all insured persons, and for Trip Interruption coverage of up to $5,000 per insured person, with a maximum of $25,000 for all insured persons on the same covered trip.
• Flight/Trip Delay Insurance12: Up to $500 in coverage per insured person if your flight/trip is delayed for over 4 hours.
• Delayed and Lost Baggage Insurance12: Up to $1,000 overall coverage per insured person toward the purchase of essentials, such as clothes and toiletries, if your baggage is delayed for over 6 hours or lost.
• Common Carrier Travel Accident Insurance13: Up to $500,000 of coverage for covered losses while travelling on a common carrier (for example, a bus, ferry, plane, train or auto rental).
• Hotel/Motel Burglary Insurance14: Up to $2,500 of coverage per occurrence for eligible personal items stolen from your hotel room that belong to the Cardholder on the Account and eligible family members travelling with the Cardholder.
• Auto Rental Collision/Loss Damage Insurance15: Coverage for up to 48 consecutive days.
• Emergency Travel Assistance Services16: Help is just a call away. Toll-free access to help in the event of a personal emergency while travelling.

This offer is not available for residents of Quebec. For Quebec residents, please click here.
The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD) is not responsible for the contents of this site including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any TD product, please click the Apply Now button.
Interest rates, fees and features are effective as of November 8, 2020, unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to change.
The Aeroplan program is a loyalty rewards and recognition program operated by Air Canada’s subsidiary Aeroplan Inc. Visit Air Canada for complete terms and conditions of the Aeroplan program.
1 Must apply by January 17, 2021. Welcome Bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points will be awarded to the Aeroplan Member account associated with the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card Account (“Account”) only after the first Purchase is made on the Account. For Residents outside of Quebec: To receive the bonus Buddy Pass (also known as the “Bonus Companion Pass”), you must make $1,000 in net Purchases (less any returns and credits) on your Account, including your first Purchase, within 90 days of Account opening. For Quebec Residents only: To receive the Buddy Pass, you must keep your Account open, active and in good standing for 90 days after Account opening. For all Accounts: Rebate of the Annual Fee is only for the first year for the Primary Cardholder and the 1st Additional Cardholder added to the Account. To receive the first-year annual fee rebate, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening. To receive the 1st Additional Cardholder Annual Fee Rebate you must add your first Additional Cardholder by January 18, 2021. Annual Fee Rebate will be applied within 2 monthly statements from the date of the statement with the first Annual Fee charge. The Annual Fee for any subsequent Additional Cardholders added to the Account continues to apply. The Primary Cardholder is responsible for all charges to the Account, including those made by any Additional Cardholder. Other conditions apply. If you have opened an Account in the last 12 months, you will not be eligible for this offer. We reserve the right to limit the number of Accounts opened by one person, and the number of Welcome Bonus Aeroplan points and Buddy Passes awarded to any one person. Offers may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise specified. Your Account must be in good standing at the time the Welcome Bonus Aeroplan points and the Buddy Pass are awarded. Please allow up to 8 weeks after the conditions for each offer are fulfilled for the Welcome Bonus Aeroplan points and the Companion Pass to be credited to your Aeroplan Member account.
The Buddy Pass entitles a companion to accompany the Primary Cardholder for a $0 base fare, when a published Economy Class fare marketed and operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge or under the Air Canada Express brand is booked for travel wholly within North America. The pass is valid for 12 months from the date of issuance. The pass is valid towards a new booking only, and not valid on existing reservations. Bookings must be made directly with Air Canada, via aircanada.com, the Air Canada Mobile App, or through the Air Canada call center (“Air Canada Reservations”). Valid for one round-trip for a companion when travelling on the same itinerary and booked at the same time as Primary Cardholder. Maximum one companion pass may be used per booking. If one-way travel is booked, the pass will be deemed fully used and the return portion of travel is forfeited. Total pricing varies based on itinerary booked. Primary Cardholder may use the pass only once for travel wholly within North America, which is defined as Canada , the United States (including Hawaii) and Mexico. Companion will be responsible to pay all applicable taxes, fees, and charges that apply above the base fare. Valid for travel at any time with no blackout periods. Also valid against the purchase of fares on sale. Companion will be booked into same fare brand as Primary Cardholder and will receive all applicable benefits and services associated with that fare brand. The pass may not be used with premium cabin fares, or in conjunction with Aeroplan flight rewards, Flight Pass, group travel bookings, Air Canada Vacations bookings, or any other discounts or promotion codes. The pass must be redeemed at time of purchase of a ticket, and if multiple companion passes are available for the Aeroplan number, the pass that would expire first will be used. Booking must be made before the pass expiry date; travel may occur after the pass expiry date subject to flight schedule availability at the time of booking. The pass may only be used as described, cannot be transferred and has no monetary or exchange value. Changes or cancellations are allowed according to the fare rules of the fare purchased. Changes and cancellations must be made at the same time for both guests, and failure to do so may result in a forfeit of the companion pass. If during a change or cancellation the certificate is reinstated in the Primary Cardholders account, the original expiry date will take effect and the pass may then be considered expired. In the event of a change or cancellation, travellers are required to pay all applicable fees based on the fare type purchased for each ticket, plus the difference in fare, if applicable and all applicable taxes, fees, and charges that apply above the base fare. Companions who are members of the Aeroplan program or other partner frequent flyer programs will not be eligible to accumulate points or miles for the ticket issued in exchange for the companion pass. Aeroplan Elite Status benefits and upgrades are applicable if the traveller holds appropriate status and the fare purchased allows for such benefits and upgrades. Air Canada reserves the right to apply additional fees for bookings made via Air Canada Reservations. Unused passes will automatically be cancelled on the date the credit card is closed, regardless of reason for closure, or if the credit card account is changed to a different product. Terms and conditions of the air transportation services are subject to the General Conditions of Carriage & Tariffs and any other terms and conditions relating to air transportation services in effect at the time of booking, as determined by Air Canada in its sole discretion and as may be changed from time to time. This one-time Buddy Pass is only valid for eligible cardholders. You will not be eligible for the Buddy Pass if you have previously opened an Aeroplan Program credit card of the same type, regardless of the credit card issuer and have received the Welcome Bonus offer in the last 12 months. This offer may be changed, cancelled or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offers.
2 Primary Cardholder remains liable for all charges to the Account, including those made by any Additional Cardholder.
3 A Primary Cardholder or Additional Cardholder, and up to eight (8) other passengers travelling on the same reservation (up to a maximum of nine (9) travellers), are each entitled to a free first checked bag up to 23kg/50lbs. Benefit only applies when checking in with Air Canada, for a flight operated by Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge or under the Air Canada Express brand. Benefit is not available if check-in is with another airline. If the first checked bag is already complimentary (for example, as a result of Aeroplan Elite Status or fare purchased), there is no additional checked bag benefit that will be provided. Free first checked bag benefit may not be applied retroactively, and no refunds will be issued. Service charges for additional/oversized/overweight baggage may apply. More information on baggage restrictions: https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/baggage.html.
4 The Account will receive a statement credit up to a maximum of $100 CAD for the amount posted to the Account for a NEXUS application fee regardless of NEXUS application approval. There is a maximum of four (4) NEXUS statement credits available when a qualifying NEXUS application fee is posted to the Account in any given 48-month period and the number of available NEXUS statement credits will be equal to the number of Cardholders on the Account when a qualifying NEXUS application fee is posted to your Account. The 48 month period starts when the first qualifying NEXUS application fee is posted to the Account. To be eligible for the statement credit, the Account must be in good standing at the time the NEXUS application fee is charged and posted on the Account. NEXUS means the expedited border control program offered jointly by the Canada Border Services Agency and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The terms of the NEXUS program are established by NEXUS. The Toronto-Dominion Bank and its affiliates are not responsible for the NEXUS program: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/nexus/term-eng.html
5 Purchase of Gas or Grocery or Air Canada Products means a Purchase of gas or gas station services or products or a Purchase of grocery or grocery items, including those at grocery locations, or a Purchase from Air Canada or of any of Air Canada’s products and services, each from a merchant classified through the Visa network with a merchant category code (MCC) that identifies the merchant in the “gas” or “grocery” or "Air Canada" category. Aeroplan points are earned on eligible purchases charged to the Account as follows:
• 1.5 Aeroplan points (Bonus Rate) earned for each $1 in Purchases of Gas, Grocery or Air Canada Products (earned only on a maximum annual amount of $80,000 of Purchases of Gas, Grocery or Air Canada Products); or
• 1 Aeroplan point earned for each $1 on all other Purchases.
Please contact TD if you wish to confirm the MCC that applies to a particular merchant, or if the Purchase qualifies as a Purchase of Gas, Grocery or Air Canada Products. If you have earned Aeroplan points on the maximum annual amount of Purchases of Gas, Grocery or Air Canada Products charged to your Account (from January 1 to December 31) or if your Purchase does not qualify as a Purchase of Gas, Grocery or Air Canada Products, you will instead earn the standard rate of Aeroplan points that applies to all other Purchases charged to the Account as described above. The Bonus Rate is in place of and not in addition to the standard rate of Aeroplan points earned on all other Purchases charged to the Account.
6 The Toronto-Dominion Bank is not responsible for any Aeroplan points earned under this “earn points twice” feature of the Aeroplan program when the Aeroplan number is provided. See your Aeroplan program for full details. Feature may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer
7 The Aeroplan number of the person accessing the benefit must be included in the qualifying reservation, and the name on the airline reservation must be identical to the name on the Aeroplan account of the traveller. For Additional Cardholders’ ability to access available benefits, their Aeroplan number must be linked to a valid credit card account as verified by the bank. Please allow up to 72 hours after the credit card is approved, or the Aeroplan number of the Additional Cardholder is linked to the Additional Cardholder credit card, for these benefits to be activated. Aeroplan member accounts of the Primary Cardholder and Additional Cardholder(s) must be in good standing at time of flight for airline benefits to apply. Airline benefits will no longer be available upon account closure, regardless of reason for closure, or if the credit card product is changed. Aeroplan membership and benefits are subject to the Aeroplan Program Terms & Conditions (https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/aeroplan/legal/terms-and-conditions.html) and any applicable Air Canada terms and conditions relating to a benefit, as determined by Air Canada in its sole discretion and as may be changed from time to time.
8 The goods and services Cardholders request or otherwise choose to obtain through the Visa Infinite Concierge Service are provided by various third-party service providers unrelated to Visa. Visa does not endorse, review or qualify these service providers. Visa makes no representations or warranties (either express or implied) about and assumes no responsibility or liability for these service providers or the goods and services that may be obtained through the Visa Infinite Concierge. Neither Visa nor TD are responsible for any claims or damages arising from the use of any benefits or services provided by a third party. Visa cannot guarantee the successful fulfillment of Cardholders’ requests in all instances. There is no fee for the Concierge’s services; however, Cardholders are responsible for the cost of any goods or services (including any related fees or costs) authorized by the Cardholder and purchased by the Visa Infinite Concierge on the Cardholder’s behalf. All costs will be charged directly to the Cardholder’s Visa Infinite card.
9 You must be an eligible Visa Infinite Cardholder with a valid Canada-issued Visa Infinite Card to take advantage of the Visa Infinite benefits and services. Certain benefits and services require enrollment. Offers and benefits are non-transferable, and discounts cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Neither Visa nor the Issuer of the Card are responsible for any claims or damages arising from the use of any benefits or services provided by a third party. Visa reserves the right to modify or cancel offers or benefits at any time and without notice. All offers, benefits and services made available through Visa are subject to complete terms and conditions (https://www.visainfinite.ca/infinite/en/terms.html), including third-party suppliers’ terms and conditions. The Visa Infinite privacy policy (https://www.visa.ca/en_CA/legal/global-privacy-notice.html) applies to all benefits and services that require enrollment through, or are otherwise provided by, the Visa Infinite Concierge or the Visa Infinite website. The collection use and disclosure of Cardholders’ personal information by third-party suppliers of services and benefits to Visa Infinite Cardholders are subject to such third parties’ own privacy policies.
10 Underwritten by TD Life Insurance Company. Medical and claims assistance, claims payment and administrative services are provided by our Administrator. Benefits, features and coverages are subject to conditions, limitations and exclusions, including a pre-existing condition exclusion, that are fully described in the Certificates of Insurance included with your TD Credit Cardholder Agreement. Note that this insurance offers different benefits, with different terms and conditions, then the optional Travel Medical Insurance that may be medically underwritten and is available for purchase to all TD customers, which you may be eligible to top up with. The day of departure from and the day of return to your province or territory of residence each count as one full day. 21-day coverage if you’re under 65 and 4-day coverage if you’re 65 or older.
11 Underwritten by TD Life Insurance Company (for medical covered causes) and TD Home and Auto Insurance Company (for non-medical covered causes). To be eligible for this insurance, at least 75% of your trip cost must be paid for using your TD Credit Card and/or Aeroplan points. Benefits, features and coverages are subject to conditions, limitations and exclusions, including a pre-existing condition exclusion, that are fully described in the Certificates of Insurance included with your TD Credit Cardholder Agreement. Note that this insurance offers different benefits, with different terms and conditions, than the optional Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Insurance that is available to all TD customers.
12 Underwritten by TD Home and Auto Insurance Company. To be eligible for this coverage, at least 75% of your trip cost must be paid for using your TD Credit Card and/or associated Aeroplan points. Benefits, features and coverages are subject to conditions, limitations and exclusions that are fully described in the Certificates of Insurance included with your TD Credit Cardholder Agreement.
13 Underwritten by TD Life Insurance Company. To be eligible for this coverage, your trip must be paid for in full using your TD Credit Card and/or Aeroplan points. Benefits, features and coverages are subject to conditions, limitations and exclusions that are fully described in the Certificate of Insurance included with your TD Credit Cardholder Agreement.
14 Insurance coverages are underwritten by American Bankers Insurance Company of Florida (ABIC) under Group Policy TDA112020. Benefits, features and coverages are subject to conditions, limitations and exclusions that are fully described in the Certificates of Insurance included with your TD Credit Cardholder Agreement. ABIC, its subsidiaries, and affiliates carry on business in Canada under the name of Assurant ®. Assurant® is a registered trademark of Assurant, Inc.
15 Underwritten by TD Home and Auto Insurance Company. Car rentals must be charged in full to the Card and/or associated Aeroplan points, cannot exceed 48 consecutive days and the rental agency’s Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) coverage must be declined by the Cardholder. Please note, in some jurisdictions, rental agencies may require you to purchase the CDW coverage from them — it is important to call before booking your car rental to confirm their insurance requirements. Refer to the Auto Rental Collision/Loss Damage Insurance section of your TD Credit Cardholder Agreement for rental exclusions and further details.
16 Provided by our Administrator under a service agreement with TD Life Insurance Company. This is not an insurance benefit but assistance services only.
17 Limited Time Promotional Offer: Applies to TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Credit Cards (the Account). Offer starts November 8, 2020 and ends November 7, 2021 (the Offer Period). The Offer Period will apply regardless of when your Account is activated. Account Cardholders will earn 1.5 Bonus Aeroplan points for each $1.00 in Purchases charged to the Account at participating Starbucks® locations (the "Starbucks Bonus Aeroplan Point"). All reloads on the Starbucks mobile app and in-store purchases at corporate-owned stores are eligible. In-store purchases at licensed stores are excluded from this offer. To learn if a Starbucks location is a participating location, go to https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1kVn3xlLOBDWsE4jzv1iKqkaA3BaENFpn&ll=52.55557866152866%2C-95.54508142903336&z=4. The Starbucks Bonus Aeroplan Point earned during the Offer Period is in place of, and not in addition to the base Aeroplan point earn rate for the Account. If the Purchase does not qualify for the Starbucks Bonus Aeroplan Point, you will earn the base earn rate of 1 Aeroplan point for each $1.00 in Purchase charged to the Account. Your Account must be in good standing to earn Aeroplan points. Any returned items, refunds, rebates or other similar credits will reduce or cancel the Aeroplan points earned on the original qualifying Purchase. Please allow up to 8 weeks after each statement period for the Starbucks Bonus Aeroplan Points to be credited to your Account. This Limited Time Promotional Offer will be in addition to any other offers available for your Account. Offer may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise specified.
All trade-marks are the property of their respective owners.
See Air Canada and Aeroplan trade-mark ownership details. (https://www.tdcanadatrust.com/products-services/banking/credit-cards/view-all-cards/trademark-legal.jsp)
™ NEXUS Official mark and/or trademark of Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, used under license.
* Trademark of Visa Int., used under license.
® The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.
Annual interest rates, fees and features are subject to change.
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2019: 1
2018: 1
2017: 1 (airline)
2016: 1 (airline)
2015: 1 (airline)
2014: 1 (airline) |
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2019: 2
2018: 2
2017: Out of the top 5 (airline) |

American Express® AIR MILES®* Platinum Credit Card |
American Express® AIR MILES* Platinum Credit Card
Card Type: Credit
Annual Fee: $120 Additional Card Fee: $50
Annual interest rate 20.99% on purchases and 21.99% on funds advances; Missed payment applicable rates, 23.99% and/or 26.99%
• New American Express® AIR MILES®* Platinum Credit Card Cardmembers, earn a Welcome Bonus of 3,000 AIR MILES®* Bonus Miles when you charge a total of $1,500 in purchases to your Card within your first three months of Cardmembership. That’s enough to redeem for $310 towards your purchases with AIR MILES®* Cash
• Earn 1 Mile for every $5 in Card purchases, up to $30,000 annually, on eligible food & drinks, (such as eligible restaurants, coffee shops and stand-alone grocery stores), and eligible gas & transit (such as local commuter transportation including ridesharing services and taxi) in Canada.
• Earn 1 Mile for every $10 in Card purchases everywhere else.
• American Express® AIR MILES®* Platinum Credit Card Cardmembers can take advantage of the Annual Travel Redemption Benefit. Once per calendar year, when an eligible Cardmember uses Dream Miles with the AIR MILES Reward Program to book their first single flight or package vacation through airmiles.ca or vacations.airmiles.ca, they can get Bonus Miles equivalent to 25% of the net number of Miles used (up to a maximum of 750 Bonus Miles).
• Shop at participating AIR MILES®* Partners®* across Canada with your Card and show your AIR MILES®* Card, and you can earn Miles twice
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply
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2019: 4
2018: 4
2017: Out of the rankings |

BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* MasterCard®* |
BMO AIR MILES®† World Elite®* MasterCard®*
Annual Fee: $120
Primary Card $50 Additional Card
Interest Rate: Purchases 19.99% Cash Advances 22.99%
Welcome offer: Get 2,000 AIR MILES Bonus Miles and we’ll waive the $120 annual fee for the first year*.
· Earn 1 reward mile for every $10 in credit card purchases, everywhere you spend*
· Get valuable benefits and offers for digital everyday services from a variety of on-demand apps and subscription services
· Use your card at Costco
· Extended Warranty
· Access over 1 million Wi-Fi hotspots around the world - all at no added cost, and no added fees or roaming charges*
· Complimentary membership in Mastercard Airport Experiences provided by LoungeKey, with exclusive VIP access, plus two annual complimentary passes*
· Exclusive 15% Flight Discount on all AIR MILES flights in North America with no blackout periods*
· BMO AIR MILES World Elite Travel and Medical Protection*
· BMO Concierge Service*
· Unlock Mastercard Travel Rewards cashback offers when you travel and shop outside of Canada
*Terms and conditions apply

BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information |
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2019: 3
2018: 3
2017: Out of the rankings |
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2019: Out of the top 5
2018: Out of the top 5
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See here for the rest of the coalition credit cards that were considered for this years rankings |
Recommended reading and related articles:
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